Shows
Find Grow Keep2.80 Embedding Accountability: Insights from Yarno’s Lachy GrayIn this episode, Karen Kirton is joined by Lachy Gray, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Yarno, a remote microlearning platform, to dive deeper into what accountability looks like in action inside a business. After exploring the theory in Episode 81, Karen brings in a business leader who’s built systems that make accountability and feedback part of the company’s DNA.In today’s episode, you will learn:How Yarno creates role clarity with “job scorecards” Lachy shares how the team keeps role responsibilities visible and up to date, and how everyo...2024-03-1719 min
Make It WorkNavigating the Future of Education with AI - Insights from Angela Connell-RichardsIn episode 19 of series 4 of the Make it Work Podcast, Angela Connell-Richards, CEO of Vivacity, joins Karen Kirton and Lachy Gray to explore the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the training industry. Drawing on her experiences, Angela discusses the integration of generative AI, specifically ChatGPT, in education, emphasizing its role in writing materials, creating presentations, and enhancing productivity. She shares insights on making AI personal, addresses concerns such as plagiarism, and predicts significant changes in the next 12 months. Angela underscores the importance of educators adapting to AI and highlights the need for responsible legislation to address p...2023-11-3033 minMake It WorkNavigating the Future of Education with AI - Insights from Angela Connell-RichardsIn episode 19 of series 4 of the Make it Work Podcast, Angela Connell-Richards, CEO of Vivacity, joins Karen Kirton and Lachy Gray to explore the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the training industry. Drawing on her experiences, Angela discusses the integration of generative AI, specifically ChatGPT, in education, emphasizing its role in writing materials, creating presentations, and enhancing productivity. She shares insights on making AI personal, addresses concerns such as plagiarism, and predicts significant changes in the next 12 months. Angela underscores the importance of educators adapting to AI and highlights the need for responsible legislation to address p...2023-11-3033 min
Make It WorkPrioritising Workplace Mental Health and Burnout SupportIn the fast-paced world of modern workplaces, the mental health and well-being of our teams are increasingly important. Today Lachy and Karen delved into the intricacies of workplace mental health, discussing anxiety, stress, and burnout. 2023-11-0226 minMake It WorkPrioritising Workplace Mental Health and Burnout SupportIn the fast-paced world of modern workplaces, the mental health and well-being of our teams are increasingly important. Today Lachy and Karen delved into the intricacies of workplace mental health, discussing anxiety, stress, and burnout. 2023-11-0226 min
Make It WorkHow to Use a Digital Tool to Support UpskillingThis week Lachy and Karen talk to Mark Eggers, co-founder and head of sales of Yarno, a team-based gamified learning platform that embeds information to improve your team’s performance in a fun and engaging way. They discuss how Yarno embeds and reinforces information to support upskilling teams and the challenges around defining learning success. Join the conversation2023-10-0538 minMake It WorkHow to Use a Digital Tool to Support UpskillingThis week Lachy and Karen talk to Mark Eggers, co-founder and head of sales of Yarno, a team-based gamified learning platform that embeds information to improve your team’s performance in a fun and engaging way. They discuss how Yarno embeds and reinforces information to support upskilling teams and the challenges around defining learning success. Join the conversation2023-10-0538 min
Make It WorkCreating a Culture of KindnessKaren and Lachy revisit one of the most popular episodes from season 3 which was about what kindness looks like in the workplace (from March 2022). They talk about what behaviors to expect in a kind workplace culture, from open and transparent conversations to empathy, respect, and consideration for others.2023-09-0734 minMake It WorkCreating a Culture of KindnessKaren and Lachy revisit one of the most popular episodes from season 3 which was about what kindness looks like in the workplace (from March 2022). They talk about what behaviors to expect in a kind workplace culture, from open and transparent conversations to empathy, respect, and consideration for others.2023-09-0734 min
Make It WorkUnlocking Growth: Developing Career Paths in Small BusinessIn this episode, Lachy and Karen discuss how smaller businesses can develop their team members and consider career pathways. They highlight the importance of attracting and retaining great employees, and the value of having career conversations with employees to understand their motivations and aspirations. How do you encourage employee development in your workplace? Join the conversation2023-08-1027 minMake It WorkUnlocking Growth: Developing Career Paths in Small BusinessIn this episode, Lachy and Karen discuss how smaller businesses can develop their team members and consider career pathways. They highlight the importance of attracting and retaining great employees, and the value of having career conversations with employees to understand their motivations and aspirations. How do you encourage employee development in your workplace? Join the conversation2023-08-1027 min
Make It WorkBook Club: Machines Behaving BadlyBoth Lachy and Karen are avid readers, and set up their own book club! The first book they selected was Machines Behaving Badly by Toby Walsh, and it is the topic of discussion for today’s episode. The book is about ethics and mortality in AI, a topical choice given the ‘chat’ around AI, right now.2023-07-2721 minMake It WorkBook Club: Machines Behaving BadlyBoth Lachy and Karen are avid readers, and set up their own book club! The first book they selected was Machines Behaving Badly by Toby Walsh, and it is the topic of discussion for today’s episode. The book is about ethics and mortality in AI, a topical choice given the ‘chat’ around AI, right now.2023-07-2721 min
Make It WorkWhy it is Important to Add Creativity Into Upskilling in the WorkplaceIn the latest Make It Work Podcast episode, Karen and Lachy are joined by Amal Awad, writer, director, performer, and author of a card deck called The Creative's Compass, a navigation tool for creatives. In this episode the topic of discussion is the importance of creativity in the workplace and how to develop this skill in ourselves and in our teams. 2023-06-2931 minMake It WorkWhy it is Important to Add Creativity Into Upskilling in the WorkplaceIn the latest Make It Work Podcast episode, Karen and Lachy are joined by Amal Awad, writer, director, performer, and author of a card deck called The Creative's Compass, a navigation tool for creatives. In this episode the topic of discussion is the importance of creativity in the workplace and how to develop this skill in ourselves and in our teams. 2023-06-2931 min
Make It WorkBuilding Upskilling Into Every DayIn this week’s episode, Lachy and Karen discuss the importance of building in consistent practices for learning and upskilling your teams throughout the year. They also discuss how challenging it is for businesses to prioritise learning when things get busy or revenue is low. 2023-06-1528 minMake It WorkBuilding Upskilling Into Every DayIn this week’s episode, Lachy and Karen discuss the importance of building in consistent practices for learning and upskilling your teams throughout the year. They also discuss how challenging it is for businesses to prioritise learning when things get busy or revenue is low. 2023-06-1528 min
Make It WorkAI in Recruitment - Benefits, Risks and EthicsWe explore the pros & cons of AI in recruitment, including the potential to save time for the hiring managers, impact on the candidate experience and bias that may lie within AI-driven hiring decisions.2023-06-0141 min
Make It WorkRevisiting the Workplace Culture Debate: Who's Responsible?In this episode, Lachy and Karen revisit an episode from season two where they discussed who is responsible for workplace culture. This leads them to ask who is responsible for learning culture? Although everyone has a role to play in culture, someone needs to be accountable 2023-05-1834 minMake It WorkRevisiting the Workplace Culture Debate: Who's Responsible?In this episode, Lachy and Karen revisit an episode from season two where they discussed who is responsible for workplace culture. This leads them to ask who is responsible for learning culture? Although everyone has a role to play in culture, someone needs to be accountable 2023-05-1834 min
Make It WorkThe Importance of Humanistic Leadership Skills: with Linda MurrayOngoing skills shortages are a hot topic in Australia and businesses need to upskill and grow their teams to meet their own growth plans. In this episode, Karen and Lachy are thrilled to be speaking with Executive Coach and Leadership Development Expert, Linda Murray on this topic of building a learning culture. Linda is a regular guest on the Make it Work podcast, having joined us in series 3, episode 18 when we discussed psychological safety. We are excited to be talking with Linda again in this episode. 2023-05-0449 minMake It WorkThe Importance of Humanistic Leadership Skills: with Linda MurrayOngoing skills shortages are a hot topic in Australia and businesses need to upskill and grow their teams to meet their own growth plans. In this episode, Karen and Lachy are thrilled to be speaking with Executive Coach and Leadership Development Expert, Linda Murray on this topic of building a learning culture. Linda is a regular guest on the Make it Work podcast, having joined us in series 3, episode 18 when we discussed psychological safety. We are excited to be talking with Linda again in this episode. 2023-05-0449 min
Make It WorkMoving from Training to LearningIn our latest Make It Work Podcast episode, Karen and Lachy discuss why we need to shift the way workplace learning is approached. In this podcast episode, Lachy and Karen discuss the importance of upskilling staff in the workplace and what needs to change in workplace learning to achieve this goal. 2023-04-2037 minMake It WorkMoving from Training to LearningIn our latest Make It Work Podcast episode, Karen and Lachy discuss why we need to shift the way workplace learning is approached. In this podcast episode, Lachy and Karen discuss the importance of upskilling staff in the workplace and what needs to change in workplace learning to achieve this goal. 2023-04-2037 min
Make It WorkTailoring Workplace Learning – interview with Chris Tan, Winning Academy Learning and Development ManagerWe are excited to be speaking with Winning Academy Learning and Development Manager, Chris Tan. Chris has first-hand experience in upskilling and tailoring learning to individual learner needs. He believes that L&D specialists need to educate their leaders about the value add that learning can create and not just run training as a tick box exercise. He shares how he approaches workplace learning for the Winning Academy.2023-03-2329 min
Make It WorkWhich Skills Should Businesses Be Focussing On Upskilling Their Teams In?In this episode, we dive into upskilling, what it is, and what particular skills we’re referring to. We also chat through the skills that are in demand right now, and the skills that are expected to be in demand this decade.2023-03-0930 min
Make It WorkHiring For Behaviours Over Experience: with Pree SarkarIn this episode, Karen and Lachy discuss the importance of hiring for behavior rather than just skills or experience with Pree Sarkar, the founder and director of Switch Recruitment. Pree explains that 46% of hires fail when they are hired just based on skills alone, and that hiring based on values is critical. He shares his experience of creating a value-based hiring process, which involves identifying non-negotiable values and creating an interview guide to score candidates on a scale of one to ten. They also discuss how this process helps reduce bias and unify the hiring pr...2023-02-2337 minMake It WorkHiring For Behaviours Over Experience: with Pree SarkarIn this episode, Karen and Lachy discuss the importance of hiring for behavior rather than just skills or experience with Pree Sarkar, the founder and director of Switch Recruitment. Pree explains that 46% of hires fail when they are hired just based on skills alone, and that hiring based on values is critical. He shares his experience of creating a value-based hiring process, which involves identifying non-negotiable values and creating an interview guide to score candidates on a scale of one to ten. They also discuss how this process helps reduce bias and unify the hiring pr...2023-02-2337 min
Make It WorkThe Transition From Jobs to Skills is Happening. Are You Ready?In Season 4 of Make it Work, we’re talking about upskilling and why we believe it’s the key to attracting and retaining great people and thriving in today’s workplace.2023-02-0933 min
Make It WorkAbout This Podcast Series 4In Season 4 of Make it Work, we’re talking about upskilling and why we believe it’s the key to attracting and retaining great people and thriving in today’s workplace. We aim to give you thought-provoking ideas and practical takeaways that you can use to future-proof your organisation. Check out Amplify HR or Yarno for more information.2023-02-0800 min
Make It Work2022 Round UpThe Make it Work podcast has covered a range of interesting and important topics this year, including insightful guest interviews. The first episode aired after Russia invaded Ukraine, Australia elected a new Prime Minister, and the economy saw a rise in inflation. There were a lot of changes! This episode shares some of Lachy and Karen’s highlights of 2022.2022-11-3036 minMake It Work2022 Round UpThe Make it Work podcast has covered a range of interesting and important topics this year, including insightful guest interviews. The first episode aired after Russia invaded Ukraine, Australia elected a new Prime Minister, and the economy saw a rise in inflation. There were a lot of changes! This episode shares some of Lachy and Karen’s highlights of 2022.2022-11-3036 min
Make It WorkIs Diversity of Thinking Part of Your Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Strategy?Diversity is a hot topic. Yet one aspect of diversity that’s less commonly talked about is diversity of thought and perspective. In this episode, Karen and Lachy explore thinking diversity with Michael Morgan, the CEO of Herrmann Asia. Herrmann are the organisation behind the globally recognised Whole Brain Thinking model. Together they discuss how our thinking preferences influence our behaviour, how to foster a culture of thinking diversity, and what leaders can do to recognise and accommodate different perspectives across individuals in their teams using Whole Brain Thinking. Learn more about brining Whole Brain Th...2022-11-1632 minMake It WorkIs Diversity of Thinking Part of Your Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Strategy?Diversity is a hot topic. Yet one aspect of diversity that’s less commonly talked about is diversity of thought and perspective. In this episode, Karen and Lachy explore thinking diversity with Michael Morgan, the CEO of Herrmann Asia. Herrmann are the organisation behind the globally recognised Whole Brain Thinking model. Together they discuss how our thinking preferences influence our behaviour, how to foster a culture of thinking diversity, and what leaders can do to recognise and accommodate different perspectives across individuals in their teams using Whole Brain Thinking. Learn more about brining Whole Brain Th...2022-11-1632 min
Make It WorkFostering Psychological Safety at Work w/ Special Guest Linda MurrayOrganisations talk about their culture in glowing terms, saying it’s healthy, inclusive, and transformative. Yet what does that actually mean? One aspect is psychological safety, which is the idea that people feel comfortable showing up and speaking up at work. In this episode, we discuss psychological safety at work with Linda Murray, founder and Executive Coach and Leadership Development Expert at Athena Leadership Academy. Linda shares with us what a psychologically safe workplace looks like, the role a leader plays in creating a safe environment and some activities we can all incorporate into our day to da...2022-11-0240 min
Make It Work3.17 Keeping Connections in Remote and Hybrid WorkplacesThe 9-5, in the office, working week has changed dramatically in the last few years, thanks to Covid-19. Whilst many are enjoying the flexibility offered by remote and hybrid working are we starting to see a downside to the situation? We have less in-person connection with our colleagues and friends at work, which can result in loneliness, difficulty building rapport and a feeling of being disconnected from our workmates. In this episode, Karen and Lachy discuss whether remote and hybrid workplaces are making us feel lonelier.2022-10-1929 minMake It Work3.17 Keeping Connections in Remote and Hybrid WorkplacesThe 9-5, in the office, working week has changed dramatically in the last few years, thanks to Covid-19. Whilst many are enjoying the flexibility offered by remote and hybrid working are we starting to see a downside to the situation? We have less in-person connection with our colleagues and friends at work, which can result in loneliness, difficulty building rapport and a feeling of being disconnected from our workmates. In this episode, Karen and Lachy discuss whether remote and hybrid workplaces are making us feel lonelier.2022-10-1929 min
Make It WorkThe Challenges of Growing a BusinessAs business owners we generally have a goal of growing our business and making it scalable. But growth isn’t always linear and it isn’t always what the business needs. In this episode, we discuss business growth and its challenges with Darrell King, founder and CE of PolarSeven, a consulting and managed services organisation.2022-10-0530 min
Make It WorkWhy Does Change In The Workplace Fail?Did you know that 70% of change programs fail? This is often due to employee resistance and lack of support from management. In this episode, Karen and Lachy talk about implementing change in the workplace, why it is not always handled skilfully, and what businesses can do to manage change successfully.2022-09-2127 minMake It WorkWhy Does Change In The Workplace Fail?Did you know that 70% of change programs fail? This is often due to employee resistance and lack of support from management. In this episode, Karen and Lachy talk about implementing change in the workplace, why it is not always handled skilfully, and what businesses can do to manage change successfully.2022-09-2127 min
Make It WorkWhy is Being a Compassionate Leader Important? with Special Guest Jenny SteadmanHow is compassionate leadership different from empathetic leadership? Difficult workplace conversations require a mindful touch, and while wisdom without compassion can be ruthless, compassion without wisdom is naive. In this episode, Karen and Lachy are in conversation with Jenny Steadman about the role of compassion in being a leader, and how this intersects with wisdom. Jenny Steadman is the Acting National Director for Potential Project, a global leadership training, consulting and research firm. She is also a highly qualified mindfulness trainer and corporate facilitator.2022-09-0747 minMake It WorkWhy is Being a Compassionate Leader Important? with Special Guest Jenny SteadmanHow is compassionate leadership different from empathetic leadership? Difficult workplace conversations require a mindful touch, and while wisdom without compassion can be ruthless, compassion without wisdom is naive. In this episode, Karen and Lachy are in conversation with Jenny Steadman about the role of compassion in being a leader, and how this intersects with wisdom. Jenny Steadman is the Acting National Director for Potential Project, a global leadership training, consulting and research firm. She is also a highly qualified mindfulness trainer and corporate facilitator.2022-09-0747 min
Make It WorkIf it’s Not Money, then What Motivates Us at Work?Financial rewards are one way of motivating staff, but research suggests they’re not the most effective. Factors like work-life balance and pleasant work atmospheres are becoming much more popular in someone’s motivation to work somewhere. In this episode, Karen and Lachy discuss the question, if it’s not cold hard cash, then what does motivate us at work? 2022-08-2429 minMake It WorkIf it’s Not Money, then What Motivates Us at Work?Financial rewards are one way of motivating staff, but research suggests they’re not the most effective. Factors like work-life balance and pleasant work atmospheres are becoming much more popular in someone’s motivation to work somewhere. In this episode, Karen and Lachy discuss the question, if it’s not cold hard cash, then what does motivate us at work? 2022-08-2429 min
Make It WorkHow Can We Level Up Our Recruiting Processes? With Special Guest Nathan SotiIt’s a tough time for recruiting at the moment. Australia’s skills shortages have only been exacerbated by border closure and other pandemic-related factors. Many businesses are struggling to recruit and retain key roles, leading to outsourcing overseas. In this episode, Karen and Lachy, with special guest Nathan Sobi, MD of Ethos360, unpack and analyse current challenges in recruitment, and talk about what businesses need to do to find (and keep!) new talent.2022-08-1046 minMake It WorkHow Can We Level Up Our Recruiting Processes? With Special Guest Nathan SotiIt’s a tough time for recruiting at the moment. Australia’s skills shortages have only been exacerbated by border closure and other pandemic-related factors. Many businesses are struggling to recruit and retain key roles, leading to outsourcing overseas. In this episode, Karen and Lachy, with special guest Nathan Sobi, MD of Ethos360, unpack and analyse current challenges in recruitment, and talk about what businesses need to do to find (and keep!) new talent.2022-08-1046 min
Make It WorkHow Can I Deliver Valuable and Effective Feedback?Feedback is critical for effective communication at work, to help us learn and develop. However, it’s not always delivered well, if at all. Karen and Lachy delve into the hot topic of feedback: why it’s important, how to give it, and, maybe most importantly, how to receive it.2022-07-2738 minMake It WorkHow Can I Deliver Valuable and Effective Feedback?Feedback is critical for effective communication at work, to help us learn and develop. However, it’s not always delivered well, if at all. Karen and Lachy delve into the hot topic of feedback: why it’s important, how to give it, and, maybe most importantly, how to receive it.2022-07-2738 min
Make It WorkHow Can You Leverage Technology to Scale and Grow Your Business?This week, Karen and Lachy look at the role and importance of technology in business with special guest Maria Padisetti. Leveraging technology has become vital to business growth, but it can be an expensive investment if it’s done ad-hoc and without purpose. CEO of Digital Armour, Maria is an expert in implementing IT solutions and transforming businesses through the use of technology.2022-07-1346 minMake It WorkHow Can You Leverage Technology to Scale and Grow Your Business?This week, Karen and Lachy look at the role and importance of technology in business with special guest Maria Padisetti. Leveraging technology has become vital to business growth, but it can be an expensive investment if it’s done ad-hoc and without purpose. CEO of Digital Armour, Maria is an expert in implementing IT solutions and transforming businesses through the use of technology.2022-07-1346 min
Make It WorkDo Financial Rewards Work to Motivate Staff?Humans respond strongly to rewards - and financial incentives seem to be the most popular in business settings. Yet, research shows they’re not the most effective form of motivation in the long run.In this episode, Karen and Lachy are looking at financial rewards: what works for them, what doesn’t, and do they actually encourage behaviour change?2022-06-2924 minMake It WorkDo Financial Rewards Work to Motivate Staff?Humans respond strongly to rewards - and financial incentives seem to be the most popular in business settings. Yet, research shows they’re not the most effective form of motivation in the long run.In this episode, Karen and Lachy are looking at financial rewards: what works for them, what doesn’t, and do they actually encourage behaviour change?2022-06-2924 min
Make It WorkHow can you be Vulnerable at Work?Vulnerability at work seems to be a hot topic at the moment. The image of the emotionless work persona is thawing, and leaders are being encouraged to bring their whole selves to work. But showing vulnerability is daunting!In this episode, Karen and Lachy look at what vulnerability looks like in a work context, and the role it plays in effective leadership.2022-06-1520 minMake It WorkHow can you be Vulnerable at Work?Vulnerability at work seems to be a hot topic at the moment. The image of the emotionless work persona is thawing, and leaders are being encouraged to bring their whole selves to work. But showing vulnerability is daunting!In this episode, Karen and Lachy look at what vulnerability looks like in a work context, and the role it plays in effective leadership.2022-06-1520 min
Make It WorkHow can we Best Design Offices to Cater for Hybrid Work, and for Wellbeing?As flexible and hybrid work becomes the new normal, businesses are faced with the new challenge of how to design spaces and offices that cater to this. In this episode, we chat with Christina Kim, who specialises in designing human centric spaces, about the role of workplace design in today's hybrid, flexible environment.2022-06-0117 min
Make It WorkHow can I use Scorecards to Measure Workplace KPIs and Performance?The biggest challenge to setting goals is keeping track of them, and staying accountable. Scorecards are a great way of measuring your company’s goals at a high level. In this episode, Karen and Lachy discuss the balanced scorecard, and how you can use it to set simple and achievable goals, and to stay on top of key performance indicators.2022-05-1818 minMake It WorkHow can I use Scorecards to Measure Workplace KPIs and Performance?The biggest challenge to setting goals is keeping track of them, and staying accountable. Scorecards are a great way of measuring your company’s goals at a high level. In this episode, Karen and Lachy discuss the balanced scorecard, and how you can use it to set simple and achievable goals, and to stay on top of key performance indicators.2022-05-1818 min
Make It WorkHow do you Set Goals in your Organisation?Goals are easy to set but difficult to follow. It’s one thing to set up a goal framework, but then you have to track how you’re going and measure against it - it’s easy to lose track pretty quickly! A major part of setting goals effectively is making sure they are achievable and measurable. Karen and Lachy explore different goal-setting frameworks, why some goals are more effective than others, and how you can use goal-setting to measure performance, motivate your team, and celebrate wins.2022-05-0426 minMake It WorkHow do you Set Goals in your Organisation?Goals are easy to set but difficult to follow. It’s one thing to set up a goal framework, but then you have to track how you’re going and measure against it - it’s easy to lose track pretty quickly! A major part of setting goals effectively is making sure they are achievable and measurable. Karen and Lachy explore different goal-setting frameworks, why some goals are more effective than others, and how you can use goal-setting to measure performance, motivate your team, and celebrate wins.2022-05-0426 min
Make It WorkBuilding a Sustainable Sales Process for your BusinessSpecial guest Peter Solway is put in the hot-seat in this week’s episode.An expert in solving B2B sales challenges, Peter is an entrepreneurial sales leader for small businesses. Karen and Lachy discuss with Peter the best ways business owners can build sustainable sales processes and grow their businesses.2022-04-2044 minMake It WorkBuilding a Sustainable Sales Process for your BusinessSpecial guest Peter Solway is put in the hot-seat in this week’s episode.An expert in solving B2B sales challenges, Peter is an entrepreneurial sales leader for small businesses. Karen and Lachy discuss with Peter the best ways business owners can build sustainable sales processes and grow their businesses.2022-04-2044 min
Make It WorkHow Do I Set New Starters Up For Success?You’ve invested so much in the hiring process, yet simply showing a new employee their workspace (or in today’s world, sending them their new laptop) and wishing them well on day one isn’t going to set them up for success. Put yourself in their shoes: we all know how nerve-wracking it can be to start a new job at a new company. The actions you take, or don’t take, in an employee’s first 30 days will stay with them throughout their whole career with your company. What does a successful onboarding process lo...2022-04-0650 min
Make It WorkWhat does Kindness Look Like in the Workplace?Generally, workplace cultures are described as ‘fast-paced’, or ‘fun’. But, what about ‘kind’? Kindness in the workplace can be difficult to pin down, but Lachy and Karen are up for the challenge! Looking at how we define workplace kindness and whether it's overrated, they bring their leadership experience to dive deep on whether kindness is a necessity or a distraction at work.2022-03-2324 minMake It WorkWhat does Kindness Look Like in the Workplace?Generally, workplace cultures are described as ‘fast-paced’, or ‘fun’. But, what about ‘kind’? Kindness in the workplace can be difficult to pin down, but Lachy and Karen are up for the challenge! Looking at how we define workplace kindness and whether it's overrated, they bring their leadership experience to dive deep on whether kindness is a necessity or a distraction at work.2022-03-2324 min
Make It WorkShould your Workplace be your “Family”?We spend a lot of time at work with our colleagues. It’s not uncommon to hear a workplace referred to as a family - but how does this impact the culture of the workplace? In this episode, Karen and Lachy are discussing the impact of calling your work environment ‘family’. Does it foster a stronger sense of teamwork? Does it negatively impact managerial relationships?2022-03-0918 minMake It WorkShould your Workplace be your “Family”?We spend a lot of time at work with our colleagues. It’s not uncommon to hear a workplace referred to as a family - but how does this impact the culture of the workplace? In this episode, Karen and Lachy are discussing the impact of calling your work environment ‘family’. Does it foster a stronger sense of teamwork? Does it negatively impact managerial relationships?2022-03-0918 min
Make It WorkAbout this podcast series 3Developing your leadership for the future of work. Welcome to series 3 of the Make It work Podcast! -Returning on 10 March 2022- My name is Karen Kirton and along with my co-host Lachy Gray, we explore what the future of work looks like, and how as leaders we need to adapt. Each episode is less than 30 minutes as we explore the theme of growth. Of ourselves as leaders, our people and our businesses, as we move into the future of work. Through these conversations we aim to give you some thought provoking...2022-03-0701 minMake It WorkAbout this podcast series 3Developing your leadership for the future of work. Welcome to series 3 of the Make It work Podcast! -Returning on 10 March 2022- My name is Karen Kirton and along with my co-host Lachy Gray, we explore what the future of work looks like, and how as leaders we need to adapt. Each episode is less than 30 minutes as we explore the theme of growth. Of ourselves as leaders, our people and our businesses, as we move into the future of work. Through these conversations we aim to give you some thought provoking...2022-03-0701 min
Make It WorkLooking back on 2021 in business, leadership and changeCan anyone believe it’s almost a new year?! And what a year it’s been.It felt like the longest year and the shortest year, all at the same time. But, either way, it’s brought up a lot of different and interesting big questions for business and for leadership.In the final episode of 2021, Lachy and Karen recap the biggest issues and key takeaways discussed in this series of Make it Work.2021-12-1530 minMake It WorkLooking back on 2021 in business, leadership and changeCan anyone believe it’s almost a new year?! And what a year it’s been.It felt like the longest year and the shortest year, all at the same time. But, either way, it’s brought up a lot of different and interesting big questions for business and for leadership.In the final episode of 2021, Lachy and Karen recap the biggest issues and key takeaways discussed in this series of Make it Work.2021-12-1530 min
Make It WorkReturning to Work in a (Somewhat) COVID-Normal WorldAs we begin to approach ‘COVID-normal’, what does this mean for work? Most workplaces are navigating the return to the office, but this might not suit everyone who had grown accustomed to their more flexible work-from-home lifestyle. On the other side, the office may look entirely different from how we left it almost 2 years ago! In this episode, Karen and Lachy discuss the ups and downs of returning to the office and how leaders can support new work habits.2021-12-0126 minMake It WorkReturning to Work in a (Somewhat) COVID-Normal WorldAs we begin to approach ‘COVID-normal’, what does this mean for work? Most workplaces are navigating the return to the office, but this might not suit everyone who had grown accustomed to their more flexible work-from-home lifestyle. On the other side, the office may look entirely different from how we left it almost 2 years ago! In this episode, Karen and Lachy discuss the ups and downs of returning to the office and how leaders can support new work habits.2021-12-0126 min
Make It WorkRetaining Staff Through the “Great Resignation” and the Explosion of Gig EconomyYou’ve heard it everywhere: the ‘Great Resignation’ is upon us. Employees are dropping out of the mainstream workforce to pursue freelance work or working gigs. So how can business owners ensure they keep their people when the gig economy continues to rise as an attractive option? In this episode of Make it Work, Lachy and Karen discuss what motivates people to go freelancing, vs. working in a team, as well as business strategies for keeping people on board.2021-11-1730 minMake It WorkRetaining Staff Through the “Great Resignation” and the Explosion of Gig EconomyYou’ve heard it everywhere: the ‘Great Resignation’ is upon us. Employees are dropping out of the mainstream workforce to pursue freelance work or working gigs. So how can business owners ensure they keep their people when the gig economy continues to rise as an attractive option? In this episode of Make it Work, Lachy and Karen discuss what motivates people to go freelancing, vs. working in a team, as well as business strategies for keeping people on board.2021-11-1730 min
Make It WorkTalking About Mental Wellbeing with Special Guest Kaylene WynnIn this very special episode of Make it Work, Lachy and Karen welcome special guest Kaylene Wynn. Kaylene has over 20 years of experience working as a transpersonal psychotherapist and executive mind coach, and she’s the author of Rise and Shine - awaken your greatest self. Together, they talk about the importance of workplace wellness and strategies for mental wellness, both for leaders looking out for their team, and for when leaders might be feeling a bit of burnout themselves.2021-11-0321 minMake It WorkTalking About Mental Wellbeing with Special Guest Kaylene WynnIn this very special episode of Make it Work, Lachy and Karen welcome special guest Kaylene Wynn. Kaylene has over 20 years of experience working as a transpersonal psychotherapist and executive mind coach, and she’s the author of Rise and Shine - awaken your greatest self. Together, they talk about the importance of workplace wellness and strategies for mental wellness, both for leaders looking out for their team, and for when leaders might be feeling a bit of burnout themselves.2021-11-0321 min
Make It WorkWho is Responsible for Workplace Culture?Where does the responsibility for building culture fall? On the leader? On the HR department? On everyone in the team? In this episode, Lachy and Karen discuss opposing sides of the question. They both explore how the responsibility of culture is shared, communicated and enforced. They also talk about the repercussions of weak business culture, and how you can check in and make sure your workplace’s culture is to the benefit of all.2021-10-2024 minMake It WorkWho is Responsible for Workplace Culture?Where does the responsibility for building culture fall? On the leader? On the HR department? On everyone in the team? In this episode, Lachy and Karen discuss opposing sides of the question. They both explore how the responsibility of culture is shared, communicated and enforced. They also talk about the repercussions of weak business culture, and how you can check in and make sure your workplace’s culture is to the benefit of all.2021-10-2024 min
Make It WorkKeeping a cool head, and an open mindAt some point or another, we’ve all had conversations with people with strong beliefs. It’s uncomfortable, and it’s easy to get defensive, or angry, when coming against an opposing belief. But what if you could take a step back, and approach the conversation with empathy and an open mind? Would that change the outcome of your conversation? In this episode of Make it Work, Karen and Lachy share experiences they’ve had in the workplace coming against people with strong beliefs. They discuss useful strategies for dealing with such occasions, whether the other party is a man...2021-10-0632 minMake It WorkKeeping a cool head, and an open mindAt some point or another, we’ve all had conversations with people with strong beliefs. It’s uncomfortable, and it’s easy to get defensive, or angry, when coming against an opposing belief. But what if you could take a step back, and approach the conversation with empathy and an open mind? Would that change the outcome of your conversation? In this episode of Make it Work, Karen and Lachy share experiences they’ve had in the workplace coming against people with strong beliefs. They discuss useful strategies for dealing with such occasions, whether the other party is a man...2021-10-0632 min
Make It WorkThe Boundary Between Overachieving and Strong LeadershipSurely being an overachiever is paramount to running a business. Leaders are often tasked with generating passion and energy and fuelling business growth. But, recent research from the Harvard Business Review may indicate otherwise.... In this episode of Make it Work, Karen and Lachy talk about the relationship between a leaders’ personality and their leadership style. Are overachievers damaging their workplace with what is actually their main strength?2021-09-2222 minMake It WorkThe Boundary Between Overachieving and Strong LeadershipSurely being an overachiever is paramount to running a business. Leaders are often tasked with generating passion and energy and fuelling business growth. But, recent research from the Harvard Business Review may indicate otherwise.... In this episode of Make it Work, Karen and Lachy talk about the relationship between a leaders’ personality and their leadership style. Are overachievers damaging their workplace with what is actually their main strength?2021-09-2222 min
Make It WorkNavigating Mental Health at WorkHow can we as leaders navigate mental health? It’s a pretty difficult subject, and it can be hard to know where the boundaries are around talking about mental health and checking in on your team. Sharing their own experiences as leaders, Karen and Lachy delve in and discuss the importance of discussing mental health at work. Being proactive about mental wellbeing is so important. Having plans and resources such as EAP available that provide support to you and your staff will help, but what are the next steps? How can you ensure your team feels supported and...2021-09-0823 minMake It WorkNavigating Mental Health at WorkHow can we as leaders navigate mental health? It’s a pretty difficult subject, and it can be hard to know where the boundaries are around talking about mental health and checking in on your team. Sharing their own experiences as leaders, Karen and Lachy delve in and discuss the importance of discussing mental health at work. Being proactive about mental wellbeing is so important. Having plans and resources such as EAP available that provide support to you and your staff will help, but what are the next steps? How can you ensure your team feels supported and...2021-09-0823 min
Make It WorkAbout this podcast series 2Developing your leadership style for the future of work. Welcome to series 2 of the Make It work Podcast! My name is Karen Kirton and along with my co-host Lachy Gray, we explore what the future of work looks like, and how as leaders we need to adapt. Each episode is less than 30 minutes and are designed to take broad themes about the future of work, and discuss how these apply in business today. Through these conversations we aim to give you some thought provoking ideas and practical take-aways that you can use to f...2021-08-2700 minMake It WorkAbout this podcast series 2Developing your leadership style for the future of work. Welcome to series 2 of the Make It work Podcast! My name is Karen Kirton and along with my co-host Lachy Gray, we explore what the future of work looks like, and how as leaders we need to adapt. Each episode is less than 30 minutes and are designed to take broad themes about the future of work, and discuss how these apply in business today. Through these conversations we aim to give you some thought provoking ideas and practical take-aways that you can use to f...2021-08-2700 min
Make It WorkHow Rules Affect Decision Making in the WorkplaceKaren and Lachy are back to talk all about what the future of work looks like, and how leaders can future-proof their business! In the workplace, having rules in place can often alleviate the stress of the decision making process, and give visibility across a team. But what happens when a rule becomes outdated, and starts to cause more problems than it solves? In this episode of Make it Work, Karen and Lachy are looking at how rules can affect decision making in the workplace. How do you move towards changing a long-established rule? What...2021-08-2525 minMake It WorkHow Rules Affect Decision Making in the WorkplaceKaren and Lachy are back to talk all about what the future of work looks like, and how leaders can future-proof their business! In the workplace, having rules in place can often alleviate the stress of the decision making process, and give visibility across a team. But what happens when a rule becomes outdated, and starts to cause more problems than it solves? In this episode of Make it Work, Karen and Lachy are looking at how rules can affect decision making in the workplace. How do you move towards changing a long-established rule? What...2021-08-2525 min
Make It WorkHow can we future-proof tomorrow’s workforce?How can we as leaders navigate the sea of change and uncertainty? An environment which can be extremely challenging to hire, upskill and educate staff in. Luckily, in episode 5 of Make it Work, Lachy and Karen look at strategies for ‘future-proofing’ today’s workforce. They look at how to foster a learning culture and create an environment that fosters and promotes ongoing development and growth. How can you foster learning culture in a remote environment? How is it different to cultivating office-based learning cultures?2021-07-251h 31Make It WorkHow can we future-proof tomorrow’s workforce?How can we as leaders navigate the sea of change and uncertainty? An environment which can be extremely challenging to hire, upskill and educate staff in. Luckily, in episode 5 of Make it Work, Lachy and Karen look at strategies for ‘future-proofing’ today’s workforce. They look at how to foster a learning culture and create an environment that fosters and promotes ongoing development and growth. How can you foster learning culture in a remote environment? How is it different to cultivating office-based learning cultures?2021-07-251h 31
Make It WorkWhy remote workers are going regionalAs remote work becomes the new normal, more and more people are trading in their city dwellings for regional houses that put life before work and offer a more wholesome lifestyle. In the fourth episode of Make it Work, Karen and Lachy discuss the relationship between remote work and regional areas. Sharing their personal experiences, Lachy and Karen discuss both the benefits and downfalls of remote workers going regional and what this means for companies when they go to hire. Will regional remote workers open up the opportunities for companies to hire interstate? Or possibly ev...2021-07-051h 14Make It WorkWhy remote workers are going regionalAs remote work becomes the new normal, more and more people are trading in their city dwellings for regional houses that put life before work and offer a more wholesome lifestyle. In the fourth episode of Make it Work, Karen and Lachy discuss the relationship between remote work and regional areas. Sharing their personal experiences, Lachy and Karen discuss both the benefits and downfalls of remote workers going regional and what this means for companies when they go to hire. Will regional remote workers open up the opportunities for companies to hire interstate? Or possibly ev...2021-07-051h 14
Make It WorkHybrid working the new normal?As businesses have adapted to different work environments over the last 12 months, one that has risen to the top is the hybrid working model. The third episode of Make it Work sees Karen and Lachy discuss the newest workplace buzzword: hybrid work. It isn’t a new concept, but more and more companies have been adopting its structure as Australia semi-returns to everyday life. Basically, hybrid work means staff work some days in the office and some days from home. With lots to consider before choosing Hybrid work for your team, Lachy and Karen discuss whic...2021-07-051h 10Make It WorkHybrid working the new normal?As businesses have adapted to different work environments over the last 12 months, one that has risen to the top is the hybrid working model. The third episode of Make it Work sees Karen and Lachy discuss the newest workplace buzzword: hybrid work. It isn’t a new concept, but more and more companies have been adopting its structure as Australia semi-returns to everyday life. Basically, hybrid work means staff work some days in the office and some days from home. With lots to consider before choosing Hybrid work for your team, Lachy and Karen discuss whic...2021-07-051h 10
Make It WorkCan leadership style influence whether a company works remote or in-office?In the second episode of Make it Work, Karen and Lachy pick up where they left off, discussing how workplace culture reflects the leadership style of the business owner or founder. Going further, they discuss whether going back to an office, staying remote or going hybrid reflects on leadership decision making. They also explore where leadership can influence decision-making around working remotely or in-office, including personal preferences, company culture, the industry and the product or service offered. COVID-19 was the catalyst for this discussion, but this debate was alive well before 2020. Yahoo! ordered an end t...2021-06-151h 14Make It WorkCan leadership style influence whether a company works remote or in-office?In the second episode of Make it Work, Karen and Lachy pick up where they left off, discussing how workplace culture reflects the leadership style of the business owner or founder. Going further, they discuss whether going back to an office, staying remote or going hybrid reflects on leadership decision making. They also explore where leadership can influence decision-making around working remotely or in-office, including personal preferences, company culture, the industry and the product or service offered. COVID-19 was the catalyst for this discussion, but this debate was alive well before 2020. Yahoo! ordered an end t...2021-06-151h 14
Make It WorkHow to manage workplace culture whether you WFH, in-office, or use a hybrid model.In the very first episode of Make it Work, Karen, founder of Amplify HR, and Lachy, co-founder of Yarno, discuss all things workplace culture. Uncovering popular opinions, they dive into how team culture changes from the office to a remote environment, what healthy and unhealthy workplace cultures look like, and where the responsibility for leading the culture falls. They also discuss tips for being more intentional when building and maintaining workplace culture, why Lachy’s business went fully remote in 2020, and what Yarno’s experience has been like with hybrid work. BONUS: Karen and Lachy fire...2021-06-141h 07Make It WorkHow to manage workplace culture whether you WFH, in-office, or use a hybrid model.In the very first episode of Make it Work, Karen, founder of Amplify HR, and Lachy, co-founder of Yarno, discuss all things workplace culture. Uncovering popular opinions, they dive into how team culture changes from the office to a remote environment, what healthy and unhealthy workplace cultures look like, and where the responsibility for leading the culture falls. They also discuss tips for being more intentional when building and maintaining workplace culture, why Lachy’s business went fully remote in 2020, and what Yarno’s experience has been like with hybrid work. BONUS: Karen and Lachy fire...2021-06-141h 07
Make It WorkAbout this podcastThe 5-part series discusses themes on the current workplace - what’s working and what’s not, and the future of the workplace. Your hosts are Karen Kirton, Founder of Amplify HR and Lachy Gray, co-founder of Yarno who together, with our joined expertise, cover topics across the workplace, including culture, leadership, hybrid working models, and the move remote workers are making to regional living. 2021-06-1000 minMake It WorkAbout this podcastThe 5-part series discusses themes on the current workplace - what’s working and what’s not, and the future of the workplace. Your hosts are Karen Kirton, Founder of Amplify HR and Lachy Gray, co-founder of Yarno who together, with our joined expertise, cover topics across the workplace, including culture, leadership, hybrid working models, and the move remote workers are making to regional living. 2021-06-1000 min