In this episode, we explore the vital role of empathy in organizational success and workplace well-being. Liesel Mertes, a workplace empathy consultant and keynote speaker, shares practical strategies for democratizing empathy skills, creating human-centric workplaces, and nurturing personal and team resilience amid current societal challenges. Key topics:

• The science and importance of empathy in human and workplace relationships
• Strategies for democratizing empathy within organizations
• Using marketing as a model for understanding human experience and empathy
• Practical empathy tools: avatars and stoplight check-ins
• Navigating organizational burnout and supporting middle management
• The impact of small acts of presence, like eye contact and informal check-ins
• Balancing personal self-care with professional empathy efforts
• Reimagining community beyond work for holistic well-being

Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction to the importance of empathy in human-centered work01:23 - Liesl Mertes' background and personal life influences02:20 - The tangible benefits of empathy in sales and leadership03:03 - The dual perspectives of empathy: individual interactions and organizational value04:05 - The systemic challenges of practicing empathy at work05:10 - How marketing models empathy and human experience06:38 - Practical tools for fostering empathy at manager levels07:29 - Introducing empathy avatars for behavioral coaching08:23 - Manufacturing empathy through signals and signals09:02 - Reestablishing foundational human principles: dignity and respect10:00 - The complexity of social issues in today's workplace11:12 - Meeting the moment: empathy in contemporary work environments12:37 - The significance of compassionate moments during crises13:07 - The stoplight check-in for team emotional gauge14:35 - Making space for shared human experiences in meetings15:35 - Managing dissonance and the paradox of systemic change16:51 - Small acts of humanity: the Uber driver example18:23 - Barriers to empathy: efficiency, exhaustion, and systemic issues19:09 - Self-care as a prerequisite for genuine empathy20:35 - Personal practices for rest and renewal21:38 - Tend to yourself first: the paradox of giving and replenishing22:42 - Emphasizing community beyond work for holistic well-being29:57 - Balancing engagement in local community and systemic change30:37 - De-emphasizing work’s dominance in life for richer relationships31:44 - Connecting with Liesl for coaching and speaking engagements

In this episode, Chris Pineda shares powerful insights on authentic transformation rooted in indigenous customs, symbolism, and human connection. Discover how honoring the past, present, and future can revolutionize leadership, community work, and organizational culture.Main Topics:- The difference between change and transformation and why transformation is an emergent, human-centered process- The seven conditions for transformation: Purpose, Commitment, Common Language, Vulnerability, Consistency, Deep Trusting Relationships, Safe Space- How rituals and symbolism deepen presence, trust, and community in leadership and relationships- The role of emergent signals, energy flow, and human connection in authentic change- Building rhythms, systems, and environments for sustainable transformation- The impact of AI as a tool to enhance human connection, not replace it- The importance of legacy, lineage, and cultural customs in creating lasting organizational and community changeTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction & why purpose and legacy matter in leadership02:30 - Transformation vs. change: what it really takes08:10 - The naive understanding of transformation as moments, not a journey12:58 - Moving beneath surface behaviors to true transformation15:30 - Real-life story: the power of a cultural gesture in community building19:00 - Indigenous customs and symbols as catalysts for connection22:14 - The role of rituals and the space between people (kapwa, va)26:41 - How intentionality around these conditions creates lasting change28:33 - The seven core conditions for transformation in organizations and communities33:21 - The importance of rituals, symbolism, and honoring lineage36:35 - Embracing emergence and energy in transformation work39:33 - Building systems and habits around the seven conditions for sustained impact43:04 - The future of leadership in a world of AI and rapid change45:02 - Human connection as the superpower in leadership and survival47:33 - Connecting with Chris & finding more about his work and bookResources & Links:Beneath the Transaction: Discovering the Seven Conditions that Transform Life and Leadership Book: https://www.amazon.com/Beneath-Transaction-Chris-Pineda/dp/1969508299Chris Pineda Website (Groundwork Leadership): https://www.groundworkleadership.org/

In this engaging conversation, Claude Silver, Chief Heart Officer at VaynerX, shares insights on integrating heart and performance in the workplace, fostering emotional intelligence, and creating a culture of belonging and authenticity. Discover practical strategies for leaders to cultivate empathy, trust, and human connection to drive better performance and well-being.Chapters00:00Introduction and Background06:00The Honey Empire: Culture and Emotional Intelligence14:02Emergence and Cultural Relevance22:03The Role of Leadership in CultureResourcesClaude Silver's Book: Be Yourself at Work: https://www.amazon.com/Be-Yourself-Work-Groundbreaking-Standing/dp/0063392437/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0Claude Silver's Website: https://www.claudesilver.com/LinkedIn Profile of Claude Silver: https://www.linkedin.com/in/casilver/

In this conversation, Jeff Harry discusses the significance of joy and play in the workplace and social movements. He emphasizes that play is essential for creativity, psychological safety, and effective protest. The discussion also touches on the broken nature of work, generational struggles for dignity, and the need for organizations to foster a culture of joy. Jeff argues that true change requires a shift in how we view work and the importance of creating safe spaces for individuals to express themselves and pursue their passions.Join Jeff at the 2026 Culture Impact Lab: https://callforculture.com/registerConnect with Jeff: https://www.rediscoveryourplay.com/Watch Jeff's TedX Talk Dismantling Hierarchy Through Play: • My First TEDx Talk: Dismantling Hierarchy ... Chapters00:00Introduction to Joy and Play in Work02:17The Importance of Play in Movements06:28Creating a Culture of Joy in Organizations10:18The Broken Nature of Work13:43Generational Struggles for Workplace Dignity14:14The Illusion of American Democracy18:13Joy as a Form of Protest24:01Decentering Self in Collective Experiences31:01Fostering Play in the Workplace

In this conversation, ⁠Angela R. Howard⁠ and ⁠Alex Cartmill ⁠discuss the evolving landscape of workplace wellness, emphasizing the importance of integrating mental and physical health initiatives into organizational culture. They explore the current state of wellness programs, the need for sustainable practices, and the impact of generational shifts on employee expectations. The discussion highlights the necessity of listening to employees' needs and creating accessible wellness resources to foster a healthier work environment.

Key Takeaways: - Wellness initiatives should be sustainable and not just a checkbox.

- Listening to employees is crucial for effective wellness programs.

- Generational shifts are changing workplace expectations.

- Work-life balance is evolving into work-life integration.- Accessibility to wellness resources is essential for employee success.

- Organizations need to measure the impact of wellness initiatives.

- Creating a culture of care can enhance employee engagement.

- Wellness is a long-term investment, not a short-term fix.

- The workplace should be a rewarding space, not just a paycheck.

- Progress in workplace culture is necessary for retention and satisfaction

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction and Connection

05:00 - The Importance of Wellness at Work

09:54 - Current State of Organizational Wellness

14:54 - Creating Sustainable Wellness Programs

19:57 - Understanding Employee Needs for Wellness20:28 -Evolving Workplace Expectations

22:23 - Generational Shifts in Work Culture

24:38 - Agency and Options in Career Paths

26:04 - The Impact of Technology and COVID on Work

28:52 - Redefining Power Dynamics in the Workplace

31:35 - Wellness as a Core Business Strategy

Learn more about Vibrant Yoga: https://vibrant.yoga/

In this episode of the Social Responsibility at Work podcast, Angela Howard engages with Jenna Cohen and Leesa Hill from LEAD3ER to discuss the critical themes of workplace wellness, the role of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging, and the pressing issue of burnout. They explore how organizations can create healthier environments for employees, the importance of team dynamics, and the necessity of systems of choice that empower individuals. The conversation emphasizes the need for a relational approach between employers and employees, recognizing the diverse needs of the workforce and the impact of organizational culture on overall well-being.Key Takeaways: 1. Healthy workplaces contribute to healthier communities.2. Burnout is an organizational issue, not just an individual one.3. Employers have a responsibility to create supportive environments and systems of choice4. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are essential for team effectiveness.5. Systems of choice can empower employees to meet their needs.6. Balance in work-life is dynamic and varies for each individual.7. Creating access to resources is crucial for employee wellness.8. Relationships in the workplace drive engagement and performance.9. Employers should recognize the diverse needs of their workforce.10. The partnership between employer and employee is vital for success.Chapters00:00 - Introduction to the Podcast and Guests02:48 - Understanding Healthy Workplaces06:01 - The Role of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging09:02 - Employer Responsibilities in Employee Wellness11:56 - Addressing Burnout and Mental Health in the Workplace15:03 - Creating Healthy Team Dynamics17:48 - The Importance of Relationships in the Workplace21:58 - Understanding Burnout and Zone of Genius24:37 - The Importance of Connection in Leadership28:57 - Balancing Individual Needs and Organizational Goals32:45 - Creating Systems of Choice in the Workplace36:49 - The Dynamic Nature of Employee Needs39:51 - The Role of Leadership in Employee Relationships

In this engaging conversation, Angela R. Howard and Shefali Trivedi explore the importance of philanthropy and community engagement in the workplace. They discuss how organizations can integrate giving back into their culture, the significance of micro moments of service, and the challenges faced by younger generations in volunteerism. The dialogue emphasizes the need for intergenerational support and the contagious nature of kindness, ultimately highlighting that everyone has the potential to make a difference.Some key takeaways: 1. Organizations that incorporate philanthropy attract and retain talent.2. Philanthropy in the workplace fosters a sense of belonging.3. Micro moments of service can have a significant impact.4. Younger generations are struggling with volunteerism post-pandemic.5. Young people often feel their individual impact is negligible.6. It's essential to remind youth of their potential to effect change.7. Kindness and service can create a positive workplace culture.8. Intergenerational dialogue is crucial for progress.9. Everyone has the capacity to serve and make a difference.titlesChapters00:00: Caffeinated Conversations: The Power of Community Engagement02:59: Philanthropy as a Core Value in Organizations05:49: The Impact of Philanthropy on Employee Well-being08:58: Micro Moments of Service: Simple Acts with Big Impact11:56: Building a Culture of Kindness and Community14:50: The Human Element: Connecting Work and Service17:56: Creating a Sense of Belonging Through Giving Back21:24: The Volunteer Scarcity Crisis24:54: Rebuilding Belief in Young People's Impact28:37: Generational Perspectives on Work and Activism33:40: Investing in the Next Generation

In this episode of the Social Responsibility at Work podcast, Angela R. Howard speaks with June 'Jumakae' Kaewsith (2025 Culture Impact Lab Speaker) about the importance of community building, ancestral wisdom, and the need for a shift in organizational culture. They explore the concepts of decolonization, rewilding, and the significance of creating beloved communities that prioritize connection and support. The conversation also touches on the future of education and work, emphasizing the need for reflection and a deeper understanding of our human experience.Chapters00:00 - Introduction to Community and Culture Impact03:11 -The Role of Ancestral Wisdom in Community Building06:02 - Decolonization and the Shift from Retooling to Rewilding08:57 - The Importance of Beloved Community11:58 - Education and the Future of Work14:46 - Legacy and Reflection on Human ExperienceJoin us at the Culture Impact Lab: https://callforculture.com/culture-im...Connect with June: https://www.yourstorymedicine.com/