

Fast Company Daily
Fast Company
Stories, tips, and advice on how employees, managers, and businesses are working smarter, all from Fast Company and all in less than five minutes each weekday.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 25, 2025 • 4min
Work friends may motivate people to return to the office
80% of employees report feeling more engaged at work when they have office friends. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jul 24, 2025 • 6min
We need to rethink the taboo against working multiple jobs
The podcast tackles the outdated stigma of holding multiple jobs, featuring a software engineer who successfully juggles several roles. It challenges traditional views on employment and highlights the rise of fractional executives in startups. As the job landscape evolves with AI and automation, it calls for flexible work arrangements that benefit both employees and companies.

Jul 23, 2025 • 5min
77% of employees have worked through a mental health crisis
Workers today are grappling with overwhelming financial anxiety, particularly among younger generations. A staggering 79% express that economic uncertainty is heightening their mental health struggles. The discussion emphasizes the importance of addressing these issues in workplaces, which often prioritize productivity over employee well-being. There's a pressing need for better mental health support systems to help alleviate the burdens faced by millennials and Gen Z in their professional lives.

4 snips
Jul 22, 2025 • 5min
How to listen to opinions you don’t want to hear
In a world where we often seek validation, the podcast explores the value of embracing opinions that challenge our beliefs. It discusses psychological barriers to accepting diverse perspectives and emphasizes active listening as a tool for inclusion. The art of listening is highlighted, encouraging uninterrupted engagement with opposing views to foster deeper understanding and richer discussions. Ultimately, it shows that sometimes the opinions we least want to hear can offer the greatest insights.

Jul 21, 2025 • 6min
What every manager should know about ADHD
Dive into the world of neurodiversity, where the strengths of individuals with ADHD, like creativity and resilience, are celebrated. Learn how effective communication and a culture of psychological safety can empower employees. Discover the importance of tailored support strategies, such as regular breaks, to help those with ADHD thrive at work. This enlightening discussion encourages leaders to recognize and embrace the unique cognitive fingerprints of their team members.

Jul 18, 2025 • 6min
How to banish toxic positivity at work
Explore the hidden dangers of toxic positivity in the workplace and its effect on employee wellbeing. Discover how it can undermine productivity and create a superficial culture. Learn five effective strategies to foster genuine emotional expression and open communication among colleagues, enhancing overall workplace morale. It's time to embrace authenticity for a healthier work environment!

Jul 17, 2025 • 8min
Is poor communication stunting your company’s growth?
In today’s hybrid work environment, effective communication is a game-changer for business growth. The discussion reveals how communication silos can hinder progress and emphasizes the need for cohesive strategies. Five key tactics are shared to enhance organizational communication, culture, and team performance. By addressing communication gaps, companies can foster a more engaged workforce and prevent miscommunication, ultimately leading to greater success.

Jul 16, 2025 • 8min
Managers think employees should take a break from work—but they don’t promote the ones who do
Navigating work-life balance has become increasingly challenging, as many employees feel pressured to stay committed even while needing breaks. The detachment paradox reveals conflicting views on taking time off and its impact on career advancement. Insights from a CEO shed light on the importance of mental health and the necessity of cultural shifts in organizations. Listeners will discover why supporting employee well-being can lead to a more productive work environment.

Jul 15, 2025 • 9min
How to battle work intensification
Explore the rising challenge of work intensification that many employees face today. A CEO shares valuable insights on managing overwhelming workloads and emotional stress. Discover effective strategies to improve productivity and workplace dynamics. Highlights include the significance of communication and priority-setting to combat burnout. Practical advice aims to foster a healthier work environment for everyone.

Jul 14, 2025 • 8min
The real workplace threat isn’t AI. It’s leadership disconnect
The discussion reveals that the real threat to workplaces isn't AI, but rather a disconnect between leaders and employees. Effective leadership is crucial for navigating today's challenges, especially as technology evolves. There's a vital need for leaders to prioritize human connections and employee engagement over hastily adopting AI solutions. The podcast highlights the negative impact of this disconnect on business performance and underscores the importance of trust in fostering a productive work environment.