In today's episode of Speaking of Inclusion... I am joined by Jim Thorp, a health coach and workplace stress expert, to talk all things workplace stress. What triggers it, where it shows up in our lives, and most importantly, what we can actually do about it. Jim brings a grounded holistic perspective, encouraging us to consider both the physical and emotional aspects of stress, not just as individuals but as teams and organisations.
Throughout our conversation, you'll hear real-world examples, from office temperature battles to the overlooked impact of home life on how we show up at work. We explore why striving for a completely stress-free workplace is probably a fantasy, and instead focus on actionable ways to move towards 'stressed less' environments. Jim Thorp shares practical advice for noticing stress, auditing wellbeing, and how small changes really do build towards happier, healthier teams.
Three key takeaways you’ll get from this episode:
Recognising stress, not just fighting it, is the first step toward reducing its impact, whether it's something you’re carrying into work from home or workplace irritations like hot desking and unfriendly coffee machines.
Stress affects everyone differently, and the way an organisation addresses it must be just as varied. Generic fixes rarely work; understanding individual differences is crucial.
Holistic health approaches (thinking beyond physical fitness to nutrition, sleep, emotional wellbeing, and even thermogenic stresses) can unlock better performance, greater inclusion and improved retention.
While you’re listening today, I invite you to reflect on this question:
How well do you recognise and respond to the sources of stress, both in yourself and your colleagues, and how could that change the everyday experience at work?
You can connect with Jim via his website www.JTEthos.com or on LinkedIn JimThorp
Before you settle in, here’s a little request: If you enjoy the podcast and want to help keep it funded, head to coff.ee/speakingofinclusion and buy me a virtual coffee. Every cup goes a long way in helping us keep these human conversations going.
Speaking of Inclusion is hosted by Katie Allen. Katie is a specialist inclusion consultant and confidence coach, offering a no BS approach to DEI and helping people become more confident in important human conversations.
Theme music is courtesy of Epidemic Sounds – "No Drama" by Alder
