Join Simon around the After Dinner Leadership table with Natalie Johnson, Co-Founder & Chief Visionary at Vidl Work, and Co-Author of Leading the Culture Journey.

What does it take to build a healthier workplace culture?

In this episode, Natalie reflects on an early leadership experience where frustration, blame, and gossip helped create an accidental culture that eventually felt toxic. She explains how leaders can focus on the influence they do have, speak honestly through difficult moments, and prioritise connection—even when the conversation feels uncomfortable.

Together, Simon and Natalie explore why boundaries can strengthen trust, why leaders don’t need to have all the answers, and how small everyday actions—from checking in with team members to making meetings more inclusive—shape workplace culture.

They also discuss generational differences at work, the pressure to always be available, and the gap that can emerge between a company’s sick-leave policy and the culture employees actually experience. Natalie offers practical ways leaders and teams can make rest, recovery, and honest communication part of how work gets done.

Listen for a thoughtful, practical conversation about leading with self-awareness, building trust, and helping people feel seen and heard.

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