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Happier At Work: Leadership, Culture, Performance

Business & Economics Podcasts

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.

Location:

Ireland

Description:

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.

Language:

English


Episodes
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295: From Individual Strengths to Team Capability

2/27/2026
Are you making the most of your strengths, and those of your team at work? In this solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O'Brien dives deep into the crucial role of strengths and capabilities in creating effective, thriving teams. Building on themes from her upcoming book, "Thriving Talent," Aoife explores how understanding and leveraging both individual and collective strengths can transform your work environment. She shares practical strategies for identifying what you and your team are truly good at, overcoming common challenges that block talent, and fostering an open dialogue about strengths in the workplace. In This Episode, You’ll Discover: Related Topics Covered: Dealing with Conflict, Confidence at Work, Zone of Genius Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: WebsiteLinkedInYouTube Related Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 202: Leveraging Strengths and Setting Boundaries with Lucy Gernon Episode 233: Unlocking Potential with Strengths-based Strategies with Marijke Kershaw About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ Mentioned in this episode: Thriving Talent book Book

Duration:00:11:10

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Bonus Episode: The Realities of Leadership Mental Health

2/23/2026
Can leaders show vulnerability at work and still be effective? In this bonus episode, Aoife explores the biggest insights from her conversation with workplace mental health expert Melissa Doman. Together, they challenge the myth that leaders must be “psychologically above” the human experience and unpack what happens when leaders feel they must appear superhuman. This episode offers practical ways leaders can show up as human, and explains how a leader’s emotional state shapes team culture more than they may realise. Many organisations expect leaders to be: This creates an impossible double standard: When leaders suppress their humanity, it doesn’t strengthen leadership, it creates distance, reduces safety, and can lead to behaviours later labelled as toxic. Where have you been coping until now, and what will you do differently after this episode? Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: WebsiteLinkedInYouTube Connect with Melissa Doman | Organisational psychologist and leadership mental health expert: WebsiteLinkedIn Listen to my conversation with Melissa Doman: Episode 294: The Realities of Leadership Mental Health with Melissa Doman About Happier at Work Happier at Work is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work. Join Aoife O’Brien for weekly insights on leadership, workplace culture, career clarity, imposter syndrome, and creating work that works for you. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube:...

Duration:00:08:47

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294: The Realities of Leadership Mental Health with Melissa Doman

2/20/2026
Who supports the mental health of leaders in your workplace? In the latest episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O'Brien welcomes back organisational psychologist and leadership mental health expert Melissa Doman. This honest and eye-opening conversation explores why it’s crucial to support not just employees, but leaders as well. Melissa reveals how leaders are often expected to have it all figured out and endlessly support others, while their own mental health needs are overlooked. Drawing on research and her forthcoming book "Cornered Office," Melissa explains the hidden pressures leaders face, the human cost of dehumanising leadership roles, and tangible strategies to help leaders show up authentically at work. In This Episode, You’ll Discover: Related Topics Covered: Power Dynamics at Work, Stereotypes, Boundaries at Work Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: WebsiteLinkedInYouTube Connect with Melissa Doman | Organisational psychologist and leadership mental health expert: WebsiteLinkedIn Related Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 242: Transforming Mental Health Conversations at Work with Melissa Doman About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Join Aoife O’Brien for weekly insights on leadership, workplace culture, career clarity, imposter syndrome, and creating work that works for you. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website:...

Duration:00:46:12

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LQ: I'm successful on paper, but I feel unfulfilled

2/17/2026
Have you ever thought: “I’m successful on paper… but I don’t feel fulfilled.” You’ve got the senior title. The salary is strong. People respect you. And yet something feels… off. In this Listener Question episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O’Brien explores why external career success doesn’t always translate into internal fulfilment — and what to do about it. If you’re a mid-career or senior leader, particularly in a commercial or client-facing role, this episode will help you understand the hidden drivers behind career dissatisfaction — even when everything “looks good” from the outside. What You’ll Learn in This Episode In just five minutes, Aoife breaks down the four key areas that determine whether your success feels meaningful: 1️⃣ Values Alignment Are you building your career around what genuinely matters to you — or someone else’s definition of success? 2️⃣ Psychological Needs & Drivers Are your core needs (autonomy, connection, competence, recognition, challenge) being met in your current role? 3️⃣ Strengths & Zone of Genius Are you using your natural strengths daily — or mainly operating in areas that drain your energy? 4️⃣ Environment & Culture Fit Has your organisation evolved in a different direction to you? Who This Episode Is For This episode is especially relevant if you are: You don’t necessarily need a new job. But you may need greater alignment. Key Questions to Reflect On Fulfilment isn’t about achieving more. It’s about aligning more deeply. Share Your Thoughts This episode is part of the Listener Question format. If you’d like Aoife to answer your question in a future episode, email: podcast@happieratwork.ie (Names are never shared without permission.) Help Shape Future Episodes If you haven’t already, please take two minutes to complete the Happier at Work Listener Survey. Your input directly shapes future episodes and topics. 👉 Complete the survey here: https://happieratwork.ie/survey About the Happier at Work Podcast Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, workplace culture strategist and author of Thriving Talent, the Happier at Work podcast explores leadership, engagement, performance, psychological safety, and career fulfilment for ambitious professionals in global organisations. New episodes every week.

Duration:00:05:34

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293: Recognising & Understanding your Drivers at Work

2/13/2026
Are you searching for the secret to truly motivating your team? In this solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O'Brien dives deep into what drives genuine motivation in today’s workplace. Building on previous discussions about workplace culture and psychological safety, Aoife unpacks the "drivers" pillar from her soon-to-be-released Thriving Talent framework. Drawing from research, personal experience, and practical examples, she explores the universal psychological needs we all share, the unique motivators that can vary from person to person, and the derailers that can sabotage engagement and performance, even when money is on the table. In This Episode, You’ll Discover: Related Topics Covered: Psychological Safety, Work-life Balance, Autonomy at Work Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: WebsiteLinkedInYouTube Related Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 279: Trust & High Performance at Work Episode 149: Discovering your motive mindset with Kelly Mackin About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ Mentioned in this episode: Thriving Talent book Book

Duration:00:11:30

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Bonus Episode: Why Psychological Safety Matters

2/9/2026
Most leaders say they want learning. Most organisations reward certainty. In this bonus episode, Aoife translates one of the most easily-missed tensions from her conversation with Amy Edmondson: psychological safety doesn’t fail because leaders don’t care, it fails because leaders underestimate how strongly the system nudges people towards silence, agreement, and self-protection. This isn’t about being “nice”, creating comfort, or running better meetings. It’s about what your operating model reinforces under pressure: If you’re not hearing dissent, uncertainty, or bad news, it’s not because it isn’t there. It’s because it’s being managed — often for you. Where might your system be rewarding agreement while you’re asking for learning? Stop asking “Do people feel safe?” and start asking: “What does our system make risky and who pays the price for speaking the truth?” Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: WebsiteLinkedInYouTube Connect with Amy Edmondson | World-renowned Expert in Psychological Safety: WebsiteLinkedIn Related Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 240: Meaningful Work Through Simplification with Lisa Bodell About Happier at Work Happier at Work is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work. Join Aoife O’Brien for weekly insights on leadership, workplace culture, career clarity, imposter syndrome, and creating work that works for you. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ

Duration:00:10:12

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292: Why Psychological Safety Matters with Amy Edmondson

2/6/2026
Are you creating the right conditions for your team to learn and thrive? In this episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O'Brien is joined by world-renowned expert in psychological safety, Amy Edmondson. Together, they dive deep into what psychological safety truly means in the workplace, why it is essential for organisational learning, innovation, and effective teamwork, and how leaders can practically build it within their teams. Drawing on decades of research, Amy shares actionable strategies, common pitfalls, and the foundational role of conversation, candor, and curiosity in creating environments where people feel safe to speak up, share dissenting views, and take interpersonal risks for the benefit of collective excellence. In This Episode, You’ll Discover: Related Topics Covered: Collaboration at Work, Feedback, Setting Boundaries Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: WebsiteLinkedInYouTube Connect with Amy Edmondson | World-renowned Expert in Psychological Safety: WebsiteLinkedIn Related Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 66: Workplace psychological Safety with Susan Ní Chriodáin Episode 68: Embracing the gentle art of humble inquiry with Edgar and Peter Schein About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Join Aoife O’Brien for weekly insights on leadership, workplace culture, career clarity, imposter syndrome, and creating work that works for...

Duration:00:47:20

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LQ: When Is It Time to Leave a Toxic Workplace?

2/3/2026
In this Listener Question episode of Happier at Work, Aoife O’Brien responds to a question many leaders wrestle with: How do you know when a workplace is toxic — and when it’s time to leave rather than trying to fix it? Following this week’s solo episode on how toxic workplaces are created, this conversation focuses on the personal decision leaders face when they’re inside one. This episode isn’t about resilience or coping strategies. It’s about judgement. Aoife explores why leaders often stay longer than others in unhealthy environments, the hidden cost of trying to “hold things together,” and how to tell the difference between a tough phase and a culture that’s unlikely to change. You’ll hear: Aoife also shares reflective questions to help you think through your own situation — without rushing to drastic decisions or defaulting to endurance. If you’re a leader who feels responsible for your team but increasingly disconnected from your environment, this episode will help you pause, assess, and trust your judgement. Reflective questions from the episode Listener Question If you have a question you’d like Aoife to answer in a future Listener Question episode, email podcast@happieratwork.ie. You don’t have to share your name if you’d prefer. Take our listener survey: https://happieratwork.ie/survey Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ

Duration:00:05:52

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291: How To Fix Toxic Work Cultures

1/30/2026
Have you ever wondered why toxic workplace cultures are so widespread, even when no one sets out to create them? In this solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O'Brien dives deep into the root causes and far-reaching impact of toxic work environments. Drawing insights directly from her upcoming book, Thriving Talent, Aoife unpacks how unintended toxicity takes hold in organisations, the subtle ways it spreads, and the critical role leaders play in either fostering or dismantling unhealthy cultures. She breaks down her Thriving Talent framework, examines the cost of ignored behaviors, and offers reflective questions to empower leaders to create workplaces where people truly thrive. In This Episode, You’ll Discover: Related Topics Covered: Psychological Safety, Positive Workplace Culture, Autonomy at Work Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: WebsiteLinkedInYouTube Related Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 279: Trust & High Performance at Work Episode 289: Leadership Choices that Define your Culture About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ Mentioned in this episode: Thriving Talent book Book

Duration:00:10:32

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Bonus Episode: How to Prioritise and Deliver Value at Work

1/26/2026
Are you struggling with constant busyness and overwhelm at work? In this week’s bonus episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O'Brien breaks down the practical strategies for overcoming stress and maximising impact at work, no matter your role or industry from her conversation with James Louttit, project management expert and author. Drawing from personal experience and his extensive background leading teams, James reveals how shifting from an “effort over impact” mindset can supercharge both productivity and well-being. The conversation moves beyond conventional project management techniques, focusing on real-world, actionable steps you can implement right away to prioritise, delegate, and deliver value without burning out. In James’ Episode, You’ll Discover: Related Topics Covered: Purpose at Work, Productivity, Boundaries at Work Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: WebsiteLinkedInYouTube Connect with James Louttit | Project management expert and author: BookLinkedIn Related Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 240: Meaningful Work Through Simplification with Lisa Bodell About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Join Aoife O’Brien for weekly insights on leadership, workplace culture, career clarity, imposter syndrome, and creating work that works for you. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ Mentioned in this episode: Thriving Talent book Book

Duration:00:13:01

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290: How to Prioritise and Deliver Value at Work with James Louttit

1/23/2026
Are you struggling with constant busyness and overwhelm at work? In the latest episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O'Brien sits down with project management expert and author James Louttit for a deep dive into practical strategies for overcoming stress and maximizing impact at work, no matter your role or industry. Drawing from personal experience and his extensive background leading teams, James reveals how shifting from an “effort over impact” mindset can supercharge both productivity and well-being. The conversation moves beyond conventional project management techniques, focusing on real-world, actionable steps you can implement right away to prioritise, delegate, and deliver value without burning out. In This Episode, You’ll Discover: Related Topics Covered: Purpose at Work, Productivity, Boundaries at Work Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: WebsiteLinkedInYouTube Connect with James Louttit | Project management expert and author: BookLinkedIn Related Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 240: Meaningful Work Through Simplification with Lisa Bodell About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Join Aoife O’Brien for weekly insights on leadership, workplace culture, career clarity, imposter syndrome, and creating work that works for you. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ Mentioned in this episode: Thriving Talent book Book

Duration:00:42:23

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LQ: I’m experienced… why can’t I land a senior role?

1/19/2026
Applying for dozens, or even hundreds, of jobs and still not landing a role can be exhausting, especially when you have 15+ years’ experience and you’re making it to final-stage interviews but not getting the offer. In this Listener Question episode, Aoife O’Brien answers a question from a mid-career professional navigating job search frustration in a tough market. If you’re getting interviews but not converting them into offers, this episode will help you tighten your positioning, clarify your value, and communicate what makes you the right hire for a senior role. You’ll learn: quantity of applicationsquality of positioningbefore If you’re searching for a senior job, preparing for a final interview, or trying to stand out in a competitive market, this episode will help you move from proving you’re capable to clearly showing the impact you create. 📩 Want your question answered on the podcast? Email podcast@happieratwork.ie (you can remain anonymous). Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ

Duration:00:06:18

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289: Leadership Choices That Define Your Culture

1/16/2026
Are you a leader striving to create a truly positive workplace culture? In this solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O'Brien dives deep into the real drivers behind workplace culture, moving far beyond value slides and engagement surveys to focus on what’s truly rewarded, tolerated, and repeated in the workplace, especially under pressure. Drawing from her upcoming book, “Thriving Talent,” Aoife shares actionable insights and her unique framework to help leaders design intentional, resilient cultures that bring out the best in people, even during challenging times. The discussion highlights common pitfalls, like unintentional leadership and mixed organisational signals, and offers a practical invitation: stop treating positive culture as the goal, and start seeing it as the outcome of deliberate leadership design. In This Episode, You’ll Discover: Related Topics Covered: Psychological Safety, Communication at Work, Leadership Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: WebsiteLinkedInYouTube Related Episodes You’ll Love: 122: Cultivating a Mindset for Success with Brennan Jacoby 195: Workplace Culture Dynamics: Creating a Positive Work Environment with Caroline Collins 267: Creating a Positive Workplace About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ Mentioned in this episode: Thriving Talent book Book

Duration:00:14:16

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Bonus Episode: Navigating Conflict & Communication

1/12/2026
Are you struggling to get along with someone at work, no matter how hard you try? In this, the first bonus episode of 2026, host Aoife O’Brien gives her key takeaways and insights from her conversation with Catherine Stothart, leadership coach and author. Drawing from her extensive experience in leadership development with global organisations and her books on communication and motivation, Catherine shared practical strategies grounded in psychology for understanding yourself, appreciating the perspectives of others, and improving workplace relationships. In Catherine’s episode, You’ll Discover: Related Topics Covered: Purpose at Work, Personality Types, Relationships at Work Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: WebsiteLinkedInYouTube Connect with Catherine Stothart | Motivating Leadership Coach & Author of ‘How to Get On with Anyone’: BlueskyLinkedIn Related Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 174: The Role of Emotions in Workplace Dynmaics with Dr. Lola GershfeldEpisode 176: Practical Tips for Positive Work Relationships with Aoife O’Brien About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Join Aoife O’Brien for weekly insights on leadership, workplace culture, career clarity,...

Duration:00:08:39

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288: Navigating Conflict & Communication with Catherine Stothart

1/9/2026
Are you struggling to get along with someone at work, no matter how hard you try? In this inspiring episode of the Happier at Work podcast, host Aoife O'Brien speaks with leadership coach and author Catherine Stothart about the art and science of getting along with just about anyone. Drawing from her extensive experience in leadership development with global organisations and her books on communication and motivation, Catherine shares practical strategies grounded in psychology for understanding yourself, appreciating the perspectives of others, and improving workplace relationships. In This Episode, You’ll Discover: Related Topics Covered: Purpose at Work, Personality Types, Relationships at Work Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: WebsiteLinkedInYouTube Connect with Catherine Stothart | Motivating Leadership Coach & Author of ‘How to Get On with Anyone’: BlueskyLinkedIn Related Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 174: The Role of Emotions in Workplace Dynmaics with Dr. Lola GershfeldEpisode 176: Practical Tips for Positive Work Relationships with Aoife O’Brien About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Join Aoife O’Brien for weekly insights on leadership, workplace culture, career clarity, imposter syndrome, and creating work that...

Duration:00:48:05

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287: End of Year Exhaustion and Time for Reflection

12/19/2025
Are you running on fumes as the year comes to a close? In this solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O'Brien gets real about end-of-year exhaustion, sharing her personal experiences and lessons learned after a hectic, relentless year without a truly restorative break. Drawing from her own journey juggling business demands and book writing, plus research for her upcoming book, Aoife O'Brien explores why so many of us struggle to press pause, and how cultural norms, productivity mindsets, and always-on tech contribute to burnout. She offers practical psychological insights and actionable advice for prioritising rest, recovery, and self-support so we can finish strong and start the new year feeling truly refreshed. In This Episode, You’ll Discover: Related Topics Covered: Managing Workload, Workplace Wellbeing, Entrepreneurial Challenges Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: WebsiteLinkedInYouTube Related Episodes You’ll Love: 122: Cultivating a Mindset for Success with Brennan Jacoby 249: Embracing Failure & A Growth Mindset with Kelly MacDonald 241: Exploring The Phases of Burnout with Aoife O’Brien About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ Mentioned in this episode: Thriving Talent Book Book

Duration:00:19:43

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286: Reimagining Work as a Product with Dart Lindsley

12/12/2025
What if we reimagined work as a product, something employees subscribe to, rather than simply a place they show up? In this thought-provoking episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O'Brien sits down with Dart Lindsley, CEO and co-founder of 11fold and host of the Work for Humans podcast. Together, they explore the innovative concept of treating work as a product, challenging traditional management mindsets, and putting employees in the role of valued customers. Dart draws from decades of experience leading HR transformation at industry giants like Cisco and Google, explaining how “work as a product” unlocks more meaningful employee experiences and, ultimately, drives better business outcomes. In This Episode, You’ll Discover: Related Topics Covered: Future of Work, Workplace Motivation & Drivers Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: WebsiteLinkedInYouTube Connect with Dart Lindsley | CEO of 11fold and host of Work for Humans Podcast: WebsiteLinkedInPodcast Related Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 184: A Framework for Building Happier Work Cultures with Aoife O’BrienEpisode 197: The Journey to Workplace Happiness with Rob DubinEpisode 272: Beyond Happiness at Work with Dr. Mark Fabian About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Join Aoife O’Brien for weekly insights on leadership, workplace culture, career clarity, imposter syndrome, and creating work that works for you. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ Mentioned in this episode: Thriving Talent Book

Duration:00:44:49

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285: Fixed vs Growth Mindset at Work

12/5/2025
Are you stuck believing that people, or even you, can never change? In this solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O'Brien dives deep into the powerful concepts of fixed and growth mindsets, drawing on her own experiences and insights from Carol Dweck’s influential book, Mindset. Aoife shares candid reflections on how her default fixed mindset affected her professional choices, how she projected those beliefs onto others, and the pivotal shift that came with adopting a growth mindset. Her journey explores why leaders need to understand how their beliefs shape individual, team, and organisational success. In This Episode, You’ll Discover: Related Topics Covered: Psychological Safety, Thriving Talent Framework, Leadership Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: WebsiteLinkedInYouTube Related Episodes You’ll Love: 122: Cultivating a Mindset for Success with Brennan Jacoby 249: Embracing Failure & A Growth Mindset with Kelly MacDonald About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ Mentioned in this episode: Thriving Talent Book Book

Duration:00:15:24

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284: The Science of Happiness with Klaudia Mitura

11/28/2025
Are you ready to take charge of your happiness, both at work and in life? In this episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O'Brien sits down with Klaudia Mitura, Learning and Development Manager at the Science Museum Group UK and certified Chief Happiness Officer, to explore the science of happiness. Klaudia reveals how happiness isn’t just “fluffy”, it’s grounded in research and practical habits. She shares her personal journey, the breakthrough habits supported by positive psychology, and actionable ways listeners can boost their wellbeing, cultivate joy, and foster more meaningful work and life experiences. In This Episode, You’ll Discover: Related Topics Covered: Self-awareness, Purpose at Work, The Power of Choice, Achievement vs Happiness Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: WebsiteLinkedInYouTube Connect with Klaudia Mitura | Certified Chief Happiness Officer: WebsiteLinkedInInstagramKlaudia’s bookKlaudia’ Podcast: The Happiness Challenge Related Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 184: A Framework for Building Happier Work Cultures with Aoife O’Brien Episode 197: The Journey to Workplace Happiness with Rob Dubin Episode 272: Beyond Happiness at Work with Dr. Mark Fabian About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Join Aoife O’Brien for weekly insights on leadership, workplace culture, career clarity, imposter syndrome, and creating work that works for you. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ Mentioned in...

Duration:00:41:03

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283: Stop Waiting for Permission

11/21/2025
Are you holding yourself back at work by seeking permission instead of stepping into your power? In this impactful solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O'Brien explores the subtle and not so subtle ways we ask for permission in our professional lives. Sparked by a personal conversation with her cousin, Aoife O'Brien reflects on her own tendency to seek approval, especially in seemingly small situations, and how this pattern may resonate with many listeners. Through honest reflection and practical strategies, she encourages us to identify the moments we hesitate, people-please, or wait for recognition, and to break the cycle by giving ourselves the permission we seek. In This Episode, You’ll Discover: Related Topics Covered: Psychological Safety, Personal Responsibility, Imposter Syndrome Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: WebsiteLinkedInYouTube Related Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 219: How to Encourage Women Leaders to Speak Up with Carla Miller Episode 223: Imposter Syndrome: The Invisible Barrier to Career Success About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ Mentioned in this episode: Thriving Talent Book Book

Duration:00:08:41