Beyond The Water Cooler

From dodging bullets to becoming an executive senior leader of Defence, Phil Holdcroft knows a thing or two about leadership and teamwork. Phil is a decorated combat pilot with a 20-year military career that culminated in designing and delivering the senior leadership programme at the UK Defence Academy. Drawing on life-lessons and experience, he created the ultimate playbook for leadership, resilience and high performance. And that’s what we discuss on the podcast today.Now officially a veteran (and he's younger than me!), Phil is continuing to pursue his life’s purpose, having founded High Performance Journey, helping others to conquer their Big Hairy Audacious Goals.Join us to find out...what resilience is really about how to reverse being unprepared in leadership rolesthe power of purpose (and how to find it)how the 'grandad test' can measure shared visionhow adversity allows us to growhow increasing diversity reduces blind spotsPhil shares his very moving story that proved pivotal in how he engages with others. What has been your 'a-ha' experience that caused you to question your practice? Or are you still sitting comfortably? More about Phil:A twenty year first career in the Royal Air Force spanned from leading missions on the battlefield as a helicopter pilot, through to senior leadership roles, designing and delivering strategy for Defence.Phil's journey took an unexpected turn in 2014 when his youngest daughter was diagnosed with leukaemia. Helplessly sitting on the side-lines led to an epiphany. Phil realised his passion for endurance sports could be channeled towards raising critical funds for the miracle workers who saved her life. A near-impossible series of extreme challenges followed, culminating in a 3,000-mile unsupported row across the Atlantic Ocean.Now a military veteran, Phil has set up 'The High Performance Journey' to pursue his passion for equipping others with the knowledge, skills and mindset for high performance.Links to contact Phil:LinkedIn: Phil HoldcroftWebsite: www.thehpj.comResources & ReferencesWatch this episode on YouTubeLeadership & Manager Labs (itstimeforchange.co.uk)13 Skills to Build Resilience (itstimeforchange.co.uk)Future Ready by Experimentation – with Gemma Ellison - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)Transcending Leadership - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)'Peak Performance' by Brad Stulberg & Steve Magness (amazon.co.uk)'The Obstacle is the Way' by Ryan Holiday (amazon.co.uk)Contact details for Lisa LLoyd:LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/lisapsychologyWebsite: www.itstimeforchange.co.ukSign up to be kept in the loop: a...

Two psychotherapists in conversation...This episode of the podcast is an interesting one. James Elliott, of the Sarena Clinic, explains what needs to be done now to shape a healthier workforce for the future. And it's simple stuff. We need to equip employees with the knowledge and tools to empower themselves and their children to experience meaning and fulfilment, and that supports good mental wellbeing.And we need to demonstrate empathy, based on knowing our teams well, so that we enable human needs to be met....You know those days when your head is elsewhere because something significant is occupying your brain? Your teenager has become alien to you and you're concerned. Your finances are too tight. You're worried about a medical issue.What do you need most? Probably, someone who knows you, who trusts and respects you, and who will give you the time and space you need.What happens then? You're able to focus on what is front of mind and resume work. That's better than the common alternative which is to continue work as normal whilst holding the strain of being unable to do what feels most important. Think about the different outcomes in terms of performance, sick leave, burnout and resentment.What gets in the way of you being human?More about James:James Elliott is a psychotherapist, resilience coach, ex British airborne forces, multiple world record holder, father, and author, with an MSc in War + Psychiatry.As the Head of Psychotherapy at Sarena Clinic, he leads a team of qualified and compassionate professionals who provide high-quality and personalised health care to our clients. James has over 4 years of experience as a psychotherapist, working with veterans, prison leavers, and other vulnerable groups to help them cope with their challenges and find their way in life. He is passionate about using his clinical and academic knowledge to create a supportive and respectful environment for clients, where they can explore their emotions, beliefs, and behaviours, and achieve their goals.Links to contact James:LinkedIn: James Elliott MScWebsite: james-elliott.mykajabi.comInstagram: @jameselliottofficialThe Sarena Clinic: Sarena ClinicResources & ReferencesWatch this episode on YouTubeLeadership & Manager Labs (itstimeforchange.co.uk)Engagement Action Plans - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)Stress Mapping - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)Tackling Anxiety Collectively - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)The Emotional Needs Audit - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Luckily for us, Dr Jill McGarry is "a geek!"... her words, not mine!The good news about that is she has a real love for actionable solutions to improve sleep. 💤And who doesn't need a bit of that in their lives? 😴In this episode of the podcast we hear, very clearly, why we need to banish beliefs such as..."YOU SNOOZE, YOU LOSE!"And we get to grips with practical advice for individuals and employers, including: ✔️ coffee as a recommendation (yes... from a sleep expert!)✔️ what to do when you can't sleep✔️ equality✔️ flexible working✔️ 4 key factors for sleep hygiene - do YOU know what they are? Are you putting them into practice?Check out the excellent resources that Jill shares, including those for managers, in the show notes. STOPBANG should become part of your toolkit.More about Jill:Dr Jill McGarry is a consultant clinical psychologist with 25 years of experience in working with mental health issues in the NHS. During this time she has become skilled and experienced in supporting people with sleep issues. In October 2023 Jill decided to leave the NHS because she recognised that companies were a missing piece of the jigsaw in improving sleep for individuals. By focusing on providing support and training to companies regarding sleep we can joinlty reduce staff fatigue, improve team effectiveness and ensure that companies excel.Links to contact Jill:LinkedIn: Dr Jill McGarryEmail: info@sleepbetterdoctor.co.ukWebsite: www.sleepbetterdoctor.co.ukResources & ReferencesWatch this episode on YouTubeLeadership & Manager Labs (itstimeforchange.co.uk)Leveraging ’Shuteye’ for Resilience (youtube.com) - Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce webinarNHS choices (www.nhs.uk)YouTube Matthew Walker TEDx Sleep talk, others and his book Why We Sleep by Matthew Walker | WaterstonesFast Asleep by Michael Mosley | Waterstones & BBC programme in 2022  Epworth Sleepiness Scale questionnaires (ESS) Epworth Sleepiness Scale | Asthma + Lung UK(asthmaandlung.org.uk) STOP BANG questionnaire: Is it possible that you have Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA)? STOPBang Questionnaire (britishsnoring.co.uk)Contact details for Lisa LLoyd:LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/lisapsychologyWebsite: www.itstimeforchange.co.ukSign up to be kept in the loop: 

What is self-harm? Possibly not something you associate with yourself. And not a behaviour that you attribute to your colleagues, friends or family members. But the reality could be very different and that is why this episode of the podcast and the free resource is so important. Self-harm is not uncommon and therefore you need to know about it.Yaj Buljeean is a trainer and clinician at Harmless, the national leader in this field. She joins me to explore what we mean by self-harm, the stigma around it, and the prevalence and risk factors. Crucially, Yaj provides practical advice for companies to support their employees who are using this behaviour to cope with underlying distress.If you're reading this thinking this topic isn't relevant. Think again. According to the WHO, 16 million people worldwide are reported to self-harm. We know that is likely to be an underestimate. My experience alone is that clients hide their behaviour... from their partner, their friends, their employers. Shame and embarrassment keeps mouths shut.Convenient for companies? That's no longer okay. No idea how to think about it or where to start? That's understandable. And that's why the free, downloadable resource that covers a breadth of mental health disorders, as well as self-harm, has been created. It is a must for anyone looking to demonstrate care towards their workforce. You can get hold of your copy here: itstimeforchange.co.uk/the-resilience-collectiveStop passing the buck. National Self Harm Awareness Day is on 1st March. Be part of raising awareness around what is often a misunderstood topic. Find out more and request your media pack to help coordinate your effort here: National Self Harm Awareness Day 2024 - HarmlessAdditional resources and podcast conversations about stress, depression and anxiety, and addiction, all part of The Resilience Collective, can be found here: itstimeforchange.co.uk/the-resilience-collectiveMore about Yaj:Yaj works for Harmless CIC, a user-led self harm prevention service based in the East Midlands. With nearly 3 years of professional experience and 20 years of personal experience, Yaj aims to normalise the conversation around both self harm and suicide to enable anyone who's struggling to be able to reach out for support. As a trainer and clinician, breaking down barriers to access support is a high priority for her.Links to contact Yaj:LinkedIn:Yaj BuljeeanHarmlessWebsite: harmless.org.ukFacebook: The Academy at Harmless: LetstalktrainingX: @Yaj_HarmlessEmail: yaj.buljeean@harmless.org.ukResources & ReferencesWatch this episode on YouTube National Self Harm Awareness Day 2024 - HarmlessHarmless has created a Self Harm Work book which aims to help people of all ages to understand and develop insight into their self harming behaviour. If you...

My LinkedIn post in January that asked the question, 'Do soft skills need a rebrand?' attracted over 40 comments. Clearly people are interested in this topic.So it seemed only natural to continue the conversation with someone who shared his view on that post, Andrew Bardsley, Founder of JackHR. As someone who focuses on helping tech companies stand out and keep good people, Andrew has some great insights into a world of both hard and soft skills. 💻 We unpick how soft skills sit alongside tech.🧠 We consider how AI and human skills will feature in the future of work.♂️♀️ We explore gender differences and the teaching of soft skills.🚧 We tackle some of the barriers to investing in the development of these critical skills.💥 We offer our opinion on how soft skills should be positioned in business to have greatest impact.🌙 And we discuss getting lost on the moon!Whether you're interested in leadership development, management development, recruitment, onboarding, learning and development, emotional intelligence, coaching, or psychological safety, there are some little nuggets of wisdom that could just shift some important parts of your practice.Listen to or watch us talk, and let us know how you go about positioning and developing the not-so-soft-skills in your organisation.If you want to find the right space for developing such skills in your organisation, Leadership and Manager Labs might just be your thing. Check them out here: Leader & Manager Labs | It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)More about Andrew:Employee retention is a £1Billion problem here in the UK which is why, in 2023, Andrew decided to launch JackHR - a business dedicated to helping scaling tech companies keep hold of their amazing talent.Andrew's journey started in the North West of England, before making the 300 mile trip north to study Philosophy at The University of Stirling. When he left in 2013, the job market for ancient Greek philosophers was quiet, so he started in HR instead.Andrew has spent the last decade working with businesses to better support their managers, provide teams with amazing growth opportunities and help individuals thrive through 1:1 coaching.Links to contact Andrew:LinkedIn:Andrew BardsleyJackHRTikTok: @jackofallhrWebsite: jackhr.comResources & ReferencesWatch this episode on YouTube Focus on 'soft skills' at our Leadership & Manager Labs (itstimeforchange.co.uk)The Most In-Demand Skills for 2023 | LinkedIn11 Essential...

Do you know...🏢 What your office is for?✅ Which elements to consider when designing workplace where people actively want to spend time?🌍 What global research tells us about how we can help people do their best work in the many places that work happens?😊 How to cultivate a joyful workplace environment?💭 The link between physical workplaces and psychological wellbeing?🙌 Strategies and frameworks for building a work environment that amplifies productivity, happiness and job satisfaction?As part of Leicestershire's Innovation Festival session at De Montfort University on 12 February, I'll be joining Rob Day and Chloe Sproston of Blueprint Interiors, Kris Newman of Steelcase, Nicky Harding and Lis Ku from De Montfort University to discuss 'Designing Tomorrow's Workplace'. Blueprint Interiors have a unique approach to designing workplaces, based on putting people first.In this podcast, Rob focuses on the psychology behind design, encompassing the Human Givens. Find out more by listening to or watching the conversation and then book your place at the event here: Event Details for Designing Tomorrow's Workplace: A Blueprint for Innovation (evolutive.co.uk)More about Rob:Having studied at the University of Lancaster for a degree in Management Science & Marketing, Rob Day spent a 15-year career in Sales, Design & Project Management in the Commercial Office and Leisure sectors.In 2001 he founded his business - Blueprint Interiors Limited, a specialist design & fit-out company focused on designing and redeveloping commercial interiors. The company is now recognised as the leading workplace consultancy in the Midlands and this approach has led to significant growth as the economy comes out of the pandemic crisis.They are firmly established in Ashby de la Zouch – celebrating their 23rd birthday this year - and employ 18 staff directly with many more subcontractors indirectly dependent upon their business throughout the Midlands.As Chairman & Founder, Rob has successfully overseen the growth of the business and the succession plan to bring the next generation of leaders into the organisation.Links to contact Rob:LinkedIn:Rob DayBlueprint Interiors LimitedFacebook: @BlueprintInteriorsLtdInstagram: @blueprint.interiorsWebsite: www.blueprintinteriors.comResources & ReferencesWatch this episode on YouTube

The people who need the most development and most time are leaders, but they are precisely the people who don't invest in themselves. Are you one of them?That's why Gemma Ellison of Heart Leadership and I created Labs. Leanne Ledger, Senior Brand Strategist and Partner at Emperor, and Sarah Cockroft, Manager at OceanWise Ltd join Gemma and I in this podcast to share the impact that a new approach to development has had for them.We contrast a conscious process that centres around being human, with traditional models of leadership and manager training. We hear how Labs have changed practice in terms of creating space for people to become more self-aware, to think, to plan and to perform well.And that's hugely important when people in these roles usually focus on supporting others; turning the lens to look inwards is empowering.Using a test and learn approach requires analysis, hypotheses and creativity. When we apply that process to our real-world challenges, we grow and innovate. Whether the focus is about understanding your place and purpose as a leader, or feeling confident to try new things and reduce pressure on ourselves to be perfect, there is real value from engaging with these topics. Learn about what's most relevant to you. Could that be... ❓ how you show up for your team or within your peer group, and for your self in terms of mental wellbeing?❓ how to lead aspects of your business better, from change and uncertainty, to emotional intelligence, psychological safety, or having effective conversations?What is it that Leanne or Sarah say that appeals to you? I'd challenge anyone to listen to their experience and not feel a teeny bit inspired! 💡👏🏼Find out more about the Labs here or drop us a line to have a chat.If you're interested in bringing Labs in-house, 🏢 reach out to Gem or I. We're excited about the interest we've had in a company-based approach to developing people. 2024 might just be your year for trying something new!More about Leanne:Leanne Ledger is a Senior Brand Consultant at Emperor, a corporate communications agency. She works with businesses to help define and articulate what makes them distinct, relevant and authentic to create a strategy and positioning that will elevate their reputation, inspire and motivate their people and make them more competitive and successful. With over 20 years in advertising and brand strategy, Leanne is also passionate about people development, ED&I, allyship and sustainability, so is involved in other initiatives as well as being lead singer in a ten-piece band (which has its own joys and challenges)!Links to contact Leanne:LinkedIn:Leanne LedgerEmperorWebsite: emperor.worksMore about Sarah:Sarah has just started at a...

Did you know...Only 46% of employees trust their manager to do what is right, dropping to 32% for senior leaders?72% leaders report they feel used up at the end of the day, an increase of 12% from 2020?Fewer than half of leaders find their jobs purposeful. Yet, leaders with a strong sense of purpose are 9 times more likely to feel engaged?Only 29% companies train for the crucial skills that leaders want to develop.The world is evolving. Expectations are changing. The impact on your people is real. Our world is becoming more experimental, pushing boundaries, stepping outside the norm. As Marshall Goldsmith says, "What got you here won't get you there."And so your practice must shift to stay ahead of the game.💭 We need peers with whom we can unpick challenges and explore new ways to think about them.🧑🏼‍🤝‍🧑 We crave a human, interactive experience for development; to emotionally connect and focus on what matters most to us.🔬 We feel excited by the ability to learn, apply, test and review.How are you making that happen?Regardless of size, your organisation can apply key principles adopted by the likes of Booking.com and Toyota, to increase engagement and performance.In this podcast, Gemma Ellison and I discuss how, including the need to create a meaningful space for experimentation to happen. Given the constant battle for time and attention, that's a significant challenge. But, it's worth it. Your people know what is most meaningful and what's most likely to enable greater success. Finding a way to nurture that is key.Access the webinar that dives into this in greater depth here: Leadership and Manager LabsDon't:❌ leave the development of your people and processes to chance❌ use existing processes simply because 'that's the way we do things' ❌ grab a quick fix or be persuaded by marketing that promotes a blanket approach Instead: ✔️ identify what your people observe, need and are inspired to try✔️ urge them to plan new ways of working, test and evaluate with intention✔️ create a healthy, thriving, high-performing and empowered workforceJoin the likes of Amazon, Facebook, Google and Microsoft who have found experimentation to be a game changer. How are you 💡empowering💡 your employees to shape the future of work?Contact us for an experiment design template to support you on your journey.More about Gemma:Gemma Ellison, Leadership and Culture Director and founder of Heart Leadership, knows that employee engagement is at an all time low (it’s estimated that only 15% of employees are engaged globally). That’s where Heart Leadership comes in; they evolve organisational culture to create environments where people feel genuinely valued, inspired and empowered. The result? Increased happiness, productivity, innovation and profit.Gemma's journey started as a lawyer. Someone once described her as having a ‘sensitivity for the human condition’. That sensitivity and curiosity about human behaviour led her to pivot, turning her attention to workplace culture.As Director of Culture, she's seen first hand the remarkable impact of nurturing a purpose driven work environment. This happens by design - not by accident. The world is changing rapidly, and the way most organisations currently work isn’t fit for purpose, both for now and moving into the future. She believes in experimenting within organisations to find unique, bespoke ways to enhance...

Is your organisation fuelling addiction? Do you understand the causes and triggers that can lead to someone engaging with addictive behaviour?Do you know the behaviours that might constitute addiction, or that could manifest into addiction? Richie Paxton of the EPIC Restart Foundation has lived experience. He joins Amantha King and I to share a heap of insight about how to be more aware and support people living with addiction, including those impacted by someone else using this behaviour.If you think this topic is not relevant for you, watch this short film produced for #AddictionAwarenessWeek2023: Everybody Knows Somebody... it's 17 minutes that could change so much.Everybody knows someone.The downloadable addiction resource is part of The Resilience Collective, that so far has featured resources for Stress, and Depression & Anxiety. It is full of advice about making addiction relevant to YOU and your organisation, including what to look for and how to help. Get your free copy here: The Resilience CollectiveHarmful behaviours can quickly snowball when we experience a significant life event, unmet emotional needs, or we don't have appropriate coping strategies to deal with life's challenges.Richie shares his story. It reminded me of the incredible novel I read recently, Demon Copperhead, by Barbara Kingsolver. Addiction is a reality.Our conversation also reminded me that we often have NO idea about what's going on for people behind their mask. We make assumptions about people's lives, particularly when they appear to have all they need to be happy. But perception is a very unique thing. You don't need to fix the problems. But you do need to hold space for people.Space is a recurring theme, whether I'm focusing on mental wellbeing, workplace culture or leadership and management. Get this right and you'll get a lot right in terms of looking after your people.Find out more in the resource. Get in touch for help to develop your workforce to have compassionate conversations and to gain confidence supporting and empowering employees to live their best selves.And follow #TheResilienceCollective to be the first to hear about more resources coming your way.Back to my first question. Are you fuelling addiction or are you part of the solution?Resources & ReferencesLeadership & Manager Labs (itstimeforchange.co.uk)Watch this episode on YouTubeDownload the Resources and listen to/watch the previous episodes: The Resilience Collective Everybody Knows Somebody - feature edit (17mins) - Addiction Awareness Week 2023. - YouTubeSigns of Addiction - Spot the...

A Chief Inspector is not necessarily the first person who springs to mind as the driving force for self-care, better mental health and launching a podcast! But Stewart Codling of Thames Valley Police is modelling exactly how leaders can embrace the challenge of changing expectations by doing things differently. Stewart joins me on my podcast to explain how he is going about improving mental health, particularly for men in a traditional industry.Police are people who wear a metaphorical cape each day to protect others. It's entirely different asking them to look inwards to protect themselves. That requires removing the cape and being vulnerable.Stewart is an 'ordinary' guy. Actually, he's quite incredible. But that's because he's chosen to be - he's not an expert in mental health. His expertise is in being a human, and specifically male.He has made his intention clear to improve mental health for men at work, and he is actively finding ways to show people how policing can be different. That's important. It blows the excuses about 💥 our organisation being too big 💥our industry being too traditional/ male, out of the water.Stewart is clear that being an advocate for mental health does not displace who he really is. It does not affect his status or detract from his ability to be 'tough' when that's called for. But it does improve empathy, compassion and the ability to have conversations that really make a difference. It empowers people. Stewart shares the evidence.We discuss so much, including individual responsibility, prostate screening, and webinar topics such as 'male behaviour at Christmas.'Being clumsy during conversations is fine, as long as you're listening, and sometimes talking. Stewart's words as we discussed humility said it all..."If I make a fool of myself I don't care. I'm going to do it anyway."How able are you to get beyond your status and do something different, because you know it's right for someone else⁉️Does your mask of expectation, hierarchy and control hold you back⁉️ P.S. Listen to find out why Stewart says he's a fig roll!!! More about Stewart:Stewart has been with his wife for 22 years and they have 3 children who continually amaze and inspire them; he adores his family. Stewart has been in policing 4 years longer, serving with two police forces, West Yorkshire and Thames Valley Police. He has been lucky to have been a detective, in firearms roles and latterly to have held the role of Chair of their Men's Forum, TVP's staff support network for men facing challenges. He is proud to lead on work to reform the paternity pay provision within the force, as well as talking about and promoting suicide prevention. He loves policing.Links to contact Stewart:LinkedIn: Stewart CodlingThames Valley Police Resources & ReferencesLeadership & Manager Labs (itstimeforchange.co.uk)Watch this episode on YouTubeHome | Thames Valley PolicePolice Federation of England & Wales (polfed.org)Home - The Curtis Palmer...

Bad managers are causing one in three staff to walk*. Luckily for OceanWise, Sarah Cockcroft isn't one of these managers. She is only two weeks into her role there, but she is going in with her eyes wide open to what is needed of her. Sarah has the benefit of hindsight. She is not new to management and that is why I invited her to join me to discuss the very real problems that are existing in many organisations today. Instead of starting with clear ideas about what she wants, she has armed herself with questions to find out what her team needs of her. Sarah knows that this will help her identify how to be, and where to spend her time. Are you that confident in your role?Probably not when you consider data from the CMI that found as many as 82% of new managers in the UK are “accidental managers” – embarking on the role with no formal training in management or leadership.Sarah explains key ideas that managers and leaders need to explore and consciously develop:the timing of training for managers new into their role essential skills; what manager development should focus onvulnerability and authenticity when you're under pressurethe importance of knowing someone has your backkey factors for shaping a successful teamhow to have good one-to-onesthe different roles of managers and leaders; can they be the same person?THE NEED FOR TIME AND SPACE!If you're still not convinced that you need to do anything after listening to Sarah, find out how much money your company spends on recruitment vs retention. And look at your wider data. How many of YOUR employees are walking?🫵 If you would like help understanding what good support and development looks like for managers, get in touch. Whether it's workshops, coaching or the Labs that were discussed in the podcast, we can shape practice together that enables both your managers and their teams to thrive. Reach out to Sarah too - she is an awesome manager with a wealth of experience. * New study: Bad managers and toxic work culture causing one in three staff to walk - CMIMore about Sarah:Sarah has just started at OceanWise as Monitoring Manager for the oceanographic monitoring team. She is very excited to start something new and to join a growing team supporting ports, harbours, marine operations teams around the world.Sarah has been an oceanographer her whole career, gradually shifting from a practical on-a-boat oceanographer to a team leader. She has always been a people-person and firmly believe that people will be more invested in the cause if they are engaged, challenged, trusted, and respected. She loves mentoring people, especially those early in their careers, and think it is so important to give people time and encouragement in their development.Links to contact Sarah:LinkedIn:Sarah CockroftOceanWiseResources & ReferencesLeadership and...

What are you growing? 🪴 Is the PH level in your environment producing what you want?   And what have you grown into? Are you in the right soil? Have you become what you WANT to be? What you NEED to be?   I was inspired when I heard Courtney Hobbs share his experience during a session where we both presented for macmillan cancer earlier this year. Today he joins me to expand on his story that includes a need to fit in and how quickly things can get out of control. His earlier life meant his eyes were opened to how easily we can become what we don't want to be, if we don't choose how to live life.   That's about intention. And for Courtney, it was about the art of reinvention.   Courtney has THE best laugh, energy and sense of humour. He is an ❤️‍🔥 AWESOME ❤️‍🔥 story-teller.   His take on resilience is completely grounded and relatable. I love his underlying theme of change.   As Courtney says, most things in life aren't permanent. We could do ourselves a favour by reducing self-inflicted pressure to get things right, from the start. As he so brilliantly says, don't build a house where you should pitch a tent 🏕️ - recognise the need to pause and take stock, or try something new, without it having to be the place to stay long term. "Love your family, work hard, stay humble, and be kind!" That advice is spot on Courtney. You don't need to be an intellectual to know what's important. And in fact, the simplicity of these messages is what makes them so powerful. How do you keep your sense of perspective and ability to adapt as your self awareness grows on your journey? More about Courtney: Courtney is an all round creative thinker and is passionate about photography and video content. Starting out as a freelance photographer and having success with working with brands such as OK Magazine, Chang Beer, Mecca Bingo, Team GB, Dulux and many more he, alongside his business partner Jack, have built an innovative content creation business called Collective which enables brands all across the UK and beyond to have access to high quality content usually only reserved for big brands with big budgets. Courtney is passionate about and dedicated to his work and family and has a unique outlook on how to tackle life's problems and how to chase your dreams, largely due to his experiences growing up. Links to contact Courtney: LinkedIn: Courtney Hobbs Collective Digital Uk Instagram: @court.hobbs Website: collectivedigital.uk Resources & References Leadership & Manager Labs (itstimeforchange.co.uk) Watch this episode on YouTube Trading Places: RESILIENCE FOR...

Did you know that in Q3 of 2022-23, antidepressants were the most prescribed class of drug? More and more people are struggling with anxiety and depression, yet we conveniently turn a blind eye. It's easier to assume that employers are not responsible. However, when we consider the significant role work plays in mental health, whether that's adding to problems, or in contrast creating the conditions to thrive, we must take a collective responsibility. The second resource in The Resilience Collective is all about depression and anxiety. It focuses on what you need to know to support the people in your organisation. We have combined our psychologist and coaching expertise to bring you practical, down-to-earth, realistic advice and strategies. To accompany the launch of this resource, David Saab of The Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce, and Jim Gabriel, Chief Commercial Officer at CardMedic, join Amantha King and I to discuss their experience of depression and anxiety in the workplace. They share what they have learned and what they know would have helped, with the benefit of hindsight. Our intention is that people can use these lessons and our resource to engage purposefully with this agenda from the outset. Turning the ongoing decline in mental health goes beyond webinars and self-care. This is about the fundamentals of good business that puts relationships and human needs at the heart of every-day practice.   Some of my key take-aways from this conversation: ❗️ Having the knowledge to articulate our feelings is important. ❓ How have you enabled your workforce to be self-aware and communicate effectively?   ❗️ We need space to explore and make connections between how we feel and what we experience. ❓ How are you intentionally creating space to have meaningful conversations that unpick the impact of what people experience?   ❗️ Nothing is more important than trust, and having peers who have your back and with whom you have genuine relationships. ❓ How do you put this aspect of your practice centre stage?   ❗️ Companies claim to be more understanding but in reality people can still be reluctant to admit they're struggling. ❓ Do you know who is NOT speaking up?   Get beyond the eye-rolling of sceptics in your company by asking:   ❓What is the evidence that what you currently do is working? ❓What do your numbers really show, for example around employee absence? ❓How onboard and competent are your leaders and managers to fulfil their responsibility?   It's time to challenge traditional ways of doing business and the 'easy' fixes that add to the noise. Instead, really examine practice within your organisation and start from a focus on what it means to be human. Compassion makes a real difference to employee performance. Fact. Simple.   Download your free resource now: The Resilience Collective Let us know what you find most helpful, and what you need help with. It's what we do so use us! Follow #TheResilienceCollective to be notified so that you don't miss out on our next resource in the series. Resources

I love talking with people about exceptional employee experience, and Mike Mair is one of those people who knows a thing or two about it. He is passionate about helping people grow and develop. This conversation is a step-by-step exploration of EX throughout the employee lifecycle. It follows a road map that includes:📌Recruitment📌Onboarding📌Training📌Work environment📌Leadership📌Strategy and vision📌Outstanding team📌High performance📌Balance📌People Development📌Culture📌Reward and recognition📌Accelerated learning📌Business intelligenceThat was a lot to cover in an hour (which is why it's a smidge more). But it's worth it. If you are motivated to provide an outstanding 'end to end' employee experience, this episode of the podcast is not to be missed. Listen or watch and then let's talk. This is our area of expertise so we can help you create the space, reflect on current practice, and shape the future. And that enables you to focus more effectively on your area of expertise. Connect with Mike, and let us know where you're at on the journey. More about Mike:Mike Mair is a highly professional and qualified Learning & Development (L&D) Director FCIPD with significant knowledge and experience gained leading major change and transformation initiatives ensuring talent attraction, development, and retention. He has a proven ability to work at board level developing and executing key L&D strategies facilitating business and people growth. Mike is proud of building high-performing teams that deliver commercial results with true customer focus. He prides himself on his ability to develop strong and sustainable business relationships built on trust and respect and use of his people-focused strengths and value set. Mike wants to influence and inspire.Links to contact Mike:LinkedIn: Mike MairFacebook: mike.mair.98Website: www.mairdevelopment.co.ukResources & ReferencesLeadership & Manager Labs (itstimeforchange.co.uk)Watch this episode on YouTubeMental Health Onboarding Course | Lisa LLoyd | LinkedInHow It's Time for Change helps shape employee experience: My work with companies | It's time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)Developing the Intelligent Young Footballer Paperback by  Mike Mair (amazon.co.uk)Contact details for Lisa LLoyd:LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/lisapsychologyWebsite: www.itstimeforchange.co.ukSign up to be kept in the loop: www.itstimeforchange.co.uk/jointheclubEmail: lisa@itstimeforchange.co.uk

From being told he wouldn’t get anywhere in life, to becoming Operations Manager at Guernsey Mind, Chris Chamberlain likes to challenge expectations!In this episode of the podcast, we delve into shaping yourself as an intentional leader, and the style of situational leadership. We consider the balance between being authentic and changing our style to suit others. How do we get self-awareness, empathy and being proactive right?Chris explains how to challenge existing practice to do what is right despite constant push-back. He identifies what it takes to lead in such a deliberate way, and the advantages of doing so. There are some great resources too, for understanding situational leadership, the pros and cons, necessary qualities, and case-examples. What is your style of leadership?If you're not sure about a label to describe it, don't worry. What is important is that you are intentionally creating and adapting your style to best suit you and your team.❓ Want to know how? Let's chat over a coffee ☕.More about Chris:Chris Chamberlain's passion is human and workplace performance through situational leadership. He is the operations manager for Guernsey Mind, and oversees workplace training, therapy services, and events and campaigns.Links to contact Chris:LinkedIn:Chris Chamberlain Guernsey MindWebsite: www.guernseymind.org.ggResources & ReferencesLeadership & Manager Labs (itstimeforchange.co.uk)Watch this episode on YouTubeWhat Is Situational Leadership, and How Do You Practice It? (leaders.com)What is situational leadership? (With examples and traits) (www.indeed.com)Tackling Anxiety Collectively (itstimeforchange.co.uk)Stress Mapping - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)The Resilience Collective (itstimeforchange.co.uk)Is Fear blocking your leadership? - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)Consider yourself a good leader? - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)People First for Business Success - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)13 Skills to Build Resilience - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)The Power of Skeins – John Hibbs, CoEfficient - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)a...

The Health and Wellbeing at Work report from the CIPD, published in September, identified stress as continuing to be one of the main causes of absence. More specifically, high workloads are still cited as the main cause of stress-related absence. It just goes to show that the efforts to reverse this trend over recent years appear not to be having the desired impact. Why is that?That's an important question because we know the correlation between wellbeing, stress, and employee engagement. In this episode of the podcast, we get to grips with stress...✅ what it is✅ why it's still such a problem✅ what to do✅ and, strategies that we know make a difference.Amantha King and I pride ourselves on being down-to-earth, having sensible and relatable conversations, and sharing ideas that are straight forward. We get beyond stats and judgement, and into what organisations should be doing to support their workforce. And, we share our awesome resource that makes up part of The Resilience Collective 👏. This is available to freely download, along with additional tools to support your critical conversations, tackle stressors, and give you a greater sense of control over your feelings of stress.Listen to what we have to say or watch the video, and then check out the practical resources.Get yourself and your colleagues armed with what you need to know to not only mark #NationalStressAwarenessDay on 2nd November, but to be part of the movement that achieves positive change.Resources & ReferencesLeadership & Manager Labs (itstimeforchange.co.uk)Watch this episode on YouTubeDownload the Stress resource: The Resilience Collective (itstimeforchange.co.uk)MHFA England resources to help with stressChange Management | Factsheets | CIPDA guide to preventing and reducing stress at work: Guidance for line managers  (cipd.co.uk)Work-life balance | Mental Health FoundationHealth and wellbeing at work 2022: Case studies (cipd.co.uk)Cognitive Strategies to De-stress - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk) 8 cognitive approaches for you to consider, on your own or within your teamStress Mapping - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk) A visual technique looking at causes of stress to inform a plan of actionThe Emotional Needs Audit - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk) A self-assessment for personal and/or work life, to identify how well emotional needs are met, and informing what needs to changeWellness Action Plan Sign Up -...

Allyship.Seb Randle and I discuss what makes this an important topic... FOR MEN.Women are great at promoting women, but without men onboard, we hit a glass ceiling. But it's not 'all about the women at the expense of men'. We need to get beyond stereotypes and look at a more inclusive approach that benefits everyone. We discuss the all important question for much of the workforce: What's in it for men?Every individual in an organisation has a part to play. Every individual benefits.We also discuss:BarbiePrivilegeMale SuicideBody DysmorphiaThere are a number of great resources in the show notes.⁉️ What do YOU do to promote people less privileged than you in your workplace⁉️More about Seb:Seb Randle is an ex media strategist and Director, now delivering coaching services to creative businesses across the UK through his people focused consultancy, The Helpful Space. He was the first ever Development Coach at Global Social Media Agency Social Chain, and was more recently hired as the first ever Head of Allyship for Bloom North, a not for profit committee supporting the development of women within the comms industry.Links to contact Seb:LinkedIn:Seb RandleThe Helpful SpaceInstagram: @thehelpfulspaceResources & ReferencesLeadership & Manager Labs (itstimeforchange.co.uk)Watch this episode on YouTube7 Superpowers of Women in the Workplace (Part 1) – Dr Shawn Andrews - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)7 Superpowers of Women in the Workplace (Part 2) – Dr Shawn Andrews (itstimeforchange.co.uk)Framework for Discussion: Tackling Anxiety Collectively - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)Katy Leeson | LinkedInMen Leaning In Survey (Token Man)How To Be A Better Ally To Women (Seb Randle LinkedIn)Why Allyship Matters: A Lived Example (The Helpful Space, Instagram)She Believed She Could, So She Did (Bloom North article, Seb Randle)Masculinity In The

Olivia Sharp, Partner in HR Practice at Eton Bridge Partners, has produced the Chief People Officer Pathway Report, a comprehensive set of findings based on research into the CPO role. She joined me on the podcast to discuss the outcomes and how we apply that to the world of HR and the future of work. We discuss terminology and how HR titles can be a controversial subject. We explore differences in internal/ external appointments, gender and geography.We consider squiggly careers and routes into the CPO role. Olivia shares her observations about career breaks becoming an opportunity for curiosity rather than judgement.And we talk about the importance of sector experience and diversity of thought.As usual, joining the dots came up and Olivia made the connection with ESG, mental health, wellbeing and performance.Match-making and husbands also come up!The over-arching message that I took from this conversation was the fact that there are no 'rules'. Individual people and organisations have to be clear about the specifics that are important to them, whether that's about gaps, energy, interests or strengths.Data is vital. As a psychologist, I want to know what works, what doesn't, and most importantly, why. But organisations are becoming more interested in data too. Being able to hypothesise, analyse and test approaches in your unique context is essential. That's why I'm a fan of Leadership Labs - find out more here: Leadership and Manager LabsMore about Olivia:Olivia specialises in executive search for EtonBridge Partners’ HR Practice, with a primary focus on Chief People Officers and their teams. Her practitioner background in HR, gained in senior positions in a FTSE100 environment, combined with extensive general management experience, is a unique combination for clients and candidates alike. Eton Bridge Partners is a market leading executive search, interim management and consulting business operating all over the world, from our offices in London and Windsor. A Chartered Member of the CIPD, Olivia has a particular interest in diversity in the workplace, particularly mental health, social mobility and neurodiversity, and uses her first hand experience of delivering business turnarounds and wide scale people change, including complex industrial relations environments to support clients of all shapes and sizes, globally. Closer to home, she was delighted to support Eton Bridge itself shift to a 9 day working fortnight 10 months ago. Outside of work, Olivia is ‘Mummy’ to three young children and is proud to ‘parent loudly’ at work, and tries to squeeze in a bit of running, cycling and ballroom dancing in between everything else!Links to contact Olivia:LinkedIn:Olivia SharpEton Bridge Partners LtdWebsite: etonbridgepartners.comResources & ReferencesLeadership & Manager Labs (itstimeforchange.co.uk)Watch this...

Welcome to The Resilience Collective! If you're interested in mental health, wellbeing, employee engagement and basically being a kind and compassionate human, you'll love this! Amantha King and I have joined forces to create some awesome resources for you to use, and in this episode, we explain what they're all about. We are bridging the gap between knowing 'I should be doing something' to support people, 'what' that could be, and 'how'. As a psychologist and a coach, we have pooled our knowledge, skills, tools and findings from our work, to create a collective that will REALLY make a difference. That includes: recognition that no one approach fits all - professionals in this space need to know how to personalise support knowing that people are generally time poor - resources need to be super user friendly the value of replacing a clinical focus on mental health with a human-centred, action-orientated approach   The Resilience Collective is made up of 5 resources... STRESS: The good, the bad and the 'how' to get the elephant out of the room DEPRESSION & ANXIETY: Effective strategies for nurturing the black dog ADDICTION: Unveiling the shadows to understand the complexity and provide support SELF-HARM 'DISORDERS' & PHOBIAS: The suffering we don't see - dispelling the myths and shaping helpful solutions EDUCATION: Preparing the next generation for good mental health   We're kicking off on Friday 13th (lucky for us!) with our stress resource, ready for Stress Awareness Day on 1st November. Our belief is that currently action to support people to experience their best mental health isn't good enough. 🗣️There's lots of chat. 🖋️There is lots written about it. 💡There are some well-intended 'solutions'. 📅And there are a few 'events' thrown in for good measure.   ‼️ But we're not seeing the impact‼️   If you think your workplace has got it right, we'd love to hear your story and the evidence. Follow these resources at #theresiliencecollective. And finally, schedule half an hour in your diary from 13th October to find out more about how you can take greater control of stress to improve workplace wellbeing. Resources & References Leadership & Manager Labs (itstimeforchange.co.uk) Watch this episode on YouTube Free Download: Through The Looking Glass and Mental Health: The Past, The Present, The Future by Amantha King Mental Health Onboarding - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk) Mental Wellbeing Charter | Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce Mental Health: From Boardrooms to Toolkits – Placi Espejo - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk) More about Amantha: Amantha King is a Workplace Menopause Coach & Strengths Development Consultant...

Do you have a 'JOB'? According to Mike's dad, job stands for 'Just Over Broke'. Not very inspiring, energising or engaging if you want to live a meaningful, fulfilled life. As an entrepreneur, Michael Brennan is anything but that. In this honest and self-aware conversation, Mike shares his challenges, what he has learnt, and in his view, what leading a business is all about. We get to grips with:Reinventing ourselves to intentionally become who we want, learning from past experienceThe balance when setting up and growing a business with self care (and getting it wrong)Qualitative vs quantitative data to inform organisational developmentDEI and fairness and how to integrate different generational expectations within a workforceThe need to amplify voices and to listenClarity about strengths to maintain energy and mental wellbeing⁉️ Do you know how to protect YOURSELF in your position of leading others? And are you doing that, for your own performance and wellbeing?⁉️ Do you feel confident asking THE questions that really reveal what's going on beneath the surface of your company? Do you know what those questions are?⁉️ Do you feel able to fulfil the role that is required of you by your team? Do you REALLY know what that is (no assumptions allowed!)?I have 20 years experience as a psychologist. Supporting people to be their best selves and to create the right spaces for others to feel good and perform well is what I do.To understand more about leading with success from someone who has been there, done it and who has heaps of great advice, Mike is your man. Check out Stribe and Greater Manchester Good Employment Charter for more resources to help you on your journey.More about Mike:'If at first you don't succeed, try, try again'Michael Brennan loves turning ideas and visions into global businesses. An experienced CEO, he has raised over +£2m in Angel and VC investment to date and scaled businesses to £500k ARR. His passion is starting businesses and empowering teams to lead these businesses to success.People > Product > Profit. In that order.Mike's life objectives are the 3 B's:1. Be happy 2. Be healthy3. Build a billion £ companyHis awards include Forbes 30 Under 30 Entrepreneur of the Year, GP Bullhound Northern Star Winner, Tech Nations Rising Star Winner, North West’s most exciting company 2020, Nominet Trust 100 global social tech for good winner, and shortlisted for EY Entrepreneur Rising Star. Mike's experience includes: 10 years' experience as SaaS Co-Founder and CEO, developing 2x software products; raising £2 million to date across Angel & VC networks; growing Tootoot Ltd to £450k ARR; recruiting and managing teams; chairing boards; creating and managing 2x advisory boards; appointing high-profile Chairperson's including Terry Flanagan and Tim Raffle; generating £2 million in sales; average enterprise annual contract value of £42,000; securing UK and International sales across 11 countries; and securing Government contracts and independent evaluation.Links to contact Mike:LinkedIn: Mike BrennanResources &...