Well Workplaces

This conversation delves into the challenges and insights surrounding shift work, highlighting the importance of employee wellbeing, the role of technology in workforce management and the emerging trend of poly employment. Emma Seymour, the CFO of Deputy, shares valuable insights from the Shift Pulse Report, emphasising the need for clarity, control and support for shift workers. The discussion also touches on the future of work, the impact of AI and the specific challenges faced by industries like healthcare.Key TakeawaysShift work is a critical aspect of the global workforce.The Shift Pulse Report reveals significant stress among shift workers.Lack of control over schedules is a major source of stress.Poly employment is becoming increasingly common among workers.Healthcare workers face unique challenges and high burnout rates.The future of work will likely involve more flexibility and technology integration.ResourcesDeputy: https://www.deputy.com/auShift Pulse Report: https://www.deputy.com/au/insights/shift-pulse-report-2025Connect with Emma Seymour on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emma-seymour-375131116/

In this conversation, Tom Bosna and Dr Paula Conroy discuss the significance of preventative health, particularly in the context of general practice and workplace health. Paula shares her journey to becoming a GP and emphasises the importance of preventive health checks in reducing chronic diseases. They explore the role of leadership in promoting health within organisations and the need for a culture of prevention. The discussion also touches on emerging trends in health technology and the future of screening practices.TakeawaysWorkplaces have a duty to address psychosocial hazards.Embedding a culture of prevention is essential for organisations.Leaders play a vital role in promoting health and wellbeing.Emerging technologies are changing the landscape of health screening.Prevention is the most cost-effective way to maintain employee health.ResourcesInsight Health Advisory: https://insighthealthadvisory.com.au/Connect with Dr Paula Conroy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-paula-conroy/

In this episode of Well Workplaces, host Tom Bosna speaks with Dr. Michelle McQuaid about her 2025 Workplace Report from the Change Lab, which highlights the phenomenon of 'quiet cracking' - a hidden crisis where workers seem to cope, but are silently struggling with financial and emotional strain. The discussion covers the prevalence of quiet cracking, especially among young workers, its causes, and its impact as a precursor to burnout. Dr. McQuaid introduces the concept of workplace civility as a buffer against stress and discusses the role of technology and AI in workplaces. She also presents the HEART Framework as a practical solution for leaders to manage change and improve workplace wellbeing. The conversation emphasises the need for emotionally and socially attuned communication to foster trust and better performance in organisations.Resources:https://www.michellemcquaid.com/co-creating-change/https://www.michellemcquaid.com/Previous Well Workplaces EpisodeEp.134 - Good Girl Conditioning in the Workplace with Dr Michelle McQuaid

In this episode of the Well Workplaces Podcast, Tom Bosna speaks with David Koczkar, CEO of Medibank, about mental fitness, leadership and Medibank's commitment to mental health. David shares his journey and thoughts on the distinction between mental health and mental fitness, as well as personal strategies to manage stress and maintain resilience. He also discusses the importance of creating an open and supportive work environment and how Medibank is fostering a culture of wellbeing for its employees. Additionally, David highlights Medibank's initiatives, such as Family Roast, aimed at supporting mental health in the community.Resources:Family Roast: A tasty conversation | Medibank Family Roast for workplaces game.https://www.medibank.com.au/Well Workplaces PodcastConnect with David Koczkar: https://au.linkedin.com/in/davidkoczkar

In this episode, Melissa Reader, the founder and CEO of Violet, discusses reimagining support for families navigating the final stages of life. Melissa shares her personal journey, which inspired her to create Violet, a platform that aids over 30,000 families through this challenging phase. They cover important topics such as the 'sandwich generation', the often-overlooked burden on caregivers and the importance of planning and honest conversations about end-of-life care. Melissa also introduces the Care Compass, a practical tool designed to help caregivers navigate care preferences and decisions. The episode dives deep into societal challenges, workplace support for carers, and Melissa's vision for transformative, humane approaches to end-of-life care.~Resources:Violet: https://www.violet.org.au/Violet's Care Compass: https://violetcares.com/The CARE Index 2025: Australia's Care Readiness Report: https://www.violet.org.au/Agehood Podcast: https://www.agehoodpodcast.com/Connect with Melissa Reader: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-reader/

In this conversation, Tom Bosna and Florence Potter explore the dynamics of generational interactions in the workplace, focusing on the unique challenges and opportunities presented by the presence of multiple generations, particularly Gen Z and Millennials. They discuss stereotypes, communication styles and the importance of understanding life stages rather than just age. The conversation emphasises the need for supportive environments, effective communication, and actionable strategies for leaders to bridge generational gaps and foster collaboration.TakeawaysGenerational dynamics are crucial in understanding workplace interactions.Stereotypes about Gen Z being lazy are misleading; they prioritise efficiency.Life stages often matter more than generational labels in workplace dynamics.Millennials and Gen Z experience friction due to differing expectations.Communication styles vary widely and should be personalised.Flexibility in the workplace means different things to different generations.Job hopping rates among Gen Z are lower than previous generations.Understanding professionalism requires a discussion of definitions across generations.Mental health concerns are prevalent among younger workers.Creating supportive environments encourages open communication and collaboration.ResourcesNo Umbrellas: https://www.noumbrellas.com.au/Connect with Florence Potter on LinkedIn

In this episode of the Well Workplaces Podcast, host Tom Bosna reflects on the major themes from Season 10. The discussion revisits key insights from various experts on topics including women's health, workplace design, financial wellbeing, chronic pain, and mindfulness in an AI-driven world. Key lessons emphasise creating supportive environments for women's health, purposeful workplace design, addressing financial and alcohol-related wellbeing, balancing technology and human connection in healthcare, and the importance of mindfulness for future work scenarios. ResourcesListen to Season 10 here: https://www.medibank.com.au/better-health/workplace-health-business/well-workplaces/

In this conversation, Tom Bosna sits down with Cherie Mylordis, a work futurist, to explore the shifting dynamics of the modern workplace. Together, they unpack the expectations of Gen Z, the transformative idea of 'conscious unbossing' and the urgent need for organisations to evolve.Cherie shares her decades of experience helping leaders and teams navigate change, emphasising the importance of purpose, autonomy, and meaningful rituals in creating thriving work cultures. From hybrid work challenges to bold leadership strategies, this episode is a must-listen for anyone shaping the future of work.Key Takeaways:Conscious unbossing challenges traditional management hierarchies.A staggering 4 out of 5 employees are disengaged at work.Purpose and meaning are essential for job satisfaction.Organisations need bold, transformative purpose statements.Rituals - like welcoming and farewelling employees - enhance engagement.The future of work will focus on outcomes over hours.ReferencesNext Genify: https://nextgenify.com/Connect with Cherie Mylordis: https://au.linkedin.com/in/cherie-mylordis

In this conversation, Tom Bosna and Dr Natalie Flatt explore the evolving dynamics between Gen Z and Millennials in the workplace, particularly focusing on mental health and wellbeing. They discuss the unique challenges faced by these generations, including rising mental health claims and the need for psychological safety. The conversation emphasises the importance of leadership in creating supportive work environments and the necessity for organisations to adapt to the changing expectations of younger employees. Through various insights and statistics, they highlight the proactive approach of Gen Z towards mental health and the need for a collaborative, inclusive workplace culture.TakeawaysGen Z is more proactive about mental health than previous generations.Millennials and Gen Z prioritise psychological safety in the workplace.There is a significant rise in mental health claims among younger workers.Workplace design must align with the needs of younger generations.Leadership plays a crucial role in fostering a supportive environment.Clear expectations and autonomy are essential for employee satisfaction.Flexibility in work arrangements must be clearly defined.Understanding generational differences is vital for effective management.ResourcesThe NEW Indicators of a Thriving Workplace report is here!https://www.superfriend.com.au/research/workplace-mental-health-statisticshttps://www.superfriend.com.au/Connect with Dr Natalie Flatt

In this episode of the Well Workplaces Podcast, Tom Bosna speaks with Dr. Andrew Wilson, the Chief Medical Officer at Medibank, who has over 30 years of experience in healthcare. The discussion focuses on ADHD and its implications for working adults. Dr. Andrew Wilson explains the common signs of ADHD in the workplace, the benefits of proper diagnosis and the importance of a holistic approach to treatment. They also discuss the potential of ADHD as a 'superpower' and emphasise creating an inclusive work environment to leverage the strengths of neurodiverse individuals. Practical advice for leaders and individuals with ADHD is also provided.Connect with Dr Andrew Wilsonhttps://au.linkedin.com/in/andrew-wilson-37b579a1 References:Background – About ADHD - Australian ADHD Clinical Practice GuidelineFaraone SV et al. The World Federation of ADHD International Consensus Statement: 208 Evidence-based conclusions about the disorder. Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews. 2021;128: 89-818.Background – About ADHD - Australian ADHD Clinical Practice GuidelineADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder with onset typically before 12 years of age. The symptoms include difficulties with attention and/or hyperactivity and impulsivity DisclaimerWhile the information recorded in this episode has been prepared with care and purposefully, it is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The information provided is general in nature, but if you are struggling with symptoms that may be related to a mental health condition, please see a health care professional, or call Lifeline on 13 11 14.