Episode Notes [03:47] Seth's Early Understanding of Questions [04:33] The Power of Questions [05:25] Building Relationships Through Questions [06:41] This is Strategy: Focus on Questions [10:21] Gamifying Questions [11:34] Conversations as Infinite Games [15:32] Creating Tension with Questions [20:46] Effective Questioning Techniques [23:21] Empathy and Engagement [34:33] Strategy and Culture [35:22] Microsoft's Transformation [36:00] Global Perspectives on Questions [39:39] Caring in a Challenging World Resources Mentioned The Dip by Seth Godin Linchpin by Seth Godin Purple Cow by Seth Godin Tribes by Seth Godin This Is Marketing by Seth Godin The Carbon Almanac This is Strategy by Seth Godin Seth's Blog What Does it Sound Like When You Change Your Mind? by Seth Godin Value Creation Masterclass by Seth Godin on Udemy The Strategy Deck by Seth Godin Taylor Swift Jimmy Smith Jimmy Smith Curated Questions Episode Supercuts Priya Parker Techstars Satya Nadella Microsoft Steve Ballmer Acumen Jerry Colonna Unleashing the Idea Virus by Seth Godin Tim Ferriss podcast with Seth Godin Seth Godin website Beauty Pill Producer Ben Ford Questions Asked When did you first understand the power of questions? What do you do to get under the layer to really get down to those lower levels? Is it just follow-up questions, mindset, worldview, and how that works for you? How'd you get this job anyway? What are things like around here? What did your boss do before they were your boss? Wow did you end up with this job? Why are questions such a big part of This is Strategy? If you had to charge ten times as much as you charge now, what would you do differently? If it had to be free, what would you do differently? Who's it for, and what's it for? What is the change we seek to make? How did you choose the questions for The Strategy Deck? How big is our circle of us? How many people do I care about? Is the change we're making contagious? Are there other ways to gamify the use of questions? Any other thoughts on how questions might be gamified? How do we play games with other people where we're aware of what it would be for them to win and for us to win? What is it that you're challenged by? What is it that you want to share? What is it that you're afraid of? If there isn't a change, then why are we wasting our time? Can you define tension? What kind of haircut do you want? How long has it been since your last haircut? How might one think about intentionally creating that question? What factors should someone think about as they use questions to create tension? How was school today? What is the kind of interaction I'm hoping for over time? How do I ask a different sort of question that over time will be answered with how was school today? Were there any easy questions on your math homework? Did anything good happen at school today? What tension am I here to create? What wrong questions continue to be asked? What temperature is it outside? When the person you could have been meets the person you are becoming, is it going to be a cause for celebration or heartbreak? What are the questions we're going to ask each other? What was life like at the dinner table when you were growing up? What are we really trying to accomplish? How do you have this cogent two sentence explanation of what you do? How many clicks can we get per visit? What would happen if there was a webpage that was designed to get you to leave? What were the questions that were being asked by people in authority at Yahoo in 1999? How did the stock do today? Is anything broken? What can you do today that will make the stock go up tomorrow? What are risks worth taking? What are we doing that might not work but that supports our mission? What was the last thing you did that didn't work, and what did we learn from it? What have we done to so delight our core customers that they're telling other people? How has your international circle informed your life of questions? What do I believe that other people don't believe? What do I see that other people don't see? What do I take for granted that other people don't take for granted? What would blank do? What would Bob do? What would Jill do? What would Susan do? What happened to them? What system are they in that made them decide that that was the right thing to do? And then how do we change the system? How given the state of the world, do you manage to continue to care as much as you do? Do you walk to school or take your lunch? If you all can only care if things are going well, then what does that mean about caring? Should I have spent the last 50 years curled up in a ball? How do we go to the foundation and create community action?…
Welcome to The Wellbeing Rebellion, an award-winning podcast! We are Ngozi Weller, a corporate wellbeing and productivity consultant, and Obehi Alofoje, a psychologist and behavioural change specialist. We are the founders of Aurora, a corporate culture consultancy that specialises in creating psychologically safe workplaces that enable employees to thrive, and for us, wellbeing is personal. The problem with employee wellbeing support, in most workplaces, is that it puts the responsibility on the person struggling to seek help. And when you are unwell, that is just too big a burden to bear. It's not enough to say that your door is always open. We need to get better at supporting our employees, and that is precisely what this podcast is about. The rebellion is here, and it is long overdue. So this podcast is specifically for the HR or business leader who wants to make a difference to their employees. And the bottom line is we want to create psychologically safe workplaces where employees are empowered to bring their whole selves to work. We want to create a culture that is inclusive, supportive, and encourages everyone from the shop floor to the boardroom to play their part. On the wellbeing rebellion podcast, we'll give you weekly up-to-date insights, strategies and tips that cover leadership capability, executive burnout, mental health, equity, diversity and inclusion and employee challenges such as retention, productivity and emotional resilience. Sometimes, it'll be just us. Other times we'll interview industry leaders and experts. Don't hesitate - listen and follow wherever you get your podcasts, because The Wellbeing Rebellion starts now!
Welcome to The Wellbeing Rebellion, an award-winning podcast! We are Ngozi Weller, a corporate wellbeing and productivity consultant, and Obehi Alofoje, a psychologist and behavioural change specialist. We are the founders of Aurora, a corporate culture consultancy that specialises in creating psychologically safe workplaces that enable employees to thrive, and for us, wellbeing is personal. The problem with employee wellbeing support, in most workplaces, is that it puts the responsibility on the person struggling to seek help. And when you are unwell, that is just too big a burden to bear. It's not enough to say that your door is always open. We need to get better at supporting our employees, and that is precisely what this podcast is about. The rebellion is here, and it is long overdue. So this podcast is specifically for the HR or business leader who wants to make a difference to their employees. And the bottom line is we want to create psychologically safe workplaces where employees are empowered to bring their whole selves to work. We want to create a culture that is inclusive, supportive, and encourages everyone from the shop floor to the boardroom to play their part. On the wellbeing rebellion podcast, we'll give you weekly up-to-date insights, strategies and tips that cover leadership capability, executive burnout, mental health, equity, diversity and inclusion and employee challenges such as retention, productivity and emotional resilience. Sometimes, it'll be just us. Other times we'll interview industry leaders and experts. Don't hesitate - listen and follow wherever you get your podcasts, because The Wellbeing Rebellion starts now!
Right, rebels, we need to talk. You’ve probably heard the whispers - DEI is out of fashion, companies are quietly shelving their initiatives, and the world seems to be moving backwards. But here’s the thing: just because something is out of favour doesn’t mean it’s not essential. In fact, it’s more important than ever. Today, I’m joined by the brilliant Gardy Guiteau, a powerhouse in this space, to unpack what’s really happening, why fear is driving the backlash, and what leaders need to do next. Join me. Highlights: (4:11) Challenges in DEI Work (7:54) Niceness vs. Authenticity (16:33) Historical Context and Lessons (26:10) Addressing Fear and Resistance (40:01) Managing Polarisation and Fostering Inclusion (46:35) Empowering Individuals and Organisational Responsibility Find out more: GJG Training & Consulting website Gardy Guiteau LinkedIn CCWE DEI Competency Programmes Take the Aurora 360 Quiz: How Effective Is Your Company's Wellbeing Strategy? Click Here Connect with us here: Website: aurorawellnessgroup.co.uk LinkedIn: Ngozi LinkedIn: Obehi Aurora Company Profile 2024 Book a Call here…
Psychological safety at work is one of those topics everyone talks about but few truly understand. Today, we’re joined by Hord Wbi, a driving force behind Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Rabobank. He’s sharing how they’re not just talking about change but embedding it into the heart of their workplace culture. If you’ve ever wondered how to take DEI from theory to action, this episode is for you. Rebels, lets do this! Highlights: (3:33) Rabobank's Mission and Philosophy (12:00) The Three Ships: Mentorship, Sponsorship, and Allyship (16:38) Challenges and Progress in DEI (20:20) Supporting Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) (29:10) Behavioral and Structural Inclusion (34:03) Psychological Safety at Rabobank Find out more: The Fearless Organization by Amy Edmonson Take the Aurora 360 Quiz: How Effective Is Your Company's Wellbeing Strategy? Click Here Connect with us here: Website: aurorawellnessgroup.co.uk LinkedIn: Ngozi LinkedIn: Obehi Aurora Company Profile 2024 Book a Call here…
Today, we’re talking about something that’s not just important - it’s essential. Neurodiversity and race are two topics that often get overlooked in workplace conversations, but together, they reveal a much bigger picture. I’m thrilled to have Reena Anand with me for this episode. From her personal experiences to her groundbreaking consultancy, Reena brings a fresh perspective to how businesses can build environments where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. Get ready for this one, because Reena is a powerhouse advocate for creating inclusive workplaces that truly work for everyone. Highlights: (3:57) Personal Connection and Neurodiversity Advocacy (15:04) Challenges of Parenting Neurodivergent Children (21:39) Impact of Personal Experiences on Professional Life (28:24) Creating a Neuroinclusive Workplace (31:31) The Role of Managers in Neuroinclusivity (37:10) A More Inclusive Society Find out more: 2024 City & Guilds Neurodiversity index Brene Brown podcast with Ibram X. Kendi on How to Be an Antiracist JAMA Research into Association of Race/Ethnicity and Social Disadvantage With Autism Prevalence in 7 Million School Children in England Take the Aurora 360 Quiz: How Effective Is Your Company's Wellbeing Strategy? Click Here Connect with us here: Website: aurorawellnessgroup.co.uk LinkedIn: Ngozi LinkedIn: Obehi Aurora Company Profile 2024 Book a Call here…
Welcome to this special New Year’s episode of The Wellbeing Rebellion. It’s that time when we press pause, take stock, and set our sights on what’s next. Today, we’re reflecting on the incredible conversations of last year, sharing our gratitude with you - our brilliant listeners - and giving you a glimpse of what’s coming up this season. So, grab a moment for yourself, and let’s kick off the year together, one intention at a time. Highlights: (1:45) Upcoming Guests and Topics for 2025 (3:13) Setting Intentions for 2025 (4:46) Closing Remarks and Call to Action Take the Aurora 360 Quiz: How Effective Is Your Company's Wellbeing Strategy? Click Here Connect with us here: Website: aurorawellnessgroup.co.uk LinkedIn: Ngozi LinkedIn: Obehi Aurora Company Profile 2024 Book a Call here…
2024 has been quite the year, hasn’t it? Massive shifts, big conversations, and plenty for leaders, HR teams, and culture champions to think about. In this episode, we’re looking back at the five key moments that shaped workplace cultures this year - from new laws to economic pressures - and unpacking what’s next for 2025. Whether you’re planning, reflecting, or just trying to keep up, this one’s for you. Highlights: (11:03) Impact of US Political Changes (19:06) Economic Challenges and Their Effect on Workplace Culture (25:06) Focus on Neurodiversity in the Workplace (30:51) The Role of AI in Workplace Efficiency (35:20) Future Opportunities and Strategies for 2025 (39:23) Closing Thoughts and Call to Action Take the Aurora 360 Quiz: How Effective Is Your Company's Wellbeing Strategy? Click Here Connect with us here: Website: aurorawellnessgroup.co.uk LinkedIn: Ngozi LinkedIn: Obehi Aurora Company Profile 2024 Book a Call here…
Hi, rebels. Let’s discuss something that’s got everyone talking - AI and the future of work. We’re not here for the sci-fi scare stories; instead, we’re focusing on how AI can actually make our work lives better and more meaningful. My guest today is James Akrigg, one of the sharpest minds I know when it comes to tech. He’s here to help us cut through the noise, share how AI can be a force for good, and maybe even settle a few fears along the way. I’m intrigued, and I know you will be too. Highlights: (3:08) Defining AI and Machine Learning (9:01) Impact of AI on Job Security (23:39) AI in Enhancing Learning and Well-being (39:06) Creating Inclusive Workplaces Using AI (42:43) AI in Strategic Planning and Decision Making (45:26) Using AI for Personal and Professional Development Find out more: James’ LinkedIn Where to start with Generative AI: OpenAI ChatGPT - ChatGPT - Still the most popular AI chat tool Google Gemini - Gemini (google.com) - One of the leaders in AI and Machine Learning Anthropic AI - Home \ Anthropic - Leading in AI safety and research Perplexity AI - https://www.perplexity.ai/ - Great for internet access to latest information Microsoft Copilot - Copilot (microsoft.com) - A great companion in the Microsoft Edge browser and perfect for Microsoft users Images and other digital creations - Microsoft Designer - Stunning designs in a flash Professional image creation with AI - Explore (midjourney.com) It's all about the prompt: Guide to prompting from Google (good for basic concepts) - here. Take the Aurora 360 Quiz: How Effective Is Your Company's Wellbeing Strategy? Click Here Connect with us here: Website: aurorawellnessgroup.co.uk LinkedIn: Ngozi LinkedIn: Obehi Aurora Company Profile 2024 Book a Call here…
In this episode, we’re joined by Mariya Findzhikova, the Global Lead of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at TomTom, to explore the power of grassroots growth in creating more inclusive workplace cultures. Mariya shares how TomTom is embedding DEI principles into its business strategy, building employee resource groups, and fostering psychological safety for employees. From leveraging leadership buy-in to amplifying voices through storytelling, Mariya breaks down practical steps for cultivating inclusion at every level of an organisation. We talk about creating safe spaces, empowering employee advocates, and using the “crawl, walk, run, fly” methodology to achieve long-term success. If you’ve ever wondered how to turn diversity into a true business advantage, Mariya’s thoughtful and honest perspective will leave you inspired. Here are the highlights: (3:50) Understanding DEI at TomTom (5:12) Formation and Role of ERGs at TomTom (7:22) Challenges and Basics of ERGs (11:04) Engaging and Supporting ERG Members (16:02) Training and Support for ERG Members (20:48) The Principle of Multiplying (24:55) Ensuring Psychological Safety (26:18) Conclusion and Tips for DEI Professionals Connect with Mariya: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariya-findzhikova/ https://tomtom.com/careers/ Take the Aurora 360 Quiz: How Effective Is Your Company's Wellbeing Strategy? Click Here Connect with us here: Website: aurorawellnessgroup.co.uk LinkedIn: Ngozi LinkedIn: Obehi Aurora Company Profile 2024 Book a Call here…
Today's episode of The Wellbeing Rebellion takes on a topic that’s often sidestepped in conversations about workplace inclusivity: the real obstacles people with disabilities face when job hunting. Disability inclusion expert Jane Hatton is here to shed light on this from her wealth of experience. She's not just a leading voice but a real change-maker, founding the world’s only global disability job board run by and for disabled people. The Expect a conversation packed with practical wisdom, bold truths, and the kind of insight that might just shift your perspective on what it means to have an inclusive workplace. Take the Aurora 360 Quiz: How Effective Is Your Company's Wellbeing Strategy? Click Here Connect with us here: Website: aurorawellnessgroup.co.uk LinkedIn: Ngozi LinkedIn: Obehi Aurora Company Profile 2024 Book a Call here…
On this week’s episode of The Wellbeing Rebellion, I am joined by Chris Folwell. Chris is Global Head of Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Awareness at Uber. He’s focused on making sure the Global DEI strategy is relevant across the EMEA region as well as Uber’s Global Mobility business. He has worked for a range of organisations across multiple sectors, in roles ranging from DEI, HR, Ops Leadership, Product Development, and Brand Management. Chris has some incredible insights to share on how prioritising wellbeing isn’t just about being kind (though that helps)—it’s about improving productivity, reducing sick days, and creating a work environment where people actually want to stay. We’ll be breaking down four key reasons why your business should be investing in wellbeing—strategic, tactical, moral, and personal. Spoiler: it’s not just about happy employees, it’s also about hitting your business goals, cutting costs, and building a workplace culture that thrives. If you’re curious about creating lasting change in your workplace, this episode is for you! Here are the highlights: (3:39) Four Reasons for Prioritising Employee Well-Being (11:46) Impact of Workplace Culture on Employee Well-Being (16:43) The Role of Data in Well-Being Initiatives (44:48) Challenges in Implementing Well-Being Initiatives (50:36) Examples of Successful Well-Being Initiatives Take the Aurora 360 Quiz: How Effective Is Your Company's Wellbeing Strategy? Click Here Connect with us here: Website: aurorawellnessgroup.co.uk LinkedIn: Ngozi LinkedIn: Obehi Aurora Company Profile 2024 Book a Call here…
This episode discusses sensitive topics related to suicide and the emotional aftermath of losing a loved one to suicide. Some listeners may find the content distressing. Please take care while listening, and if you feel that this may be too difficult for you, consider skipping this episode or listening with support nearby. This week, I sit down with Caroline Roodhouse, a mother who tragically lost her husband, Steve, to suicide. Caroline shares her deeply personal and emotional journey through grief, pain, and eventually finding a way to speak openly about her experience. This episode is a bit different, and we touch on topics that might be tough to hear. We discuss the impact of suicide on families, especially children, and how words, no matter how small, can leave lasting scars or offer immense comfort. Caroline’s story is not only about unimaginable grief but also about hope and how we can support loved ones in their darkest moments. Whether you’ve been affected by suicide or simply want to learn more about providing support, this conversation is essential. Thank you, Caroline, for sharing your story with such honesty and bravery. Here are the highlights: (7:36) Caroline's Story: Meeting Steve and Early Life Together (12:30) The Day Steve Went Missing (20:51) The Discovery and Aftermath (30:44) Impact on Caroline and Her Family (43:31) Evie's Animation and Its Impact (54:46) Advice for Supporting Colleagues Connect with Caroline: Caroline Roodhouse MCIPR - Communications Consultant - Alive With Ideas | LinkedIn Take the Aurora 360 Quiz: How Effective Is Your Company's Wellbeing Strategy? Click Here Connect with us here: Website: aurorawellnessgroup.co.uk LinkedIn: Ngozi LinkedIn: Obehi Aurora Company Profile 2024 Book a Call here…
In this episode, I’m excited to share the highlights and key takeaways from the Wellbeing at Work Summit. I’ll walk you through my thoughts on the event, including ITV’s inspiring approach to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and why their representation goals for 2025 are worth noting. We also delivered a workshop on productivity, but with a twist—we focused on managing energy rather than time, and how to do it without sacrificing your wellbeing. I’ll share insights on how to leverage your natural energy patterns to get more done and feel better about it. If you’re interested in actionable strategies for leading with empathy, inclusion, and increased productivity, this episode is definitely one to check out! Here are the highlights: ITV's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Strategy (2:36) Gambling in the Workplace (5:38) Personalised Well-being Strategies (7:22) Male Allyship and Workplace Support (10:27) Space Entrepreneurship and Team Dynamics (11:54) Productivity Workshop at the Summit (14:29) Impact of Health Issues on Productivity (18:31) Take the Aurora 360 Quiz: How Effective Is Your Company's Wellbeing Strategy? Click Here Connect with us here: Website: aurorawellnessgroup.co.uk LinkedIn: Ngozi LinkedIn: Obehi Aurora Company Profile 2024 Book a Call here…
Welcome to this special episode of The Wellbeing Rebellion , recorded live from the Wellbeing at Work Summit in London! I'm here in the heart of Westminster, sneaking into a quiet room to share some key insights and takeaways from today's panels and speakers. It's been an inspiring day with HR leaders, wellbeing professionals, and some of the top minds from companies like Sky, Channel 4, and Freshfields all coming together to explore how we can better support mental health and wellbeing in the workplace. I'll walk you through what’s caught my attention so far, from discussions about personalised wellbeing strategies to the challenge of adapting to a changing workforce. Whether you're in HR, management, or just curious about how to bring better wellbeing into your workplace, this episode has something for you! Here are the highlights: (0:54) The Wellbeing at Work Summit (4:04) First Session Insights (10:06) Panel Discussion on Wellbeing for All (13:44) Networking and Workshops at the Summit (16:49) Implementing Personalised Wellbeing Strategies Take the Aurora 360 Quiz: How Effective Is Your Company's Wellbeing Strategy? Click Here Connect with us here: Website: aurorawellnessgroup.co.uk LinkedIn: Ngozi LinkedIn: Obehi Aurora Company Profile 2024 Book a Call here…
In this week’s episode, we're breaking the silence and celebrating LGBTQ+ voices at work. I’m joined by two incredible guests, Matt Haworth and Claire Ebrey, the powerhouse duo behind Pride in Leadership, an organisation committed to empowering LGBTQ+ professionals to step up as leaders without fear of bias or discrimination. Matt and Claire share how their mission is creating safe, inclusive spaces where LGBTQ+ professionals can thrive, offering mentorship, training, and a vibrant community. We’ll unpack some of the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in the workplace and discuss practical ways to foster inclusivity. We also touch on generational shifts, intersectionality, and how to be an ally in meaningful ways. Whether you're an LGBTQ+ professional or looking to make your organisation more inclusive, this episode offers a candid, insightful look at why diversity matters and how we can all contribute to a more equitable workplace. Here are the highlights: (3:29) Discussion on LGBTQ+ Terminology (7:31) Personal Experiences and Backgrounds (15:42) Growing up queer (17:38) Discrimination in the workplace (29:14) Confidence and imposter syndrome (53:19) Advice for Allies and Inclusive Practices Links for Claire and Matt: Website Survey Take the Aurora 360 Quiz: How Effective Is Your Company's Wellbeing Strategy? Click Here Connect with us here: Website: aurorawellnessgroup.co.uk LinkedIn: Ngozi LinkedIn: Obehi Aurora Company Profile 2024 Book a Call here…
In today’s episode, we sit down with Liza McKelvey, VP of People and Culture at Cochlear, to discuss the impact of prioritising employee wellbeing in a time of crisis and beyond. Liza shares how her team embraced our framework during the pandemic’s toughest days, turning it into a long-term strategy that still resonates across cultures and teams today. We explore the importance of tailored approaches to wellbeing, why a one-size-fits-all method doesn't work, and how fostering a culture of care can transform workplace dynamics. If you're curious about making a meaningful investment in your team's wellbeing, you won’t want to miss Liza’s insights on finding creative, impactful ways to support your people—even when budgets are tight. Here are the highlights: (1:45) Challenges Faced During the Pandemic (3:20) Framework and Energy Management Tools (5:15) Justifying the Investment in Well-being Programs (7:16) Ease of Working with Aurora (11:24) Personal Stories and Impact of Aurora Take the Aurora 360 Quiz: How Effective Is Your Company's Wellbeing Strategy? Click Here Connect with us here: Website: aurorawellnessgroup.co.uk LinkedIn: Ngozi LinkedIn: Obehi Aurora Company Profile 2024 Book a Call here…
In this episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on what we do outside of hosting The Wellbeing Rebellion podcast. We’re diving into Aurora, the business we founded back in 2017, and how we’ve turned our personal pain into a mission to transform workplaces into high-performing cultures that value openness, trust, and true inclusivity. We break down the essence of Aurora—our passion for people-centered workplaces and our commitment to helping businesses create environments where everyone thrives, from top leadership to marginalised employees. Whether it’s mental health, racial equity, or leadership development, we’re all about strategic, evidence-based solutions that drive real change. Listen in to hear more about our work, our vision, and why we believe that when well-being is prioritised, success naturally follows. Here are the highlights: (3:39) Challenges and Solutions in Workplace Well-being (8:04) Reasons for Seeking Aurora's Support (12:29) The Aurora Wellbeing 360 Framework (17:11) Empowerment and Governance (26:17) Case Study and Testimonials (31:05) Conclusion and Call to Action Take the Aurora 360 Quiz: How Effective Is Your Company's Wellbeing Strategy? Click Here Connect with us here: Website: aurorawellnessgroup.co.uk LinkedIn: Ngozi LinkedIn: Obehi Aurora Company Profile 2024 Book a Call here…
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