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In this episode of Meaningful Work Matters, host Andrew Soren explores the complex relationship between stress and meaningful work with Jess Annison, positive psychology practitioner and author of the upcoming book "Career: How to Conquer Your Mid-Career Crisis and Create Your Most Meaningful Work Life."
Jess shares her research findings and practical insights on navigating the interplay between stress and purpose in our professional lives, challenging common assumptions about meaningful work.
Key topics discussed:The six "handshakes" between stress and meaningful work (10:15)How meaningful work can both exacerbate and alleviate stress (13:30)The concept of "bottomless pit" of meaningful work in certain professions (11:45)Strategies for individuals to navigate stress in purposeful careers (22:45)The role of organizations in fostering meaningful work while managing stress (25:30)Career crafting as a tool for sustainable meaningful work (35:20)Guest Bio:Jess Annison is a UK-based positive psychology practitioner, leadership coach, and career consultant. With a background in organizational change and a master's in applied positive psychology, Jess brings both practical experience and academic insights to the discussion of meaningful work.
Resources mentioned:"A Few Things in Life Are Easy and Worth Doing" research paper by Jess Annison (Frontiers in Psychology)Job Demands-Resources Theory (05:30)Bunderson and Thompson's zookeeper study on meaningful work (10:45)Michael Steger's CARMA model for leadership behaviors (28:15)Listeners will gain a nuanced understanding of the stress-meaning relationship in their careers and learn practical strategies for creating sustainable, fulfilling work lives. This episode encourages reflection on the complexities of meaningful work and offers insights for both individuals and organizations in navigating these challenges.
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In this episode of Meaningful Work Matters, host Andrew Soren unpacks the concept of "unlearning silence" with Elaine Lin Hering, author of "Unlearning Silence: How to Speak Your Mind, Unleash Talent, and Live More Fully."
Elaine shares her insights on creating more authentic and inclusive work environments by addressing the complex dynamics of silence in the workplace.
Key topics discussed:The concept of "unlearning silence" and its importance in workplace communication (2:57)Cultural and societal factors contributing to learned silence (12:57)Strategies for individuals to reconnect with their authentic voice (38:02)The role of leaders in creating environments where diverse voices are valued (43:56)Balancing strategic silence and oppressive silence (34:06)Guest Bio:Elaine Lin Hering is a recovering attorney turned accidental author. With over a decade of experience in corporate education and leadership development, Elaine has dedicated her career to improving workplace communication and helping people show up authentically in their professional and personal lives.
Resources mentioned:"Unlearning Silence: How to Speak Your Mind, Unleash Talent, and Live More Fully" by Elaine Lin HeringAnkari Williams' work on micro-activism (36:06)Research on psychological safety in the workplace (27:29)Listeners will gain practical advice for both individuals and managers on fostering environments where every voice can be heard, contributing to more meaningful and impactful work.
This episode challenges listeners to reflect on their own relationship with silence and provides actionable steps for creating more authentic and inclusive workplaces.
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This episode of Meaningful Work Matters features Frank Martela, PhD Assistant Professor at Aalto University, and explores the nuanced landscape of meaningful work.
While the pursuit of meaningful work is often celebrated, Frank sheds light on both its benefits and potential pitfalls.
Drawing from his extensive research, he offers a comprehensive view of what constitutes meaningful work. He introduces a innovative model of well-being that bridges individual needs with broader societal and environmental concerns.
Listeners will gain valuable insights into:
The key dimensions that make work truly meaningfulHow to recognize and navigate the potential downsides of highly engaging workA fresh perspective on well-being that goes beyond traditional measuresThe crucial link between personal fulfillment and sustainable practices -
Ever wonder how constructive dissent could transform your workplace?
In this episode, we explore the concept of principled rebellion with Dr. Todd Kashdan, a renowned psychologist and professor at George Mason University. With over two decades of research in positive psychology and well-being, Dr. Kashdan offers valuable insights into fostering meaningful dissent in the workplace.
Listeners will discover strategies for navigating organizational dynamics, championing new ideas, and creating environments that welcome constructive disagreement.
Dr. Kashdan examines the delicate balance between innovation and conformity, providing a nuanced perspective on how principled insubordination can lead to more fulfilling and impactful work.
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In this episode of the Meaningful Work Matters podcast, Andrew sits down with Antoinette Weibel, a professor of Human Resource Management at the University of St. Gallen.
Antoinette is a leading expert in organizational psychology and has been at the forefront of research and initiatives aimed at fostering good leadership in organizations and societies.
In this wide-ranging conversation, Antoinette and Andrew dive into the complexities of meaningful work, the critiques of positive psychology in organizational contexts, and Antoinette's work on reimagining performance management to better support human flourishing.
Antoinette's insights on practical wisdom, ethics, and the role of business in society provide a thought-provoking framework for rethinking the future of work.
Listeners will leave this episode with a deeper understanding of the limitations of traditional performance management systems and the need for a more holistic, ethical approach to supporting employee flourishing.
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In this episode of Meaningful Work Matters, Andrew sits down with Professor Mijeong Kwon, Assistant Professor of Management at the University of Colorado Denver Business School, to discuss her research on the "moralization of intrinsic motivation" and its impact on meaningful work.
Professor Kwon reveals how a deep love for one's work can lead people to see their passion as the "right" reason for working. However, this moralization can sometimes result in negative outcomes like guilt, self-exploitation, and neglect of other important aspects of life.
Through her research in Latin America and the US, Kwon found that moralizing passion can also reinforce existing biases.
Andrew and Mijeong explore the intricate balance between intrinsic factors like passion and extrinsic factors like pay and status. They also discuss practical strategies for managers to support diverse motivations and create safe environments where passion can flourish.
The conversation highlights the complexities of passion and meaning at work and emphasizes that true leadership involves recognizing that different things motivate different people.
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In this heartwarming and enlightening conversation, Professor Ella Henry shares her insights on meaningful work and well-being from a Māori worldview.
Ella Henry is a prominent figure in Māori Indigenous development with a background in sociology, business, and Māori media. Over the past two decades, she has been actively involved in research, teaching, and advocacy. Ella's extensive involvement includes serving as a Treaty Negotiator for Ngātikahu ki Whangaroa and as Director of Māori Advancement for the Business School.
Throughout this episode, Ella discusses traditional Maori models of well-being, which emphasize healing the whole person through strong connections between body, emotions, intellect, spirituality, and family/community.
She explains that the Maori concept of "calling" is about understanding one's innate strengths and being nurtured towards work that aligns with those abilities rather than seeing it as a higher calling from an external source.
Through her thoughtful storytelling and analysis, Ella offers valuable Indigenous perspectives that provide new lenses for understanding the relationship between work, identity, and living well.
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In this episode, Andrew Soren speaks with Mat Duerden, a professor of experience design and management at Brigham Young University in Utah.
Mat reveals how to harness the power of experience design to infuse work with greater meaning. You’ll learn how intentional design can turn everyday tasks into impactful experiences that resonate deeply with you and those around you.
Discover the art of co-creating experiences and understand how your unique background influences the way you perceive and engage with the world. Mat guides us through the parallels between experience design and theater, helping us see our roles as both audience members and actors in life's journey.
Through this conversation, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how intentional experience design can contribute to creating meaningful work—both inside and outside the workplace.
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On this episode of Meaningful Work Matters, host Andrew is joined by Gerard Seijts and Kimberley Young Milani from the Institute for Leadership at Western University. The trio discuss the vital yet often overlooked role of character in leadership.
Gerard and Kimberley have spent over a decade researching the dimensions of strong leadership character through rigorous studies involving thousands of leaders. They developed an evidence-based framework identifying 11 key aspects of character, such as accountability, collaboration, courage, and humanity.
But character development has long been neglected in business education. As Gerard explains, their work aims to bring character back into the leadership conversation where it belongs.
With compelling research and real-world examples, this discussion brings the complex yet vital topic of character to life.
You’ll walk away with a renewed understanding of how developing strengths like humility, courage, and justice can unlock potential and design truly meaningful work.
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This episode of Meaningful Work Matters is a rich conversation with researcher Marjo Lips-Wiersma on navigating meaningful work.
Marjo Lips-Wiersma, Professor of Ethics and Sustainability Leadership at Auckland University of Technology, has researched meaningful work, sustainability, hope and well-being for decades, and her work is utilized by organizations worldwide. She is also the co-director of Map of Meaning.
In this episode, Marjo and Andrew discuss the complexity of defining meaningful work and why it can be difficult to discuss in organizations. Marjo also outlines key dimensions of workplace meaning, including contribution, potential, relationships, and integrity.
Marjo provides tools for reconciling inspiration and reality, helping listeners understand meaningful work in both aspirational and grounded terms.
Overall, this thought-provoking discussion offers frameworks to design work that supports people's well-being in a meaningful way.
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In this episode of Meaningful Work Matters, Andrew interviewed Jeff Thompson, Director of the Sorensen Center for Moral and Ethical Leadership and long-time professor at Brigham Young University.
Jeff Thompson shares his insights from over two decades of teaching and researching meaningful work, particularly in healthcare. He defines a calling as the convergence of natural talents, passions, and purpose, illustrating its historical roots and contemporary relevance.
Drawing on recent research, Jeff discusses the concept of a "transcendent calling" and its profound impact on motivation and fulfillment. He highlights studies, including one on zookeepers, that challenge stereotypes and reveal deep dedication rooted in passion and purpose.
Jeff provides actionable strategies for leaders to cultivate gratitude, growth opportunities, and a sense of community among their teams.
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In this episode, we sat down with Dr. Isaac Prilleltensky, Mautner Endowed Chair in Community Well-Being and Professor of Educational and Psychological Studies at the University of Miami. Dr. Prilleltensky is also an internationally renowned keynote speaker, author, researcher, and well-being advocate.
Andrew and Dr. Prilleltensky discuss the importance of meaningful work and mattering. Dr. Prilleltensky draws from his scholarly research on topics like justice, mattering, and well-being, as well as his practical experience improving workplace environments.
Dr. Prilleltenky shares insights into how feeling valued through recognition while adding value to others through meaningful contributions are key but often overlooked aspects of workplace engagement. He discusses strategies for prioritizing employee dignity, recognition, and collective success to create a "we culture" where fairness and belonging are prioritized over individual pursuits.
For people managers and leaders: you will learn concrete ways to foster environments where all staff feel they matter.
If you'd like to learn more about Dr. Prilleltenky or get in touch, head this way!
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In this episode, we sat down with Dr. Evgenia Lysova, Associate Professor of Organizational Behavior at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam.
Dr. Lysova is on a mission to help people find more significance in their work and daily lives. But she doesn’t shy away from the topic's complexity. In this episode, she delves into the interplay between individual values, job design, corporate social responsibility (CSR), and societal expectations that shape our pursuit of meaningful work.
Amidst the evolving landscape of work, particularly with the advent of artificial intelligence, Dr. Lysova explores the challenges and opportunities in sustaining meaningfulness.
The conversation also ventures into practical strategies for individuals and organizations to cultivate a culture where meaningful work thrives, emphasizing the importance of mindfulness, reflection, and fostering supportive relationships.
Join us as we unravel the layers of meaningful work, offering insights for organizational leaders, coaches, and consultants who aim to unlock the full potential of their teams and create work environments that help unlock people's gifts, strengths, and potential.
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In this episode of Meaningful Work Matters, Andrew sits down with Michael Pratt from Boston College’s Carroll School of Management. With over two decades of research on meaningful work, Michael offers profound insights on the nuances of what makes work personally significant and worthwhile.
Michael shares six work orientations that people tend to bring to their professional lives. We might be motivated by utilitarian motives, status, passion, service, kinship or mastery. Michael draws from his extensive organizational behavior and sociology background to show the influence of culture on our perceptions of meaningful work. Michael reflects on his research journey, highlighting the pivotal role of familial upbringing, societal norms, and media portrayals in shaping our understanding and motivations around work.
As the discussion unfolds, Pratt shares actionable strategies for organizations looking to cultivate a more meaningful work environment. From fostering open dialogue to providing opportunities for role customization, he offers pragmatic advice for leaders seeking to empower their teams and foster a sense of purpose and fulfillment in their work.
Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that promises to inspire meaningful change in how we validate meaningful work in ourselves and others.
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In this episode, Andrew speaks with Joe Grzywacz about the work-life interface and its profound impact on health and well-being. Joe is currently the Associate Dean of Research and Faculty Development at San Jose State University in the College of Health and Sciences.
Throughout the conversation, Joe shares insights from the Mid-Life in the United States study (MIDUS) - a national longitudinal study of health and well-being in the US - aimed at understanding successful aging. MIDUS is unique because it measures social, biological, economic, and psychological factors across disciplines. Today, it is one of the largest studies of its kind, funded by the National Institute on Health.
Andrew and Joe also explore the complex interplay between work and family, highlighting the enriching synergy and potential discord between these spheres. Joe contrasts the segmented reality prevalent in the United States with the integrated ethos found in other cultures. He also delves into the pervasive phenomenon of alienation, which can erode the significance of work and impact mental health.
Ultimately, Joe encourages listeners to pursue meaningful work while cautioning against pursuing perfection, urging individuals to embrace the intrinsic value embedded within life's multifaceted domains.
Join us for a thoughtful discussion on human flourishing and fulfillment!
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In this episode, Andrew speaks with Sara Steffens about the humanity of work, employee activism, and the ethical duty of worker well-being.
Sara is the Director of the Worker Power Coalition and is a strong advocate for worker empowerment. She uses her experience growing up in a working-class family to drive her passion for social justice and grassroots organizing. With a particular focus on the rights of marginalized workers, Sara is a champion of intersectional activism and works hard to amplify diverse voices. Even beyond her role, Sara mentors future leaders and contributes to national discourse through media appearances.
Andrew and Sara discuss the unique role of unions in promoting dignity and decency in the workplace, as well as the power dynamics that often lead to the exploitation of workers. They explore the intersection between employee activism and meaningful work, highlighting the positive impact of activism on individual well-being and workplace change.
The conversation also touches upon the impact of the pandemic on worker well-being, the need for policy changes to support workers, and the importance of recognizing the humanity of workers in organizations.
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In this episode, Andrew speaks with Steve Leventhal about the role of meaningful work within a global, social-impact organization and how leaders should emulate their mission and values internally through training and modeling behavior.
Steve Leventhal is the Founder and CEO of WorldBeing, which addresses the challenges and intersections between inner health and global well-being. WorldBeing programming focuses on vulnerable and marginalized adolescent women and youth in low and middle-income countries.
Steve and Andrew discuss the notion of meaningfulness within a deeply meaningful workplace, such as a nonprofit or social impact organization. Steve suggests employees approach the work from a place of compassion versus anger to avoid burning out. He also reflects on his approach to building his organization, emphasizing internal training that mirrors the programming the organization delivers to its beneficiaries.
Steve reflects on the early days of founding his nonprofit and walking a fine line between pushing his envisioned values and listening to what his staff wanted to emulate and foster.
We know you’ll leave this conversation feeling inspired, motivated, and possibly reevaluating how meaningful work shows up in your life.
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In this episode, Andrew speaks with Scott Barry Kaufman about transcendence, humanism, and what Abraham Maslow would have thought about meaningful work today.
Scott has done groundbreaking research on intelligence, creativity, and human potential. He is the founder and director of the Center for Human Potential and the founder of Self-Actualization Coaching. Scott is interested in using his research, podcast, teaching, and coaching to help all minds live a creative, fulfilling, and self-actualized life. His early educational experiences made him realize the deep reservoir of untapped potential of students, including bright and creative children diagnosed with a learning disability.
Over the last few years, Scott has dug deep into the work of Abraham Maslow. In this conversation, we hear why Maslow never would have described our human needs as a pyramid. Instead, our journey to self-actualization and transcendence is more like a sailboat. The hull represents our safety, connection, and self-esteem needs — keeping us floating on top of the water. Our sails, fueled by exploration, purpose, and love — provide us with a system of growth that allows us to travel great distances.
As the conversation deepens, Scott shares Maslow's vision for the psychology of the peace table, reflecting on the urgent need to understand human nature, division, and the potential for peace. The episode resonates with wisdom, challenging listeners to reconsider their perspectives on work, growth, and the profound possibilities embedded in meaningful living.
Explore this and other episodes of Meaningful Work Matters 👉 https://www.eudaimonicbydesign.com/podcast
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In this episode, Andrew speaks with Tamara Myles and Wes Adams. Both Tamara and Wes are accomplished consultants, trainers and speakers who have extensively researched the relationship between meaningful work and leadership, and in this episode, they share their findings and experiences.
During this conversation, Tamara and Wes discuss impact potential, recruiting for values, and fostering personal connections. They point out that adopting these behaviors can make workplaces more harmonious and productive.
This podcast episode offers valuable insights into how organizations can create a more inclusive and collaborative workplace culture. By implementing the six behaviors discussed in the episode, leaders can bridge generational and cultural divides and make work meaningful for everyone.
For those interested in following along with Wes and Tamara's research, be sure to visit: makeworkmeaningful.co while you wait for the release of their book.
Don't forget to follow the Meaningful Work Matters podcast and leave a review to share your thoughts on today's conversation. Your feedback helps us continue bringing you valuable insights into the world of work and meaning!
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Today, we have the pleasure of hosting Dr. Katie Bailey, Professor of Work and Employment in the Department of Human Resource Management and Employment Relations at King’s College of London's Business School.
Dr. Bailey has been a driving force behind various projects, including editing the Oxford Handbook of Meaningful Work and establishing the Meaning and Purpose Network (MAP Net) at King's College. She has collaborated with leading thinkers throughout her career, bridging the gap between academia and real-world applications.
As the dialogue unfolds, Dr. Bailey introduces the concept of "existential labor," where individuals may act as if they find their work meaningful due to organizational pressures. This prompts an insightful discussion on meaningful work's personal and moral aspects, emphasizing the importance of aligning work with an individual's values.
Don't forget to follow the Meaningful Work Matters podcast and leave a review to share your thoughts on today's conversation. Your feedback helps us continue bringing you valuable insights into the world of work and meaning!
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