

Happier At Work: Leadership, Culture, Performance
Aoife O'Brien
Happier at Work is a workplace psychology podcast for commercial leaders who want to drive performance, engagement, and retention through better leadership and culture.
Hosted by workplace culture strategist Aoife O’Brien, the podcast explores what really shapes the modern work experience, from leadership and career growth to confidence, workplace culture, and employee engagement.
Each episode blends expert insight, psychological research, practical strategies, and honest conversations to help leaders and professionals create environments where people feel valued, supported, and motivated to do their best work.
Guests include leading psychologists, bestselling authors, and experienced professionals who are putting these ideas into practice inside real organisations.
If you care about building high-performing teams, stronger cultures, and workplaces people want to stay in, this podcast is for you.
🎧 Subscribe and start building a happier way to work.
Hosted by workplace culture strategist Aoife O’Brien, the podcast explores what really shapes the modern work experience, from leadership and career growth to confidence, workplace culture, and employee engagement.
Each episode blends expert insight, psychological research, practical strategies, and honest conversations to help leaders and professionals create environments where people feel valued, supported, and motivated to do their best work.
Guests include leading psychologists, bestselling authors, and experienced professionals who are putting these ideas into practice inside real organisations.
If you care about building high-performing teams, stronger cultures, and workplaces people want to stay in, this podcast is for you.
🎧 Subscribe and start building a happier way to work.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 1, 2024 • 9min
Bonus Episode: How Can You Manage a Difficult Boss?
This is a summary of the key points of my conversation with Rob Kalwarowsky about how you can manage difficult bosses.The main points throughout this podcast include:Practical advice is shared on addressing limiting beliefs, setting boundaries, and making conscious career choices aligned with personal values.The impact of destructive leadership. The importance of making conscious choices for a happier work life.6 types of destructive leaders, from active and passive to blended types.Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!Connect with RobWebsite: https://www.howtodealboss.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bosscoachrobk/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-kalwarowsky/?trk=article-ssr-frontend-pulse_publisher-author-card&originalSubdomain=crTiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bosscoachrobkYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@bosscoachrobkConnect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:WebsiteLinkedIn InstagramFacebookYouTubeTwitterPrevious Episodes:https://happieratwork.ie/85-why-delivering-effective-and-constructive-feedback-at-work-is-so-vital-with-aoife-obrien/https://happieratwork.ie/209-cultivating-self-awareness-at-work-with-nia-thomas/https://happieratwork.ie/178-fulfilling-your-potential-and-finding-joy-in-your-work-with-soma-ghosh/https://happieratwork.ie/177-leveraging-transferable-skills-for-career-success-with-janine-esbrand/https://happieratwork.ie/171-how-to-strategically-navigate-your-career-with-harsha-boralessa/ Mentioned in this episode:Imposter IdentityImposter Identity

Jun 28, 2024 • 49min
212: How Can You Manage a Difficult Boss with Rob Kalwarowsky
In the latest episode of the Happier at Work Podcast, we explore the impact of destructive leadership with renowned expert Rob Kalwarowsky. With practical insights and actionable advice, Rob delves into identifying and managing various types of bad bosses while emphasising the importance of making conscious choices for a happier work life.Rob discusses 6 types of destructive leaders, from active and passive to blended types, offering strategies for managing each. The impact of childhood experiences on managerial behavior and decision-making is also explored, shedding light on the subconscious influence in the workplace.The main points throughout this podcast include:Practical advice is shared on addressing limiting beliefs, setting boundaries, and making conscious career choices aligned with personal values.The impact of destructive leadership. The importance of making conscious choices for a happier work life.6 types of destructive leaders, from active and passive to blended types.Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!Connect with RobWebsite: https://www.howtodealboss.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bosscoachrobk/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-kalwarowsky/?trk=article-ssr-frontend-pulse_publisher-author-card&originalSubdomain=crTiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bosscoachrobkYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@bosscoachrobkConnect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:WebsiteLinkedIn InstagramFacebookYouTubeTwitterWebsite https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/happieratwork.ieYouTube https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQTwitter https://twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ Previous Episodes:https://happieratwork.ie/85-why-delivering-effective-and-constructive-feedback-at-work-is-so-vital-with-aoife-obrien/https://happieratwork.ie/209-cultivating-self-awareness-at-work-with-nia-thomas/https://happieratwork.ie/178-fulfilling-your-potential-and-finding-joy-in-your-work-with-soma-ghosh/https://happieratwork.ie/177-leveraging-transferable-skills-for-career-success-with-janine-esbrand/https://happieratwork.ie/171-how-to-strategically-navigate-your-career-with-harsha-boralessa/

Jun 21, 2024 • 15min
211: How Can You Strategically Manage Your Career?
In the latest solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, I delve into strategic career development and how you can take control of your professional growth.I share my expertise on managing careers strategically. I shed light on the myths associated with career progression, the importance of being proactive, seeking feedback, investing in learning, and building a strong network. I also discuss the significance of self-awareness, balance, and celebrating wins along the way.If you're someone who is looking to grow and develop in your current role or aiming to lead your team towards successful career trajectories, this episode is for you.The main points throughout this podcast include:How you can take control of your professional growth.The importance of celebrating wins.The myths associated with career progression.The importance of investing in learning.Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:WebsiteLinkedIn InstagramFacebookYouTubeTwitterPrevious Episodes:https://happieratwork.ie/85-why-delivering-effective-and-constructive-feedback-at-work-is-so-vital-with-aoife-obrien/https://happieratwork.ie/209-cultivating-self-awareness-at-work-with-nia-thomas/https://happieratwork.ie/178-fulfilling-your-potential-and-finding-joy-in-your-work-with-soma-ghosh/https://happieratwork.ie/177-leveraging-transferable-skills-for-career-success-with-janine-esbrand/https://happieratwork.ie/171-how-to-strategically-navigate-your-career-with-harsha-boralessa/

Jun 17, 2024 • 8min
Bonus Episode: How can you lead with empathy and work to your strengths
This is a synopsis of the key points of episode 210 of the Happier at Work podcast where I had an insightful conversation with leadership and mindset coach Jacqui Jagger. The main points throughout this podcast include:The challenges she faced as a leader and the valuable lessons she learned along the way.The importance of balancing results-driven leadership with employee well-beingFostering a psychologically safe environment for teams.Creating high-performing teams through collaboration rather than individual competitionEmbrace psychological safety, acknowledge individual strengths, and offer a balance of challenge and support.Connect with JacquiLinkedInWebsiteDo you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:WebsiteLinkedIn InstagramFacebookYouTubeTwitterPrevious Episodes:Episode 182: Building Better Bosses with Debra CoreyEpisode 104: The Managers Dilemma with Irial O’FarrellEpisode 45: Helen Joy on First Time Managers

Jun 14, 2024 • 40min
210: How can you lead with empathy and work to your strengths with Jacqui Jagger
How can you create psychological safety in the workplace?In the latest episode of the Happier at Work podcast I had an insightful conversation with Jacqui Jagger, a leadership and mindset coach with a wealth of experience in operations, HR, and learning and development roles.We explore topics such as creating high-performing teams through collaboration rather than individual competition, the significance of recognising and meeting individual needs in the workplace, and the keys to achieving happiness at work through meaningful work and authenticity.Join us in discovering how embracing psychological safety, acknowledging individual strengths, and offering a balance of challenge and support can transform your work culture and enhance team dynamics.The main points throughout this podcast include:The challenges she faced as a leader and the valuable lessons she learned along the way.The importance of balancing results-driven leadership with employee well-beingFostering a psychologically safe environment for teams.Creating high-performing teams through collaboration rather than individual competitionEmbrace psychological safety, acknowledge individual strengths, and offer a balance of challenge and support.Connect with JacquiLinkedInWebsiteDo you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:WebsiteLinkedIn InstagramFacebookYouTubeTwitterPrevious Episodes:Episode 182: Building Better Bosses with Debra CoreyEpisode 104: The Managers Dilemma with Irial O’FarrellEpisode 45: Helen Joy on First Time ManagersMentioned in this episode:Thriving Talent book - out nowBook

Jun 10, 2024 • 8min
Bonus Episode: Cultivating Self-Awareness
This is a synopsis of the key points of my conversation with Nia Thomas, Director of a children's charity and host of the "Knowing Self, Knowing Others" podcast.If you haven't listened to that episode yet, go and give it a listen and let me know what you think.The main points throughout this podcast include:The importance of self-awareness and making conscious choices about behavior, especially in the workplace.The challenges of giving and receiving feedback, and provides strategies for delivering tough feedback as a line manager.The constant movement between internal and external self-awareness.The impact of behavior on individualsThe need for leaders at all levels to seek feedback from their team membersConnect with NiaInstagramLinkedInTwitterTiktokWebsiteDo you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:WebsiteLinkedIn InstagramFacebookYouTubeTwitterPrevious Episodes:Episode 48: Zoe Routh on Leadership and Self-AwarenessEpisode 85: Why Delivering Effective and Constructive Feedback at Work is so Vital with Aoife O’BrienEpisode 200: Reskilling Diversity and Building a Happier Workplace with Bhushan SethiEpisode 198: Empowering Women at Work with Deirdre McGinnEpisode 174: The Role of Emotions in Workplace Dynamics with Dr. Lola. GershfeldEpisode 167: Embracing Diversity and Inclusion at Work with Donna O’ConnorResources mentioned:Dr Tasha Eurich book Insight Marshall Goldsmith Mentioned in this episode:Imposter IdentityImposter Identity

Jun 7, 2024 • 43min
209: Cultivating Self-Awareness at Work with Nia Thomas
Do you want to increase your self-awareness in the workplace?In the latest episode of the Happier at Work podcast, I am joined by Nia Thomas, Director of a children's charity and host of the "Knowing Self, Knowing Others" podcast. We have an in-depth conversation about the importance of self-awareness and making conscious choices about behavior, especially in the workplace.Nia discusses the challenges of giving and receiving feedback, and provides strategies for delivering tough feedback as a line manager. We explore the enduring nature of self-awareness, its historical roots, and the constant movement between internal and external self-awareness.In addition, Nia shares valuable insights into the impact of behavior on individuals and emphasises the need for leaders at all levels to seek feedback from their team members.The main points throughout this podcast include:The importance of self-awareness and making conscious choices about behavior, especially in the workplace.The challenges of giving and receiving feedback, and provides strategies for delivering tough feedback as a line manager.The constant movement between internal and external self-awareness.The impact of behavior on individualsThe need for leaders at all levels to seek feedback from their team membersConnect with NiaInstagramLinkedInTwitterTiktokWebsiteDo you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:WebsiteLinkedIn InstagramFacebookYouTubeTwitterPrevious Episodes:Episode 48: Zoe Routh on Leadership and Self-AwarenessEpisode 85: Why Delivering Effective and Constructive Feedback at Work is so Vital with Aoife O’BrienResources mentioned:Dr Tasha Eurich book Insight Marshall Goldsmith

May 31, 2024 • 14min
208: How can you embrace neurodiversity in the workplace?
In the latest solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, I shed light on an important topic that is gaining more recognition in workplaces around the world - neurodiversity.Neurodiversity encompasses a range of neurological differences, including autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and more. These differences are natural variations of the human brain, each bringing unique strengths and challenges to the table.In this episode I delve into the world of neurodiversity, sharing personal insights and discussing how embracing neurodiversity can lead to a more innovative, inclusive, and productive work environment.My own journey of discovering neurodivergence and the impact it had on me. From showcasing the benefits of diverse thinking to highlighting the importance of tailored recruitment processes and flexible working arrangements, I provide valuable insights on creating a more inclusive space for all employees.Research has shown that neurodiverse teams can be 30% more productive than their nondiverse counterparts, emphasising the positive impact of embracing neurodiversity in the workplace.If you are interested in learning more about neurodiversity, the benefits it brings, and practical ways to support neurodiverse employees, then this episode is for you.The main points throughout this podcast include:The importance of tailored recruitment processes and flexible working arrangements.Neurodiverse teams can be 30% more productive than their nondiverse counterpartsThe positive impact of embracing neurodiversity in the workplace.Practical ways to support neurodiverse employeesDo you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:WebsiteLinkedIn InstagramFacebookYouTubeTwitterPrevious Episodes:Episode 48: Zoe Routh on Leadership and Self-AwarenessEpisode 85: Why Delivering Effective and Constructive Feedback at Work is so Vital with Aoife O’BrienEpisode 200: Reskilling Diversity and Building a Happier Workplace with Bhushan SethiEpisode 198: Empowering Women at Work with Deirdre McGinnEpisode 174: The Role of Emotions in Workplace Dynamics with Dr. Lola. GershfeldEpisode 167: Embracing Diversity and Inclusion at Work with Donna O’ConnorMentioned in this episode:Imposter IdentityImposter Identity

May 27, 2024 • 12min
Bonus Episode: Gender Equality and Inclusive Leadership
Exploring gender equality, inclusive leadership, and the significance of change management in organizational transformation. Insights on work-life balance, recognition, and diverse leadership perspectives. Engaging male leaders in cultivating empathy and vulnerability. Challenges and opportunities in achieving gender equality across cultures and backgrounds.

May 24, 2024 • 46min
207: Gender Equality and Inclusive Leadership with Robert Baker
Do you want to promote a diverse and inclusive workplace environment?In the latest episode of the Happier at Work podcast, I had a thought-provoking discussion with Robert Baker, a passionate advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace.In this episode, we explore the need for a new approach to the billable hour system and the crucial role of change management and leadership skills development in driving organisational transformation.The conversation delves into the inspiring example of Enjin, a global energy company that has successfully implemented changes to achieve gender balance in leadership and enhance organisational productivity.Robert also shares his insights on happiness at work, highlighting the importance of autonomy, meaningful work, and the support he receives from his partner, Pamela. The discussion extends to evolving attitudes towards work-life balance, the value of recognition in the workplace, and the impact of diverse leadership perspectives.Additionally, Robert discusses his transition from corporate roles to founding his own business focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion, and the importance of engaging male leaders in fostering a culture of vulnerability and empathy.The episode touches on the challenges and opportunities surrounding gender equality, the societal socialisation of men and women from a young age, and the importance of recognising and addressing these influences across diverse cultures and backgrounds.The main points throughout this podcast include:The crucial role of change management and leadership skills development in driving organisational transformation.Evolving attitudes towards work-life balance, the value of recognition in the workplace, and the impact of diverse leadership perspectives.The importance of engaging male leaders in fostering a culture of vulnerability and empathy.The challenges and opportunities surrounding gender equality.The importance of recognising and addressing gender influences across diverse cultures and backgrounds.Connect with RobertLinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/robert-baker-potentia-talent-consultingTwitter: @robertbkrDo you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/happieratwork.ieYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQTwitter: https://twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ Previous Episodes:https://happieratwork.ie/200-reskilling-diversity-and-building-a-happier-workplace-with-bhushan-sethi/https://happieratwork.ie/198-empowering-women-at-work-with-deirdre-mcginn/https://happieratwork.ie/174-the-role-of-emotions-in-workplace-dynamics-with-dr-lola-gershfeld/https://happieratwork.ie/167-embracing-diversity-and-inclusion-at-work-with-donna-oconnor/


