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