
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

Feb 5, 2024 • 10min
Bonus Episode: The Pursuit of Purpose and Shifting Perspectives
Listen to the full episode here: https://happieratwork.ie/happier-at-work-podcast/191-the-pursuit-of-purpose-shifting-perspective-with-will-polston/If you want to bring new energy and purpose into your work life, this episode is for you.The main points throughout this podcast include:Shifting language from "I have to" to "I choose to" to regain inner power and change your perspective.Discovering your North Star, a goal so big that it's never truly achieved, to stay focused on the journey and detach from the outcome.Understanding the concept of end values and means values to live in accordance with your own values and find inspiration from within.Embracing the journey and focusing on the process as essential for achieving substantial goals. Connect with WillInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/willpolston/Facebook Profile: https://www.facebook.com/will.polstonFacebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/willpolstonmih/Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/makeithappencommunity/Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/c/WillPolstonMakeItHappenTEDx talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fEHlSiFxmBI&tWebsite: willpolston.comPodcast: https://link.chtbl.com/mihwwpBook: http://northstarthinking.com/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

Feb 2, 2024 • 47min
191: The Pursuit of Purpose: Shifting Perspectives with Will Polston
If you want to bring new energy and purpose into your work life, this episode is for you.In the latest episode of the Happier at Work podcast I had an insightful conversation with the inspiring Will Polston. He shared invaluable wisdom on reclaiming personal power and transforming your perspective on work and success.We delved into shifting mindsets, discovering values, and creating lasting habits. Will shares his wisdom on finding purpose, taking action, and embracing the journey. Will encourages us to focus on the process, detach from outcomes, and prioritise habits over goals to achieve substantial success.Will’s insights and experiences will resonate with anyone seeking purpose, fulfilment, and happiness in their work life. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a business owner, or someone on a personal development journey, this episode offers valuable guidance to drive positive change.The main points throughout this podcast include:Shifting language from "I have to" to "I choose to" to regain inner power and change your perspective.Discovering your North Star, a goal so big that it's never truly achieved, to stay focused on the journey and detach from the outcome.Understanding the concept of end values and means values to live in accordance with your own values and find inspiration from within.Embracing the journey and focusing on the process as essential for achieving substantial goals. Connect with WillInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/willpolston/Facebook Profile: https://www.facebook.com/will.polstonFacebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/willpolstonmih/Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/makeithappencommunity/Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/c/WillPolstonMakeItHappenTEDx talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fEHlSiFxmBI&tWebsite: willpolston.comPodcast: https://link.chtbl.com/mihwwpBook: http://northstarthinking.com/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

Jan 29, 2024 • 7min
Bonus Episode: Creating Equity in the Post-2020 Workplace
The main points throughout this podcast include:The importance of understanding and addressing the core issues that prevent happiness at work.Recognising the significance of diversity, equity, and inclusion.The need for organisations to promote awareness, learning, and unconscious bias mitigation through workshops, conversations, and safe spaces for open dialogue.Challenges faced by underrepresented groups in the workplace.The impact of toxic work environments on mental health. Connect with MelinaWebsite: www.melinacordero.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melinacordero/Youtube: @P20workplace 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

Jan 26, 2024 • 47min
190: Creating Equity in the Post-2020 Workplace with Melina Cordero
Do you want to know how you can provide a safe, inclusive, and growth-oriented workplace?In the latest episode of the Happier at Work podcast, I was thrilled to be joined by Melina Cordero, a leading voice in workplace culture and operational happiness.Melina emphasised the importance of understanding and addressing the core issues that prevent happiness at work. She discussed how conducting a culture audit and customising surveys can provide valuable insights from employees, leading to impactful changes within organisations. She urged companies to take action on survey results and effectively communicate the steps taken or reasons for not implementing specific changes.Recognising the significance of diversity, equity, and inclusion, Melina stressed the need for organisations to promote awareness, learning, and unconscious bias mitigation through workshops, conversations, and safe spaces for open dialogue. She also highlighted the challenges faced by underrepresented groups in the workplace, emphasizing the importance of equitable workload distribution and fair compensation.We also delved into the impact of toxic work environments on mental health. I shared my own experience and encouraged those facing similar challenges to seek support and take steps towards creating a better reality. Our conversation provided valuable insights for leaders and employees alike.The main points throughout this podcast include:The importance of understanding and addressing the core issues that prevent happiness at work.Recognising the significance of diversity, equity, and inclusion.The need for organisations to promote awareness, learning, and unconscious bias mitigation through workshops, conversations, and safe spaces for open dialogue.Challenges faced by underrepresented groups in the workplace.The impact of toxic work environments on mental health.Connect with MelinaWebsite: www.melinacordero.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melinacordero/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

Jan 22, 2024 • 11min
Bonus Episode: Overcoming Perfectionism and Prioritising Well-Being
In today's bonus episode of the Happier at Work podcast, I provide a synopsis of Friday's episode: Overcoming Perfectionism and Prioritising Well-Being with Jordana Confino.The main points throughout this podcast include:Finding fulfillment and well-being in the workplaceInvaluable guidance for navigating the modern workplace.The importance of aligning personal values with work tasks to foster a sense of identityPervasive impact of overachieving behavior and the toll it takes on well-being and relationships.The need for organisations to prioritise employee well-beingConnect with JordanaWebsite: https://www.jordanaconfino.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordanaconfino/Instagram: @JordanaConfinoSelf-Compassion Guide: https://www.jordanaconfino.com/self-compassion-guide Values Discovery Guide: https://www.jordanaconfino.com/valuesDo 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

Jan 19, 2024 • 52min
189: Overcoming Perfectionism and Prioritising Well-Being with Jordana Confino
Do you want to learn how to overcome perfectionism and enhance your well-being and performance in the workplace?In the latest episode of the Happier at Work podcast, I had an enriching conversation with career coach and founder of JC Coaching and Consulting Jordana Confino about the transformative journey of finding fulfillment and well-being in the workplace. Jordana's insights into overcoming perfectionism and prioritising inner well-being provided invaluable guidance for navigating the modern workplace.Jordana emphasised the importance of aligning personal values with work tasks to foster a sense of identity and intrinsic meaning, and how cultivating self-compassion is a powerful tool for enhancing well-being and performance.We discussed the impact of perfectionism, and Jordana shared her personal struggle which led to burnout and a loss of personal connection. Her story shed light on the pervasive impact of overachieving behavior and the toll it takes on well-being and relationships.Our conversation emphasised the need for organisations to prioritise employee well-being, the impact of perfectionism in demanding industries, and the growing recognition of the need to address well-being in the legal industry.Jordana's inspiring journey serves as a reminder of the importance of self-compassion, values alignment, and addressing perfectionism in the pursuit of happier and more fulfilling work experiences.The main points throughout this podcast include:Finding fulfillment and well-being in the workplaceInvaluable guidance for navigating the modern workplace.The importance of aligning personal values with work tasks to foster a sense of identityPervasive impact of overachieving behavior and the toll it takes on well-being and relationships.The need for organisations to prioritise employee well-beingConnect with JordanaWebsite: https://www.jordanaconfino.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordanaconfino/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/JordanaConfino Self-Compassion Guide: https://www.jordanaconfino.com/self-compassion-guide Values Discovery Guide: https://www.jordanaconfino.com/valuesDo 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

Jan 15, 2024 • 15min
Bonus Episode Networking for Career Success
The main points throughout this podcast include:"It's not who you know, it's who knows you”.Practical examples of how to leverage networking for career advancement.A model of three essential networks to pay attention to: personal, internal work, and external professional.The importance of nurturing relationships in networking, giving and taking, and providing small touchpoints for relationship building.The impact of social media on interpersonal connections and the value of networking for professional growth and career opportunities.Listen to the full episode here: https://happieratwork.ie/188-the-power-of-networking-for-career-success-with-fay-wallis/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

Jan 12, 2024 • 53min
188: The Power of Networking for Career Success with Fay Wallis
How can you nurture your professional relationships and expand your network?In the latest episode of the Happier at Work podcast we were joined by Career and Executive Coach Fay Wallis. Fay shares invaluable insights on the impact of personal connections and the importance of being known within your industry. She emphasises the concept that "it's not who you know, it's who knows you," and provide practical examples of how to leverage networking for career advancement.Fay shares a model of three essential networks to pay attention to: personal, internal work, and external professional. Fay also emphasises the importance of nurturing relationships in networking, giving and taking, and providing small touchpoints for relationship building.We both share our personal experiences with overcoming fears of visibility and public speaking, emphasising the importance of taking small, gradual steps to build confidence in these areas.Furthermore, we discussed the impact of social media on interpersonal connections and the value of networking, particularly on LinkedIn, for professional growth and career opportunities.If you're looking to expand your professional network and bolster your career prospects, this episode is a must-listen.The main points throughout this podcast include:"It's not who you know, it's who knows you”.Practical examples of how to leverage networking for career advancement.A model of three essential networks to pay attention to: personal, internal work, and external professional.The importance of nurturing relationships in networking, giving and taking, and providing small touchpoints for relationship building.The impact of social media on interpersonal connections and the value of networking for professional growth and career opportunities. Connect with FayLinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/faywallis/Website: https://brightskycareercoaching.co.uk/HR Planner page: https://brightskycareercoaching.co.uk/2023-hr-planner/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

Jan 5, 2024 • 19min
187: Get Ready for Happier at Work 2024 with Aoife O'Brien
What’s next for the Happier at Work podcast?As we step into 2024, it's a time for reflection, growth, and positive change. In our latest solo episode, host Aoife shares some upcoming changes to the podcast and invites you to join her on this journey of continuous improvement.Aoife expresses her gratitude for the ongoing feedback from the Happier at Work community and emphasises the importance of continuous development. Your input is vital in shaping the podcast's future, so keep an eye out for opportunities to provide feedback and suggestions.Exciting changes are on the horizon with the introduction of bonus episodes on Mondays. The spotlight will be on implementing key takeaways, promoting accountability, and a more authentic, behind-the-scenes approach. Get ready for more personal experiences, movie references, and deeper insights for a richer listening experience.Aoife shares a glimpse of the upcoming content, revealing deeply personal experiences with performance management and boundaries. She also discusses her focus on productivity and maximising each day, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own habits and goals.Pondering the traditional approach to New Year's resolutions, Aoife shares her insights on shifting the focus towards daily habits. She encourages listeners to consider what's not working, what to stop and start doing, and what to continue as part of an ongoing personal growth strategy.As we embrace the opportunities of 2024, Aoife encourages everyone to reflect on what's working well and what needs to change, and to make small, meaningful adjustments that align with personal growth. We're excited about the upcoming changes and the way they will encourage personal and professional growth. Your feedback is valuable, and we're looking forward to guiding and inspiring each other.Keep an eye on our social media channels and podcast episodes for more updates on the Happier at Work podcast in 2024.Wishing you a fulfilling and productive 2024!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/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/HappierAtWorkHQ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happieratwork.ie/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/happieratwork.ieYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCm0FKS19I5qSlFFmkx1YGqA

Dec 15, 2023 • 57min
186: The Power of Advocacy in the Workplace with Dan Daly
How can you balance advocacy and your own personal development in the workplace?In the latest episode of the Happier at Work podcast, we had the pleasure of speaking with seasoned team leader Dan Daly, who shared invaluable wisdom and practical tips on how to create a positive and empowering workplace environment. In this episode, Dan emphasises the importance of ensuring that tasks are completed before diving into efforts to improve culture and employee experience. By prioritising the delivery of work, leaders create the space necessary for improvement initiatives.First-line leaders have a crucial role in advocating for their team's needs and professional development. By recognising and highlighting team achievements, as well as advocating for their needs, leaders can create a supportive and inclusive work environment.Dan discusses the impact of organisations not hiring enough people, which can lead to increased workload and decreased morale. Proper prioritisation and resource allocation are important strategies in managing workload effectively.Taking personal responsibility for learning and development is crucial for career growth. Dan encourages individuals to find multiple ways to learn and to advocate for more time within organisations to focus on personal development.Dan acknowledges the challenges that first-time managers face, including a lack of upfront training and the broken rung on the career ladder for women. He encourages first-time managers to believe in themselves, take ownership of their learning, and seek out opportunities for growth.The main points throughout this podcast include:Practical tips on how to create a positive and empowering workplace environment.By prioritising the delivery of work, leaders create the space necessary for improvement in initiatives.First-line leaders have a crucial role in advocating for their team’s needs and professional development.The impact of organisations not hiring enough peopleWays to learn and advocate for more time within organisations to focus on personal development.Connect with DanLinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-daly-59ab73170/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