The Psychology of Work: Why People Do What They Do

Ever wondered what improv comedy can teach us about building high-performing teams and authentic connections at work? In this episode, Dr. Bobbi Wegner sits down with keynote speaker, coach, and former Dallas Comedy House CEO Amanda Austin to explore the transformative power of improvisation in business. Discover how simple shifts in listening, embracing failure, and cultivating a "yes, and" culture can spark creativity, deepen trust, and bring teams together even in the face of uncertainty.Amanda Austin is a keynote speaker, coach, and the former CEO of Dallas Comedy House, where she spent over a decade helping teams and leaders think, communicate, and collaborate through the science of improvisation. She has worked with organizations like McKinsey, Hilton, Deloitte, and the U.S. Army, and teaches innovation and change in the MBA program at SMU. Amanda’s unique approach combines improv, organizational psychology, and human-centered design to help teams build trust, adapt to uncertainty, and create environments where everyone’s voice is heard.KEY TOPICSImprov isn't just offsite games, it's everyday skills for deeper listening and collaboration at work [00:02:21]The "yes, and" mindset: how acknowledging AND building on others' ideas fosters psychological safety and innovation [00:11:27]Why most teams have a connection problem, not just a communication problem and how improv addresses it [00:10:17]Embracing uncertainty and failure as core to team learning, growth, and resilience [00:22:16]How leaders' misreading of silence can signal disengagement and the early warning signs of apathy on teams [00:23:38]Todays guest, Amanda Austin, can be found online at:Website: https://www.amandaaustin.co/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-austin/Your host, Dr. Bobbi Wegner, can be found online at:Groops: https://www.joingroops.com/Harvard Extension School Faculty Spotlight: https://youtu.be/zwLai-lu-pk?si=GpKNhtxVvTrS3-puLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobbiwegner/

In this episode, Dr. Bobbi Wegner sits down with Ellen M. Cartee, Chief Human Resources Officer at Mobile Communications America, to explore the surprising emotional and psychological journey behind company mergers. Discover how Ellen M. Cartee and her team transform anxiety and skepticism into connection and opportunity, why over-communication trumps perfection, and what it really takes to merge cultures without losing the magic. If you think acquisitions have to be cold and chaotic, this conversation just might change your mind and show you why the "big hug" approach could be a game-changer for any team facing change.Ellen M. Cartee is the Chief Human Resources Officer at Mobile Communications America (MCA), a leading communications and security company operating at scale across the United States. With over eight years at MCA, Ellen has helped the organization grow from 365 to more than 1,700 employees, navigating 47+ acquisitions along the way. Known for pioneering "the Big Hug" approach to acquisitions, Ellen focuses on making team members feel genuinely welcomed, supported, and integral to the company’s ongoing success. Her people-first, clarity-driven leadership has helped maintain cohesion and identity through rapid expansion proving that growth doesn’t have to mean sacrificing culture.KEY TOPICSThe emotional rollercoaster of acquisitions and the importance of psychological safety for employees [00:03:32]How clear, repeated communication and simple FAQs help people process change in uncertain times [00:05:08]The "dip of doom": navigating the natural grief and adjustment curves post-acquisition [00:14:01]Building a "third culture" by integrating the best of both organizations after a merger [00:22:44]Why humility, openness, and valuing people are at the heart of successful team integration [00:26:27]Todays guest, Ellen M. Cartee, can be found online at:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellen-m-cartee-484b4b5/Your host, Dr. Bobbi Wegner, can be found online at:Groops: https://www.joingroops.com/Harvard Extension School Faculty Spotlight: https://youtu.be/zwLai-lu-pk?si=GpKNhtxVvTrS3-puLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobbiwegner/

Ready to rethink what really drives success at work? In this episode of The Psychology of Work, Dr. Bobbi Wegner sits down with Jennie Blumenthal, former PwC partner, leadership advisor, and author of Corporate Rehab for a bold, honest conversation about why relentless hustle is breaking our teams, and how AI can actually help us unlock true leadership and growth. From pandemic reflections to practical strategies for boosting capacity without burning out, this episode unpacks why tech isn’t the issue, it's how we lead and adapt. If you want to discover how to move your team out of survival mode and into a real growth zone, this one’s for you.Jennie Blumenthal is a former PwC partner, leadership advisor, CEO and Corporate Rehab Leadership and author of Corporate Rehab. She helps enterprise leaders accelerate growth in the age of AI by transforming leadership capacity and organizational systems. Jennie’s work draws on her high-powered corporate background and personal experience overcoming burnout, allowing her to guide leaders to build more sustainable and innovative teams.KEY TOPICSHow leadership capacity, not technology is the real constraint on organizational growth today 00:46Jennie Blumenthal’s personal burnout story and the pivotal moment that led her to rethink corporate leadership 05:35Why constantly pushing harder leads to diminishing returns and breaks leadership effectiveness 07:04The AI absorption gap: Why organizations struggle to leverage new technology despite rapid advances 18:33The growth zone concept: Striking a balance between burnout and disengagement for optimal team performance 22:04Todays guest, Jennie Blumenthal, can be found online at:Website: https://www.corporate-rehab.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennieblumenthal/Your host, Dr. Bobbi Wegner, can be found online at:Groops: https://www.joingroops.com/Harvard Extension School Faculty Spotlight: https://youtu.be/zwLai-lu-pk?si=GpKNhtxVvTrS3-puLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobbiwegner/

What happens when you try to drive innovation inside a company with 150 years of history and 600 family farmers as your owners? In this episode, Dr. Bobbi Wegner sits down with Christine Kinahan and Amanda Raymond from Welch’s to uncover how they balance honoring deep-rooted traditions with the relentless push for modernization. From stories of harvest-season hustle to navigating transformation as an operating model, discover why the “power of we” isn’t just a value, it’s their competitive edge. Whether you geek out over organizational culture or just love a good behind-the-scenes story, this episode will make you see grape juice (and peanut butter & jelly) in a whole new light.Amanda Raymond, Director of Talent Development at Welch’s, specializes in leadership development and talent programs that help teams thrive in a rapidly changing workplace. With experience at Jobcase, DataRobot, and the TJX companies, Amanda brings a passion for growing resilient, purpose-driven teams in legacy organizations.Christine Kinahan is the Chief People Oficer at Welch’s, where she champions innovation while honoring the cooperative’s commitment to its growers. She carefully balances risk and resources, making bold yet strategic decisions that put Main Street ahead of Wall Street. Christine ensures that every change serves both the market and Welch’s customers, reflecting her dedication to meaningful progress within the cooperative model.KEY TOPICSHow Welch’s cooperative model puts family farmers at the heart of the business [00:06:06]The balance of honoring tradition while driving innovation in a 150-year-old brand [00:01:33]Why leadership at Welch’s centers on empathy, resilience, and "the power of we" [00:11:35]Strategies for uniting legacy employees and new talent through transparent communication [00:19:56]Why effective organizational change starts with empowerment, overcommunication, and upward feedback [00:22:14]Todays guest, Amanda Raymond, can be found online at:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandaraymondma/Todays guest, Christine Kinahan, can be found online at:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinenacnodovitz/Your host, Dr. Bobbi Wegner, can be found online at:Groops: https://www.joingroops.com/Harvard Extension School Faculty Spotlight: https://youtu.be/zwLai-lu-pk?si=GpKNhtxVvTrS3-puLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobbiwegner/

Unlock the secrets behind landing top leadership roles and discover what really makes great executives stand out. This episode dives deep with Scott Harris on how organizations assess, select, and coach leaders for the biggest jobs, with insights from military command to the boardroom and cutting-edge AI in hiring. If you’ve ever wondered what separates good leaders from the truly great, you won’t want to miss this conversation!Scott Harris is a Senior Client Principal at Heidrick & Struggles, specializing in leadership assessment for CEOs, C-suite executives, and senior partners. His journey into leadership psychology began at West Point and grew through global military service, commercial real estate, and a decade consulting with Fortune-level companies on selecting and developing top talent. With a master’s in social-organizational psychology and executive coaching certification from Columbia University, Scott blends a data-driven approach with a human perspective to help organizations make better talent decisions and unlock leaders’ full potential.Below are the key takeaways from this episode:Leadership assessment is evolving: Modern organizations need leaders who are collaborative and adaptable, not just command-and-control.Going beyond resumes matters: Effective assessments use interviews, personality tests, and simulations to understand real potential and authentic behaviors.Culture and role fit are crucial: The best leaders align their strengths with the specific needs and goals of the organization.Self-awareness is a standout trait: Leaders who reflect, learn, and adapt are far more likely to succeed in senior roles.AI is a valuable tool—though not a replacement: Technology can enrich assessments, but human insight and context are still essential at the highest levels.Todays guest, Scott D. Harris, can be found online at:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-d-harris/Your host, Dr. Bobbi Wegner, can be found online at:Groops: https://www.joingroops.com/Harvard Extension School Faculty Spotlight: https://youtu.be/zwLai-lu-pk?si=GpKNhtxVvTrS3-puLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobbiwegner/

What if the secret to building unstoppable teams isn’t just about hiring the best people but knowing where the system is broken? In this episode, Dr. Bobbi Wegner and Greg Troxell pull back the curtain on the real drivers of high-performing teams, from the hidden costs of politeness masquerading as avoidance to practical ways leaders can blend radical honesty with humanity.Greg Troxell is a recruitment consultant whose career grew alongside the evolving tech industry. Initially intrigued by how recruiting shapes careers and businesses, Greg found his niche helping Silicon Valley startups scale their teams, especially during the 2020 startup boom. When COVID-19 disrupted the industry, he adapted by supporting early-stage companies navigating layoffs and hiring challenges. Known for his insights into tech hiring, Greg helps startups build strong, agile teams in changing times.Below are the key takeaways from this episode:Talent needs the right environment: Success isn’t just about hiring great people. Systems, clarity, and culture must support them to thrive.Alignment multiplies impact: Matching the right person with the right role and purpose sets individuals and organizations up for outstanding performance.Balance psychological safety with accountability: Teams excel when they feel safe and expectations are clearly communicated and enforced.Avoidance disguised as politeness is damaging: Dodging tough conversations undermines trust and team effectiveness.Embrace diversity and adaptation: Building teams with a range of strengths and consistently adjusting systems leads to better outcomes and a more human-centered workplace.Todays guest, Greg Troxell, can be found online at:Website: https://www.functionhealth.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/greg-troxell/Your host, Dr. Bobbi Wegner, can be found online at:Groops: https://www.joingroops.com/Harvard Extension School Faculty Spotlight: https://youtu.be/zwLai-lu-pk?si=GpKNhtxVvTrS3-puLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobbiwegner/

What happens when a sales trainer turned executive coach takes on leadership, transformation, and blind spots in high-performing teams? In this episode, Dr. Bobbi Wegner sits down with Stevie Rabinowitz to discuss true growth, hard feedback, and the authentic connections leaders need to thrive. Curious what really drives change in the workplace? Hit play and find out.Stevie Rabinowitz is the founder of Lotus Leadership and an executive coach with decades of experience in leadership and team development across industries like tech, retail, and media. She specializes in helping leaders and teams build trust, authentic connection, and alignment at work, drawing on her expertise in organizational development and learning programs for companies such as Gap, Meta, Robinhood, and Airtable. Her approach centers on intention, presence, and cultivating real self-awareness to help professionals thrive.Below are the key takeaways from this episode:Leadership Journey: Stevie Rabinowitz details her diverse path into executive coaching and why everyday actions matter for effective leadership.Self-Awareness Matters: Increasing self-awareness through assessments and feedback is crucial for leaders, especially in fast-growing companies.Curiosity and Trust: Building trust and showing genuine curiosity help leaders address blind spots and drive growth.Coaching vs. Therapy: Coaching is forward-focused and goal-oriented, while therapy explores deeper personal history.Coaching Pays Off: Investing in coaching supports team engagement, productivity, and provides real business value—even during tough times.Todays guest, Stevie Rabinowitz, can be found online at:Website: https://www.lotus-leadership.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevie-rabinowitz-msod-pcc-cpcc-814a6421/Your host, Dr. Bobbi Wegner, can be found online at:Groops: https://www.joingroops.com/Harvard Extension School Faculty Spotlight: https://youtu.be/zwLai-lu-pk?si=GpKNhtxVvTrS3-puLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobbiwegner/

What happens when a self-made real estate tycoon with a passion for psychology and giving back opens up about her journey? In this episode, Dr. Paige Hakimian shares the unexpected story behind her company’s success, her secrets to building meaningful relationships in business, and the powerful impact of leading with values, both at work and in the community.Dr. Paige Hakimian is a trailblazing founder, leader, and business tycoon with over 40 years of experience in real estate. Alongside her husband, she built a privately owned real estate acquisition and holding company with a portfolio approaching 3 million square feet across the Southeast. Deeply values-driven and relationship-oriented, Dr. Hakimian is also an accomplished educator and philanthropist who holds a PhD in psychology, focusing on industrial-organizational psychology and applied coaching. She is committed to community impact, particularly through first-generation and financial literacy programming, and is recognized for her dedication to empowering others and building high-performing teams with heart and intention.Below are the key takeaways from this episode:Values First: Dr. Paige Hakimian built her business on clear values and long-term relationships, guiding decisions and shaping company culture.Relationships Drive Success: Strong, genuine connections with tenants, partners, and team members are at the heart of sustainable business and community impact.Giving Back Matters: Integrating philanthropy, especially supporting first-gen and low-income students, is central to Dr. Paige Hakimian’s mission and business approach.The Power of Listening: Truly seeing and hearing people fosters trust, growth, and effective leadership both in business and personal interactions.Resilience in Adversity: Proactively supporting others during challenging times builds loyalty and long-term success, as shown during major crises like COVID-19.Todays guest, Dr. Paige Hakimian, can be found online at:Website: https://hakimianholdings.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paigehh/Your host, Dr. Bobbi Wegner, can be found online at:Groops: https://www.joingroops.com/Harvard Extension School Faculty Spotlight: https://youtu.be/zwLai-lu-pk?si=GpKNhtxVvTrS3-puLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobbiwegner/

What if the secret to building high-performing teams isn’t just about skills or experience, but harnessing the power of human connection and a dash of AI? In this episode, Dr. Bobbi Wegner and Thiag Loganathan reveal unexpected strategies for unlocking motivation at work, scaling impact, and creating cultures where people actually thrive. Curious? Hit play and discover how the future of work is being shaped right now.Thiag Loganathan is the President and CEO of Cardinality-ai, a GovTech 100 company focused on using AI-driven case management solutions to improve outcomes for state and local agencies. With over a decade of experience scaling SaaS platforms that serve vulnerable populations, Thiag is passionate about creating organizations where impact and innovation go hand in hand. Drawing from his own journey growing up in South India, navigating life in the US, and building a career at the intersection of technology and social good. He champions the power of opportunity, grit, and authentic leadership. Thiag believes AI can level the playing field at work, encouraging curiosity, transparency, and collaboration, while fostering teams that prioritize culture and mission-driven results.Below are the key takeaways from this episode:Five Pillars of Success: Thiag outlined five critical factors, innate traits, upbringing, social circles, grit, and opportunity that shape personal and professional growth.Motivation Beyond Metrics: Understanding people's inner drivers and aligning individual values with company goals leads to healthier, high-performing teams.AI Levels the Playing Field: Artificial intelligence reduces reliance on tenure and specific expertise, allowing teams to prioritize curiosity, collaboration, and adaptability.Culture Over Skills: Successful teams are built like “cobblestone,” combining foundational contributors with flexible roles and leveraging tech to foster deeper connection.Ethical Leadership Matters: Using influence and technology must be grounded in shared mission and ethics to truly unlock positive impact in the workplace.Todays guest, Thiag Loganathan, can be found online at:Website: https://cardinality.ai/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tloganathan/Your host, Dr. Bobbi Wegner, can be found online at:Groops: https://www.joingroops.com/Harvard Extension School Faculty Spotlight: https://youtu.be/zwLai-lu-pk?si=GpKNhtxVvTrS3-puLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobbiwegner/

What happens when you combine cutting-edge psychology, high-performing sales teams, and a leader who believes “culture eats strategy for breakfast”? In this episode, Marc Maloy shares jaw-dropping stories from super chickens to motivating salespeople by tapping into what really drives them while Dr. Bobbi Wegner uncovers the secrets behind building cohesive, resilient teams that actually win. Get ready for takeaways you’ll want to steal for your own leadership playbook!Marc Maloy is a veteran go-to-market executive known for his unique approach to building high-achieving sales organizations rooted in cohesion, clarity, and servant leadership rather than ego or pressure. Having led sales and operations at leading HR tech companies such as BetterUp, Glint, Instructure (Canvas), and now Voze. Marc is recognized for translating complex organizational psychology into practical, actionable systems that teams can apply. With over a decade in Utah after stints across the Midwest and California, Marc’s leadership philosophy is shaped by his deep understanding of human motivation, relentless focus on culture, and a personal commitment to authentic connection—both at work and at home with his wife and four children.Below are the key takeaways from this episode:Culture impacts performance: Marc shared that high-performing teams thrive on cohesion and clarity, not competition or pressure.Understanding individual motivation: Leaders who listen and personalize recognition drive greater engagement and effort from their teams.Hire for will and skill: The best results come from hiring people with curiosity and drive, then developing their abilities.Avoid ‘super chicken’ competition: Excessive rivalry can damage team dynamics; supporting each other leads to better outcomes.Strategic clarity is essential: Clear goals and alignment using proven frameworks help teams connect their work to a shared vision and purpose.Todays guest, Marc Maloy, can be found online at:Website: https://www.voze.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcmaloy/Your host, Dr. Bobbi Wegner, can be found online at:Groops: https://www.joingroops.com/Harvard Extension School Faculty Spotlight: https://youtu.be/zwLai-lu-pk?si=GpKNhtxVvTrS3-puLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobbiwegner/