13 MAY. 2024 · In this episode of Headspace for the Workplace, we explore the transformative power of financial well-being through the lens of recovery with Reid Graham. Reid infuses the core tenets of life and recovery into financial health and well-being for his corporate clients.Reid's journey exemplifies the intersection of serenity, humility, recovery, community, service, acceptance, and amends with financial planning, offering invaluable insights into how workplaces can foster vibrant and psychologically healthy environments.Throughout our conversation, Reid highlights the critical connection between financial health and mental well-being, emphasizing the importance of proactive planning and action in alleviating stress and improving stability. For more information on ths episode go to https://www.sallyspencerthomas.com/headspace/financial-well-being-and-recovery-with-reid-graham-episode-36

9 MAY. 2024 · In this episode of Headspace for the Workplace, I had the privilege of sitting down with Major General Gregg Martin, retired from the US Army, to discuss his remarkable journey living with bipolar disorder and the pivotal role leaders play in enhancing workplace mental health.Major General Martin’s story exemplifies the intersection of leadership, resilience, and mental health advocacy. He opened up about his personal journey, recounting how his bipolar condition surfaced during his military service, ultimately leading to a profound transformation in his life and career. His candor and vulnerability underscored the importance of destigmatizing mental health discussions, especially among leaders.Throughout our conversation, Major General Martin emphasized two key takeaways: the recognition that leaders are human, susceptible to mental health conditions, and the importance of prioritizing mental health self-care to cultivate a supportive workplace environment.Major General Martin issued a compelling call to action, urging individuals to educate themselves on mental health, normalize conversations, and advocate for recovery and wellness. His commitment to stopping the stigma surrounding mental illness resonated deeply with me and underscored the collective responsibility we have in creating healthier, more supportive workplaces.As we concluded our conversation, I felt inspired by Major General Martin's resilience and determination to effect change. His journey serves as a testament to the power of advocacy and the transformative potential of leadership in mental health. For more information on this episode please go to https://www.sallyspencerthomas.com/headspace/2024/4/24/mental-health-advocacy-in-leadership-major-general-gregg-martin-episode-35

7 MAY. 2024 · In this insightful episode of Headspace for the Workplace, Dr. Sally Spencer-Thomas talks with Kevin Lombardo, a workplace safety expert known for his holistic approach to keeping workplaces safe and healthy. Together, they discuss how ergonomic principles and mental health connect in the workplace.Throughout the episode, Kevin emphasizes the importance of keeping employees safe, injury-free, and stress-free at work. They explore how creating a supportive environment can contribute to this goal, ensuring that employees feel secure and able to perform their best.Dr. Sally and Kevin share practical tips for creating a workspace that supports employees' overall wellbeing, providing a roadmap for companies to build a positive work culture.By bridging the domains of ergonomics and mental health, organizations can pave the way for transformative change, fostering environments where individuals thrive and flourish. for more information on this episode got to https://www.sallyspencerthomas.com/headspace/2024/4/18/bridging-ergonomics-amp-mental-health-kevin-lombardo-34

7 MAY. 2024 · We’ve all heard of “soul-crushing” work environments, but what exactly does that mean? And how do we ensure we change the narrative to create a working atmosphere that is soul-safe? In this episode of "Headspace for the Workplace," I had the pleasure of connecting with David Galvan about the importance of creating soul-safe workplaces.Our conversation revolved around the transformative power of acknowledging and nurturing the soul within professional settings. Together, we discussed the importance of having one's soul seen at work and understanding the six S's contributing to soul-crushing environments: sickness, shame, stress, systemic issues, shunning, and signals of life changes. As we navigated these crucial topics, it became evident that embracing authenticity, compassion, and resilience is paramount for fostering environments where individuals feel valued and supported. By prioritizing soul-centered approaches, we have the opportunity to create spaces where souls flourish. Listen to this episode for actionable steps for cultivating soul-safe workplaces, and recreating your work environment as a haven for holistic well-being, rooted in soulfulness, empathy, and collective thriving. For more information on this episode got to https://www.sallyspencerthomas.com/headspace/cultivating-soul-safe-workplaces-with-david-galvan-33

9 ABR. 2024 · In this enlightening episode of the Headspace for the Workplace podcast, Dr. Sally Spencer-Thomas leads a thought-provoking discussion with Christopher Wojnar, an impassioned nurse and advocate for workplace mental health and suicide prevention. Christopher shares his remarkable journey of resilience, from overcoming personal struggles with suicide attempts to dedicating his life to supporting others in crisis.Throughout the episode, Christopher emphasizes the crucial importance of understanding the current state of workplace mental health initiatives and leveraging the power of lived experience to drive effective interventions. Drawing from his own journey, he highlights the need for organizations to prioritize psychological safety and empower employees to contribute to meaningful change.Listeners are invited to explore practical strategies for creating psychologically safe workplaces and fostering a culture of support and inclusion. Christopher's heartfelt insights and unwavering dedication encourages listeners to take proactive steps towards building healthier, more resilient workplaces for all.Tune in to this important episode and join the movement for workplace well-being and suicide prevention. for more information on this episode go to  https://www.sallyspencerthomas.com/headspace/psychological-safety-lived-experience-christopher-wojnar-32

23 MAR. 2024 · In this episode of Headspace in the Workplace, I am joined by Christi Pilutik, and we're diving into the often-overlooked HR dilemma in managing mental health issues in the workplace. It's a common misconception that HR professionals are solely responsible for addressing mental health concerns, leading to burnout and frustration. But it doesn't have to be this way. Christi and I at the AGC Summer Convention. Christi joins us as a seasoned expert in working with construction leaders to enhance the employee experience. Christi sheds light on the challenges HR faces and offers invaluable insights on how to support others without losing sight of oneself.In this engaging conversation, we explore the importance of setting boundaries and we delve into the vital need for self-care, emphasizing that without prioritizing our own well-being, we cannot effectively support others.Christi shares practical tips on incorporating self-care into our daily routines, highlighting the significance of small, incremental steps in replenishing our mental and emotional reserves.As we conclude, Christi leaves us with a powerful quote from Brené Brown, reminding us that self-awareness and self-compassion are essential for cultivating compassion towards others. for more information on this episode go to  https://www.sallyspencerthomas.com/headspace/hr-dilemma-setting-boundaries-christi-pilutik-episode-31

17 FEB. 2024 · Join us as we explore the intersection of masculinity, mental health, and professional success in traditionally male-dominated industries. In this podcast, we delve into how leveraging strengths inherent in masculinity—such as collaboration, prioritizing safety, reciprocity, perseverance, problem-solving, courage, and honor—can contribute to creating healthier work environments and driving individual and organizational growth. From sharing stories of triumph to discussing practical strategies for promoting mental well-being, this episode I interview Simon Tyler from Australia. He offers insights and inspiration for navigating challenges, fostering resilience, and unlocking the full potential of men’s mental well-being at work. His two key takeaways: - Management engagement through leveraging workplace strengths - Mitigate psychosocial hazards related to job design For more information on this episode go to https://www.sallyspencerthomas.com/headspace/30

9 FEB. 2024 · At the surface level, generational differences in mental health at work are apparent as each generation brings its unique set of values, experiences, and expectations to the workplace. Baby boomers, for instance, often prioritize job stability and traditional career paths, which can lead to stress when facing rapid changes or uncertainty. Gen X employees may struggle with balancing work and family responsibilities, resulting in heightened stress levels. Millennials and Gen Z, on the other hand, tend to prioritize work-life balance, flexibility, and meaningful work, but they may experience anxiety related to the pressure to constantly perform, the job instability, or the fear of missing out. Understanding these generational dynamics is crucial for employers to create inclusive and supportive environments that address the diverse mental health needs of their workforce, fostering productivity, satisfaction, and overall well-being. In this conversation, I speak with Melissa Doman who brings a fresh take on how organizations might bridge these gaps. Her two takeaways: - Move toward each other. - Explore differences to find agreement. For more information on this episode go to https://www.sallyspencerthomas.com/headspace/29

6 FEB. 2024 · A growing focus in the media, policy circles, and research is emerging on the correlation between work and suicide. Specifically, a growing body of robust evidence links various psychosocial working conditions and job stressors to suicide. Diverse perspectives exist on the current state of evidence concerning causality and intervention, as well as the most suitable policy and practice responses. In this podcast episode, I interview two global experts who share their views from an occupational health & safety (OH&S) standpoint concerning work-related suicide, with a primary emphasis on the potential for working conditions to serve as modifiable risk factors or protective elements in the context of suicide among the working population. We define work-related suicide as a suicide death that is entirely or partially connected to work or working conditions. We also consider the working conditions of the individuals who died by suicide.We discuss: - How is work-related suicide defined from an OH&S standpoint? - What are the potential work-related contributors to suicide? For more information on this episode go to https://www.sallyspencerthomas.com/headspace/28

18 DIC. 2023 · Sharing vulnerabilities as a leader in the context of culture change and mental health at work can include discussing challenges faced, lessons learned, or personal growth experiences. When you are transparent and authentic about the struggles you've faced as a leader and how you've navigated them, you can create a more relatable and trusting work environment. WHAT DOES LEADERSHIP VULNERABILITY RELATED TO MENTAL HEALTH LOOK LIKE? - Share instances where you've learned valuable lessons from setbacks. This helps normalize the idea that growth often comes from overcoming challenges. - Share your understanding of the difficult human experiences — like grief, trauma, and failure, acknowledging that everyone encounters difficulties at different points in their lives and that you are no exception. - Use mental health resources and share the benefits you have received from them. - Emphasize the importance of continuous learning and personal development. Demonstrate how you, as a leader, actively seek opportunities for growth and learning, including in areas related to mental health awareness. Remember that vulnerability should be shared in a genuine way, appropriate for the context, and respect the boundaries of professionalism. Creating a culture that values vulnerability requires consistent effort, but it can significantly contribute to a healthier and more connected workplace. In this episode, I model vulnerability by sharing my embarrassing anxiety-fueled outtakes as I was fairly star-struck by my guest Newton Cheng. Here we are at the Google sponsored John E. Martin Leadership Symposium Newton is a family man, a world champion powerlifter and the Director of Health + Performance at Google. Learn why Newton doesn’t like the saying “Bring your whole self to work.”Newton shares these two takeaways: - Vulnerability can be built like a muscle. Saying: "I don't know how to be vulnerable" is being vulnerable, and - Start with seeing the human first — treat everyone first as just another human in a certain context. For more information on this episode go to https://www.sallyspencerthomas.com/headspace/27