Teams, Culture & You: The Psychology Behind Growth

Hosted by Josephine Palermo

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Aug 2026

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About the show

Dr. Josephine Palermo's superpower is to create business cultures that transform organizations team by team. With a PhD in Organisational Psychology, and from working with big corporates and government, to small and large businesses, Josephine is a wellspring of knowledge and experience. On top of that, she owns three enterprises and is a sought after speaker. To join our newsletter sign up here http://eepurl.com/hc4CFb

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60 recent

September 10, 202636 min

Why Values-Driven Organisations Still Get Stuck with Jayo Macasaquit (Episode 87)

What does it take to lead change without relying on control? Jayo Macasaquit, Chief People Officer at The 19th News, joins Josephine Palermo and Iain to explore organizational adaptability, psychological safety, distributed leadership, and the hidden assumptions that keep teams stuck. They discuss the “immunity to change” framework, moving from “hero to host” leadership, the challenge of delegation, and how reflection, coaching, and experimentation can help organizations thrive in uncertainty. Chapter index 00:00 — Introduction 02:45 — Jayo’s journey into HR and people strategy 06:42 — The 19th News and equity-centered leadership 13:10 — When mission and internal culture don’t align 16:05 — Why leaders struggle to delegate 19:02 — Understanding “immunity to change” 22:41 — Using community and accountability to create change 25:22 — Moving from “hero” to “host” leadership 28:27 — Hierarchy, attention, and distributed decision-making 32:45 — Reflection, coaching, and courageous conversations 34:35 — Building operational resilience in a changing world 41:10 — Psychological safety, failure, and imposter syndrome 46:38 — Balancing self-belief with openness to feedback 48:52 — Clarity over certainty 50:44 — Jayo’s closing reflections: from blamestorming to brainstorming Contact Josephine www.josephinepalermo.com.au Share your views with us at josephine@gearedforgrowth.biz Watch on Youtube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL18BTBLfckRwwraLZMvbpNj-MjHHy-cSH&si=pXJAR_mmTGGEcO2q

August 24, 2026Episode 8639 min

Project Land Goes to the Movies with Dawn Mahan (Episode 86)

Dawn Mahan returns to talk about her latest book, a movie-themed anthology that uses film as a practical way to explain project management lessons. The conversation covers how the book came together, why metaphor makes complex work easier to grasp, and how teams can use movie moments to improve communication, leadership, and delivery. Dawn also shares what it was like working with co-editor Jerry Manis, why the book includes internationalperspectives, and how AI may support project managers without replacing the human side of the work. Chapters 00:00 - Welcome back and introduction to the new movie-themed project management book 03:16 - Why the concept moved from animals to movies 04:00 - How the author casting call and contributor selection worked 06:28 - Why the book’s chapter structure is designed for the reader 08:10 - Using movie metaphors in real project conversations 09:31 - How clips can help before, during, and after project pressure points 10:26 - Making complex project ideas accessible for non-project managers 12:54 - Why the right movie can lighten stress inside a project “pressure cooker” 14:45 - Why metaphor is central to Dawn’s work 15:19 - Dawn’s early love of metaphor and simplifying complexity 16:43 - How the term “Project Land” was created 19:21 - Why project management is really about problem solving 20:32 - Balancing business, writing, and a year-long editing process 22:50 - Working with expert authors and setting clear roles 24:47 - How local PMI chapters can help people network and grow 27:13 - Sneak peek at Jerry Manis’s next leadership fable 30:19 - Dawn’s next possible book for executive sponsors and leaders 31:45 - Why the audiobook format may be the strongest version of the book 34:08 - Dawn’s view on AI and whether it threatens project managers 36:25 - Using AI as a strategic thinking partner rather than a replacement 40:57 - Why poor project outcomes are often about people, not process 41:41 - Closing thoughts and what’s next Get Dawn's latest book: Project Management Consulting & Training | PMOtraining.com Here's the link to the post where you can hear the audiobook trailer and Eric's voice talent...would love to know what you think! PMI page where you can find yourlocal chapter to network with project managers in your area: https://www.pmi.org/membership/chapters

July 8, 2026Episode 8543 min

Medieval Lessons with Lee Caraher (Episode 85)

"Command and control only works when someone's gonna die" Lee Caraher is known for helping leaders say what they actually mean- especially when the stakes are high -and for building teams that work hard, laugh a lot, and don’t hide behind jargon. In this episode she shares her journeyfrom medieval history to successful entrepreneurship, exploring leadership, communication, and adapting to change in a rapidly evolving world. Chapters 00:00 Journey of Self-Discovery and Career Pathways 07:20 Navigating Communication in a Diverse World 14:01 Understanding Generational Differences in Communication 20:27 Leadership and Effective Communication Strategies 23:28 Navigating Challenges and Moving Forward 25:14 The Importance of Communication in Leadership 27:05 Understanding Employee Emotions and Productivity 29:05 The Role of Empathy in Leadership 31:53 The Evolution of Communication Roles 33:41 The Impact of AI on Communication 36:24 Human Judgment vs. AI in Decision Making 38:19 The Need for Human Connection in Remote Work 42:11 Final Thoughts on Connection and Communication Contact Lee Website: http://leecaraher.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leecaraher/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leecaraher/?hl=en Help us get to 10,000subscribers https://youtube.com/@josephinerising?si=49upyEozaH0ZIQFB Connect with Josephinehere Dr Josephine Palermo | Instagram, Facebook |Linktree

April 20, 2026Episode 8432 min

From Corporate to Fractional: A New Work Paradigm with Jag Jassel (Episode 84)

In this conversation, Josephine Palermo and Jag Jassel explore the journey of transitioning from traditional corporate roles to fractional work models. Jag shares his personal experiences, the challenges of navigating uncertainty, and the benefits of adopting a fractional approach for both individuals and organizations. They discuss the impact of AI and automation on the workforce, the importance of establishing standards in fractional work, and the shift in responsibility towards owning outcomes rather than tracking hours. The conversation concludes with insights into the future of fractional work and the role of FractionalPractice.com in setting industry standards. Chapters 00:00 Revisiting the Past: A Journey of Growth 04:42 Navigating Uncertainty: Finding Direction in Career Transitions 09:12 Understanding the Fractional Model: A New Approach to Work 14:04 The Benefits of Fractional Work for Organizations 18:36 AI and Automation: Shaping the Future of Work 23:06 Establishing Standards: The Role of FractionalPractice.com 27:56 Owning Outcomes: The Shift in Responsibility 32:23 Looking Ahead: The Future of Fractional Work Contact Jag www.fractionalpractice.com ContactJosephine www.josephinepalermo.com.au Share your views with us at ⁠ josephine@gearedforgrowth.biz⁠ Watch on Youtube: ⁠ https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL18BTBLfckRwwraLZMvbpNj-MjHHy-cSH&si=pXJAR_mmTGGEcO2q ⁠ Read myblog: https://gearedforgrowth.biz/business-blog/

March 10, 2026Episode 8327 min

Bringing Social Connection Back with Shelley Doyle (Episode 83)

“People feel like they're not seen.” Josephine Palermo talks to Shelley Doyle about her academic journey and research on social connection and well-being in the workplace. They discuss the importance of social health, the impact of remote work on relationships, and the findings from Shelley's thesis, which explores the dynamics of social connection among leaders in a corporate setting. The conversation also delves into practical tips for enhancing social connections and the significance of courageous conversations in fostering deeper relationships. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Social Capital and Shelly's Journey 02:32 Thesis Insights: Leading with Social Wealth 05:23 The Impact of Proximity on Relationships 07:53 Navigating Remote Work and Social Well-being 10:51 Understanding Loneliness and Productivity 13:32 The Social Wealth Continuum Explained 16:24 Practical Applications in Corporate Settings 19:05 Strategies for Enhancing Social Connections 21:50 Courageous Conversations and Self-Reflection 24:28 Future Directions and Closing Thoughts Contact Shelley: https://www.thecommuniverse.com/ socials https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelleydoyle https://www.instagram.com/theshelleydoyle https://www.facebook.com/theshelleydoyle https://twitter.com/theShelleyDoyle Contact Josephine E: josephine@gearedforgrowth.biz https://gearedforgrowth.biz/contact-us/

February 12, 202625 min

Revolutionising Employee Benefits with Jordan Peace (Episode 82)

Josephine Palermo speaks with Jordan Peace, co-founder and CEO of Fringe, about the innovative employee experience platform that aims to enhance workplace benefits. They discuss the challenges of entrepreneurship, the importance of mental health, and Jordan's upcoming book, 'Stop,' which encourages readers to take intentional breaks in a fast-paced world. Jordan also shares his personal journey with ADHD and how it has shaped his leadership style. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene 02:21 The Birth of Fringe: A New Approach to Employee Benefits 06:47 Value Proposition for Employers: Retention and Recruitment 10:00 Navigating Challenges: The Secret to Success 13:49 The Importance of Stopping: Insights from Jordan's Book 19:04 Embracing ADHD: A Shift in Perspective 23:47 Conclusion and Future Plans Contact Jordan www.fringe.us https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordan-peace-fringe Contact Josephine www.josephinepalermo.com.au Share your views with us at josephine@gearedforgrowth.biz

January 15, 2026Episode 8136 min

Evolving HR Roles with Angelique Zammit (Episode 81)

In this insightful podcast episode, Dr. Josephine Palermo and Angelique Zammit explore the evolving role of HR professionals in modern organizations. They discuss the shift from traditional HR functions to strategic business partners, emphasizing the importance of adaptability, leadership influence, andthe integration of AI in workforce planning. The conversation highlights the challenges and opportunities faced by HR in navigating organizational changeand fostering a culture of innovation and inclusionShare your views with us at josephine@gearedforgrowth.biz Watch on Youtube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL18BTBLfckRwwraLZMvbpNj-MjHHy-cSH&si=pXJAR_mmTGGEcO2q

December 29, 2025Episode 8059 min

2025 Unplugged: A Candid Look at the Year That Was (Episode 80)

"We need a new hamster wheel for 2026." Dive into '2025 Unplugged: A Candid Look at the Year That Was' for an insightful reflection on the year's pivotal moments, societal changes, and personal stories that shaped our world. Iain and I reflect on significant global events, the impact of place and community, and the role of technology in shaping society. We discuss personal growth, professional identity, and the importance of critical thinking in today's world. We look bacl on our favourite podcast moments and guests, emphasising the need for advocacy and understanding in a rapidly changing environment. Chapters 00:00 Reflections on a Year of Change 05:10 The Impact of Place and Tragedy 10:43 Navigating a Complex Global Landscape 16:06 Personal Highlights and Collaborations 21:31 Technology, AI, and the Future of Work 31:15 The Impact of Technology on Identity and Vulnerability 33:05 Advocacy for Digital Safety and Regulation 34:58Personal Growth and the Third Act 36:31 Decolonization and Community Engagement 38:42 Upcoming Book Launch and Community Involvement 40:27 Exploring Literature and Audiobooks 41:29 Television and Cultural Reflections 51:26 The Beatles and Cultural Impact 56:59 Reflections on Meaningful Conversations and Future Endeavors Share your views with us at josephine@gearedforgrowth.biz Watch on Youtube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL18BTBLfckRwwraLZMvbpNj-MjHHy-cSH&si=pXJAR_mmTGGEcO2q

October 23, 2025Episode 2833 min

Magnetic Money, with Miriam Castilla (Episode 79)

Miriam Castilla, is an ex-engineer and finance professional turned business mentor and course creator, committed to helping online coaches and service providers create more freedom and ease in their business. Miriam is the founder of Magnetic Money. She is an international speaker, bestselling author and award-winning business owner. She’s also a former finance professional and certified hypnotherapist. In this engaging conversation, Miriam Castilla shares her unexpected journey from a corporate career in engineering to becoming a financial coach and hypnotherapist. She discusses the importance of mindset in managing money, the impact of personal experiences like divorce on identity, and how her unique approach combines practical financial advice with mindset transformation. Miriam also explores the concept of money archetypes, the role of hypnotherapy in changing limiting beliefs, and the influence of social media on our understanding of success and self-worth. Chapters 00:00 Miriam's Unexpected Journey 04:12 Reinventing Identity After Divorce 07:46 Marrying the Magical with the Practical 13:18 The Gendered Experience of Money Mindset 15:24 Understanding Money Archetypes 19:34 The Roots of Money Habits 21:11 Transforming Unconscious Beliefs 24:18 The Nature of Hypnosis 27:08 The Impact of Social Media on Money Mindset 31:37 Finding Purpose Beyond Wealth Contact Miriam and do her quiz https://miriamcastilla.com/quiz/ Contact Josephine www.josephinepalermo.com.au

October 1, 2025Episode 7832 min

Connection Capital in Operations with Karen Holiday (Episode 78)

Karen Holliday, a former Chief Operating Officer shares her extensive experience in operational excellence and the print and mail industry. Karen discusses the importance of people in Operations, her journey overcoming barriers as a woman in a male-dominated field, and her passion for mentoring and empowering others, especially women. She emphasizes the significance of authenticity in leadership and the need to build trust and culture within organizations. The conversation highlights key messages for effective leadership and the value of connection capital. Karen Holliday is a transformational leader, faith-based business consultant, and inspirational speaker whose mission is to help others rise above adversity with courage, authenticity, and strategy. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:44 Operational Excellence in Print and Mail Industry 04:57 The Importance of People in Operations 07:24 Connection Capital and Its Impact 10:17 Overcoming Barriers and Mentorship 12:42 Empowering Women in Leadership 15:17 Authenticity in Leadership 17:58 Navigating Challenges as a Woman Leader 20:25 Building Trust and Culture in Organizations 23:04 Key Messages for Women in Leadership Contact Karen linkedin.com/in/karen-holliday https://nyakconsulting.com/ See her TED talk here https://youtu.be/MPQhdgt-dZw?si=rKKe7L7DpuvYTOoe Contact Josephine www.josephinepalermo.com.au