The Subconscious Side of Safety

In this episode, hosts Monika Todorova and Scott Gaddis sit down with internationally recognized hypnosis trainers Mike Mandel and Chris Thompson to explore the subconscious side of workplace safety. The conversation dives into how autopilot habits, mental shortcuts, and hidden scripts shape behaviour more than rules ever do.Key themes include:Why the brain defaults to shortcuts and unconscious patternsThe role of energy cycles, rest, and micro‑breaks in maintaining safety and efficiencyHow leaders influence behaviour - consciously and unconsciously through rapport, prestige, and examplePractical strategies like gamifying mistakes, clarifying vague “management-speak,” and building awareness of daily habitsThe balance between Safety 1 (risk mitigation) and Safety 2 (learning from success) in modern organizationsFrom neuroscience to leadership influence, this episode uncovers how subconscious programming impacts safety culture and how awareness, rapport, and smarter rhythms can help us work safer and better.