Comfy Chairs

onetwentythree ltd

The comfy chairs is a podcast hosted by leadership and organizational development expert Kate Johnson, designed for leaders and learners who seek to foster meaningful workplace cultures. With a focus on emotional intelligence, adaptability, and authenticity, the podcast delves into critical leadership topics like trauma-informed workplaces, strengths-based management, and the evolving role of middle managers. Each episode features in-depth conversations with experts and thought leaders who share personal stories and professional insights, helping listeners navigate the challenges of modern leadership.

In addition to exploring how leaders can build trust, connection, and resilience within their teams, Kate and her guests tackle the importance of career ownership and the power of storytelling in shaping personal and professional identities. Listeners will be invited to examine the intersection of personal growth and leadership.

With its conversational, reflective tone, this podcast encourages listeners to think deeply about their leadership journey. Whether you’re a manager, coach, or leadership enthusiast, the comfy chairs offers valuable insights into how leaders can create authentic, emotionally intelligent workplaces that empower employees to thrive.

The work is hard, but the chairs are comfy. Have a seat and join the conversation.

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Episodes

A balance to strike
Yesterday
A balance to strike
A balance to strike: A conversation about humor at workIn this episode of the comfy chairs, host Kate Johnson sits down with Kim Minnick, an HR leader with a knack for weaving humor into the sometimes-rigid landscape of human resources. They dive into the power of humor in the workplace, exploring how it can be a bridge for connection, resilience, and even creativity in day-to-day interactions. Kim shares stories of navigating the challenging dynamics of an inherited team with limited management skills, balancing her HR responsibilities while often being the “paperwork enforcer.” She believes, though, that HR should be more than the enforcer—it should empower managers to lead effectively.From an employee’s crusade against sugary drinks to navigating the fine line between humor and professionalism, Kim and Kate discuss the role of laughter in easing workplace tensions and fostering inclusivity. With insights on using humor to connect meaningfully and improv techniques to enhance listening and response skills, this episode offers listeners practical ways to bring lightheartedness to work while maintaining respect and empathy. Tune in to discover how humor can shift perspectives, soften hardships, and, ultimately, bring a little more humanity to the workplace.Connect with Kim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kim-minnick/Visit her website: https://www.codetravellerhr.com/offeringsAwesome books we mentioned:Bittersweet by Susan CainThe Book of Joy by Douglas Abramswww.one23ltd.comhttps://www.instagram.com/one23ltd/Music by Geoff Harvey from Pixabay
Opening up opportunities
Oct 22 2024
Opening up opportunities
Opening up opportunities: A conversation about advocacy and stories.In this episode, I am joined by Thomas Wilson, owner and CEO of R&H Creative Advocacy, to discuss the power of shared storytelling and its role in creating psychological safety and celebrating neurodiversity.Thomas shares his passion for using sensory-friendly settings and inclusive storytelling to empower underserved communities. We unpack the mission of R&H Creative Advocacy, which focuses on advocacy through shared narratives that embrace mental health and cultural acceptance. Our conversation explores practical steps organizations can take to design event spaces and experiences that accommodate diverse sensory, physical, and emotional needs.We also devote time to the importance of empathy in leadership and the shared responsibility we all have in building more compassionate, accessible spaces.This episode offers valuable lessons for leaders looking to foster psychological safety and celebrate the unique perspectives within their communities.Connect with Thomas on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-wilson-42762927b/Visit his website: https://www.rhcreativeadvocacyandstorytelling.net/Read his blog: https://rhcreativeadvocacyandstorytelling.wordpress.com/Additional resources:Learn more about the Employment First Initiative: https://www.dol.gov/agencies/odep/initiatives/employment-firstwww.one23ltd.comhttps://www.instagram.com/one23ltd/ Music by Geoff Harvey from Pixabay