Advertise on podcast: Happier At Work: Leadership, Culture, Performance

How do you know what your team is truly capable of? In this episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O'Brien explores why current performance, job titles, CVs, and manager perceptions don’t always reveal someone’s full capability. She shares her own experience of working in a role that didn’t fully use her strengths, and explains how limited opportunities, low confidence, a lack of psychological safety, or the wrong working conditions can hide valuable talent within an organisation. In This Episode, You’ll Discover: Why organisations often look externally for skills and capabilities that already exist internally.The difference between task-based skills and broader capabilities, including strengths, knowledge, experience, and confidence.How psychological safety affects people’s willingness to speak up, experiment, challenge, and fail.Why confidence can mask someone’s true capability at work. Related Topics Covered: Human Capability, The AI Age, Psychological Safety Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Website LinkedIn YouTube Related Episodes & Resources: Episode 289: Leadership Choices that Define your Culture Episode 295: From Individual Strengths to Team Capability Episode 297: Creating Space for Talent to Thrive Episode 315: Imposter Syndrome: Why Confidence ≠ Capability 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

Are you taking charge of your career, or leaving things to chance? In this bonus episode, Aoife shares her key takeaways from her conversation with Wanda Wallace, and offers some extra insights that didn't make it into the full interview. If you haven't listened to the full episode yet, make sure to go back and give it a listen. Here are some of the key insights from Aoife’s chat with Wanda: Careers are more like trees than ladders: You can go sideways, hit a dead end and climb back down, and take longer branches. Breadth of experience matters if you want to reach the top, and a sideways move isn't a step backwards. Nobody teaches us to manage our careers: Leaders aren't taught how to help people with theirs, and most of us aren't taught to own ours. Bosses are often too busy with their own. Define what success means to you: Wanda's reflection exercise: think about the people you admire, what you're proud of, and where you've made a difference. Patterns will emerge. Be able to articulate what you want, if you can't, others will guess wrong or never know. Stop being so useful: Being indispensable where you are can keep you there. Bring others in to help with the urgent fires, and show your manager everything on your plate along with your view of what to deprioritize. Ask yourself: am I doing this because I'm good at it, or because I should be doing it? Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Website LinkedIn YouTube Connect with Wanda Wallace | Executive Coach, Top Teams Advisor, Keynote Speaker, Author & Podcast Host: LinkedInWebsite Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 285: Fixed vs Growth Mindset at Work Episode 316: Mastering your Inner Narrative with Owen Fitzpatrick Resources: Wanda’s book Aoife’s conversation on Wanda’s Podcast 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.

Do you want to take more control of your career and navigate difficult workplace situations with greater confidence? In this episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O'Brien speaks with Wanda Wallace, executive coach, speaker, and author of Taking Charge of Your Career. Wanda shares practical advice for managing your career, building an authentic personal brand, defining success on your own terms, and responding to setbacks without feeling powerless. In This Episode, You’ll Discover: Why the traditional career ladder is a limiting metaphor, and how thinking of your career as a tree can open up new possibilities.How to define career success based on your own values rather than social expectations or comparison.The importance of identifying your personal ambition, strengths, values, and intrinsic motivation.How to build an authentic personal brand through clear messages and proof points. Related Topics Covered: Personal Development, Navigating Setbacks, Comparison Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Website LinkedIn YouTube Connect with Wanda Wallace | Executive Coach, Top Teams Advisor, Keynote Speaker, Author & Podcast Host: LinkedInWebsite Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 285: Fixed vs Growth Mindset at Work Episode 316: Mastering your Inner Narrative with Owen Fitzpatrick Resources: Wanda’s book Aoife’s conversation on Wanda’s Podcast 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

How can AI help us redesign work instead of simply making it faster? In this solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O'Brien explores how artificial intelligence could change the way work gets done. Rather than focusing only on automation and efficiency, she asks a more fundamental question: what work needs to happen at all, and where does it create value? Drawing on her experience in market research, she reimagines the traditional client brief as a focused conversation about the decision that needs to be made, with AI providing access to information and people bringing context, judgment, and the right questions. In This Episode, You’ll Discover: Why redesigning work requires more than making existing tasks faster.How AI can help teams access information and support faster decision-making.The human value of context, probing questions, judgment, and problem diagnosis.The importance of asking whether work is producing real value for the client, team, department, or organisation. Related Topics Covered: Human Capability, Meetings at Work, Decision-making Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Website LinkedIn YouTube Related Episodes & Resources: Episode 251: How I use AI in My Business and Personal life with Aoife O’Brien Episode 275: AI Won’t Take your Job, but It Will Redefine It Episode 312: Maximising AI Productivity with Rebecca Hinds 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

In this bonus episode, Aoife revisits her conversation with Josh Levine to dig into one big question: what actually is work, and what makes it valuable, especially now that AI has made specialist knowledge a commodity? She unpacks why the instinct to use AI to simply do current work "more efficiently" is the wrong starting point, and argues instead for using AI as a prompt to redesign work from a clean slate around where human judgment, discernment, and thinking time genuinely add value. She also explores Josh's definition of culture, the temptation to outsource thinking (not just tasks) to AI, the risks of unbundling work into disconnected AI-assisted pieces, and the harder organisational questions AI raises. What you’ll take away:Why AI is forcing a rethink of "what is valuable work", now that knowledge is a commodity, human judgment is the differentiator.The efficiency trap: producing more isn't the same as creating more value, and it can even add hidden costs A new definition of culture: culture as the cause and effect of the decisions an organization makes.The case for feeding AI your values, not just project-level context, so it can support — not replace, your judgment.The danger of outsourcing thinking itself to AI, rather than using it as a brainstorming partner, and how that may erode critical judgment over time.Why unbundling tasks and handing pieces to AI can lose value, and why redesigning work around where value is created matters more.The open, unresolved question: if AI absorbs entry-level tasks, how do people build the experience needed for senior roles? Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Website LinkedIn YouTube Connect with Josh Levine | Author, educator, culture strategist, and advocate for better work futures: LinkedInWebsitePodcastSubstack Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 251: How I use AI in My Business and Personal life with Aoife O’Brien Episode 275: AI Won’t Take your Job, but It Will Redefine It Episode 312: Maximising AI Productivity with Rebecca Hinds 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

How should we rethink work in the age of AI? In this episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife has a thought-provoking conversation with Josh Levine, author, educator, culture strategist, and advocate for better work futures. Together, they explore what work actually means, how organisations create value, and why AI is forcing leaders and knowledge workers to rethink how work gets done. In This Episode, You’ll Discover: Why AI amplifies broken decision-making and organisational processes.The difference between using AI to support thinking and outsourcing human judgment.How Josh Levine defines culture as “the cause and effect of every decision that we make.”Why organisational values need to guide strategic decisions, not become vague statements or platitudes. Related Topics Covered: Workplace Culture, Happiness & Fulfillment at Work, Asking Better Questions Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: WebsiteLinkedInYouTube Connect with Josh Levine | Author, educator, culture strategist, and advocate for better work futures: LinkedInWebsitePodcastSubstack Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 251: How I use AI in My Business and Personal life with Aoife O’Brien Episode 275: AI Won’t Take your Job, but It Will Redefine It Episode 312: Maximising AI Productivity with Rebecca Hinds 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

Have you ever considered how the dynamics of bullying in the workplace affect belonging and psychological safety? In this thought-provoking solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O'Brien opens up about her personal experiences with bullying, from her childhood to her professional journey. Inspired by a recent post from Amy Cuddy, Aoife examines the often-overlooked complexity of bullying, emphasising that it's rarely a simple case of "bully" and "victim." Instead, she uncovers the powerful role of group dynamics, bystanders, and exclusion in perpetuating negative environments at work. In This Episode, You’ll Discover: Why bullying is often more than one person targeting another.The importance of psychological safety for a thriving workplace, and can be undermined when individuals feel unable to speak up about exclusion or bullying.How we all may sometimes participate in exclusion or gossip, highlighting the need for honest self-reflection.The vital role leaders have in making a difference by noticing exclusion, challenging groupthink, and creating a culture where reputations can recover. Related Topics Covered: Workplace Dynamics, Psychological Safety, Building a Reputation Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Website LinkedIn YouTube Related Episodes & Resources: Episode 217: How Can We Identify & Overcome Self-Sabotage Behaviours at Work? Episode 218: How Can You Improve Happiness & Trust at Work with Matt Phelan Episode 247: Navigating the Drama Triangle at Work with Aoife O’Brien Episode 291: How to Fix Toxic Cultures 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

Are you ready to discover what truly drives high performance at work? In this thought-provoking mashup episode of the Happier at Work podcast, host Aoife O'Brien brings together insights from 8 powerful conversations with global experts on communication, psychological safety, leadership, generational differences, job design, employee experience, and the impact of AI in the modern workplace. Exploring the importance of workplace conditions over individual effort, this episode unpacks why creating the right environment is foundational to helping people and organisations thrive. In This Episode, You’ll Discover: Why understanding the intention behind actions is essential for resolving conflict.The risks of generational stereotypes and why managers must flex and adapt across life stages.The importance of job design in addressing overwhelm and supporting resilience, rather than blaming individuals.A broader definition of employee experience, encompassing every touchpoint in an employee's journey.The necessity of connecting day-to-day work with the impact and value delivered by the individual and the organisation.How the rise of AI demands that we scrutinise not just productivity, but whether our work truly adds value.Actionable advice for making work better for yourself and those around you, starting with fostering psychological safety. Related Topics Covered: Communication at Work, Building resilience, Employee Experience Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Website LinkedIn YouTube Listen to the Full Episodes here: Episode 288: Conflict & Communication with Catherine Stothart Episode 292: Psychological Safety with Amy Edmondson Episode 294: Leadership Mental Health with Melissa Doman Episode 298: Today’s Multigenerational Workforce with Mary Collins Episode 302: Overwhelm & Thriving Teams with Leanne Elliott Episode 308: Employee Experience with Gráinne Earley Episode 310: Impact & Value with Dr. Shirley Kavanagh Episode 312: AI Productivity with Rebecca Hinds 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

With AI transforming the way we work, many leaders are asking what this means for their role. Will AI replace managers, or will it make great leadership more important than ever? In this episode, host Aoife O'Brien shares why she believes the future belongs to leaders who focus less on having all the answers and more on creating the conditions for their people to succeed. While AI can help us automate tasks and improve productivity, it can't replace the human skills that build high-performing teams—creating clarity, coaching others, exercising good judgement and building trust. Drawing on the principles of the Thriving Talent Framework, she explores what effective leadership looks like in a world where technology is evolving rapidly but people still need purpose, direction and support. In this episode:Why AI is changing leadership—but not replacing itThe uniquely human skills that matter mostWhy coaching is becoming an essential leadership capabilityPractical questions every leader should be asking their team Questions to ask your teamWhat's helping you do your best work?What's getting in your way?Where can I better support you?What's one thing we could do differently to help you succeed? Key takeawayAI might make us faster, but great leaders make people better. The organisations that thrive won't simply be the ones with the best technology—they'll be the ones with leaders who know how to unlock the potential of the people around them. Resources📘 Thriving Talent: How Great Leaders Drive Performance, Engagement and Retention Find out more about the book and order your copy here: https://thrivingtalentbook.com 🎙️ Subscribe to the Happier at Work podcast so you never miss an episode. If you found this episode useful, please leave a rating or review and share it with another leader who might benefit. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ

Do you feel stuck when career progression isn’t an option for you? In this solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O'Brien explores what you can do to support employee growth and fulfillment, especially when promotions and pay rises aren’t on the table. Drawing from her No-Show-Grow framework, Aoife shifts the conversation from traditional career ladders to the untapped potential and deeper human needs that motivate individuals to thrive at work. You’ll learn how focusing on drivers like autonomy, recognition, and meaningful challenge can lead to better retention, engagement, and development, even without traditional advancement. In This Episode, You’ll Discover: Why career development isn’t only about promotions or pay; fulfillment and growth come from many sources.How to understand what your individual drivers are, such as recognition, learning, problem-solving, and impact.The three universal workplace needs: autonomy, relatedness, and competence, but why unique needs should also be uncovered and met.How managers can support growth by offering bigger challenges, project leadership, process redesign, and mentoring opportunities. Related Topics Covered: Workplace Culture, Personal Development, Drivers at Work Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Website LinkedIn YouTube Related Episodes & Resources: Episode 293: Recognising & Understanding your Drivers at Work Episode 297: Creating Space for Talent to Thrive 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

In this bonus episode, Aoife shares the key takeaways from her insightful conversation with Owen Fitzpatrick, breaking down what beliefs are, how they're formed, and most importantly, the specific actions you can take today to start reshaping the beliefs that hold you back. What you’ll take away:What a belief actually is (hint: it's not a fact) and why the certainty behind our beliefs can fluctuate depending on mood, context, and circumstanceHow to recognise your own "inner propaganda", the stories you tell yourself and why you don't have to buy into themThe difference between what's in your control, what you can influence, and what you need to simply acceptWhy "taking a bet on yourself" and adopting an antifragile mindset can help you grow from setbacks instead of being knocked down by themHow leaders can use storytelling, rather than just stats and data, to shift beliefs and shape culturePractical ways to dismantle an "us vs. them" culture at work by finding commonality instead of divisionHow to define success on your own terms, and why the people around you matter when you're pursuing itThe role of recognition and reward systems in reinforcing culture and identity at work Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: WebsiteLinkedInYouTube Connect with Owen Fitzpatrick | Psychologist & Author of ‘Inner Propaganda: Leading Hearts and Minds Through Turbulent Times’: LinkedInWebsitePodcast Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 149: Discovering your Motive Mindset with Kelly Mackin Episode 201: Redefining your Own Career Success with Gary Crotaz Episode 285: Fixed vs Growth Mindset at Work 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

How do your beliefs shape your identity and your success at work? In this thought-provoking episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O'Brien is joined by author and psychologist Owen Fitzpatrick for a deep dive into the hidden power of beliefs in both personal and organisational contexts. Centered around Owen’s new book, ‘Inner Propaganda: Leading Hearts and Minds Through Turbulent Times’, the conversation explores how our internal narratives, shaped by beliefs, stories, and identities, profoundly impact our mental health, workplace engagement, and ability to grow. In This Episode, You’ll Discover: What beliefs are, and how they shape our self-perception, actions, and what information we absorb.How our emotional states heavily influence which beliefs become most salient at any given time.Changing your mindset isn’t just about logical reasoning; feelings and identity play a far greater role.The crucial role leaders play as “propagandists” in shaping workplace culture and employee identities. Related Topics Covered: Public Perception, Judgement, Workplace Dynamics Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: WebsiteLinkedInYouTube Connect with Owen Fitzpatrick | Psychologist & Author of ‘Inner Propaganda: Leading Hearts and Minds Through Turbulent Times’: LinkedInWebsitePodcast Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 149: Discovering your Motive Mindset with Kelly Mackin Episode 201: Redefining your Own Career Success with Gary Crotaz Episode 285: Fixed vs Growth Mindset at Work 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

If you've ever thought, "I'm not good enough," despite having the skills, experience and evidence to prove otherwise, you're not alone. In this listener question episode, host Aoife O'Brien explores why capable people often experience self-doubt and why confidence isn't always an accurate reflection of capability. Drawing on insights from her latest Imposter Syndrome Report, she discusses how our childhood experiences, education, workplace environments and past experiences can shape the stories we tell ourselves about our abilities. She also explores the common situations that trigger self-doubt, from starting a new role to receiving feedback, being promoted, comparing ourselves to others or operating outside our comfort zone. Most importantly, she explains why self-doubt isn't just something we think—it influences how we behave, often leading to perfectionism, procrastination, over-preparing, people-pleasing or holding ourselves back from opportunities. In this episode:Why capable people experience self-doubtThe difference between confidence and capabilityHow early experiences influence our beliefs about ourselvesCommon workplace triggers that reignite imposter feelingsThe behaviours self-doubt can lead toA simple mindset shift to help you challenge those thoughts Key takeawayFeeling capable and being capable aren't the same thing. Instead of asking yourself, "Do I feel confident enough?" ask, "What evidence do I have that I'm capable?" Resources📘 Thriving Talent: How Great Leaders Drive Performance, Engagement and Retention Find out more about the book and order your copy here: https://thrivingtalentbook.com 📄 Download the Imposter Syndrome Report https://www.impostersyndrome.ie/report 🎙️ Subscribe to the Happier at Work podcast so you never miss an episode. If you enjoyed this episode, I'd really appreciate it if you could leave a rating or review—it helps more people discover the show. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ

Have you ever wondered how imposter syndrome could be quietly costing your organisation top talent and innovative ideas? In this solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O'Brien dives deep into the data behind her State of Imposter Syndrome at Work report, revealing how imposter syndrome isn’t just an individual’s challenge, it’s a pressing organisational issue. She shares her own experiences and highlights the staggering fact that around 90% of professionals have faced imposter syndrome at some point in their careers. Aoife unpacks how confidence is often confused with capability, leading to untapped potential and missed opportunities in teams. In This Episode, You’ll Discover: How imposter syndrome affects about 90% of professionals, and why it often goes unaddressed at the organisational level.Why outward confidence doesn’t always reflect true capability.The impact of not addressing imposter syndrome.The importance of recognising and encouraging not just the most vocal contributors but the true value every individual brings. Related Topics Covered: Personal Development, Self-awareness, Psychological Safety Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: WebsiteLinkedInYouTube Related Episodes & Resources: Episode 223: Imposter Syndrome: The Invisible Barrier to Workplace Success Episode 281: How Managers Accidentally Fuel Imposter Syndrome Imposter Syndrome Report 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

In this bonus episode, Aoife revisits her conversation with John Bernatovicz and offers her expert insight on purpose, HR culture, ownership, and finding meaning at work. If you haven't listened to the full episode with John yet, make sure to give it a listen. Here are some of the key takeaways:Most companies don't actually have a defined purpose John's research found that outside of not-for-profits, the vast majority of companies don't have a real, articulated sense of purpose, often only turning to "giving back" once they've already made significant money. Meanwhile, 80% of employees say they want to work somewhere with genuine intention behind its purpose. Purpose doesn't have to be a "big, grand thing" Purpose isn't only about world-changing missions. Aoife references the "big P vs. little P" purpose concept from her episode with Sharath Jeevan, plus Adam Grant's take on the same idea, purpose can simply be about the impact you have on the people and community around you. Connect everyday work to real impact One of the biggest levers for engagement: clearly linking people's day-to-day tasks to the outcomes and impact they create, for clients, colleagues, or the wider mission. Without that connection, people can feel like they're just going through the motions. Purpose vs. profitability Money is fleeting, chasing wealth, lifestyle, or "toeing the company line" for a paycheck eventually takes its toll. The conversation touched on leaders who reach a breaking point when the job no longer aligns with their values, and the idea that compromising your values catches up with you eventually. We spend ~15% of our lives at work That's a meaningful enough chunk of life to make sure you're spending it somewhere that feels worthwhile. Recognition matters If your contributions aren't being seen, heard, or valued, it may be time to look elsewhere, you deserve to have your work recognised. Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Website LinkedIn YouTube Connect with John Bernatovicz | Author of “HR Like a Boss” and founder of Willory: LinkedInWebsite Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 120: The Journey to Self Mastery and Success with Sharath Jeevan Episode 267: Creating A Positive Workplace Episode 191: The Pursuit of Purpose: Shifting Perspectives with Will Polston 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