• 244. Friendships Create Employee Engagement
    Jul 4 2025

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    Do you have a work BFF? In this first episode of our 4-part Friendships at Work series, we dig into the surprisingly powerful impact of having friends on the job — and why it’s about more than just sharing a coffee or a lunchtime laugh. Think about any big life event — a wedding, a milestone birthday — and chances are, a current or former colleague is on the guest list. Rather than a nice to have, we explore why friendships are a need to have for sustaining engagement, well-being, and long-term success at work — recognising that friendships come in all shapes, sizes, and strengths.

    Backed by Gallup’s landmark research, we unpack how having a best friend at work (Q10 on their famous Q12 survey) correlates directly with higher engagement, lower turnover, safer workplaces, and greater profitability. From fewer accidents to stronger morale and better customer service, it turns out that being friendly pays off — both in short-term outcomes and those career-long magic moments we treasure, especially when we collect lifelong friends among our ex-colleagues.

    We share real-world stories where workplace friendships have helped teams thrive — and explore the cultural barriers that can get in the way. It’s not about forcing connection, but about fostering an environment where genuine, trusting relationships can naturally flourish.

    Full of practical insights, coaching takeaways, and our signature reflections on the secret to being more human at work; this is a useful listen for anyone looking to lift team morale, build a stronger culture, or lead with a more connected mindset.

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    33 mins
  • 243. Creating Inclusive Workplaces 2030: Pride, Progress & Practical Steps
    Jun 30 2025

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    In our special bonus episode, we reflect on the powerful conversations shared throughout our Taking Pride series—bringing together the key themes, insights, and practical takeaways from our four incredible guests.

    From understanding the evolving language of gender identity to the importance of authentic allyship, cultural sensitivity, and courageous leadership, we revisit the moments that truly moved us—and the lessons we hope to carry forward in our work and lives.

    Whether it was Steph’s reminder to lead with curiosity, Olly’s story of self-definition, Sophie’s call to show up for others, or Bhavna’s wisdom around mindset and multicultural identity—each episode added depth to our understanding of what everyday Pride really looks like.

    This wrap-up episode is all about celebrating progress, acknowledging the work still to do, and encouraging you to stay open, ask questions, and keep the conversation going—365 days a year. Its not just about the badge or the lanyard - its about showing up as a human being and for many, our workplaces are our second homes and our colleagues our families.

    Join us on Instagram @secretsfromacoach to share your biggest ‘aha’ moments and the little compassionate moments you’re inspired to make.

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    42 mins
  • 242. Pride and Cultural Identity: The Audacity to Thrive
    Jun 27 2025

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    In the fourth episode of our Taking Pride series where we hear from different community perspectives, we’re joined by the inspiring Bhavna Raithatha—also known as the Mindset Ninja—for a powerful conversation about Pride, resilience, and the layered experiences of cultural identity.

    Bhavna shares her personal journey of overcoming trauma, navigating bullying, and embracing her 'tri-cultural' identity with grace and grit. With warmth and wisdom, she unpacks the emotional toll of societal expectations, the pressure of representation, and the deep need for community support in finding a sense of belonging.

    Through honest reflections and thought-provoking insights, Bhavna highlights how mindset, collaboration, and empathy are vital tools for personal and professional growth. We explore how leaders can show up with courage, practice authentic allyship, and create safer spaces where people feel seen, supported, and free to be themselves.

    This episode is an invitation to explore the richness of cultural education, the strength of self-exploration, and the importance of embracing our whole selves—especially during Pride and beyond. As Bhavna says: Lay down your fear. Do it Scared.

    Join the conversation on Instagram @secretsfromacoach and share what helps you stay grounded, open, and inclusive on your own journey.

    You can connect with Bhavna via her LinkedIn profile and here is a link to her book Driven: The Audacity to Thrive. Navigating and Redefining Wellbeing in Your Business and Life

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    1 hr and 5 mins
  • 241. Celebration of Difference and Allyship
    Jun 20 2025

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    In the third episode of our Taking Pride series, we explore the vital role of allyship in creating safe, respectful spaces for LGBTQIA+ colleagues—especially those who may be vulnerable or marginalised.

    We’re joined by the courageous and articulate Sophie, who shares deeply personal stories of moments where a lack of allyship turned already challenging experiences into something far more painful. Her reflections highlight why recognising, respecting, and celebrating differences isn’t just nice to have—it’s essential.

    This episode is a call to action for all of us to notice when support is needed and to have the courage to stand by someone or call others in with compassion and clarity.

    Have you ever stepped up as an ally or witnessed a powerful moment of support? Share your ‘ally moments’ with us on Instagram @secretsfromacoach and help amplify the power of everyday solidarity.

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    51 mins
  • 240. An Everyday Guide to Navigating Gender Complexities
    Jun 13 2025

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    In the second episode of our Taking Pride series, we explore the evolving language around gender identity and how greater understanding can lead to everyday moments of inclusion.

    We’re joined by the thoughtful and engaging Olly Cooper, who shares his lived experience of identifying as a Demi-Boy and what that means in practice—offering a personal perspective that brings clarity and depth to a term many are still learning about.

    This episode invites listeners to reflect on their own learning journeys and to approach gender terminology with calm curiosity rather than fear of getting it wrong. We discuss how open-minded conversations and small shifts in language can create space for everyone to feel seen and respected.

    Have you had an “aha—I get it now” moment around gender identity or language? Share it with us on Instagram @secretsfromacoach to inspire others and grow a culture of learning and inclusion.

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    58 mins
  • 239. Pride Month - Am I Safe to Be Me?
    Jun 6 2025

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    In the first episode of our special 5-part Secrets From a Coach series for Pride Month, we’re joined by the insightful Steph Constantinides to explore how inclusion can become part of everyday workplace experiences.

    Steph shares personal reflections on what it means to navigate work environments where even the simplest introductions can involve careful risk assessments about self-disclosure. She invites us to consider how small actions—like welcoming a new colleague with warm curiosity instead of invasive questioning—can foster genuine belonging.

    With calm wisdom and practical insight, Steph helps us understand the moments that can transform a workplace into a safe and affirming space. Her stories highlight the power of empathy, reassurance, and intentional connection.

    Join the conversation on Instagram @secretsfromacoach, where we’re inviting listeners to share their own ‘creating safe moments’ stories.

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    36 mins
  • 238. Combatting Death Star Workplace Dynamics
    May 30 2025

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    In this energising episode, we shine a light on the darker corners of workplace culture—the ones that feel more like the Death Star than a thriving Rebel base. Whether it's low morale, reactive behaviours, silent tension, or full-blown conflict, these dynamics can quietly sabotage performance, collaboration, and wellbeing. We share practical ways to swap out Storm Trooper compliance for Super Trouper energy.

    We explore how to recognise the early warning signs that a culture needs a reset—the small 'whispers' in a team that often go unheard until it’s too late. You'll hear practical tools for addressing toxic undercurrents, mediating conflict with confidence, and guiding teams back toward trust, connection, and future-focused thinking.

    This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to shift their organisation from drained and divided to hopeful and high-performing. Because even the most entrenched Death Star dynamics can be dismantled—with the right insight, intention, and just a touch of Rebel spirit.

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    35 mins
  • 237. A Rebel Alliance Approach to Performance Appraisal Systems
    May 23 2025

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    In our latest episode where we take the wisdom from Star Wars and apply to our world of work - and in this one we’re joining the Rebel Alliance to rethink how we approach performance appraisal systems. Joined by HR leader Kerri Fionda-Brookes, she inspires us to channel the Rebels: united with a shared purpose—despite different skills, styles, and backgrounds. We explore how performance reviews can become more human, empowering, and fit for the modern workplace.

    We dive into:

    • Why traditional appraisal systems often miss the mark
    • How to create a feedback culture rooted in trust and shared goals
    • What emotional intelligence and team alignment can do for ongoing performance

    Because when people feel seen, heard, and part of something bigger, they don’t just comply—they commit.

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    34 mins