
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

Jun 10, 2024 • 8min
Bonus Episode: Cultivating Self-Awareness
This is a synopsis of the key points of my conversation with Nia Thomas, Director of a children's charity and host of the "Knowing Self, Knowing Others" podcast.If you haven't listened to that episode yet, go and give it a listen and let me know what you think.The main points throughout this podcast include:The importance of self-awareness and making conscious choices about behavior, especially in the workplace.The challenges of giving and receiving feedback, and provides strategies for delivering tough feedback as a line manager.The constant movement between internal and external self-awareness.The impact of behavior on individualsThe need for leaders at all levels to seek feedback from their team membersConnect with NiaInstagramLinkedInTwitterTiktokWebsiteDo 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:WebsiteLinkedIn InstagramFacebookYouTubeTwitterPrevious Episodes:Episode 48: Zoe Routh on Leadership and Self-AwarenessEpisode 85: Why Delivering Effective and Constructive Feedback at Work is so Vital with Aoife O’BrienEpisode 200: Reskilling Diversity and Building a Happier Workplace with Bhushan SethiEpisode 198: Empowering Women at Work with Deirdre McGinnEpisode 174: The Role of Emotions in Workplace Dynamics with Dr. Lola. GershfeldEpisode 167: Embracing Diversity and Inclusion at Work with Donna O’ConnorResources mentioned:Dr Tasha Eurich book Insight Marshall Goldsmith Mentioned in this episode:Imposter IdentityImposter Identity

Jun 7, 2024 • 43min
209: Cultivating Self-Awareness at Work with Nia Thomas
Do you want to increase your self-awareness in the workplace?In the latest episode of the Happier at Work podcast, I am joined by Nia Thomas, Director of a children's charity and host of the "Knowing Self, Knowing Others" podcast. We have an in-depth conversation about the importance of self-awareness and making conscious choices about behavior, especially in the workplace.Nia discusses the challenges of giving and receiving feedback, and provides strategies for delivering tough feedback as a line manager. We explore the enduring nature of self-awareness, its historical roots, and the constant movement between internal and external self-awareness.In addition, Nia shares valuable insights into the impact of behavior on individuals and emphasises the need for leaders at all levels to seek feedback from their team members.The main points throughout this podcast include:The importance of self-awareness and making conscious choices about behavior, especially in the workplace.The challenges of giving and receiving feedback, and provides strategies for delivering tough feedback as a line manager.The constant movement between internal and external self-awareness.The impact of behavior on individualsThe need for leaders at all levels to seek feedback from their team membersConnect with NiaInstagramLinkedInTwitterTiktokWebsiteDo 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:WebsiteLinkedIn InstagramFacebookYouTubeTwitterPrevious Episodes:Episode 48: Zoe Routh on Leadership and Self-AwarenessEpisode 85: Why Delivering Effective and Constructive Feedback at Work is so Vital with Aoife O’BrienResources mentioned:Dr Tasha Eurich book Insight Marshall Goldsmith

May 31, 2024 • 14min
208: How can you embrace neurodiversity in the workplace?
In the latest solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, I shed light on an important topic that is gaining more recognition in workplaces around the world - neurodiversity.Neurodiversity encompasses a range of neurological differences, including autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and more. These differences are natural variations of the human brain, each bringing unique strengths and challenges to the table.In this episode I delve into the world of neurodiversity, sharing personal insights and discussing how embracing neurodiversity can lead to a more innovative, inclusive, and productive work environment.My own journey of discovering neurodivergence and the impact it had on me. From showcasing the benefits of diverse thinking to highlighting the importance of tailored recruitment processes and flexible working arrangements, I provide valuable insights on creating a more inclusive space for all employees.Research has shown that neurodiverse teams can be 30% more productive than their nondiverse counterparts, emphasising the positive impact of embracing neurodiversity in the workplace.If you are interested in learning more about neurodiversity, the benefits it brings, and practical ways to support neurodiverse employees, then this episode is for you.The main points throughout this podcast include:The importance of tailored recruitment processes and flexible working arrangements.Neurodiverse teams can be 30% more productive than their nondiverse counterpartsThe positive impact of embracing neurodiversity in the workplace.Practical ways to support neurodiverse employeesDo 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:WebsiteLinkedIn InstagramFacebookYouTubeTwitterPrevious Episodes:Episode 48: Zoe Routh on Leadership and Self-AwarenessEpisode 85: Why Delivering Effective and Constructive Feedback at Work is so Vital with Aoife O’BrienEpisode 200: Reskilling Diversity and Building a Happier Workplace with Bhushan SethiEpisode 198: Empowering Women at Work with Deirdre McGinnEpisode 174: The Role of Emotions in Workplace Dynamics with Dr. Lola. GershfeldEpisode 167: Embracing Diversity and Inclusion at Work with Donna O’ConnorMentioned in this episode:Imposter IdentityImposter Identity

May 27, 2024 • 12min
Bonus Episode: Gender Equality and Inclusive Leadership
Exploring gender equality, inclusive leadership, and the significance of change management in organizational transformation. Insights on work-life balance, recognition, and diverse leadership perspectives. Engaging male leaders in cultivating empathy and vulnerability. Challenges and opportunities in achieving gender equality across cultures and backgrounds.

May 24, 2024 • 46min
207: Gender Equality and Inclusive Leadership with Robert Baker
Do you want to promote a diverse and inclusive workplace environment?In the latest episode of the Happier at Work podcast, I had a thought-provoking discussion with Robert Baker, a passionate advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace.In this episode, we explore the need for a new approach to the billable hour system and the crucial role of change management and leadership skills development in driving organisational transformation.The conversation delves into the inspiring example of Enjin, a global energy company that has successfully implemented changes to achieve gender balance in leadership and enhance organisational productivity.Robert also shares his insights on happiness at work, highlighting the importance of autonomy, meaningful work, and the support he receives from his partner, Pamela. The discussion extends to evolving attitudes towards work-life balance, the value of recognition in the workplace, and the impact of diverse leadership perspectives.Additionally, Robert discusses his transition from corporate roles to founding his own business focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion, and the importance of engaging male leaders in fostering a culture of vulnerability and empathy.The episode touches on the challenges and opportunities surrounding gender equality, the societal socialisation of men and women from a young age, and the importance of recognising and addressing these influences across diverse cultures and backgrounds.The main points throughout this podcast include:The crucial role of change management and leadership skills development in driving organisational transformation.Evolving attitudes towards work-life balance, the value of recognition in the workplace, and the impact of diverse leadership perspectives.The importance of engaging male leaders in fostering a culture of vulnerability and empathy.The challenges and opportunities surrounding gender equality.The importance of recognising and addressing gender influences across diverse cultures and backgrounds.Connect with RobertLinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/robert-baker-potentia-talent-consultingTwitter: @robertbkrDo 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/200-reskilling-diversity-and-building-a-happier-workplace-with-bhushan-sethi/https://happieratwork.ie/198-empowering-women-at-work-with-deirdre-mcginn/https://happieratwork.ie/174-the-role-of-emotions-in-workplace-dynamics-with-dr-lola-gershfeld/https://happieratwork.ie/167-embracing-diversity-and-inclusion-at-work-with-donna-oconnor/

May 20, 2024 • 10min
Bonus Episode: Onboarding Strategies for Workplace Success
The main points throughout this podcast include:The importance of creating the right environment for individuals to succeed and stay in their roles.The critical impact of the onboarding process on employee retention.Insights into the challenges and opportunities individuals encounter when starting new positions. The stages of adjustment individuals go through when starting new rolesThe impact of organisational culture on new hires.Connect with AngharadLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angharad-ross-225b223b/Website: www.risecmc.ukDo 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/202-leveraging-strengths-and-setting-boundaries-with-lucy-gernon/https://happieratwork.ie/201-redefining-your-own-career-success-with-gary-crotaz/https://happieratwork.ie/197-the-journey-to-workplace-happiness-with-rob-dubin/https://happieratwork.ie/178-fulfilling-your-potential-and-finding-joy-in-your-work-with-soma-ghosh/Mentioned in this episode:Imposter IdentityImposter Identity

May 17, 2024 • 45min
206: Onboarding Strategies for Workplace Success with Angharad Ross
Are you striving for greater happiness at work?In the latest episode of the Happier at Work podcast, I sat down with the insightful Angharad Ross to discuss the dynamics of workplace happiness and successful transitions in the corporate world.In this episode, Angharad reflects on her 15-year corporate career and her mission to help individuals and organisations navigate career changes and transitions. She emphasises the importance of creating the right environment for individuals to succeed and stay in their roles, shedding light on the critical impact of the onboarding process on employee retention.Angharad's experiences navigating through different roles and organisational cultures offer deep insights into the challenges and opportunities individuals encounter when starting new positions. She discusses the need for clear communication, understanding of different working styles, and the essential balance between culture fit and culture add within organisations.The conversation touches on various elements, from the stages of adjustment individuals go through when starting new roles to the impact of organisational culture on new hires. Angharad advocates for comprehensive onboarding processes that go beyond functional introductions, encompassing tailored training for leaders and the nurturing of diverse perspectives within the workplace.The main points throughout this podcast include:The importance of creating the right environment for individuals to succeed and stay in their roles.The critical impact of the onboarding process on employee retention.Insights into the challenges and opportunities individuals encounter when starting new positions. The stages of adjustment individuals go through when starting new rolesThe impact of organisational culture on new hires.Connect with AngharadLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angharad-ross-225b223b/Website: www.risecmc.ukDo 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/202-leveraging-strengths-and-setting-boundaries-with-lucy-gernon/https://happieratwork.ie/201-redefining-your-own-career-success-with-gary-crotaz/https://happieratwork.ie/197-the-journey-to-workplace-happiness-with-rob-dubin/https://happieratwork.ie/178-fulfilling-your-potential-and-finding-joy-in-your-work-with-soma-ghosh/

May 10, 2024 • 17min
205: Elevating Employee Engagement with Aoife O’Brien
In the latest solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, I delve deep into the topic of employee engagement. I share my insights on creating more engagement within your team and feeling more fulfilled in the work that you do. I provide a comprehensive breakdown of what engagement truly means, highlighting the academic definition as vigor, dedication, and absorption. I emphasise the importance of factors like energy, significance, challenge, and feeling fully. I also explain why it is important for both companies and individuals. Engaged employees have a positive impact on their colleagues, personal life, and even customers, leading to an overall positive working environment.I share strategies and practical tips to drive better engagement at work. From the significance of feedback and recognition, providing opportunities for growth, to fostering open communication and creating an environment of psychological safety, there are actionable steps to implement within your team.Make sure to check out this insightful podcast episode to gain a deeper understanding of how you can increase engagement in your workplace. Remember, a more engaged workforce leads to inspired, energetic, challenged, and proud employees, ultimately contributing to a positive work environment and improved work-life balance.The main points throughout this podcast include:Insights on creating more engagement within your team and feeling more fulfilled in the work that you do.The importance of factors like energy, significance, challenge, and feeling fully.Strategies and practical tips to drive better engagement at work.Actionable steps to implement within your team to encourage engagement in the workplace.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 Previous Episodes:https://happieratwork.ie/203-national-workplace-wellbeing-day-with-aoife-obrien/https://happieratwork.ie/197-the-journey-to-workplace-happiness-with-rob-dubin/https://happieratwork.ie/178-fulfilling-your-potential-and-finding-joy-in-your-work-with-soma-ghosh/https://happieratwork.ie/200-reskilling-diversity-and-building-a-happier-workplace-with-bhushan-sethi/Mentioned in this episode:Imposter IdentityImposter Identity

May 6, 2024 • 8min
Bonus Episode: Navigating your career
Listen to the full episode here: https://happieratwork.ie/203-navigating-your-career-with-rosina-racioppi/The main points throughout this podcast include:The importance of strategically managing your career,The need for seeking valuable feedback to understand one's capabilities and strengthsThe significance of networking, mentorship, and embracing curiosity in discovering your passion and strengths.The importance of developing a supportive feedback loop for employees.Connect with RosinaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-rosina-racioppi-792b941/https://www.linkedin.com/company/women-unlimited/Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosinaracioppihttps://twitter.com/womenunlimited_?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5EauthorWebsite: https://www.women-unlimited.com/Instagram: www.instagram.com/lucygernonDo 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/201-redefining-your-own-career-success-with-gary-crotaz/https://happieratwork.ie/198-empowering-women-at-work-with-deirdre-mcginn/https://happieratwork.ie/197-the-journey-to-workplace-happiness-with-rob-dubin/https://happieratwork.ie/178-fulfilling-your-potential-and-finding-joy-in-your-work-with-soma-ghosh/Mentioned in this episode:Imposter IdentityImposter Identity

May 3, 2024 • 41min
204: Navigating your career with Rosina Racioppi
Do you want to discover how you can better manage your career?In the latest episode of the Happier at Work podcast I had a thought-provoking conversation with the accomplished Rosina Racioppi. Rosina discusses her journey from corporate HR leadership to empowering women in their careers, and the key insights she's gained along the way.We delve into the importance of strategically managing your career, the art of self-advocacy in the workplace, and the need for seeking valuable feedback to understand one's capabilities and strengths. We also explore the significance of networking, mentorship, and embracing curiosity in discovering your passion and strengths.Rosina shares her perspectives on the challenges individuals face during the post-COVID work environment and the importance of developing a supportive feedback loop for employees.If you're eager to gain valuable insights to enhance your career, then this episode is for you.The main points throughout this podcast include:The importance of strategically managing your career,The need for seeking valuable feedback to understand one's capabilities and strengthsThe significance of networking, mentorship, and embracing curiosity in discovering your passion and strengths.The importance of developing a supportive feedback loop for employees.Connect with RosinaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-rosina-racioppi-792b941/https://www.linkedin.com/company/women-unlimited/Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosinaracioppihttps://twitter.com/womenunlimitedWebsite: https://www.women-unlimited.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 Previous Episodes:https://happieratwork.ie/138-stop-being-overlooked-at-work-with-paula-sheridan/ https://happieratwork.ie/104-the-managers-dilemma-with-irial-ofarrell/ Mentioned in this episode:Imposter IdentityImposter Identity