
Happier At Work®
Happier at Work® is the go-to podcast for client-facing leaders who want to create thriving workplaces where people and businesses succeed. Hosted by career and workplace culture strategist Aoife O’Brien, each episode explores the psychology of work, tackling the biggest challenges and opportunities shaping today’s workplace—from leadership and career growth to workplace culture, imposter syndrome, and employee engagement.
Blending expert insights, psychological research, real-world stories, and actionable strategies, Happier at Work® helps you build a career and workplace where people feel valued, supported, and inspired. Guests include leading psychologists, bestselling authors, and professionals like you who are putting these ideas into practice.
Whether you’re a leader looking to create a high-performing team or an ambitious professional navigating career growth, this podcast gives you the tools to drive real change.
🎧 Subscribe now and join the movement!
Latest episodes

Mar 18, 2024 • 10min
Bonus Episode: The journey to Workplace Happiness
The main points throughout this podcast include:Debunking misconceptions about material possessions bringing long-term fulfilment and emphasising the importance of pursuing eudaimonic happiness, which is more sustainable than fleeting pleasure.The importance of cultivating optimism and spending energy on finding solutions. Invaluable advice on cultivating eudaimonic happiness at work, including setting boundaries, leveraging strengths, and finding purpose in what we do.The profound impact that happiness and fulfilment can have on our work lives.As a special gift to our listeners, Rob is offering a free ebook with happiness strategies. If you're in the US, simply text "happy" to 33777 to receive your copy. International listeners can visit Rob's website through the link below and fill out the contact form, mentioning "happier at work" in the comment field to receive the ebook. Connect with RobInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/robdubinspeaks/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robdubin/ Email: rob@robdubin.comWebsite: https://www.robdubin.comDo you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/happieratwork.ieYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQTwitter: https://twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ Previous Episodes:https://happieratwork.ie/195-workplace-culture-dynamics-creating-a-positive-work-environment-with-caroline-collins/ https://happieratwork.ie/191-the-pursuit-of-purpose-shifting-perspectives-with-will-polston/https://happieratwork.ie/184-a-framework-for-building-happier-work-cultures-with-aoife-obrien/Mentioned in this episode:Imposter IdentityImposter Identity

Mar 15, 2024 • 53min
197: The journey to Workplace Happiness with Rob Dubin
Do you want to help create a happier workplace?In the latest episode of the Happier at Work podcast, I sat down with the inspiring Rob Dubin, a renowned motivational speaker and advocate for employee happiness. Rob brings a wealth of wisdom and insights on the power of gratitude, happiness boosters, and meditation in fostering a fulfilling work life. Rob sheds light on the feel-good chemicals like serotonin, oxytocin, and dopamine that are released when we engage in gratitude and happiness-boosting practices. Over time, these practices become associated with feeling good, making them easier to maintain as habits.Rob's optimistic mindset played a crucial role in his survival during a harrowing snowstorm, highlighting the importance of cultivating optimism and spending energy on finding solutions. He shares invaluable advice on cultivating eudaimonic happiness at work, including setting boundaries, leveraging strengths, and finding purpose in what we do.Rob's insights are a powerful reminder of the profound impact that happiness and fulfilment can have on our work lives. By adopting strategies for happiness and finding purpose in our daily work, we can create a more engaged and productive workforce.The main points throughout this podcast include:Debunking misconceptions about material possessions bringing long-term fulfilment and emphasising the importance of pursuing eudaimonic happiness, which is more sustainable than fleeting pleasure.The importance of cultivating optimism and spending energy on finding solutions. Invaluable advice on cultivating eudaimonic happiness at work, including setting boundaries, leveraging strengths, and finding purpose in what we do.The profound impact that happiness and fulfilment can have on our work lives.As a special gift to our listeners, Rob is offering a free ebook with happiness strategies. If you're in the US, simply text "happy" to 33777 to receive your copy. International listeners can visit Rob's website through the link below and fill out the contact form, mentioning "happier at work" in the comment field to receive the ebook. Connect with RobInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/robdubinspeaks/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robdubin/ Email: rob@robdubin.comWebsite: https://www.robdubin.comDo you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/happieratwork.ieYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQTwitter: https://twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ Previous Episodes:https://happieratwork.ie/195-workplace-culture-dynamics-creating-a-positive-work-environment-with-caroline-collins/https://happieratwork.ie/191-the-pursuit-of-purpose-shifting-perspectives-with-will-polston/https://happieratwork.ie/184-a-framework-for-building-happier-work-cultures-with-aoife-obrien/

Mar 8, 2024 • 19min
196: International Women’s Day Special with Aoife O’Brien
Calling all women in the workplace!In celebration of International Women's Day 2024, this episode of the Happier at Work podcast dives into the theme "Invest in Women, Accelerate Progress." I discuss five key areas where women often struggle in their careers and offer insightful solutions for each one.Recognising these challenges is essential so we can take actionable steps to overcome them. I share my own personal anecdotes and experiences from my leadership program participants to provide relatable examples and practical advice for overcoming these challenges.The main points throughout this podcast include:The five main areas where women experience challenges in the workplace and how to overcome them.Implement boundaries and non-negotiables to avoid people-pleasing and protect your time and well-being.Recognise the value of your accomplishments and those of your team. Communicate your successes in alignment with your values.Focus on tasks that align with your personal and professional objectives, and contribute to the overall goals of your organisation. Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/happieratwork.ieYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQTwitter: https://twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ

Mar 4, 2024 • 9min
Bonus Episode: Culture Dynamics
The main points throughout this podcast include:The intricate dynamics of workplace culture, fit and feedback.The transformative power of effective feedback.The impact of organisational decisions on individuals. Practical insights into navigating workplace dynamics and fostering a positive, inclusive culture. Connect with CarolineInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/coffeeandswim/LinkedIn: http://ie.linkedin.com/in/cazcollinsTwitter: https://x.com/CoffeeAndSwim?t=k0N95-BpuzNo7zFN8gs_dA&s=03.Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/happieratwork.ieYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQTwitter: https://twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ Mentioned in this episode:Imposter IdentityImposter Identity

Mar 1, 2024 • 48min
195: Workplace Culture Dynamics: Creating a Positive Work Environment with Caroline Collins
Do you want to understand the importance of effective feedback?In the latest episode of Happier at Work, I had the pleasure to be joined by Caroline Collins, an experienced HR professional and psychology expert, to delve into the intricate dynamics of workplace culture, fit and feedback. This insightful conversation sheds light on the challenges and opportunities presented by cultural change, the significance of evaluating workplace fit, and the transformative power of effective feedback.Caroline highlights the importance of thoroughly evaluating whether a workplace is the right fit, emphasising that every part of the recruitment process provides valuable data. We explore the impact of organisational decisions on individuals, differential expectations between employees, and the need for leader training in culture, inclusivity, and empathy.This episode highlights the significance of delivering feedback in a direct, kind manner, and underscores the difference between feedback and gossip.Today’s episode will provide you with practical insights into navigating workplace dynamics and fostering a positive, inclusive culture.The main points throughout this podcast include:The intricate dynamics of workplace culture, fit and feedback.The transformative power of effective feedback.The impact of organisational decisions on individuals. Practical insights into navigating workplace dynamics and fostering a positive, inclusive culture. Connect with CarolineInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/coffeeandswim/LinkedIn: http://ie.linkedin.com/in/cazcollinsTwitter: https://x.com/CoffeeAndSwim?t=k0N95-BpuzNo7zFN8gs_dA&s=03.Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/happieratwork.ieYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQTwitter: https://twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ

Feb 26, 2024 • 10min
Bonus Episode - The Power of Curiosity: Unleashing Team Potential at Work
The main points throughout this podcast include:The impact of going beyond surface-level interactions and tapping into people's passions and interests.The extraordinary potential that lies within each individual when given the chance to contribute authentically.Emphasis on aligning company values with employee values.The powerful impact of a purpose-driven, inclusive workplace culture.The significance of living with curiosity and wonder. Connect with DarrinInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ignitehappy/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrintulley/ and https://www.linkedin.com/company/ignite-happy/Twitter: https://twitter.com/IgniteHappyFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ignitehappy/Youtube: https://youtube.com/@ignitehappy426?si=LbrUKLHw-Y8CgUggWebsite: www.ignitehappy.comDo you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/happieratwork.ieYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQTwitter: https://twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ Mentioned in this episode:Imposter IdentityImposter Identity

Feb 23, 2024 • 46min
194: The Power of Curiosity: Unleashing Team Potential at Work with Darrin Tulley
Do you want to unlock your team’s full potential?In the latest episode of the Happier at Work podcast I had an insightful conversation with Darrin Tulley, a fractional CPO and passionate advocate for embracing curiosity, diversity, and the power of unlocking individual potential in the workplace.Darrin shares his transformative journey, highlighting the profound impact of going beyond surface-level interactions and tapping into people's passions and interests. By fostering an environment where diversity of thought and inclusiveness thrive, Darrin observed remarkable breakthroughs in innovation and teamwork, a testament to the extraordinary potential that lies within each individual when given the chance to contribute authentically.Darrin's emphasis on aligning company values with employee values and recognizing the changing societal values prompts a timely reflection on the importance of embracing diversity and aligning with shared purpose in shaping exceptional outcomes at work. His commitment to helping others unlock their potential, find joy, and make a difference illustrates the powerful impact of a purpose-driven, inclusive workplace culture.With an unwavering belief in the joy of helping others and the significance of living with curiosity and wonder, Darrin's approach to leadership and fostering psychological safety resonates deeply in today's ever-evolving workplace landscape.If you're seeking inspiration to create a more inclusive, innovative, and purpose-driven workplace culture, this episode is not to be missed. The main points throughout this podcast include:The impact of going beyond surface-level interactions and tapping into people's passions and interests.The extraordinary potential that lies within each individual when given the chance to contribute authentically.Emphasis on aligning company values with employee values.The powerful impact of a purpose-driven, inclusive workplace culture.The significance of living with curiosity and wonder. Connect with DarrinInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ignitehappy/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrintulley/ and https://www.linkedin.com/company/ignite-happy/Twitter: https://twitter.com/IgniteHappyFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ignitehappy/YouTube: https://youtube.com/@ignitehappy426?si=LbrUKLHw-Y8CgUggWebsite: www.ignitehappy.comDo you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/happieratwork.ieYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQTwitter: https://twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ

Feb 19, 2024 • 9min
Bonus Episode: Nurturing Workplace Culture and Human-Centred Leadership
The main points throughout this podcast include:The impact of leadership on creating deeply human organisations.The "5 C's" model for deeply human leadership: clarity of purpose, connection, consciousness, creativity, and care.The challenges of creating deeply human organisations How leaders can prioritise meaningful work, foster connection, and provide a sense of belonging and growth for employees. Connect with KateInstagram: www.instagram.com/neon_livingLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/katerjones Website: www.deeplyneon.comDo you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/happieratwork.ieYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQTwitter: https://twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ Mentioned in this episode:Imposter IdentityImposter Identity

Feb 16, 2024 • 49min
193: Nurturing Workplace Culture: Lessons in Human-Centred Leadership with Kate Jones
How can you create a happier and human-centred work environment?In the latest episode of The Happier at Work podcast, I sat down with the incredible Kate Jones to explore the importance of understanding well-being and the impact of leadership on creating deeply human organisations. Kate shared her wealth of knowledge from her experience in the probation service and as a leadership and life coach, emphasising the significance of building relationships and establishing a healthy workplace culture.The thought-provoking conversation touched on various aspects, including the need to redefine success beyond traditional measures and the importance of creating conditions for change by understanding individual and environmental factors. Kate also introduced the "5 C's" model for deeply human leadership: clarity of purpose, connection, consciousness, creativity, and care.We delved into the impact of leadership on organisational functions and the necessity of interconnecting relationships for effective leadership. Kate's insights shed light on the challenges of creating deeply human organisations and how leaders can prioritise meaningful work, foster connection, and provide a sense of belonging and growth for employees.This episode offers valuable wisdom on finding fulfilment and making a meaningful difference in professional careers. The main points throughout this podcast include:The impact of leadership on creating deeply human organisations.The "5 C's" model for deeply human leadership: clarity of purpose, connection, consciousness, creativity, and care.The challenges of creating deeply human organisations How leaders can prioritise meaningful work, foster connection, and provide a sense of belonging and growth for employees. Connect with KateInstagram: www.instagram.com/neon_livingLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/katerjones Website: www.deeplyneon.comDo you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/happieratwork.ieYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQTwitter: https://twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ

Feb 9, 2024 • 11min
192: The Power of AI in Behind-the-Scenes Workflows with Aoife O’Brien
How has AI transformed Podcast Production?In the latest podcast episode of the Happier at Work podcast, host Aoife O'Brien dives into how AI is enhancing our podcast experience. Aoife delves into the behind-the-scenes processes and the impact of AI on the creation and production of our thought-provoking episodes.In this episode, Aoife shares how AI has revolutionised her role in podcast production, from generating engaging episode titles and show notes to creating captivating social media posts and video snippets. Not only does AI streamline time-consuming tasks, but it also enables Aoife to focus more on the heart of the podcast - delivering deep and meaningful conversations that truly impact your work and life.If you've ever wondered about the role of AI in podcast production or are simply curious about the inner workings of Happier at Work, this episode offers insightful perspectives and a glimpse into the future of podcasting.The AI tools I use for podcasting:Castmagic - https://get.castmagic.io/wmjpyyttpwcb Opus for video clips - https://www.opus.pro/?via=397a91Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!Connect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/happieratwork.ieYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQTwitter: https://twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ