The Human Risk Podcast

What if the most powerful tool at work isn’t logic, but laughter? On this episode I'm speaking to a comedian who far from thinking humour is a workplace distraction, thinks it might be one of our most powerful tools. Episode SummaryMy guest is Pep Rosenfeld: comedian, improviser, and co-founder of the Amsterdam-based comedy institution Boom Chicago. He’s also the author of Work Laugh Balance, a manifesto for injecting humour into the working world. We explore why humour matters; not just as entertainment, but as a serious enabler of collaboration, communication, and honesty. Pep brings a unique perspective: part performer, part business trainer. We talk about how Boom Chicago went from late-night improv to a launchpad for corporate masterclasses in leadership and presentation. Along the way, we unpack the risks and rewards of using humour at work; what works, what really doesn’t, and how to find the line without crossing it. Pep shares ethical guidelines for office jokes, the power of self-deprecation, and why starting with a laugh can lead to deeper conversations. We also get into the craft of being funny.Pep explains why good comedy is rarely spontaneous, why AI still can’t tell a decent joke, and why live audiences matter more than ever. Whether you're trying to lighten the mood in a meeting or name the elephant in the room without causing a stampede, this episode offers practical ideas (and a few laughs) on how to do it with intelligence and care.AI-Generated Timestamped Summary[00:00:00] Opening on humour’s overlooked role in work; intro to Pep Rosenfeld[00:01:00] How Boom Chicago began as a summer comedy project in Amsterdam[00:04:00] Expanding into improv for kids on the autism spectrum[00:06:00] The book’s premise: humour fuels communication, leadership, and trust[00:11:00] Why advertisers and leaders alike should embrace humour[00:12:00] Rules for workplace humour: self-deprecate, avoid punching down, don’t get creepy[00:16:00] Comedy as a tool for tackling elephants in the room[00:23:00] The myth of improv: strong humor depends on thoughtful prep[00:26:00] The power of presence and live attention in comedy[00:33:00] What comedians offer that motivational speakers don’t[00:36:00] How Pep uses AI to show the limits of artificial humour[00:41:00] Using comedy to defuse fear and build connection[00:44:00] Parallel skills: being a lawyer vs. being a comedian[00:50:00] The energy difference between live and virtual comedy[00:55:00] Defining Work Laugh Balance: credibility without sterility[01:00:00] What’s next for Pep, where to find his work, and closing thoughtsLinksPep on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/pep-rosenfeld-394b2424/Boom Chicago, Pep's Amsterdam comedy club - https://boomchicago.nl/Work Laugh Balance - https://amzn.eu/d/678xGYNIf you eniyed this episode, then you might also like these previous episodes of the show:Comedy writer Paul Dornan on Being Truly Funny - https://www.humanriskpodcast.com/paul-dornan-on-being-truly-funny/Improv Comedian Neil Mullarkey on Being In The Moment - https://www.humanriskpodcast.com/neil-mullarkey-on-being-in-the-moment/Impressionist Josh Berry on Comedy, Satire and Impressions - https://www.humanriskpodcast.com/josh-berry-on-comedy-satire-impressions-part-one/

Why do cyclists in London run red lights? It's against the law, and yet, if you've cycled, driven or just observed London's cyclists, you'll know that many of them don't stop when there's a red light. Confession time: I'm one of them. Not all the time, but some of the time, and weirdly not when I'm in Munich — the other city I live in — but only in London.The question of why this happens — not just my red light running, but the act in general — is the subject of this episode. Because I think this seemingly simple act can reveal so much about our compliance with rules, our perception of risk, and the way environments shape behaviour.To unpack these insights, I’m joined by Ella Jenkins, Associate Director at Thinks Insight, and Pete Dyson, a behavioural science researcher at the University of Bath and co-author of Transport for Humans.  They've been part of a research team on a study commissioned by Lime, the electric bike and scooter company, which explores why cyclists in London behave the way they do.What we discover isn’t about recklessness—it’s about confidence, social signalling, poor infrastructure, and the surprising psychology of compliance. In our conversation, we examine the drivers of red-light running, the effectiveness of different interventions, and what this means for broader behaviour change.Whether you’re a policymaker, a cyclist, or simply someone curious about how our minds and cities interact, this episode offers practical insights into one of the most visible — and misunderstood — forms of everyday noncompliance.Guest BiographiesElla Jenkins is an Associate Director at Thinks Insight, a strategy and research consultancy that helps clients understand human behaviour and deliver change. She led the research project commissioned by Lime to understand why cyclists in London run red lights. With a background in behavioural science and a passion for applying insights in real-world contexts, Ella brings both analytical rigour and empathy to her work.Pete Dyson is a behavioural science researcher at the University of Bath, where he focuses on transport systems and human behaviour. He is the co-author with Rory Sutherland of the influential book Transport for Humans: Are we nearly there yet? and previously served as the Principal Behavioural Scientist at the UK Department for Transport. He's also the current Cycling Mayor for the UK City of Bath.Pete blends practical policymaking experience with a deep understanding of the behavioural levers that shape how we move through the world.AI-Generated Timestamped Summary[00:00:00] Introduction and personal confession about red-light running[00:01:15] Overview of the Lime-commissioned research [00:03:20] Introducing Ella Jenkins and Pete Dyson[00:05:45] The origins and goals of the study[00:09:05] Red-light running as a defensive rather than reckless behaviour[00:12:08] Confidence and frequency of cycling linked to rule-breaking[00:13:14] Perceptions versus reality of who breaks the rules[00:16:32] The role of infrastructure and signal phasing[00:18:54] Social norms and peer influence on cyclist behaviour[00:21:46] Trust in the rules versus lived reality [00:24:20] Designing for behavioural cues[00:28:15] Comparison with other cities like Munich [00:30:58] The emotional context of cycling[00:34:46] Enforcement and views on potential interventions[00:38:12] Habit formation and unintended nudges [00:41:23] The interplay between education and empathy[00:46:49] Final reflections and Christian's closing thoughtsLinksElla on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ella-jenkins/Pete on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pete-dyson-9ba5301b/What drives red light running in London cyclists?, the research we discuss: https://fileserver.britainthinks.com/dl/wH4CcDyRg8bVThinks Insight: https://www.thinksinsight.com/Lime Bikes: https://www.li.me/en-gbTransport for Humans: https://www.transportforhumans.com/Pete's previous appearance on the show talking about Transport for Humans: https://www.humanriskpodcast.com/pete-dyson-on-making-transport-more-human/The announcement of Pete as Cycling Mayor of Bath: https://www.bath.ac.uk/announcements/the-bicycle-mayor-of-bath-pete-dyson/

What if the ideas that linger in the back of your mind — the ones you can’t quite explain — are the ones you most need to pay attention to?Episode SummaryIn this episode, I explore that question with Dr Nuno Reis, a former physicist and investment banker turned thinker and guide in uncovering what he calls rare dots — those unique, pre-verbal insights that feel deeply resonant but don’t yet fit into our existing models of the world.Our conversation begins with Nuno’s unusual career path, from string theory and theoretical physics into financial modelling and risk management, before moving into transparency roles in finance. From there, we trace the thread of his enduring curiosity: how crises drive paradigm shifts, why models are useful but limited, and what happens when we acknowledge that not everything fits into neat rational frameworks.Nuno then introduces the concept of rare dots and explains how he’s harnessing AI in a novel, deeply human way: not to replace thought, but to help us surface the preverbal ideas that shape our uniqueness. Together, we explore how rare dots can guide creativity, meaning, and innovation in our work and lives — and why paying attention to the things that don’t quite make sense may be the most sensible thing we can do.Guest BiographyDr Nuno Reis describes himself as a physicist turned banker turned explorer of human thinking. After completing a PhD in theoretical physics with a focus on string theory, he transitioned into investment banking at UBS and later into financial engineering and transparency initiatives at Bloomberg.Over 18 years in finance, he applied scientific methods to risk modelling, hedging, and complex derivatives, all while maintaining a deep curiosity about the limits of logic and models.Today, Nuno is the creator of the Rare Dots framework, which helps individuals and organisations uncover the pre-verbal insights that drive creativity and meaning. He combines philosophy, history of thought, and cutting-edge uses of AI to build environments where people can explore their deepest intuitions.Through workshops, cohorts, and his own practice, he guides others in turning those rare dots into pathways for innovation, purpose, and contribution.AI-Generated Timestamped Summary[00:00:00] Introduction and framing of rare dots as preverbal insights[00:01:00] Nuno’s background: from physics to banking and financial modelling[00:06:00] Applying scientific methods to markets and the 2008 crisis[00:12:00] Replication crisis and paradigm shifts in science[00:18:00] Early story of curiosity and existential questions[00:21:00] Introduction of rare dots as deeply resonant insights[00:26:00] How resonance and intuition shape meaning[00:30:00] Creating environments to surface rare dots[00:35:00] History of thinking vs history of ideas[00:40:00] Using AI as a tool for rare dots and Wittgenstein’s ladder[00:46:00] How AI can surface pre-verbal thinking[00:52:00] AI as a prompt for deeper human thinking[00:56:00] Rare dots exploration as an infinite game[01:02:00] Rare dots as a guide for careers and human valueLinksNuno on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nuno-reis/Nuno's Substack - https://nunobreis.substack.com/

Is listening a hidden superpower we’ve overlooked?  You've heard of Active Listening, but what is Radical Listening and why does it matter?Episode SummaryOn this episode, I’m joined by Professor Christian van Nieuwerburgh, an academic who also describes himself as 'Coach on a Motorcycle'. He's on the show to help me explore what he calls 'Radical Listening'.Christian is Professor of Coaching and Positive Psychology at the University of East London and the co-author, with Dr Robert Biswas-Diener, of 'Radical Listening: The Art of True Connection'.The book offers a research-backed but deeply human exploration of what it means to really hear someone — and how that act alone can change lives. In the book and in his work, Christian blends academic rigour with road-tested coaching insights, drawing from both the lecture hall and long rides through open landscapes. He invites us to look at listening not just as a skill, but as a way of being.With a background in positive psychology and a passion for connection, Christian brings a perspective that’s as practical as it is profound. We talk about how listening — when done with presence and intention — becomes far more than a communication technique. It becomes a way of affirming identity, offering empathy, and shaping culture. Christian shares why well-meaning advice often misses the mark, the difference between social and cognitive listening, and what it takes to be with someone, rather than just hearing them.This isn’t just for leaders or coaches;  it’s for anyone who wants to have better conversations, create stronger relationships, and be more human in how they engage with others. Listening, as we discuss, isn’t neutral. It’s powerful, personal, and radically transformative.Guest BiographyProfessor Christian van Nieuwerburgh is a globally recognised executive coach, academic, and author, holding the title of Professor of Coaching and Positive Psychology at the University of East London.As Managing Director of the International Centre for Coaching Psychology and Executive Director at Growth Coaching International, he bridges rigorous research with practice.He co-authored Radical Listening: The Art of True Connection (with Dr Robert Biswas‑Diener), which reorients listening from a background skill to a central act of human connection.Famously known as the “Coach on a Motorcycle,” Christian combines his love for the open road with his dedication to how we hear and are heard. Learn more at: LinksRadical Listening - https://www.bkconnection.com/books/title/Radical-ListeningRadical Listening Audiobook - https://www.audible.co.uk/pd/Radical-Listening-Audiobook/B0F2B3TKXVChristian's faculty page at Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) - https://people.rcsi.com/chrisvnChristian's faculty page at Henley Business School - https://www.henley.ac.uk/people/christian-j-van-nieuwerburghCoach on a Motorcycle - coachonamotorcycle.comAI-Generated Timestamped Summary[00:01:45] — The roots of Radical Listening[00:06:30] — How coaching principles intersect with everyday conversations[00:11:55] — When advice becomes unhelpful[00:17:40] — Listening as identity-affirming behaviour[00:22:00] — When a good question stops you in your tracks[00:27:30] — Social vs cognitive listening[00:33:10] — Why you don’t need to understand the topic to be a great listener[00:38:45] — The unspoken costs of poor listening in organisations[00:44:50] — How Radical Listening links to psychological safety[00:49:20] — Motorcycles, mindfulness, and being in flow[00:56:00] — The AI comparison: why listening is a human art[01:01:00] — Practical takeaways for everyday listeners

Why do we follow orders or go along with things that feel wrong? Why might defiance be better than compliance? And how can we go about becoming more defiant?Episode SummaryI’ve always been fascinated by why people obey, even when it clashes with their instincts or values. In this conversation, I’m joined by Dr Sunita Sah — a physician-turned-organisational psychologist whose work explores the hidden social, cultural, and psychological forces behind compliance. Drawing from her research and personal journey, Sunita reframes defiance as alignment with our true values, not reckless rebellion. We unpack concepts like “insinuation anxiety” — the discomfort of signalling someone else might be wrong — and explore her five-stage model of defiance, from recognising tension to taking decisive action. Sunita explains why compliance is often mistaken for consent, why both have distinct definitions, and why many of us have never practised saying “no” skillfully. Along the way, she shares vivid examples from medicine, aviation, parenting, and history, including the calculated defiance of Rosa Parks. For leaders, Sunita offers a challenge: create environments where dissent is safe and effective, and treat defiance as valuable feedback. For all of us, she suggests starting small — practising low-stakes resistance to build our “defiance muscle.” Whether you’re a rule-maker, rule-follower, or both, this episode invites you to rethink the stories you tell yourself about compliance, and to see saying “no” as a powerful tool for living with integrity. Guest Bio Self-Description:Dr Sunita Sah is a physician-turned-organisational psychologist and Professor of Management Studies at Cornell University. Her research examines the social, organisational, and psychological forces that influence decision-making, particularly in contexts involving authority, conflicts of interest, and ethical dilemmas. She is the author of Defy: The Power of No in a World That Demands Yes (US title: Defy: How to Speak Up When It Matters), a book that reframes defiance as a vital life skill. AI-Generated Timestamped Summary [00:00:00] Opening & why we obey even when it feels wrong[00:02:00] Sunita’s career journey: medicine to organisational psychology[00:05:00] Personal experiences shaping her research[00:07:00] Redefining compliance vs. consent[00:10:00] The five elements of informed consent[00:11:00] Introducing “insinuation anxiety”[00:14:00] High-stakes and low-stakes examples of silence[00:18:00] Why people resist defiance — lack of skill and practice[00:20:00] New definition of defiance as value alignment[00:23:00] Tension as the first stage of defiance[00:25:00] Stage 3: asking clarification questions[00:27:00] Scripts for skilful defiance[00:30:00] Practising in low-stakes situations[00:33:00] Speaking up for others vs. for oneself[00:36:00] Defiance as a skill, not a personality[00:38:00] Calculating safety and effectiveness of defiance[00:41:00] Costs of compliance vs. costs of defiance[00:44:00] Clarifying values to lower stress and improve integrity[00:46:00] Leadership responsibility for safe dissent[00:48:00] Performative vs. genuine speak-up systems[00:50:00] Defiance as contagious behaviour[00:52:00] The role of mischief and playful resistance[00:56:00] Saying yes when the world expects no[00:58:00] Advice for compliance officers and leaders[01:00:00] Upcoming courses on defiance and decision-makingLinksSunita's website: https://www.sunitasah.comDefy: The Power of No in a World That Demands Yes — https://www.sunitasah.com/defySunita's Cornell University faculty profile — https://www.johnson.cornell.edu/faculty-research/faculty/sunitasah/

What happens when citizens lose faith in the institutions that serve them? And how can we rebuild that trust?Episode SummaryOn this episode, I'm speaking to someone who cares passionately about this subject and who has made it her life's work to research and solve it.  From politicians who lie, to corruption scandals, to public services that simply don’t work the way we expect—especially when we're paying taxes and getting poor value—something feels broken. I want to know: how do we understand and respond to that breakdown of faith?Libby Maman, founder and CEO of Luminata, whose work turns abstract values like transparency, accountability, participation and inclusiveness into tangible, measurable trust indicators.We dig into why conventional approaches to rebuilding trust often backfire, and how designing systems that measure the right things can actually shift organisational behaviour for the better.You'll hear not only how trust can be mapped, measured and managed—but why that matters. We challenge assumptions: do metrics actually undermine trust? Or can they signal seriousness, credibility and responsiveness? Libby shares concrete examples of stakeholder‑led indicators, behavioural logic in gamification, and the limitations and opportunities of measuring democratic values.Guest Biography: Libby MamanLibby Maman is a researcher and systems designer working at the intersection of public policy, behavioural science and institutional design. She is the founder and CEO of Luminata, a consultancy that partners with governments and civil society to build measurable trust frameworks.  Libby’s broader background spans academia, consulting and public sector work.Her research focuses on translating democratic norms—such as transparency, accountability and inclusiveness—into practical metrics that organisations can both implement and act on. Through Luminata, she has worked with national and local governments to co‑design trust indicators that respond to real stakeholder needs and drive change.AI-Generated Timestamp Summary[00:00:00] Introduction: Declining trust in public bodies and the stakes of measurement[00:02:45] Libby’s background and mission at Luminata[00:05:30] Why traditional trust-building (PR, appeals to values) often fails[00:10:15] Designing trust indicators: transparency, accountability, participation, inclusiveness[00:15:40] Co‑design with stakeholders to ensure relevance and buy‑in[00:20:10] Behavioural logic: how metrics can motivate institutional change[00:25:00] Risks of aspirational vs realistic measurement targets[00:30:00] Trust-politicisation: when metrics become tools of power[00:35:20] Case examples of gamified measurement and its impact[00:40:00] The relationship between trust-building and voluntary compliance[00:45:30] Limitations: measurement isn’t magic—but it's a start[00:50:00] Final reflections on what organisations must do to grow trustLinks:Libby's website - Luminata website (Libby’s consultancy) Libby on LinkedIn Relevant Previous EpisodesProfessor Yuval Feldman on why we should write rules for good people not bad peopleProfessor Yuval Feldman on Trust & Voluntary ComplianceHilary Sutcliffe on TrustDr Jake Mazulewicz on Human Reliability

We’ve all heard the phrase ‘the show must go on’.  But when shouldn’t the show go on?  To help me answer that, I’m speaking to someone who has spent 35 years managing some of Australia’s most iconic large-scale events — from Taylor Swift concerts to public city spectacles with crowds over 200,000, and corporate experiences — and has often faced the question: when should the show really stop?My guest is Iain Morrison, wh,o as well as having a background in events, is now the CEO of a startup that builds hyper‑accurate 3D and VR plans for event venues.Episode SummaryIn this episode, I dig into what happens when the entertainment world’s credo — “the show must go on” — becomes a liability, and what it feels like backstage to carry that kind of responsibility. Iain explains the importance of having show‑stop protocols long before trouble arrives — whether it’s crowd crush, heart attacks in the crowd, or approaching severe weather. He explains how event organisers need to make decisions in advance so that nobody freezes under pressure, and ensure everyone is aligned on who can stop the show, and how and when to restart it. We also delve into the emotional toll of the event industry — the brutal hours, constant touring, adrenaline highs, and the realities of burnout. Ian talks candidly about putting people at risk by cutting critical breaks and how easily event teams can burn out. Finally, he walks me through his pivot: building a tech startup that uses 3D planning and virtual models to give event teams a fully visual planning tool — reducing surprises, improving safety, and supporting better decisions from the very first draft. GUEST BIOGRAPHYIain is an event manager with over three decades of experience in running major concerts, festivals, and public spectacles across Australia. He has helped deliver live shows for acts like Taylor Swift, U2, Foo Fighters, major public events on the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Domain Concert series, with crowds ranging from 5,000 to over 200,000. From high school theatre beginnings to early work at Opera Australia and the Sydney Opera House, Ian transitioned into corporate events, the Olympics, and large public outdoor events. He has worked in high-pressure environments where crowd safety, terrorism threats, public order, and weather call-offs were part of the job on a daily basis. About two years ago, he moved from event delivery to event technology — as CEO and co‑founder of The Imagination Collaborative, Ian now leads a startup building hyper‑accurate 3D and VR planning tools. These digital twins help event teams visualise venue layouts, crowd flows, sightlines, signage, camera positions, evacuation routes and more—before anything is built on site.AI-GENERATED TIMESTAMPED SUMMARY[00:00:00] Introduction[00:02:00] Ian’s backstory: school theatre → university → Opera House → major events[00:05:00] Scale of events: from 5,000 attendees to crowds of over 200,000[00:08:00] Types of risk at live events: crowd crush, terrorism threats, medical events[00:12:00] Why events remain largely unregulated worldwide[00:15:00] Concept of a “show stop”: planning for what enables safe cancellation or pause[00:20:00] Decision‑making under stress: protocols versus ego-based pressure[00:25:00] Real scenarios: thunderstorms, crowd reaction, and restart challenges[00:28:00] Emotional cost on crews: burnout, long hours, compressed touring schedules[00:32:00] Industry taboo around mental health and burnout; making it safer for staff[00:36:00] Ian’s use of social media to spark conversations on stress, safety and standards[00:40:00] Introduction to Ian’s startup: detailed planning with 3D environments and VR[00:44:00] How the tool works: drone scans, venue models, client interaction in virtual space[00:48:00] Benefits: fewer surprises, better sightlines, optimised signage, cost savings[00:51:00] Future plans: integrating crowd simulation, digital twin models, global expansion[00:55:00] Final reflections: the trade‑offs of delivering magic vs ensuring safety[00:57:00] Wrap‑upLINKS Iain on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/iainmorrison1/Iain’s website - https://iainmorrison.global/ Iain’s startup, The Imagination Collaborative - https://www.theimaginationcollaborative.com/

What if the real risk of AI isn’t job loss but brain atrophy?Episode SummaryIf you've spent any time on social media recently, you'll be familiar with the flood of low-quality AI-generated sludge. And on this episode, I'm speaking to someone who is leading a one-woman campaign against it and in favour of human-generated content. Her name is Zsike Peter and she's the fiercely human founder of an agency called Vampire Digital; you'll hear why its called that on the show.  Zsike is also the author of a new book called Thinkbait: The Definitive Guide to Reclaiming Human Creativity in the Age of AI which seeks to highlight and combat the prevalence of AI-generated low-quality content.Her mission is a passionate defence of human creativity in an age where generative AI threatens to dull our minds and voices. Its a rallying cry for intentional, thoughtful use that keeps our agency intact. In a fascinating discussion, we explore her extraordinary backstory, from growing up in communist Transylvania to being arrested after escaping a toxic UK host family that hired her as an au pair. And you'll hear the remarkable story about how she went undercover in a brothel to win a journalism scholarship. These stories aren’t just great anecdotes, they reveal a mindset of relentless curiosity, courage, and independence that informs her work today.What makes Zsike's objection to AI so compelling is that initially she embraced it.  But after having tried it out, she flipped from embracing generative AI to warning against its effects on our thinking. You'll hear her talk about the concept of Thinkbait as an alternative to clickbait; content that stimulates rather than stupefies. Along the way, we unpack how language creates culture, why writing is thinking, and what it means to preserve our humanness in a machine-saturated world.And much, much more.Guest Biography: Zsike Peter Zsike is the founder of Vampire Digital — a content agency with a “fiercely human heart,” known for producing sharp, human-written copy in a world drowning in AI sludge. She is also the author of Thinkbait: The Definitive Guide to Reclaiming Human Creativity in the Age of AI — a book that serves as both a practical framework and a philosophical manifesto. Her background in journalism, corporate communications, and digital marketing now powers a mission to help people reclaim their voices (and their thinking) in a world increasingly seduced by generative AI.LinksThinkbait  - https://thinkbait.co.uk/Vampire Digital, Zsike's agency - https://www.vampiredigital.biz/Zsike on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/zsike-peter/AI-Generated Timestamped Summary(yes, I know, ironic, given the subject!)[00:00:00] Introduction [00:02:00] Zsike's childhood in communist Transylvania and family escape story[00:13:00] Going undercover in a brothel to win a journalism competition[00:19:00] Her arrest and start in the UK after fleeing abuse[00:24:00] Building a career in communications and founding Vampire Digital[00:28:00] Why she chose the vampire brand and what it represents[00:31:00] How her agency captures authentic voice in client content[00:33:00] Her shift from embracing to warning against generative AI[00:36:00] The dangers of outsourcing thinking and writing to machines[00:41:00] Why individuality and voice matter in a world of sameness[00:44:00] Thinkbait as a framework, manifesto, and act of defiance[00:48:00] The bedtime story moment that triggered a rethink on AI[00:53:00] The rise of fake authority and automated engagement online[00:57:00] Language loss, writing in a third language, and cultural identity[01:03:00] How hardship shaped her creative drive and ethical stance[01:07:00] Final reflections

What if we treated mental health like a capability instead of a crisis? On this episode, I'm talking to a business school professor and a counselling psychologist about their new book that looks at practical ways we can manage mental health. Not after it manifests itself, but beforehand.Episode SummaryMental health has become part of the workplace conversation, but all too often, that conversation stops at slogans and superficial gestures. On this episode, I explore what it really means to build mental wellbeing into the culture of an organisation with two guests who bring very different — and deeply complementary — perspectives.Dr. Kiran Bhatti is a counselling psychologist working one-on-one with individuals experiencing anxiety, trauma, and burnout. Professor Thomas Roulet is an organisational sociologist at the University of Cambridge who researches the social dynamics of modern workplaces.Together, they've written Wellbeing Intelligence, a book that offers a smarter, more integrated approach to mental health at work. Our conversation blends the clinical and the organisational.We talk about why mental health needs to be treated not just as an emergency response but as a proactive skillset, why high performers are often the most vulnerable, and why grand programmes can fall flat if they don’t feel human. Kiran explains how physical symptoms can mask deeper emotional struggles, and Thomas highlights the invisible tensions that can shape how teams feel and function. We unpack how leaders can signal care without being intrusive, and how a culture of safety is built more through micro-interactions than policies. This episode is for anyone trying to build workplaces that support — rather than erode — human wellbeing. It’s full of practical insight, honest reflection, and just the right amount of theory to make it stick. You’ll also hear what parenting a newborn has taught them about emotional intelligence and stress, and why the best mental health support often starts with listening, not fixing.And we break new ground on the show. Not just by having the first couple on as guests, but also because we're joined by their newborn son, who plays his part in making the show more human!Guest BiographiesDr. Kiran Bhatti is a counselling psychologist with over 15 years of experience working with individuals and organisations on issues related to mental health, trauma, and emotional wellbeing. She describes herself as someone who works at the intersection of science and soul — blending evidence-based psychological techniques with a deep respect for human complexity. In her practice, she focuses on empowering clients to make sense of their experiences and build sustainable emotional resilience.Professor Thomas Roulet is a Professor of Organisational Sociology and Leadership at Cambridge Judge Business School and a Fellow at King's College, University of Cambridge. His research explores the social dynamics of organisations, including topics like stigma, conformity, culture, and leadership. He’s published widely on how organisations manage tensions, and how individuals navigate identity and meaning at work. His writing has appeared in Harvard Business Review, The Conversation, and major academic journals. Together, they co-authored Wellbeing Intelligence: Building Better Mental Health at Work, combining their clinical and organisational expertise to offer a fresh approach to workplace wellbeing that moves beyond tokenistic initiatives.AI-Generated Timestamped Summary[00:00:00] Introduction and the concept of "wellbeing intelligence"[00:03:52] Why mental health should be viewed as a spectrum, not a binary[00:07:10] The limitations of performative wellbeing initiatives[00:09:24] How leaders can signal real care without being intrusive[00:13:17] The interplay between physical and emotional symptoms[00:16:45] Why psychological safety needs to be lived, not just stated[00:21:06] What makes high performers especially vulnerable to burnout[00:26:08] Cultural tensions: hybrid work, visibility, and presenteeism[00:29:33] Real-life stories of clients struggling in 'healthy' work cultures[00:34:12] What we can learn from parenting a newborn about stress response[00:38:05] Thomas on data vs experience in mental health measurement[00:41:52] Kiran on the role of micro-connections in building trust[00:44:30] Why middle managers are often the most squeezed and unsupported[00:48:17] The risk of "outsourcing" care via tech or tools[00:52:01] Final thoughts on how to embed wellbeing into everyday leadership[00:55:12] Outro and links to the book and guest profilesLinksDr Khiran Bhatti - https://www.drkiranbhatti.com/Professor Thomas Roulet - https://www.thomasroulet.com/Wellbeing Intelligence - https://profilebooks.com/work/wellbeing-intelligence/Thomas' previous appearance on the show on Negative Social Evaluations - https://www.humanriskpodcast.com/dr-thomas-roulet-on-negative/

What if joy became the most important metric when we organised events? Or, to put it another way, why are so many events uninspiring and not very joyful?Episode SummaryOn this episode, I’m joined by event strategist, educator, and author Tahira Endean to explore a provocative question: what if we measured events not just by financial metrics, but by the joy they deliver?Drawing from her new book Our KPI is Joy: How Live Events Catalyze Happiness, Productivity and Trust, Tahira shares deep insights from decades of experience curating and designing events at scale, including her work with IMEX, one of the largest global gatherings in the meetings and events industry. We discuss why so many events feel soul-crushingly mediocre and how that reflects a fundamental misunderstanding of what people really need when they come together. Tahira challenges the industry’s obsession with surface-level logistics and proposes a reorientation around human experience.She unpacks everything from the science of connection and discomfort to the power of design, food, space, and unexpected joy to foster trust and productivity. Whether you’re an event professional, a business leader, or simply someone who’s sat through one too many lifeless conferences, this conversation will challenge how you think about convening people. We discuss beanbags, sound baths, shrimp, secret handshakes, and how small design decisions can profoundly impact how people feel, learn, and connect. And that’s what makes joy — not an emoji or indulgence — but a powerful performance indicator.Guest Bio: Tahira EndeanTahira is an experienced event strategist, educator, and co-founder of Strategy Table. She serves as Head of Programme for IMEX, where she curates content for two of the world’s largest MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions) industry gatherings in Frankfurt and Las Vegas. With over three decades in the events industry, Tahira has developed a reputation for her forward-thinking approach to event design and human-centric experiences. She teaches event strategy and design, is a passionate advocate for experiential innovation, and brings a behavioural lens to the way we bring people together. She believes in the power of micro-moments, psychological safety, and events as catalysts for human connection and organisational trust.AI-Generated Timestamp Summary0:00:02 - 0:14:48: Maximizing Event Joy for ProductivityThe episode kicks off with a discussion on how joy can be a key performance indicator (KPI) for events. Tahira Endeen, an experienced event strategist, talks about why many events end up being mediocre and how small design changes can significantly enhance the experience. The conversation highlights the importance of joy in fostering happiness, productivity, and trust during gatherings, challenging the traditional business mindset to value joy as much as other KPIs. 0:14:48 - 0:29:08: Designing Events for Human ConnectionThis segment delves into the principles of intentional event design. Tahira and the host explore how creating environments that balance comfort and stimulation can lead to more meaningful interactions and learning experiences. They discuss examples like the 11th International Conference on AIDS, where well-designed events led to groundbreaking innovations. The focus is on nurturing individual experiences over catering to the masses.0:29:08 - 0:37:32: Designing Thoughtful & Engaging EventsThe focus here is on fostering connections and joy in professional events through thoughtful design. Strategies like facilitating introductions by senior managers and organising diverse breakout sessions are explored. The segment underscores the importance of measuring engagement and joy, emphasizing a human-centered approach that considers attendees' needs and enhances productivity and satisfaction.0:37:32 - 0:49:24: Embracing Experimentation and FailureTahira shares insights on the value of experimentation and adaptability in event planning. Through a personal anecdote, she illustrates how innovative ideas, initially met with scepticism, can yield significant benefits. The conversation encourages making small changes, embracing failures as learning opportunities, and maintaining a proactive attitude to achieve unexpected successes. 0:49:24 - 1:01:30: Navigating Event Chaos for SuccessThe episode explores the beauty of embracing imperfections in event planning. Tahira and the host discuss how handling mistakes with grace and humour can add charm to events. They advocate for flexibility in event processes to enhance experiences for both speakers and attendees, maintaining the magic even amidst logistical challenges.LinksIMEX Events - https://imexevents.com/Strategy Table - https://strategytable.co/Our KPI is Joy Book - https://www.amazon.com/Our-KPI-Joy-Happiness-Productivity-ebook/dp/B0DXVX6XX8Tahira on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tahira-endean-msc-citp-cmp-ced-918a868/?

Why is getting shit done so hard, and what can we do about it?Episode Summary Getting shit done isn’t just about motivation or tools, it’s about design. In this episode, I speak to Claus Raasted: consultant, author, speaker, experience designer, and someone who describes himself — with tongue firmly in cheek — as an “overpaid rockstar consultant.” But behind the flair is a deep understanding of how to remove friction, reframe work, and help people build systems that actually work for them. Claus and I talk about his Little Book of Getting Shit Done, why productivity isn’t about speed or optimisation, and how to shift from overthinking to action.We also explore the difference between solving problems and designing for them, and how creativity, humour, and even a bit of absurdity can help us rethink how we work. Whether you're the kind of person who loves productivity hacks or someone who's suspicious of all things “optimised,” Claus has a way of making the serious playful and the playful serious. It’s a fun, insightful conversation that just might change the way you approach your to-do list. 🔹Guest Biography Claus describes himself as an “overpaid rockstar consultant,” but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. He’s a prolific author (46 books and counting), a speaker known for delivering insights with humour, and a designer of transformative experiences, everything from corporate innovation workshops to immersive fantasy roleplay events. He’s the Director at the College of Extraordinary Experiences  Claus has also worked with organisations like IKEA, PwC, and Boston Consulting Group. You’ll often find him on stage in a Batman suit, not because he wants to be a superhero, but because he understands the power of breaking expectations.LinksClaus' website - https://www.clausraasted.com/Claus on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/clausraasted/Claus Raasted's Little Guide To Getting Shit Done - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1DSbVsv6W3CzKbhd3PqU7CBjQUm08uQY1/view?usp=sharingThe College of Extraordinary Experiences - https://www.extraordinary.college/AI-Generated Timestamped Summary0:00:02 - Introduction0:02:02 - Humour and Productivity0:03:43 - The Overpaid Rockstar Consultant Approach0:09:43 - Strategic Pricing and Branding0:16:15 - Innovative Approach to Motivation and Productivity0:19:15 - Combining Gaming with Exercise0:21:37 - The Human Approach to Sales0:27:37 - Thoughtful Engagement in Sales0:34:04 - Reimagining Event Experiences0:36:34 - Immersive Design in Events0:39:30 - Expanding Perspectives and Creative Problem-Solving0:46:30 - Balancing Safety and Creativity0:53:41 - Resistance to Creative Solutions0:58:41 - Embracing Unconventional Ideas1:02:46 - The Value of Time and Connection1:06:46 - Questioning Hourly Payment Models

What happens when a British communications expert takes her political instincts and corporate storytelling skills to Germany? 🎙️ Overview On this episode, I speak with Katy Diggory, who’s done exactly that — and learned a lot about tone, culture, and translation along the way. It’s a brilliant conversation that blends politics, international business, and linguistic nuance. We explore the difference between translating and localising a message, why AI struggles to sound human, and how tone of voice can make or break communication, from Ryanair’s snark to a politician’s speech. Katy gives me a behind-the-scenes look at her journey from UK Parliament to advising German corporates and monitoring elections in Eastern Europe. This episode is packed with insight for anyone trying to make themselves understood, especially across borders, cultures, or platforms. Katy is witty, reflective, and razor-sharp, and I think you’ll enjoy hearing from her as much as I did. 👤 Guest bio: Katy Diggory Katy Diggory is a communications expert specialising in campaign design and management, copywriting, proofreading and editing in English and political training. She is based in Munich.She helps individuals and organisations — especially in politics and corporate life — communicate more effectively across languages, cultures, and sectors. Her approach blends UK political communications experience with an understanding of German corporate tone and messaging. Katy has worked in the UK Parliament and across public and private sectors, and has monitored elections for the OSCE and other international bodies. Fluent in German, she brings bilingual sensitivity and cultural fluency to everything from speechwriting to branding. ⏱️ AI-Generated Timestamped summary [00:00] Introduction[01:30] Katy’s background in UK politics and how she got into comms[04:40] The shift from UK politics to working with German corporate clients[08:05] Cultural differences in tone of voice between British and German organisations[10:25] Why humour doesn’t always translate — and how that shapes messaging[13:15] When corporate tone feels robotic or insincere[15:00] Can you really ask AI to write like a human?[17:45] The difference between translating and truly localising content[20:10] Ryanair as an example of strategic tone on social media[22:30] What makes a ‘bad’ tone of voice — and how to recognise it[24:55] Being bilingual: how switching languages also means switching personas[27:40] Why German culture may be more accepting of seriousness[30:15] Behind the scenes of international election monitoring[34:00] How trust is earned — and lost — in political comms[36:50] Politicians as one-person media organisations[39:10] Communication risks in cross-border work[42:30] Katy’s final thoughts on what makes communication human🔗 Relevant LinksKaty’s official website: https://www.katherinediggory.com/Katy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katy-diggory-b1b31425/Ryanair’s Twitter/X account: @Ryanair

What can a global pop icon teach us about business strategy? In the case of Taylor Swift, more than you might think.Episode SummaryOn this episode, I’m joined by Kevin Evers, senior editor at Harvard Business Review and the author of There's Nothing Like This: The Strategic Genius of Taylor Swift. We dive deep into what makes Swift not just a pop icon but a master strategist — someone who has repeatedly made bold, counterintuitive business decisions and turned them into career-defining moments. Kevin and I explore how Taylor has managed her brand like a founder, handling everything from customer loyalty to product lifecycle planning, channel distribution to reputation management. He explains how she’s cultivated extraordinary fan intimacy, exercised long-term thinking, and turned public conflict into strategic advantage; all while maintaining creative and commercial dominance. One of the key moments we reflect on is her decision to re-record her early albums to reclaim ownership of her masters — and since we recorded this episode, there’s been a major update: she’s now reportedly bought back the original masters. It’s a case study in asset control, strategic patience, and sticking to your values, and whether or not you’re a Swiftie, there’s a lot to learn.Guest Biography Kevin is a senior editor at Harvard Business Review, where he focuses on strategy, innovation, and leadership. He is the author of The Strategic Genius of Taylor Swift, a book that applies a business lens to the career of one of the most commercially successful musicians of our time.In the book — and this conversation — Kevin explores how Swift’s strategic decision-making offers lessons in branding, IP management, customer engagement, and more. In addition to his work at HBR, Kevin has also edited and collaborated on several bestselling business books, including titles in the HBR Guide series.AI Generated Timestamp Summary0:00:00 - Intro (7 Minutes)Introduction to Taylor Swift's strategic acumen in brand management.Discussion with Kevin Evers on how Swift has built a resilient brand and fostered fan loyalty.Highlighting her decision to re-record albums as an example of her entrepreneurial instincts.0:06:49 - Taylor's Bold Career Evolution (7 Minutes)Exploration of Swift's transition from country star to pop icon.Examination of key career moments, including the 2009 MTV VMA incident.Analysis of how Swift turns challenges into opportunities.0:13:46 - Taylor Swift's Collaborative Evolution (14 Minutes)Swift's strategic collaborations and her fear of stagnation.Insights into her partnership with producer Max Martin and how it helped evolve her sound.Comparisons to the Beatles' ability to adapt and innovate.0:27:26 - Taylor Swift's Evolving Content Strategy (4 Minutes)Discussion on Swift's adaptation to the music industry's changing dynamics.Her shift from releasing albums every two years to more frequent releases.Analysis of her blend of abundant content and scarce online presence.0:31:51 - Taylor Swift's Fan-Obsessed Strategy (14 Minutes)Exploration of Swift's marketing strategy focused on fan engagement.Use of subtle clues and inside jokes to create anticipation among fans.Examination of her decision to re-record albums and its impact on fan loyalty.0:46:14 - Taylor Swift's Founder Mentality and Risk (10 Minutes)Examination of Swift's instinct-driven career decisions.Comparison of her strategy to tech giants like Apple and Amazon.Discussion on her music-first philosophy and founder mentality.0:56:10 - Taylor Swift's Resilient and Innovative Career (12 Minutes)Analysis of Swift's ability to adapt and thrive in the streaming age.Examination of her strategic pivots and their impact on her career.Reflection on her focus on passions and connection with superfans.Links There's Nothing Like This - https://www.nothinglikethisbook.com/HBR Summary: https://hbr.org/2025/03/the-strategic-genius-of-taylor-swiftKevin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-evers1/

Why do people have affairs? What lessons can we learn from infidelity?It's estimated that an affair will impact one in five of us, yet it tends to be a taboo subject.  So, on this episode, I'm going to break that taboo and explore the hidden world of affairs with psychoanalyst and author Juliet Rosenfeld.Juliet’s book, Affairs: Stories of Love, Lies, Hope and Desire, is an intimate look at why people have affairs, how those relationships shape us, and what they reveal about the unconscious forces at work in our lives.Episode SummaryIn a fascinating discussion, we talk about the stories she gathered for the book, how she approached them ethically, and what she’s learned about the powerful, often destructive, pull of infidelity.I also ask Juliet about her own experience as a psychoanalyst; how she balances her clinical insights with the need to write in a way that’s both honest and protective of the people involved. Juliet explains how she turned the consulting room into a space for exploration, not exposure, and how the stories she’s collected show just how deeply affairs touch the lives of everyone they involve. From the idea of the couple to the unconscious roots of our desires, we unpack some of the most complex questions about relationships and risk. Throughout our conversation, Juliet brings a refreshingly human — and humane — perspective to a topic that’s often shrouded in shame and secrecy. Whether you’ve ever experienced an affair yourself or just want to understand why people cross these lines, this episode offers insights that go far beyond the headlines. Guest Biography Juliet Rosenfeld is an author and a psychoanalyst working in private practice in London. She is particularly interested in the unconscious forces that shape our relationships and behaviours.Juliet’s second book, Affairs: Stories of Love, Lies, Hope and Desire, explores the complex terrain of infidelity through a psychoanalytic lens, blending real stories with her own reflections and insights. She is a member of professional psychotherapy and psychoanalysis associations in the UK and is deeply engaged in thinking about the ethical dimensions of her work. Beyond her practice, Juliet has also been a board member of the UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP) and is passionate about making the insights of psychoanalysis accessible to a general audience.AI-Generated Timestamp Summary[00:00:00] Introduction to the episode and Juliet Rosenfeld[00:01:00] Exploring what affairs are really about and how unconscious forces shape them[00:02:00] Juliet’s background as a psychoanalyst and the role of the unconscious[00:04:00] How relationship struggles underpin so many issues Juliet sees in her work[00:05:00] Why Juliet wrote the book and how affairs are inherently risky[00:07:00] The foundational idea of the couple and how it shapes us from birth[00:08:00] Ethical dilemmas of writing about real people’s affairs[00:11:00] Juliet’s approach: interviewing participants who weren’t her patients[00:13:00] Balancing her clinical mindset with the demands of writing[00:16:00] The role of supervision in psychotherapy and its relevance to Juliet’s work[00:18:00] The challenge of anonymising the stories while staying true to them[00:20:00] Juliet’s thoughts on police requests for therapist notes and patient confidentiality[00:22:00] The differences in the regulation of therapists in the UK vs the US[00:26:00] The importance of trust, supervision, and the intense relationship with a supervisor[00:30:00] Why Juliet believes statutory regulation of psychotherapy is important[00:34:00] How affairs spark intense public reactions and fascination[00:37:00] The long-term impact of divorce and affairs on children[00:42:00] How affairs can be a way of finding solutions to deep personal problems[00:45:00] The uniqueness of each affair story and the problem of generalisations[00:47:00] The role of disappointment and the challenges of long-term love[00:49:00] Juliet’s thoughts on how therapy can help couples[00:53:00] Why no one comes to see her at the start of an affair[00:56:00] The emotional investment and secrecy that affairs demand[00:59:00] The final reflections on why Juliet wrote the book and what it revealed to her[01:05:00] Closing remarks and where to find Juliet’s bookLinksJuliet’s website with details of her work and books: https://julietrosenfeld.co.uk/The UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP): https://www.psychotherapy.org.uk/

Have you ever wondered how much of your success is down to luck? What if the world is far less fair and predictable than we’d like to think? On this episode, I explore the complex and fascinating role of luck in our lives and decisions with Dr. Chengwei Liu, Associate Professor of Strategy and Behavioural Science at Imperial College London. Chengwei shares how his research challenges our assumptions about skill, effort, and fairness – and why the outcomes we see are often far more random than we’d like to believe. We discuss why many successful strategies and best practices are built on shaky ground, and how our tendency to downplay luck creates illusions of control and reinforces unfair systems. Chengwei explains how beliefs in fairness – like the ‘just world’ hypothesis – shape everything from business cultures to political systems, and how luck and misperceptions of it can create cycles of privilege or disadvantage. Chengwei also shares practical insights on how to become a smart contrarian: someone who can harness the power of randomness and serendipity while avoiding the pitfalls of bias and overconfidence. From the dangers of blindly following the ‘successful’ to the need to look inward and embrace uniqueness, it’s a thought-provoking conversation that will change the way you think about risk, decision-making, and what it really means to get ahead. Guest BiographyDr. Chengwei Liu is an Associate Professor of Strategy and Behavioural Science at Imperial College London. He describes himself as someone fascinated by how luck, randomness, and human biases shape success and failure – both in business and in broader society. Chengwei’s work challenges mainstream management thinking and explores how much of what we attribute to skill is actually the result of random factors. His book, Luck: A Key Idea for Business and Society, examines these dynamics and how we can learn to navigate them. Beyond his academic roles, Chengwei has also worked as a management consultant, drawing on his experience in both research and practice to uncover how to harness luck and uncertainty. AI-Generated Timestamped Summary[00:00:00] Introduction[00:02:00] Chengwei explains his research focus on randomness and variance in firm performance [00:04:00] The overlooked 50% of variance in outcomes: luck and randomness [00:06:00] Defining luck as what lies beyond our control and foresight [00:08:00] The conflict between fairness beliefs and the reality of luck [00:10:00] Luck’s societal implications: why fairness perceptions differ across countries [00:11:00] Skill versus luck – how we confuse the two in our narratives [00:13:00] Why successful people over-attribute their success to skill [00:15:00] Managers vs entrepreneurs: how they differ in acknowledging luck [00:17:00] The challenges of researching an elusive concept like luck [00:18:00] Using mathematical models to understand Black Swan events [00:20:00] Why successful predictions of Black Swan events don’t indicate forecasting skill [00:23:00] The problem with best practices from ‘successful’ firms [00:26:00] Selection bias in business books and the danger of survivor bias [00:29:00] The ‘too good to be true’ heuristic as a guide [00:31:00] Contrarian thinking as a survival strategy for uncertainty [00:33:00] The replication crisis and the problem with social science predictability [00:35:00] Human curiosity: the power of moderate surprises [00:37:00] The difference between luck and serendipity [00:39:00] How to encourage serendipity in our lives [00:41:00] Embracing uniqueness and avoiding conformity [00:44:00] Lessons for the age of AI and human creativity [00:46:00] The dangers of ignoring randomness: when biases become destructive [00:48:00] Exploiting others’ biases for strategic advantage [00:50:00] Why ‘smart contrarian’ thinking is more important than ever [00:53:00] Testing contrarian ideas like a scientist [00:56:00] The limits of trial and error: learning from mistakes [00:58:00] Chengwei’s ongoing research: minority decision-making in venture capital [01:00:00] How passion and variance link to VC investment strategies [01:02:00] Wrapping up with reflections on luck, curiosity, and human creativity LinksDr. Chengwei Liu’s book, Luck: A Key Idea for Business and Society: https://www.routledge.com/Luck-A-Key-Idea-for-Business-and-Society/Liu/p/book/9781138094260? Chengwei Liu’s Imperial College faculty webpage: https://profiles.imperial.ac.uk/c.liu

What is psychological harm, and can we really regulate it? Should an AI-companion app be allowed to dump the person who is using it?  📝 Episode Summary On this episode, I’m joined once again by Professor Magda Osman, someone who’s been on the show several times before, who always has something compelling to say.This time, we're talking about psychological harm, a term you’ve probably heard, but which remains vague, slippery, and surprisingly unhelpful when it comes to actually protecting people. Together, we explore what psychological harm really means, why defining it matters, and why regulating it, especially in digital contexts, is so tricky.We draw comparisons to physical harm, ask whether some emotional distress might be necessary, and consider what kinds of harm are moral rather than measurable. The conversation touches on loneliness, AI companions, consent, and even chainsaws!👤 Guest Biography Magda is a Principal Research Associate at the Judge Business School, University of Cambridge, and holds a Professorial position at Leeds Business School, University of Leeds, where she supports policy impact.She describes herself as a psychologist by training, with specific interests in decision-making under risk and uncertainty, folk beliefs in the unconscious, and behavioural change effectiveness.Magda works at the intersection of behavioural science, regulation, and public policy, offering practical insights that challenge assumptions and bring clarity to complex issues.  ⏱️ AI-Generated Timestamped Summary[00:00:00] Introduction and framing of psychological harm[00:02:00] The conceptual problems with defining psychological harm[00:05:00] Psychological harm and the precautionary principle in digital regulation[00:08:00] Social context, platform functions, and why generalisations don’t work[00:12:00] The idea of rites of passage and unavoidable suffering[00:15:00] AI companion apps and emotional dependency[00:17:00] Exploitation, data harvesting, and moral transparency[00:22:00] Frustration as normal vs. actual psychological damage[00:26:00] The danger of regulating the trivial and the need for precision[00:29:00] Why causal links are necessary for meaningful intervention[00:33:00] Legal obligations and holding tech companies to account[00:38:00] What users actually care about: privacy, data, trust[00:42:00] Society’s negotiation of what counts as tolerable harm[00:45:00] Why this isn’t an unprecedented problem — and how we’ve faced it before[00:50:00] The risk of bad definitions leading to bad regulation[00:54:00] Two contrasting examples of online services and their impacts[00:57:00] What kind of regulation might we actually need?[00:59:00] The case for rethinking how regulation itself is structured[01:01:00] Where to find Magda’s work and final reflections 🔗 LinksMagda's LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/magda-osman-11165138/Her website: https://www.magdaosman.com/ Magda’s previous appearances on the show exploring:Behavioural Interventions that fail:https://www.humanriskpodcast.com/dr-magda-osman-on-behavioural/ Unconscious Bias: what is it, and can we train people not to show it?https://www.humanriskpodcast.com/dr-magda-osman-on-unconscious/Compliance, Coercion & Competencehttps://www.humanriskpodcast.com/professor-magda-osman-on-compliance-coercion-competence/ Misinformationhttps://www.humanriskpodcast.com/professor-magda-osman-on-misinformation/ Risk Prioritisationhttps://www.humanriskpodcast.com/professor-magda-osman-on-risk-prioritisation/

What do chemistry, committees and cooking have in common?  They’re all things which have formed part of the career of my guest on this episode. She’s Sarah Ward, owner of The Cookery Lab, a unique cookery school that uses a science-led approach to teaching cooking skills. I first met Sarah when we worked together on governance at the Bank of England.  She began her carerer as a chemist, before switching — for reasons she explains on the show — to regulation.  And now she’s a chef. In a fascinating discussion, I explore with Sarah how her scientific background shapes her approach to teaching cooking, emphasizing that it’s not just about following recipes but about understanding the structure and science behind the food. Sarah shares how a pivotal experience teaching cooking at her son's school reignited her passion and led her to create a unique culinary space that blends chemistry and cookery. Sarah also reflects on her regulatory background, discussing the unexpected parallels between governance and gastronomy. From her time at the Bank of England to her experiences in professional kitchens, she reveals how good governance and good cooking share common themes – structure, discipline, and the ability to adapt under pressure. She also touches on how her teaching methods aim to empower everyday cooks to feel more confident and creative in the kitchen. We round off the conversation by discussing her vision for the Cookery Lab, her thoughts on the art versus science debate in cooking, and how she’s combining her corporate experience with her culinary passion to teach life skills through food. Whether you love to cook or avoid the kitchen at all costs, Sarah’s insights offer valuable lessons for anyone looking to rethink their relationship with food and/or their career. Guest Biography:Sarah describes herself as a chef, educator, and owner of the Cookery Lab – a unique cookery school that uses a science-led approach to teaching cooking skills.Prior to founding the Cookery Lab, Sarah worked in chemistry, financial regulation, and governance at the Bank of England. Her background in chemistry informs her cooking classes, where she helps everyday cooks understand the scientific principles behind recipes, encouraging them to experiment and build confidence in the kitchen. The Cookery Lab is designed to look like a chemistry classroom, complete with lab chairs, beakers, and test tubes, reinforcing Sarah’s mission to demystify cooking through science. The Cookery Lab offers classes for all ages, focusing on life skills, confidence-building, and the joy of cooking, regardless of prior experience. AI-Generated Timestamp Summary[00:00:00] Introduction to Sarah Ward and her career path[00:01:00] From chemistry to regulation to cooking [00:02:30] What is the Cookery Lab?[00:04:00] Why cooking is a life skill everyone should learn [00:05:30] The pivotal moment at her son's school kitchen[00:07:00] Childhood memories of a sandwich shop project[00:10:00] The governance and gastronomy connection[00:12:00] The leap from chemistry to financial regulation [00:14:00] What Solvency II taught her about governance[00:16:00] The importance of reading board minutes [00:20:00] How Sarah applied her regulatory background in the kitchen[00:23:00] Learning leadership lessons from Michelin-starred chefs[00:27:00] Kitchen culture and the art of giving feedback [00:30:00] The challenges of transitioning from corporate to culinary[00:34:00] How science influences her teaching style[00:38:00] Creating a unique learning space at the Cookery Lab[00:42:00] How cooking can be both art and science [00:46:00] Lessons learned from running the Cookery Lab[00:50:00] Final thoughts and where to find Sarah Links:The Cookery Lab: https://www.thecookerylab.com/ Sarah on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-ward-87406147/ Tech Camp, the business run by Sarah’s husband teaching kids real engineering and programming through custom take-home projects: https://www.techcamp.org.uk/Leith’s culinary school: https://leiths.com/ The research that shows that eating together can increase happiness: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/news/2025/mar/comment-why-sharing-meals-can-make-people-happier-what-evidence-142-countries-shows

What do people have to do with cybersecurity?  A lot. As with other fields of human risk, it’s people that are typically the root cause of problems in the cybersecurity world.  Which is where my guest’s expertise in behavioural design comes into play.On this episode, I’m speaking with Sarah Aalborg, a cybersecurity and behavioural design expert who’s on a mission to change how organisations approach IT security.Rather than focusing on firewalls and tech solutions, Sarah examines the human behaviours that can undermine even the best-designed security systems.Her new book, Secure by Choice, challenges conventional security thinking by exploring how cognitive biases affect security professionals and how to use behavioural design to reshape security culture. We discuss the pitfalls of traditional security training – particularly those phishing tests that feel more like traps than training – and how to flip the script by focusing on what we want people to do rather than what we want them to avoid.Sarah shares practical strategies for using positive reinforcement, creating engaging training experiences, and making security less about fear and more about action. By applying principles of behavioural science and risk-based thinking, Sarah explains how we can bridge the gap between security policies and everyday human behaviour. Guest BiographySarah Aalborg is a cybersecurity expert and behavioural design advocate, focusing on how cognitive biases impact IT security professionals and their decision-making processes. She is the author of Secure by Choice, a book that challenges conventional approaches to cybersecurity training by applying principles of behavioural science to security culture. With a background in IT security spanning over two decades, Sarah speaks at major security events and consults with organisations on how to create more effective, engaging, and human-centric security programs. AI-Generated Timestamped Summary[00:00:00] Introduction [00:01:00] Meet Sarah Aalborg – Why she wrote Secure by Choice and her journey into behavioural design.[00:03:00] The '20-centimetre above the keyboard' exercise – How human inaction impacts tech security.[00:05:00] Why phishing tests feel like entrapment – and how to flip the script.[00:08:00] Turning phishing tests into positive reinforcement opportunities. [00:10:00] How a simple 'Report Suspicious Email' button can change behaviours.[00:12:00] The problem with fear-based messaging in cybersecurity.[00:14:00] Why telling people what NOT to do isn’t effective. [00:15:00] Sarah’s four-step framework for creating risk-aware security cultures. [00:17:00] Why most security training is designed to address the wrong problem. [00:20:00] The McDonald's kiosk example – What we can learn from other industries.[00:25:00] The importance of actionable examples in security training.[00:30:00] The generative AI paradox – When tech meets human bias. [00:35:00] Why AI is the ultimate behavioural science challenge. [00:40:00] The 'Operating System' analogy – Why the human brain is still running Stone Age software.[00:50:00] Why cyber professionals need to look outside their own industry for inspiration.[00:55:00] The role of curiosity and exploration in designing effective security programs. Links:Sarah’s website: https://securebychoice.com/Sarah on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-aalborg-bb348a1/Secure by Choice:https://securityblendbooks.com/products/secure-by-choice?

What really happens Behind The Scenes at Human Risk? 📝 Episode SummaryIn this special ‘takeover’ episode of the show, I’m taking you behind the scenes of my work at Human Risk. Because interviewing myself would be odd, friend of the show Sarah Abramson takes the interviewer’s seat. She delves into my journey, exploring the intersections of curiosity, compliance, and creativity that have shaped my career. We discuss the origins of my interest in human behaviour, the evolution of the Human Risk brand, and how blending personal experiences with professional insights can lead to more authentic and engaging content. I reflect on the challenges and rewards of building a brand that aligns closely with one's identity, the importance of storytelling, the role of improvisation in presentations, and the value of staying curious. I also talk about the show, why I started it, and the principles behind it. 👤 Guest BiographyChristian Hunt is the host of the show and the founder of Human Risk Ltd, a behavioural Science-led consultancy and training firm. Guest host Sarah Abramson is a marketing and communications professional with a passion for storytelling and human-centred design. She is the Head of Marketing at Acteon, a communication and learning agency based in Cambridge. Sarah also organises ‘Speak to the Human’ an annual event, which focuses on effective communication strategies in organisations. Her work emphasises the importance of understanding human behaviour to drive meaningful change. ⏱️ AI-Generated Timestamped Summary[00:00:00] Sarah introduces the episode and takes over hosting duties [00:02:00] Christian shares how his curiosity about human behaviour began in childhood [00:04:00] Why irrational behaviour fascinates him and how literature shaped his thinking [00:06:00] From regulation to behavioural science — realising compliance needed a human lens [00:12:00] Christian explains why Human Risk is really a “C2C” business, not B2B [00:15:00] The three types of clients who engage him and why middle-ground organisations don’t [00:21:00] The Twitter account mix-up that made Christian realise the brand is him [00:27:00] Christian describes his creative process and taking inspiration from odd places [00:32:00] Why performance matters in speaking — and why he refuses to send slides early [00:38:00] On using virtual presentation tools to create better audience experiences [00:43:00] Why rinse-and-repeat keynotes don’t work — what live shows can learn from comedians [00:56:00] Using personality and humour to engage on social media and at conferences [01:03:00] Christian explains how podcasting fits his personal and professional goals [01:24:00] Advising clients: letting them be the hero and respecting their resistance [01:26:00] The psychology of change and why agency matters [01:28:00] What excites Christian about AI — especially human responses to it [01:30:00] Wrap-up and final thoughts 🔗 Relevant Links & Podcast Episodes Acteon Communications: https://www.acteoncommunication.com/ Human Risk pod Sarah Abramson on Speaking to The Human 🎧 👉  https://www.humanriskpodcast.com/sarah-abramson-on-speaking-to-the-human/ Hannah Williams on the Art of Live Scribing 🎧 👉  https://www.humanriskpodcast.com/hannah-williams-on-the-art-of-live-scribing/ Heather Urquhart on Improvisation Part One 🎧 👉 https://www.humanriskpodcast.com/heather-urquhart-on-improvisation-part-one/ Part Two 🎧 👉  https://www.humanriskpodcast.com/heather-urquhart-on-improvisation-part-two/Fraser Simpson on Making Ethics Engaging 🎧 👉  https://www.humanriskpodcast.com/fraser-simpson-on-making-ethics-engaging/Speak To The Human pod Christian Hunt on Bringing Behavioural Science to Risk Management🎧 👉  https://www.acteoncommunication.com/podcast/episode-2/ Fraser Simpson on a Game-Changing Ethics Engagement🎧 👉  https://www.acteoncommunication.com/podcast/episode-5/ Heather Urquhart on Overcoming Fear of Failure 🎧 👉  https://www.acteoncommunication.com/podcast/episode-9/ Hannah Williams on Visual Communication 🎧 👉  https://www.acteoncommunication.com/podcast/episode-12/

What's the most important thing we can all do to be happy? According to my guest on this episode, it's embracing the thing that made us weird as kids.  🎙️ Episode Summary On this episode, I’m joined once again by the inimitable James Victore — artist, author, and creative provocateur — to explore the power of embracing your inner weirdo. James has just published Hey Weirdo, an eBook that argues the very things that made us weird as kids are exactly what make us great as adults. We talk about where those quirks come from, how society teaches us to repress them, and why reclaiming them might just be the most important thing we do.The book is based on a series of interviews with people that have succeeded by embracing their inner weirdo. In our conversation, James shares some of these powerful and deeply personal stories, including his personal memory of a melted crayon puddle that’s coloured his creative journey ever since. We reflect on how childhood experiences, especially the ones where we were scolded or told off for stepping out of line, often hold the keys to our authentic selves.James also shares details of the other interviews from the book, revealing how other successful creatives found their voice by tuning into what made them “weird.” This episode is funny, raw, and honest. We talk about creative freedom, workplace conformity, artistic boundaries, and why our quirks are not only worth celebrating but essential for a fulfilling life.It’s a call to arms for anyone who’s ever felt out of place, and a reminder that the world doesn’t need more normal — it needs more you. 👤 Guest Bio - James VictoreJames Victore is an artist, lecturer, author, and self-described firestarter. He’s a creative provocateur whose work and teaching challenge people to trust their weirdness and embrace their unique voice.James is the author of multiple books, including Feck Perfuction and his latest, Hey Weirdo, which builds on his belief that the things that made us weird as kids are the very things that can make us great as adults.Beyond how he describes himself, James is also a celebrated designer and educator whose work has appeared in the Museum of Modern Art and who has taught at the School of Visual Arts in New York.His Instagram feed (@jamesvictore) is a playground of raw creativity, insight, and bold truth-telling — a direct extension of his belief in living a life on your own terms. 🔗 Useful LinksJames' new book: Hey WeirdoHis last book: Feck PerfuctionHis first appearance on this show: talking about Creative Courage: Social media: James on InstagramThe DO Book Company,the publisher for whom James designs coversJames' podcast The Right Questions⏱️ AI-Generated Timestamped Summary [00:00:00] Introduction to the episode and theme of being weird[00:01:00] James joins and introduces his new eBook Hey Weirdo[00:03:00] Exploring the etymology of "weird" and book origins[00:05:00] Childhood norms, creativity, and self-love[00:07:00] The melted crayon memory and its lifelong creative influence[00:10:00] The emotional contrast between child and parent perspectives[00:11:00] Interview with Suzy Batiz and floral wallpaper insight[00:13:00] Lena Jensen’s story and discovery of her own weirdness[00:15:00] Society’s role in normalising behaviour and stifling creativity[00:17:00] The play, joy, and love that get trained out of us[00:19:00] How weirdness becomes a superpower[00:21:00] Workplace conformity and annual performance boxes[00:23:00] Why truly creative people are disruptive — and that’s good[00:24:00] Autonomy vs chaos: setting creative boundaries[00:26:00] How to reconnect with childhood weirdness[00:28:00] Workbook coming soon to help readers find their voice[00:29:00] Reflecting on discomfort in adulthood as a weirdness clue[00:30:00] Trauma from work, education, and criticism[00:32:00] Tolerance and respecting other people’s weirdness[00:33:00] The emotional resistance to following your voice[00:35:00] Changing jobs vs changing yourself[00:37:00] How Lena Jensen built a creative career by being herself[00:39:00] Why commoditised paths are actually riskier[00:41:00] The lie behind “brave” career choices[00:43:00] The real sin: not using your voice or your gifts[00:45:00] Memories are made from weirdness, not routine[00:46:00] Green rooms, creative boundaries, and artistic standards[00:48:00] How James negotiated creative freedom in client work[00:50:00] Trusting your weirdness and finding your audience[00:52:00] Negative feedback, criticism, and learning to accept it[00:54:00] Why everything — good or bad — is a teacher[00:56:00] The danger of chasing money over fulfilment[00:57:00] Corporate incentives and “compensation”[00:59:00] Where to find James and how to get Hey Weirdo