The DNA of Work

Hosted by Advanced Workplace Associates

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Feb 2024

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Changing the way your organisation works is challenging. You may be trying to make sense of hybrid working, wondering how you can keep teams connected and motivated in a hybrid world or how you can strengthen your virtual leadership skills. This podcast from AWA tackles the challenges and resolves many of the confusions that can often happen. If you’re responsible for delivering exceptional work experiences, then whether you’re in HR, CRE, FM, IT or Operations, we can give you clear guidance to help you make positive changes to the way you’re working. Our show is relaxed and informal, we share expert insights, the latest research, real life examples and ways to get started. If you want to understand or adapt your DNA of work, this is the podcast for you.

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February 6, 2024Episode 6225 min

Unravelling the mysteries of the brain part 2

Prepare to have your mind stretched as we navigate the human brain with the esteemed neuroscientist and psychologist, Dr. Lisa Feldman Barrett. In this captivating discussion, we explore how social media is rewiring our brains, why the parent's role is critical in helping a child's brain develop, and what the challenges of puberty mean for cognitive development. Dr. Barrett offers unique insights into the delicate art of knowing when to step in and when to step back, helping our children handle the complexities of daily life.The conversation then takes a turn towards the workplace, shedding light on the pressing issue of work-life balance, and the strategies organizations can adopt to promote healthier working environments. From the provision of healthy snacks and walking breaks to a no-email-at-night policy and trust-building exercises, we explore practical measures that can boost brain health and manage the demands of modern life. Finally, we delve into the fascinating realm of predictions, mental models, and niche construction in business. Dr. Barrett elucidates how humans often adapt their environment to align with their mental models, underlining the crucial role of flexibility and trust in today's fast-paced world. As we wrap up, we emphasize the critical importance of sleep for our mental and physical wellbeing, and the impact of sleep deprivation on our performance at work. Join us for an enlightening journey.This episode is part 2 of a two part special.AWA Hosts: Karen Plum and Andrew Mawson Guest: Dr Lisa Feldman Barrett, PhD, Neuroscientist and Psychologist, and author of "How Emotions are Made" and "Seven and a Half Lessons About the Brain." University distinguished professor of psychology at Northeastern University, Boston MA AWA Guest details: https://www.advanced-workplace.com/our-team/ CONTACTS & WEBSITE details:AWA contact: Andrew Mawson AWA Institute contact:Natalia Savitcaia Music: Licensed by Soundstripe – Lone CanyonWant to know more about AWA? Follow us on LinkedIn Visit our website Thanks for listening to the DNA of work podcast

January 16, 2024Episode 6128 min

Unravelling the mysteries of the brain with Dr Lisa Feldman Barrett - part 1

Are your everyday experiences really a true reflection of how your brain works? Our guest for this episode, acclaimed neuroscientist Dr. Lisa Feldman Barrett, sheds light on this thought-provoking question. Dr. Barrett takes us through the compelling world of neuroscience, revealing the ingenious manner in which our brains regulate our bodies. She explains how our brain is a master of deception, constantly predicting and preparing based on past experience rather than just reacting to the world. This fascinating discussion decodes how the brain's predictions shape our thoughts, feelings, and decisions in ways that are more metabolically efficient.The conversation doesn't end there though. We dive deeper into the brain-body connection and the implications it has on our health and well-being. Dr. Barrett further explores how societal pressures and lack of rest are leading to burnout, affecting our mental and physical resilience. She emphasizes the importance of being mindful of others' impact on our lives as we navigate this hybrid working world. So, if you're intrigued by the complex world of human brains and bodies, and seeking strategies to navigate these challenging times, this episode with Dr. Barrett is a must-listen!This episode is part 1 of a two part special.AWA Hosts: Karen Plum and Andrew Mawson Guest: Dr Lisa Feldman Barrett, PhD, Neuroscientist and Psychologist, and author of "How Emotions are Made" and "Seven and a Half Lessons About the Brain." University distinguished professor of psychology at Northeastern University, Boston MA AWA Guest details: https://www.advanced-workplace.com/our-team/ CONTACTS & WEBSITE details:AWA contact: Andrew Mawson AWA Institute contact: Natalia Savitcaia Music: Licensed by Soundstripe – Lone CanyonWant to know more about AWA? Follow us on LinkedIn Visit our website Thanks for listening to the DNA of work podcast

December 28, 2023Episode 6027 min

A look back at 2023 and forward to 2024

As we approach the end of another eventful year, what were the highlights for you in the world or work and workplace?Andrew Mawson, AWA's Founder and Managing Director shares his views on the significant developments that really caught his attention - including AI, which has been through a transformative phase in 2023. This year also seems to have seen a lot of consolidation around hybrid working - leading to an excess of office space being carried by a lot of organisations. And we see an increasing need for organisations to address net zero challenges and encourage staff to get on board and do their bit. After our look back, we look forward to 2024 and Andrew shares his thoughts about what's to come, and the things that AWA is excited about as we welcome in the New Year.AWA Host: Karen Plum Guests: Andrew Mawson, Founder & Managing Director, AWAMike Jackson, Non-Executive Chairman, Pre-Empt.life, Founder of Shaping Tomorrow, strategist, change agent and business coach, ResultsPlus.ai - Episode 51 - Demystifying AI: what you need to know nowMark Gilbreath – Founder and CEO, LiquidSpace - Episode 46 – What should we do with our space?Josh Sumner, Workplace Strategist, AWA - Episode 52 - Global trends in hybrid working: AWA’s Hybrid Working Index separates facts from hypeRichard Lupo, Managing Director SHIFT Environment - Episode 55 -Beyond green – is net zero part of your organisation’s culture? AWA Guest details: https://www.advanced-workplace.com/our-team/ CONTACTS & WEBSITE details: AWA contact: Andrew Mawson AWA Institute contact: Natalia Savitcaia Music: Licensed by Soundstripe – Lone CanyonWant to know more about AWA? Follow us on LinkedIn Visit our website Thanks for listening to the DNA of work podcast

December 5, 2023Episode 5928 min

How can you build talent and plan succession in a hybrid working world?

Picture this: you're navigating the intricate paths of hybrid working - what bearing does this have on talent and succession planning in your organization? That's the meaty conversation we're sinking our teeth into in this episode. We explore the key facets of finding, fostering, and future-proofing strong leadership within organisations. Take a moment to think about your role, your ambition, and how your organisation is supporting you and your colleagues.We consider how succession planning needs to change post pandemic, highlighting the ongoing challenges of seeking out talent in a remote work environment. There's a critical need to combat proximity bias, to develop skills more intentionally, to widen the candidate pool and work towards outlining role levels rather than specific positions. Our final focus is on molding a productive organizational culture in tune with the needs of employees and the pivotal role managers play in aligning succession planning with the organization’s strategy. Ultimately we need to craft uplifting work experiences and future planning that works for people and organisation together. AWA Host: Karen PlumGuests: Brad Taylor, Director of Consulting, AWAPaul Burton, Senior Associate, AWAJo Reynolds, Director of Talent & Culture, AICPA/CIMA (Association of International Certified Professional Accountants) AWA Guest details: https://www.advanced-workplace.com/our-team/ CONTACTS & WEBSITE details:AWA contact: Andrew Mawson AWA Institute contact: Natalia Savitcaia Music: Licensed by Soundstripe – Lone CanyonWant to know more about AWA? Follow us on LinkedIn Visit our website Thanks for listening to the DNA of work podcast

November 14, 2023Episode 5834 min

As India's economy expands, is a boom in office construction inevitable?

Get ready to supercharge your understanding of India's booming office space market with AWA's Shashi Sharma and Director of Corporate Real Estate for Carelon Global Solutions in India, Sanjeev Tullicherry. We ask whether India's economic growth can be balanced with environmental sustainability by adopting strategies like refurbishing existing buildings instead of constructing new ones? We delve into the heart of commercial real estate's environmental sustainability, extracting insights from the growth of the IT/ITS sector in India and the new trend of hybrid work. We discuss the transformative steps companies are taking towards construction sustainability, and how the Indian government is championing the transition towards renewable energy sources. We also shed light on workplace practices that are pushing the boundaries of sustainability. From waste management to electric vehicle adoption, companies are engineering green practices into their office culture and leasing terms, to make a real difference. Dive in to discover how certifications like WELL and LEED are stimulating the momentum for sustainable transformation in India's commercial real estate.AWA Host: Karen PlumGuests: Shashi Sharma, Senior Associate, AWA and Head of AWA Institute in IndiaSanjeev Tullicherry, Director of Corporate Real Estate, Carelon Global Solutions AWA Guest details: https://www.advanced-workplace.com/our-team/ CONTACTS & WEBSITE details:AWA contact: Andrew Mawson AWA Institute contact: Natalia Savitcaia Music: Licensed by Soundstripe – Lone CanyonWant to know more about AWA? Follow us on LinkedIn Visit our website Thanks for listening to the DNA of work podcast

November 1, 2023Episode 5726 min

Should we be licensed to work from home?

Ever imagined a world where trust, openness, and virtuality are the norm in the workplace? Buckle up as we dig deep into the seismic shift from an office-centric model to the hybrid work norm, all thanks to an unprecedented global pandemic. We have as our guests Andrew Mawson, Founder and Managing Director of AWA, and Brad Taylor, AWA's Director of Consulting, to provide a bird's eye view on this transitional phase and the friction it's sparking between senior leadership and employees. Now, let's consider the paradox of remote work - it isn't just about being able to work in your pajamas, it's about maintaining a balance between the duty of care and performance expectations. This episode unfolds the role of leaders and HR teams in this context, and we also explore the idea of licensing for remote work. It's a lot to unpack, but if you're trying to navigate the complexities of hybrid work or are simply interested in the future of work, we promise you valuable insights and takeaways!Get your copy of the new AWA report - "Should we be licensed to work from home?".Mentions:Andrew's Forbes article: Uneasy Ground: The Shifting Tectonic Plates Of Hybrid Working (forbes.com)AWA Host: Karen PlumGuests: Andrew Mawson, Founder and Managing Director, AWABrad Taylor, Director of Consulting, AWA AWA Guest details: https://www.advanced-workplace.com/our-team/ CONTACTS & WEBSITE details:AWA contact: Andrew Mawson AWA Institute contact: Natalia Savitcaia Music: Licensed by Soundstripe – Lone CanyonWant to know more about AWA? Follow us on LinkedIn Visit our website Thanks for listening to the DNA of work podcast

October 19, 2023Episode 5631 min

Evolving the employment contract for hybrid working

As hybrid working becomes the new normal, we know you're asking: how do we formalize this? Do we need to review our employment contracts? What about our duty of care for home workers? How do we balance individual needs with organizational efficiency? This episode looks at what needs to change, and what doesn't. We dig into the detail of employment contracts and relationships in the wake of COVID-19, exploring the benefits of putting more rigor in place to safeguard employee health and wellbeing in this new era. We grapple with some complexities of hybrid work arrangements, including when people work from a variety of locations, near and far. There are potential challenges popping up around data protection, tax, immigration, and employment rights - all of which we highlight . It's a deep and informative dive into the future of employment post-pandemic. AWA Host: Karen PlumGuests: Ewan Keen, Partner & Joint Head of Employment Department, Simons Muirhead BurtonBrad Taylor, Director of Consulting, AWA AWA Guest details: https://www.advanced-workplace.com/our-team/ CONTACTS & WEBSITE details:AWA contact: Andrew Mawson AWA Institute contact:Natalia Savitcaia Music: Licensed by Soundstripe – Lone CanyonWant to know more about AWA? Follow us on LinkedIn Visit our website Thanks for listening to the DNA of work podcast

October 3, 2023Episode 5531 min

Beyond green - is net zero part of your organisation's culture?

Unlock the secrets of transforming good intentions into actionable plans in the face of climate crisis with our special guest, Richard Lupo, managing director of Shift Environment and author of Happiness by Numbers. Lupo shares his insights on the UK's march towards achieving net zero and how climate change influences our day-to-day lives. AWA's Lara Al Ansari and Brad Taylor also join us, fresh from the AWA Institute's event, 'Beyond Green', sharing their thoughts on making net zero a part of corporate culture. We stress the fact that for any significant change to occur, our well-meaning intentions need to evolve into actionable strategies.We delve into the potency of incentives and nudging in encouraging greener modes of transport and fostering sustainable habits at work. We examine how leadership styles and corporate culture can enable sustainability initiatives and ensure all are included in the NetZero journey. Our conversation emphasizes clear communication, rational understanding and emotional engagement as essential tools in driving change. Prepare to rethink your sustainability strategy as we discuss the importance of a clear vision and an actionable plan in shaping a sustainable future.AWA Host: Karen PlumGuests: Richard Lupo, Managing Director SHIFT Environment - driving sustainability through environmental reporting and related consultancyBrad Taylor, Director of Consulting, AWALara Al Ansari, Analysis & Insights Lead, AWAWith thanks to AWA Senior Associate Monique Pothoff for her thoughts on the AWA Institute event. AWA Guest details: https://www.advanced-workplace.com/our-team/ Mentions:Richard Lupo's book ‘Happiness By Numbers’ describes the science of wellbeing measurement and how to include environmental protectionMaslow's Hierarchy of Needs CONTACTS & WEBSITE details:AWA contact: Andrew Mawson AWA Institute contact: Natalia Savitcaia Music: Licensed by Soundstripe – Lone CanyonWant to know more about AWA? Follow us on LinkedIn Visit our website Thanks for listening to the DNA of work podcast

September 26, 2023Episode 5431 min

Navigating and Overcoming Toxicity in Workplace Culture

Ever thought about the deep-seated toxicity lurking in your workplace? Hold your breath as we navigate this uncharted terrain with consultant psychologist Linda Doe, who brings to the table her vast experience in business psychology. We dissect the meaning of a toxic office culture, the tell-tale signs to look out for, and the devastating impacts it leaves in its wake, including poor mental wellbeing and sometimes alarming rates of staff turnover.But that's not all! We peel back the layers of the onion to reveal how toxic cultures persist in the era of hybrid and remote working. Linda sheds light on the importance of protecting our mental health, setting clear personal boundaries, and building a solid support network. Beyond that, we explore the role of team building events in nurturing a psychologically safe environment, even in remote settings. The conversation doesn't stop there - we dive into the critical role senior leaders play in setting the culture of an organization and the need for self-differentiated leaders to cultivate an authentic, positive work environment. Tune in to discover how behavioral changes can make all the difference in turning around a toxic work setting.AWA Host: Karen PlumGuests: Linda Doe - Consultant psychologist, MD of Apana Business Psychology and holistic wellbeing championBrad Taylor – Director of Consulting, AWALisa Sarjeant – Senior Associate, AWA AWA Guest details: https://www.advanced-workplace.com/our-team/ CONTACTS & WEBSITE details:AWA contact: Andrew Mawson AWA Institute contact: Natalia Savitcaia Music: Licensed by Soundstripe – Lone CanyonWant to know more about AWA? Follow us on LinkedIn Visit our website Thanks for listening to the DNA of work podcast

September 5, 2023Episode 5336 min

Exploring the Future of Work in the Metaverse

Are you prepared for the future of work? Will you be at the forefront of a revolutionary shift, or will you be left behind, much like Kodak when digital photography rose to prominence? In this engaging episode, we converse with Henry Massey and Andrew Mawson, experts on the brave new world of the Metaverse and its potential implications for our working lives. We unpick the vibrant tapestry of the Metaverse, contemplating an immersive, inclusive, and story-driven hybrid working environment that could drastically alter the way we collaborate, fostering visibility and promoting a sense of community. Imagine the Metaverse as a sociological experiment, an arena where humans will represent themselves and form tribes. How do we build trust in this virtual realm, maintain authenticity, and tackle challenges such as a Metaverse class system? Our discussion in this episode dissects these intriguing questions. We stress the importance of regulations and policies to foster an inclusive and safe Metaverse environment, explore the generational aspects of this new world, and reflect on how individuals might 'dress' to fit into their chosen tribes.This transformative potential of the Metaverse isn't limited to social interactions - it will impact the corporate world too. The onboarding experience, the training and upskilling processes could all be revolutionized. Picture a more immersive onboarding experience that could significantly boost employee satisfaction and retention. Think about training methods that harness the power of virtual reality for higher memory retention. And guess what? Some organizations are already making waves by implementing these innovations. So, buckle up, join our conversation, and let's navigate the future of work in the Metaverse together.Mentions:Matthew Ball's book - The Metaverse and How It Will Revolutionize EverythingForbes article: How Kodak FailedAWA Host: Karen PlumGuests: Henry Massey, Co-founder and Chief Metaverse Officer, Elora & Head of Emerging Technology, Workplace EvolutionariesAndrew Mawson, Founder & Managing Director, AWA AWA Guest details: https://www.advanced-workplace.com/our-team/ CONTACTS & WEBSITE details:AWA contact: Andrew Mawson AWA Institute contact:Natalia Savitcaia Music: Licensed by Soundstripe – Lone CanyonWant to know more about AWA? Follow us on LinkedIn Visit our website Thanks for listening to the DNA of work podcast