The ScienceForWork Podcast

What actually makes leadership effective? In this episode, we explore why context, fit, and behavioral feedback matter more than checklists or credentials.In this episode, we're joined by Kevin Impelman, Principal Consultant at Summit Leadership Partners, to unpack the practical side of leadership—how to select, support, and develop leaders in ways that actually align with what the organization needs. From private equity to executive coaching, Kevin shares actionable insights from over 20 years in the field.Whether you’re in HR, consulting, or senior leadership, this episode challenges one-size-fits-all models and emphasizes the power of feedback, context, and tailored development.Resources:Connect with Kevin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinimpelman/Connect with Summit Leadership Partners: https://www.summitleadership.com/ScienceForWork is an independent, non-profit foundation of evidence-based practitioners who want to #MakeWorkBetter.ScienceForWork.com

What does evidence-based look like, once you’re inside the organization?In this episode of the ScienceForWork podcast, we're joined by Michael Vodianoi. Michael shares what he’s learned after transitioning from consulting and assessment development to an internal leadership role in a large organization.We talk about how evidence-based practice shows up in real decisions—not just slide decks—and what it takes to balance rigor with relevance. From learning through lived experience to reframing what “expertise” actually means, this episode is a candid look at how applied behavioral science can support people, not just process.Whether you’re internal, external, or somewhere in between, this episode helps reframe what it means to be science-informed in the real world.Resources:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mvodianoi/ScienceForWork is an independent, non-profit foundation of evidence-based practitioners who want to #MakeWorkBetter.ScienceForWork.com

In this episode of the ScienceForWork Podcast, our host, Dr. Matt Lampe, is joined by Dr. Teira Wilson. Dr. T shares her journey into the field of digital accessibility, emphasizing its importance in creating inclusive environments. She discusses the difference between compliance and genuine inclusion, the need for a shift in mindset towards accessibility, and the various tools and resources available for organizations. Dr. T also highlights her book on document accessibility and the role of AI in supporting accessibility efforts. The conversation underscores the critical need for awareness and proactive measures in making digital spaces accessible to all.Resources:Dr Teira's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/teira-wilson/Dr Teira's Book: https://www.amazon.com/Hidden-Plain-Sight-Document-Accessibility/dp/B0F7X8Z38FScienceForWork is an independent, non-profit foundation of evidence-based practitioners who want to #MakeWorkBetter. ​https://ScienceForWork.com

What if the key to stronger allyship is simply starting with partnership?In this episode of the ScienceForWork Podcast, our host, Dr. Matt Lampe, is joined by organizational psychologist Dr. Victoria Mattingly, who shares why allyship isn’t a title—it’s a behavior. We explore how genuine inclusion occurs through partnership, not saviorism, and why allyship must be fluid, intentional, and collaborative.You’ll hear:Why most allyship efforts overlook the partner side of the equationHow behavior, not identity, defines inclusionThe 3 traits of great allies (and great partners)What organizations can do to make allyship stickDr. Mattingly also shares insights from her upcoming book, which flips the script on how we support one another across differences—and why that reframe matters now more than ever. ResourcesLearn more: mattinglysolutions.comPreorder the book: mattinglysolutions.com/allyshipConnect with Dr. V on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/vpmattinglyScienceForWork is an independent, non-profit foundation of evidence-based practitioners who want to #MakeWorkBetter. ​https://ScienceForWork.com

What does “belonging” actually look like in a workplace, and why do so many DEI efforts miss the mark?In this episode, our host, Dr. Matt Lampe, is joined by Jaclyn Durant, a psychology student and ScienceForWork intern, to unpack the research behind diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. They explore the difference between meaningful and performative DEI, the science behind tokenism, and why a lack of follow-through creates distrust and burnout.Tune in for a candid and insightful conversation rooted in evidence, lived experience, and practical recommendations.Resources referenced:Camargo (2023), Developing Strategies to Improve the Sense of Belonging and Mitigate TokenismWang et al. (2024), Aligning Employee Health and diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives in the workplace: A call for synchronizationBui et al. (2019), The Resilient Organization: A Meta-Analysis of the effect of communication on team diversity and team performanceKey topics include:What tokenism looks like in practiceHow performative DEI undermines trust and mental healthWhy DEI workshops, affinity groups, and leadership accountability matterActionable strategies for creating belongingScienceForWork is an independent, non-profit foundation of evidence-based practitioners who want to #MakeWorkBetter.​https://ScienceForWork.com

What are the hidden rules shaping your workplace?In this episode, our host, Dr. Matt Lampe, is joined by Dr. Anna Kallschmidt. They unpack the unwritten rules of work — the cultural, class-based, and neurodivergence-informed dynamics that quietly shape expectations, performance, and inclusion. They explore how these invisible norms show up, why they matter, and what organizations can do to design clarity and fairness into their systems.Resources:Connect with Dr. Anna on LinkedIn: ​https://www.linkedin.com/in/anna-kallschmidt/Follow Dr. Anna on YouTube, TikTok, and her mailing list: ​https://www.youtube.com/@DrKallschmidt​tiktok: @drkallschmidt ​https://drkallschmidt.comLearn more about her upcoming book on workplace unwritten rules: ​https://drkallschmidt.com/my-book/ScienceForWork is an independent, non-profit foundation of evidence-based practitioners who want to #MakeWorkBetter.​https://ScienceForWork.com

In this episode of the ScienceForWork podcast, our host, Matt Lampe, talks with Luka Babić—VP of Product at Culture Amp and former co-founder of Orgnostic. We explore what it really takes to make people analytics usable and impactful.We discuss how analytics, in people-focused domains, requires structure, rhythm, and contextual awareness. Luka unpacks why adoption is still such a challenge, and how aligning insights with recurring organizational events and designing intentional practices between HR and managers can help bridge the gap between insight and sustained action.Whether you’re a researcher, practitioner, or builder, this conversation offers grounded takeaways about designing analytics that support behavior change where it matters most—at work.In this episode:Why people analytics needs more than dashboardsThe role of event-driven design in driving adoptionWhat engagement analytics got right—and how to apply it elsewhereScienceForWork is an independent, non-profit foundation of evidence-based practitioners who want to #MakeWorkBetter.https://ScienceForWork.com

Can emotional intelligence change the culture of high-stakes workplaces?In this episode, Dr. Tim Sharples shares why he believes emotional intelligence isn’t just a solution—it’s the solution. A 32-year law enforcement veteran turned I/O psychologist, Tim reveals how emotional intelligence shapes everything from leadership to team cohesion, especially in demanding environments. We cover the science behind emotional intelligence, the real-world impact of programs like Project EQ, and the personal stories that sparked Tim’s journey into the field.Resources Mentioned:The Science of Change by Richard BoyatzisEmotional Intelligence by Daniel GolemanOriginals by Adam GrantThe Infinite Game by Simon SinekProject EQ (West Virginia)The Eikon Group – https://www.theeikongroup.ioLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-sharples/ScienceForWork is an independent, non-profit foundationof evidence-based practitioners who want to #MakeWorkBetter. https://ScienceForWork.com

Organizations today face increasing complexity, internal and external pressures, and constant uncertainty—so how should they rethink planning and decision-making?In this episode, our host Dr. Matt Lampe, is joined by Dr. Brent Oberholtzer and Ms. Heidi Feickert from Org-ology. Together they explore how organizations can move from reactive to proactive decision-making, adapt to a rapidly changing world, and apply a Three Levers framework to build resilient, future-ready organizations.Links & Resources:Connect with Org-ologyhttps://www.org-ology.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/org-ology/Connect with ScienceForWorkhttps://scienceforwork.com/https://www.linkedin.com/company/scienceforwork/Subscribe for more insights on how to #MakeWorkBetter!

Dr. Mike Morrison, a designer with a PhD in organizational psychology, advocates for user-friendly science communication. He shares how his innovative idea, Better Posters, sparked a movement to enhance research accessibility. Topics include emotional connections in sharing knowledge, overcoming communication challenges faced by scientists, and the power of collaboration in driving change. Mike emphasizes the importance of simplifying complex visuals and creating supportive networks to revolutionize how science is communicated and understood.