S1:E44 | Why Most Workplace Problems Are Communication Problems | Healthcare Careers, Leadership & Listening – Graham Coath

Most workplace problems aren’t motivation problems.They’re communication problems.In this episode of Get A Shift On, David Birchmore speaks with communication strategist, LinkedIn trainer and podcast host Graham Coath about why organisations repeatedly misdiagnose the real issue inside teams.From NHS-style hierarchy and structured communication to the messy reality of business, leadership and entrepreneurship, this conversation explores what actually happens when people stop assuming and start listening.Graham explains why hearing and listening are completely different skills, why most CPD training fails, and how assumptions quietly destroy communication inside organisations.The conversation also dives into:Why communication should start with listening, not speakingThe biggest communication mistakes leaders makeWhy assumptions break teams and businessesHow communication styles differ across industriesThe rise of portfolio careers and career changesWhy imposter syndrome is often misunderstoodEmotional intelligence and leadershipThe real risk of AI replacing thinking in communicationFor healthcare professionals considering a move outside the system, this episode also explores how the communication skills developed in clinical environments translate into business, leadership and entrepreneurship.If you’ve ever wondered why organisations struggle with engagement, leadership or change, this episode explains why the answer is often much simpler than people think.Learn more about Graham Coath and his work:A Better Way Of LifeThe London Leadership Series 2026 - The Thinking MachineThe London Leadership Series brings together business leaders to discuss the big questions shaping the future of work.These are not conferences.There are no keynote speakers, no slide presentations and no sales pitches.Instead, each event centres around one carefully chosen question designed to spark thoughtful discussion between people leading organisations, shaping culture and navigating change.⁠Join the A Better Way Of Life community eventMy Music PodcastFollow David / Via Nova here:⁠⁠⁠David's LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Via Nova Website⁠⁠If you’re done pretending you’re fine… start here.Your Final Shift is a straight-talking exit guide for healthcare professionals who can’t do another 20 years of this.⁠Get it here⁠Feeling stuck in your healthcare role? Take our quiz to discover how close you are to making your final shift and what your next steps could be - ⁠How Close Is Your Final Shift⁠ Chapters00:00 The Essence of Communication02:53 The Evolution of Marketing and Sales05:40 Career Paths and Job Mobility08:10 The Changing Landscape of Recruitment10:54 The Future of Work and Self-Employment13:18 Communication in the Digital Age16:21 Understanding Neurodiversity in Communication18:51 The Impact of COVID-19 on Communication21:31 Disruption and Innovation in Business24:13 Navigating Imposter Syndrome32:56 Understanding Imposter Syndrome and Personal Growth36:45 The Importance of Continuous Learning41:51 Communication in Professional Development47:11 Emotional Intelligence and Generational Differences50:57 Transitioning Communication Skills Across Sectors56:39 The Dangers of Assumptions in Communication01:01:02 AI's Impact on Communication and Human Connection