The Human-Savvy Podcast

Send us Fan MailWhat if the most powerful thing a leader can say is “I don’t have it all figured out”? In this episode, Dr Liv Oginska sits down with an extraordinary leader, Nina Bosco. They unpack how vulnerability, clear rituals, and a progress-over-perfection mindset fuel real results across a diverse team. Nina leads veterinarians and corporate affairs professionals in a fast, high-stakes environment, yet her playbook is disarmingly human: distraction-free 1:1s, monthly growth rituals that celebrate “oh no” moments, and storytelling that turns failure into shared learning.Click here to find a plethora of leadership resources connected to the Human-Savvy Podcast Episodes >>>> Nina shares candid stories about failure, growth, and setting boundaries while leading a diverse, high-impact team.• thriving versus surviving as a senior leader• leading cross-cultural corporate affairs across the Asia Pacific region• progress over perfection as a core value• rituals for 1:1s, stakeholder learnings, and “oh no” moments• storytelling to build trust and capability• transparency about time, energy, and availability• mentorship and coaching for leaders• empathy with boundaries to prevent burnout• tough people decisions and feedback in the moment• aligning values when prioritising time with peopleSubscribe for more candid, actionable conversations on humane leadership. If this resonated, share it with a manager who needs it and leave a quick review—what ritual will you try first?Do YOU have any questions for Human-Savvy? Are you a leader or professional in need of advice on interpersonal dynamics, team leadership, or other related areas? We are here to help you! Please send your letter to [email protected] with the title "Dear Human-Savvy..." and we promise to fully anonymise it and record an episode entirely devoted to tackling your challenge!Also, we deeply value your feedback. Please email us your thoughts, ideas and suggestions to [email protected] or follow and message Dr Liv on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-liv-oginska-53b345200Find your FREE RESOURCES here >>> (click)

Send us Fan MailIn this Episode, Dr Liv and Dr Emma unpack five behavioural red flags that chip away at psychological safety and share practical ways leaders can spot patterns early, respond with compassion, and protect a culture of curiosity and learning. The clearest warning sign emerges: when leaders do nothing, culture decides for them.If you can see that something like that is happening in your team and you're thinking, "oh, I really don't know how to navigate it," please feel free to reach out to us. We are always happy to chat. If you're joining the upcoming event >>>>> Human-Savvy Leadership Symposium <<<<< or any Human-Savvy training (click), you will discover all the ways in which leaders can protect their teams from the negative impact of the behavioural red flags. Find your FREE RESOURCES here >>> (click)

Send us Fan MailIn this special episode, you can listen to the audio from the newest leadership webinar published by Human-Savvy.“Building a Healthy Workplace Culture - Where to Start?” is the webinar where Dr Liv Oginska shares a practical roadmap for building a healthy, psychologically safe culture in teams using a simple five-part Culture Map. We cover red flags to watch for, the exact questions to ask your team, and how to turn answers into a focused plan you co-create.Find the webinar video here >>> https://human-savvy.kit.com/4662b8db54To download a graphic summary of this webinar, click here >>> https://human-savvy.kit.com/d2bc524f44If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out!Find your FREE RESOURCES here >>> (click)

Send us Fan MailA listener writes in with a relatable issue: a colleague who double-checks everything, asks constant questions, and turns high-stakes work into a crawl. In this episode, Dr Liv and Dr Emma dig into the tension between psychological safety and performance.They also discuss how to give kind, clear feedback without harming psychological safety. Our hosts explore triggers, values, and practical scripts to turn frustration into better teamwork.• mapping when and why over-questioning happens• reading psychological safety versus uncertainty• turning feedback into a two-way dialogue• asking for advice, not just feedback• separating reactions from chosen behaviour• spotting values behind triggers and stories• fast regulation tools and longer-term mindset shifts• practical steps: prep, meet, co-create solutions, review(click here to contact / learn more about Dr Liv Oginska >>> )(click here to contact / learn more about Dr Emma McConnell >>> If this conversation helps, share it with a leader who needs a boost, subscribe for more human-savvy strategies, and leave a quick review to tell us what tactic you’ll try first.Click here to find more leadership resources connected to the Human-Savvy Podcast Episodes >>>> Do YOU have any questions for Human-Savvy? Are you a leader or professional in need of advice on interpersonal dynamics, team leadership, or other related areas? We are here to help you! Please send your letter to [email protected] with the title "Dear Human-Savvy..." and we promise to fully anonymise it and record an episode entirely devoted to tackling your challenge!Also, we deeply value your feedback. Please email us your thoughts, ideas and suggestions to [email protected] or follow and message Dr Liv on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-liv-oginska-53b345200Find your FREE RESOURCES here >>> (click)

Send us Fan MailWant to see how a fast-moving company keeps its soul intact? We sit down with Eve, founder and CEO of MI:RNA Diagnostics, and Claudia, former COO and now advisor, for a candid tour of human leadership: how culture is built on daily choices, why conflict can be healthy, and what values look like when they’re more than wall art. From the first question, they make one principle clear—leaders set the example in every hallway chat, Slack thread, and roadmap decision.We dig into the realities of global, remote teams and why the trade-offs are worth it. Eve loves the reach and focus remote work brings; Claudia balances it with intentional connection—meaningful check-ins, offsites, and community beyond the company to keep energy high. Cultural differences become assets: directness for speed, nuance for relationship-building, and curiosity as the bridge. The result is a distributed team that collaborates deeply without losing momentum.Eve and Claudia also unpack “low-grade, constant conflict” as a feature, not a bug. Disagreements over priorities sharpen thinking when everyone orients to the mission and brings emotional maturity to the table. We talk about choosing complementary co-founders, building an “orbit” of values-aligned talent before roles exist, and making quick, informed hires without five rounds of theater. And yes—mistakes happen weekly. They laugh, learn, and move, replacing blame with accountability and better data. If you care about psychological safety, values-based hiring, and leading with both heart and standards, you’ll leave with practical ways to raise the bar without raising fear.If this conversation helps you rethink leadership and culture, follow the show, share it with a friend who leads a team, and leave a quick review to tell us what landed most.We’d love to hear your thoughts after tuning in!Click here to find a plethora of leadership resources connected to the Human-Savvy Podcast Episodes >>>> Do you have any questions for Human-Savvy? Are you a leader or professional in need of advice on interpersonal dynamics, team leadership, or other related areas? We are here to help you! Please send your letter to [email protected] with the title "Dear Human-Savvy..." and we promise to fully anonymise it and record an episode entirely devoted to tackling your challenge!Also, we deeply value your feedback. Please email us your thoughts, ideas and suggestions to [email protected] or follow and message Dr Liv on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-liv-oginska-53b345200Find your FREE RESOURCES here >>> (click)

Send us Fan MailA letter from a head nurse in a rural hospital lands on the Human-Savvy Team's desk: the team has weathered a wave of departures, new hires are on the way, and major scheduling changes loom. Rather than offering platitudes, Dr Liv and Dr Emma roll up their sleeves and map a path from grief and rumour to clarity and momentum, focusing on psychological safety, structured debriefs, and practical onboarding that protects patient care and team morale.(click here to contact / learn more about Dr Liv Oginska >>> )(click here to contact / learn more about Dr Emma McConnell >>> If this conversation helps, share it with a leader who needs a boost, subscribe for more human-savvy strategies, and leave a quick review to tell us what tactic you’ll try first.Click here to find more leadership resources connected to the Human-Savvy Podcast Episodes >>>> Do YOU have any questions for Human-Savvy? Are you a leader or professional in need of advice on interpersonal dynamics, team leadership, or other related areas? We are here to help you! Please send your letter to [email protected] with the title "Dear Human-Savvy..." and we promise to fully anonymise it and record an episode entirely devoted to tackling your challenge!Also, we deeply value your feedback. Please email us your thoughts, ideas and suggestions to [email protected] or follow and message Dr Liv on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-liv-oginska-53b345200Find your FREE RESOURCES here >>> (click)

Send us Fan Mail🎙️ New Episode of the Human-Savvy Podcast is here! This time, I had the honour and joy of interviewing an old friend and a real Dragon Slayer 🐉(Honestly, I’m BUZZING) Dr. Guy Sandelowsky MBA is a veterinarian, entrepreneur, and founder of Omni Pet | B Corp™. He is one of the most authentic people that I have ever met. Despite facing a plethora of challenges on his trail-blazing professional journey, Guy has always remained unapologetically himself. In this conversation, Guy shares with us the #lessons learnt on his leadership journey, as well as his #emotionaltriggers and attitude towards #criticism. He also reveals a shocking #truth about the homophobic "glass ceilings" that he encountered as an entrepreneur. What is more, Guy and I did a deep dive into our professional journeys, and we discovered multiple things in common…🐉 the need for #autonomy and creativity so strong that it drives a person towards seemingly bizarre or unreachable goals🐉the appreciation for the power of #community🐉the love for living life fully and authenticallyEven though neither of us spends much time cutting bones anymore 🪚 , it turns out that slaying Dragons (as cool & powerful ones as 🐲 Steven Bartlett and 🐲 Deborah Meaden) and dissecting leaders’ #emotionalintelligence have become our separate, new ways of finding fulfilment. Each of us spent the last 5-7 years intentionally building the lives that we truly wanted to live.Was it easy? Nope.Was it worth it? Hell yes.If you are a deeply purpose-driven person who makes courageous decisions, opens themselves to feedback and takes care of your tribe… everything is possibleWe’d love to hear your thoughts after tuning in!Click here to find a plethora of leadership resources connected to the Human-Savvy Podcast Episodes >>>> Do you have any questions for Human-Savvy? Are you a leader or professional in need of advice on interpersonal dynamics, team leadership, or other related areas? We are here to help you! Please send your letter to [email protected] with the title "Dear Human-Savvy..." and we promise to fully anonymise it and record an episode entirely devoted to tackling your challenge!Also, we deeply value your feedback. Please email us your thoughts, ideas and suggestions to [email protected] or follow and message Dr Liv on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-liv-oginska-53b345200Find your FREE RESOURCES here >>> (click)

Send us Fan Mail"There aren't enough hours in the day" takes on new meaning when you're expected to fulfill multiple full-time roles simultaneously. This episode unpacks a letter from a veterinary nurse who's also managing an entire practice while covering nursing shortages—a situation leaving her perpetually behind and completely overwhelmed.Our deep dive reveals a common workplace crisis occurring across healthcare and beyond: talented professionals drowning under impossible workloads without adequate support or training. We examine how organizations sometimes neglect the sustainability of their workforce while pursuing other goals, creating hidden costs far greater than proper staffing would require.Whether you're the one struggling with too many responsibilities or leading a team that might be silently suffering, this conversation offers practical strategies for reclaiming control. We explore time and energy audits, effective prioritization techniques, and the surprisingly nuanced art of delegation. Learn how to determine what genuinely deserves your attention and what can be delayed, shared, or sometimes even eliminated entirely.Beyond tactical approaches, we address the mindset barriers that keep many high-achievers trapped in cycles of overwhelm—perfectionism, approval-seeking, and unrealistic self-expectations. Discover how these patterns develop and why external support from mentors, coaches or therapists can be transformative when internal pressure becomes unsustainable.This episode isn't just about surviving impossible workloads—it's about creating environments where talented professionals can thrive without sacrificing their wellbeing. Whether you're looking to set better boundaries, delegate more effectively, or create more sustainable workflows for your team, you'll find actionable insights to implement immediately. Listen now to transform your relationship with work demands and rediscover what's actually possible within human limitations.If you've experienced a situation like this, please let us know how you handled it. We'd love to hear your story!Click here to find more leadership resources connected to the Human-Savvy Podcast Episodes >>>> Do YOU have any questions for Human-Savvy? Are you a leader or professional in need of advice on interpersonal dynamics, team leadership, or other related areas? We are here to help you! Please send your letter to [email protected] with the title "Dear Human-Savvy..." and we promise to fully anonymise it and record an episode entirely devoted to tackling your challenge!Also, we deeply value your feedback. Please email us your thoughts, ideas and suggestions to [email protected] or follow and message Dr Liv on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-liv-oginska-53b345200Find your FREE RESOURCES here >>> (click)

Send us Fan MailWe dive into a fascinating workplace dilemma from a professional struggling to connect with her email-only manager who avoids all face-to-face interaction. The disconnect creates uncertainty and confusion about their working relationship.In this episode, Dr Liv and Dr Emma discuss:• Different perspectives on why the manager might behave this way• How to approach difficult conversations from a place of curiosity• Navigating workplace gossip and complaining about managers• Different communication styles and work preferences• Strategies for establishing clear expectations around communication• Ways to build professional relationships when natural connection is missing(click here to contact / learn more about Dr Liv Oginska >>> )(click here to contact / learn more about Dr Emma McConnell >>> If you've experienced a situation like this, please let us know how you handled it. We'd love to hear your story!Click here to find more leadership resources connected to the Human-Savvy Podcast Episodes >>>> Do YOU have any questions for Human-Savvy? Are you a leader or professional in need of advice on interpersonal dynamics, team leadership, or other related areas? We are here to help you! Please send your letter to [email protected] with the title "Dear Human-Savvy..." and we promise to fully anonymise it and record an episode entirely devoted to tackling your challenge!Also, we deeply value your feedback. Please email us your thoughts, ideas and suggestions to [email protected] or follow and message Dr Liv on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-liv-oginska-53b345200Find your FREE RESOURCES here >>> (click)

Send us Fan MailBONUS EPISODE - Module 5, Lesson 1 from the Human-Savvy Medicine Course (HSMC) >>> (click here to access the full course)IMPORTANT! This episode is accompanied by the visual materials that will help you enjoy 100% of the HSMC experience. Click here to access them >>> "Module 5 - Visual Materials"Feeling drained from caring too much? The problem might not be what you think. In this special bonus episode, we share a powerful excerpt from our Human-Savvy Medicine Course that challenges everything you thought you knew about empathy and compassion, especially the term "compassion fatigue".Whether you're a medical professional or simply someone who cares deeply about others, this episode provides valuable tools for sustainable compassion. You'll learn how to support others effectively without sacrificing your own wellbeing—a crucial skill in both professional and personal relationships. If this resonates with you, consider exploring the complete Human-Savvy Medicine Course, designed to help anyone who works with people become more confident, self-aware, and effective in building robust relationships.What could you accomplish if caring for others actually energised rather than drained you? Listen now to transform your approach to human connection.

Send us Fan Mail"What got me here isn’t what’s going to get me there. When leaders step into new roles, they need to stop and ask: what behaviours served me before, and which ones do I need to let go of or build now?"— Molly McAllisterIn this episode, Dr Liv had the honour of interviewing Dr Molly McAllister - Global Chief Medical Officer at Mars Veterinary Health. They discuss:🧠How values impact your life and decisions🧠The art of leadership and listening🧠 Evolving as a Leader🧠Creating space for self-care in leadership🧠Everyone's role in creating positive culture🧠Embracing change and accepting feedbackDr McAllister is a leader who shows up in a remarkably authentic, vulnerable and realistically optimistic way. She says it as it is while deeply respecting different points of view, and she’s always ready to grow and connect (which are two of her strongest values!).Thank you for always being your true self and making such a positive contribution to the veterinary profession, Dr Molly!Comment or reach out to Human-Savvy if you have any questions for Dr Molly!Click here to find a plethora of leadership resources connected to the Human-Savvy Podcast Episodes >>>> Do you have any questions for Human-Savvy? Are you a leader or professional in need of advice on interpersonal dynamics, team leadership, or other related areas? We are here to help you! Please send your letter to [email protected] with the title "Dear Human-Savvy..." and we promise to fully anonymise it and record an episode entirely devoted to tackling your challenge!Also, we deeply value your feedback. Please email us your thoughts, ideas and suggestions to [email protected] or follow and message Dr Liv on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-liv-oginska-53b345200Find your FREE RESOURCES here >>> (click)

Send us Fan MailCommunication breakdowns can feel insurmountable, especially when you're an enthusiastic extrovert leading a team of reserved, analytical thinkers. Our latest episode dives into this exact challenge, exploring how different communication styles can create friction despite everyone's best intentions.This conversation unpacks several powerful strategies for bridging the extrovert-introvert divide. Dr Liv and Dr Emma explore why extroverts often rush to share unfiltered ideas and how this can overwhelm more reflective team members. (click here to contact / learn more about Dr Liv Oginska >>> )(click here to contact / learn more about Dr Emma McConnell >>> Whether you're the enthusiastic idea generator or the thoughtful analyser on your team, this episode offers practical wisdom for turning communication challenges into opportunities for deeper understanding and collaboration. Click here to find more leadership resources connected to the Human-Savvy Podcast Episodes >>>> Do YOU have any questions for Human-Savvy? Are you a leader or professional in need of advice on interpersonal dynamics, team leadership, or other related areas? We are here to help you! Please send your letter to [email protected] with the title "Dear Human-Savvy..." and we promise to fully anonymise it and record an episode entirely devoted to tackling your challenge!Also, we deeply value your feedback. Please email us your thoughts, ideas and suggestions to [email protected] or follow and message Dr Liv on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-liv-oginska-53b345200Find your FREE RESOURCES here >>> (click)

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Dr Liv and Dr Emma help a new leader tame a challenging business partnership with a person who resists change and has the attitude of "we've always done it this way."(click here to contact / learn more about Dr Liv Oginska >>> )(click here to contact / learn more about Dr Emma McConnell >>> Immerse yourself in the following topics:• Understanding the four types of conflict: task, process, status, and relationship• Establishing equal standing when there's a significant age gap in a partnership• The importance of articulating your unique strengths and value to the business• Recognising complementary skills and why partners need each other• How to distinguish between what's under your control versus your partner's• Clarifying shared values and goals to reduce friction• Acknowledging that feeling anxious about difficult conversations is normalListen now to transform how you approach leadership in unfamiliar territory and turn your outsider perspective into your greatest strength.Click here to find more leadership resources connected to the Human-Savvy Podcast Episodes >>>> Do YOU have any questions for Human-Savvy? Are you a leader or professional in need of advice on interpersonal dynamics, team leadership, or other related areas? We are here to help you! Please send your letter to [email protected] with the title "Dear Human-Savvy..." and we promise to fully anonymise it and record an episode entirely devoted to tackling your challenge!Also, we deeply value your feedback. Please email us your thoughts, ideas and suggestions to [email protected] or follow and message Dr Liv on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-liv-oginska-53b345200Find your FREE RESOURCES here >>> (click)

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we answer a letter from an introvert who stepped into a role created specifically to manage strong-willed, independent professionals, and our listener suddenly finds herself struggling with assertiveness and accountability.Through practical advice and actionable strategies, Dr Liv and Dr Emma explore how to bridge the expertise gap while still commanding respect.(click here to contact / learn more about Dr Liv Oginska >>> )(click here to contact / learn more about Dr Emma McConnell >>>  In this episode, you'll discover: why understanding your team deeply must precede any attempts at changehow to communicate with conviction even when you doubt yourselfspecific phrases that can transform how your directives are received.The episode highlights a powerful metaphor: effective leaders sometimes need to be "loud ambulances on a mission" – creating temporary discomfort in service of a greater purpose that everyone understands and values. We examine common communication pitfalls that undermine authority and provide alternative approaches that inspire collaboration rather than resistance.Whether you're managing specialists, subject matter experts, or simply a team that's been doing things their way for years, this conversation offers a roadmap for leading with confidence when you lack technical expertise. Listen now to transform how you approach leadership in unfamiliar territory and turn your outsider perspective into your greatest strength.Click here to find more leadership resources connected to the Human-Savvy Podcast Episodes >>>> Do YOU have any questions for Human-Savvy? Are you a leader or professional in need of advice on interpersonal dynamics, team leadership, or other related areas? We are here to help you! Please send your letter to [email protected] with the title "Dear Human-Savvy..." and we promise to fully anonymise it and record an episode entirely devoted to tackling your challenge!Also, we deeply value your feedback. Please email us your thoughts, ideas and suggestions to [email protected] or follow and message Dr Liv on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-liv-oginska-53b345200Find your FREE RESOURCES here >>> (click)

Send us Fan MailHave you ever poured your heart and soul into leading your team, only to feel completely undervalued despite your best efforts? You're not alone. This episode tackles one of leadership's most painful paradoxes - when caring deeply for your team seems to make you more vulnerable to burnout and resentment.In this episode, Dr Liv and Dr Emma share a powerful coaching exercise centered around "Mrs. Paddington," a parable about a dedicated professional who eventually resigns after feeling chronically underappreciated. This story creates a safe space for teams to discuss complex issues without defensiveness, opening doors to genuine understanding.(click here to contact / learn more about Dr Liv Oginska >>> )(click here to contact / learn more about Dr Emma McConnell >>> Try this exercise with your team and watch as perspective-taking creates pathways to genuine appreciation and sustainable working relationships. Your team can't read your mind - but with the right approach, they can learn to see through your eyes.Click here to find more leadership resources connected to the Human-Savvy Podcast Episodes >>>> Do YOU have any questions for Human-Savvy? Are you a leader or professional in need of advice on interpersonal dynamics, team leadership, or other related areas? We are here to help you! Please send your letter to [email protected] with the title "Dear Human-Savvy..." and we promise to fully anonymise it and record an episode entirely devoted to tackling your challenge!Also, we deeply value your feedback. Please email us your thoughts, ideas and suggestions to [email protected] or follow and message Dr Liv on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-liv-oginska-53b345200Find your FREE RESOURCES here >>> (click)

Send us Fan MailWhat do you do when a colleague treats you as if you're invisible? In this deeply relatable episode, Dr Liv and Dr Emma unpack a listener's letter about workplace incivility that strikes a chord with anyone who's ever felt dismissed or ignored during meetings. This episode, the hosts:explore the passive-aggressive behaviour reveal the psychological underpinnings of workplace incivilitydiscover why most people who demonstrate these behaviours delivere practical, actionable strategies for confronting passive-aggressive colleagues while preserving professional relationshipsshare specific phrases to initiate these difficult conversations, emphasizing curiosity over accusation(click here to contact / learn more about Dr Liv Oginska >>> )(click here to contact / learn more about Dr Emma McConnell >>> )Ready to transform your leadership or professional journey? Listen now for practical strategies to shift perceptions, build authentic authority, and create a team dynamic based on mutual respect rather than intimidation.Click here to find more leadership resources connected to the Human-Savvy Podcast Episodes >>>> Do YOU have any questions for Human-Savvy? Are you a leader or professional in need of advice on interpersonal dynamics, team leadership, or other related areas? We are here to help you! Please send your letter to [email protected] with the title "Dear Human-Savvy..." and we promise to fully anonymise it and record an episode entirely devoted to tackling your challenge!Also, we deeply value your feedback. Please email us your thoughts, ideas and suggestions to [email protected] or follow and message Dr Liv on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-liv-oginska-53b345200Find your FREE RESOURCES here >>> (click)

Send us Fan Mail*TRIGGER WARNING* - in this episode, hosts discuss fertility issues Leadership often requires navigating the delicate balance between compassion and accountability, especially when personal challenges collide with professional responsibilities. At the heart of today's conversation lies a powerful question: how can leaders support employees through significant life events while still meeting critical business objectives?Dr Liv and Dr Emma dive deep into a real-world scenario where a manager struggles to maintain project momentum when a soon-to-be father needs time for prenatal appointments – a situation made more emotionally charged by the couple's difficult conception journey. What began as a well-intentioned conversation about scheduling has resulted in a strained relationship that both parties need to repair.(click here to contact / learn more about Dr Liv Oginska >>> )(click here to contact / learn more about Dr Emma McConnell >>> )This episode offers concrete steps for repairing workplace relationships through honest conversation, solution-focused approaches, and compassionate understanding. We explore how leaders and team members can create agreements that protect both individual needs and team objectives, turning potential conflicts into opportunities for deeper connection.Whether you're leading teams or navigating your own workplace challenges, you'll gain valuable insights on transforming difficult conversations into productive collaboration. Ready to transform your leadership transition? Listen now for practical strategies to shift perceptions, build authentic authority, and create a team dynamic based on mutual respect rather than intimidation.Click here to find more leadership resources connected to the Human-Savvy Podcast Episodes >>>> Do YOU have any questions for Human-Savvy? Are you a leader or professional in need of advice on interpersonal dynamics, team leadership, or other related areas? We are here to help you! Please send your letter to [email protected] with the title "Dear Human-Savvy..." and we promise to fully anonymise it and record an episode entirely devoted to tackling your challenge!Also, we deeply value your feedback. Please email us your thoughts, ideas and suggestions to [email protected] or follow and message Dr Liv on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-liv-oginska-53b345200Find your FREE RESOURCES here >>> (click)

Send us Fan MailEver had a manager who responds to every problem with "Just think positive!" or "Don't worry about it"? What might seem like cheerful leadership can actually be toxic positivity in disguise—and it's causing real damage in workplaces everywhere.In this eye-opening episode, Dr Liv and Dr Emma dive deep into a listener's struggle with a company leader who consistently shuts down discussions about workplace issues. While well-intentioned, this avoidance of negativity leaves team members feeling dismissed and problems festering below the surface. We unpack why this approach is actually dangerous—setting bad precedents, eroding trust, and preventing both individual growth and organisational improvement.(click here to contact / learn more about Dr Liv Oginska >>> )(click here to contact / learn more about Dr Emma McConnell >>> )Ready to transform your leadership transition? Listen now for practical strategies to shift perceptions, build authentic authority, and create a team dynamic based on mutual respect rather than intimidationClick here to find more leadership resources connected to the Human-Savvy Podcast Episodes >>>> Do YOU have any questions for Human-Savvy? Are you a leader or professional in need of advice on interpersonal dynamics, team leadership, or other related areas? We are here to help you! Please send your letter to [email protected] with the title "Dear Human-Savvy..." and we promise to fully anonymise it and record an episode entirely devoted to tackling your challenge!Also, we deeply value your feedback. Please email us your thoughts, ideas and suggestions to [email protected] or follow and message Dr Liv on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-liv-oginska-53b345200Find your FREE RESOURCES here >>> (click)

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when the leader of a healthcare team begins to crumble under the weight of self-doubt? A nursing manager with ten staff members has written to us with a heart-wrenching confession: despite giving their all, they feel they're constantly letting down their team. Every facial expression, every sigh from staff feels like judgment—even though no one has actually said anything negative.This powerful episode explores the dangerous territory of assumption-based leadership, where we project our worst fears onto our team's neutral reactions. Dr Liv and Dr Emma dive deep into the concept of Automatic Negative Thoughts (ANTs)—those insidious mental shortcuts that convince us everyone is judging us, when often we're really just judging ourselves.(click here to contact / learn more about Dr Liv Oginska >>> )(click here to contact / learn more about Dr Emma McConnell >>> )In this episode, you will learn:How to recognise to signs of burnoutAbout a different phenomenon - boreoutHow to recognise and approach the Automatic Negative Thoughts (ANTs)Ready to transform your leadership transition? Listen now for practical strategies to shift perceptions, build authentic authority, and create a team dynamic based on mutual respect rather than intimidationClick here to find more leadership resources connected to the Human-Savvy Podcast Episodes >>>> Do YOU have a questions for Human-Savvy? Are you a leader or a professional in need for some interpersonal/team dynamics/leadership advice? We are here to help you! Please send your letter to [email protected] with the title "Dear Human-Savvy..." and we promise to fully anonymise it and record an episode entirely devoted to tackling your challenge!Also, we deeply value your feedback. Please email us your thoughts, ideas and suggestions to [email protected] or follow and message Dr Liv on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-liv-oginska-53b345200Find your FREE RESOURCES here >>> (click)

Send us Fan MailOur special guest today is Dr. Belinda Hopper. She shares her leadership journey as the founding director of Animalius Veterinary Hospital in Western Australia, revealing how leadership requires balancing thriving and surviving while creating a workplace where staff can breathe, be seen, and feel valued. The Human-Savvy Team is deeply grateful for Belinda's openness, vulnerability, and energising spirit. She's a true role model of supportive and emotionally intelligent (human-savvy!) leadership.Enjoy this conversation!Click here to learn more about Belinda and Animalius >>>Click here to find leadership resources connected to the Human-Savvy Podcast Episodes >>>> Do you know a super supportive leader in your industry who deserves a shout-out? Tell us about them! Please send us an email at [email protected] with the title "A great leader", and we promise to reach out to this person and, if they would like that, interview them!Also, we deeply value your feedback. Please email us your thoughts, ideas and suggestions to [email protected] or follow and message Dr Liv on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-liv-oginska-53b345200

Send us Fan MailStepping from "one of the team" into a leadership position presents a unique challenge that can leave even the most competent professionals feeling frustrated and confused. In this episode, Dr Liv and Dr Emma explore this delicate transition through the experience of a newly promoted leader who finds himself trapped in an awkward middle ground – his colleagues who once treated him "like a little brother" now ignore his directives while simultaneously treating him as their conduit to upper management..(click here to contact / learn more about Dr Liv Oginska >>> )(click here to contact / learn more about Dr Emma McConnell >>> )In this episode, you will learn:How to prepare for the conversation between you and your teammates where you establish the new way of working together: from preparing your leadership vision beforehand to creating space for team input, establishing mutual expectations, and inviting accountability.The "give and take" framework that transforms leadership from a hierarchical position to a reciprocal relationship.How to maintain positive connections while establishing necessary boundaries.Ready to transform your leadership transition? Listen now for practical strategies to shift perceptions, build authentic authority, and create a team dynamic based on mutual respect rather than intimidationClick here to find more leadership resources connected to the Human-Savvy Podcast Episodes >>>> Do YOU have a questions for Human-Savvy? Are you a leader or a professional in need for some interpersonal/team dynamics/leadership advice? We are here to help you! Please send your letter to [email protected] with the title "Dear Human-Savvy..." and we promise to fully anonymise it and record an episode entirely devoted to tackling your challenge!Also, we deeply value your feedback. Please email us your thoughts, ideas and suggestions to [email protected] or follow and message Dr Liv on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-liv-oginska-53b345200Find your FREE RESOURCES here >>> (click)

Send us Fan MailFew leadership challenges are as demanding as balancing compassion for a struggling team member with the protection of overall team morale. This nuanced challenge takes centre stage as Dr Liv and Dr Emma explore the case of a practice owner grappling with how to support an experienced doctor who's returned from a two-year hiatus with shattered confidence.(click here to contact / learn more about Dr Liv Oginska >>> )(click here to contact / learn more about Dr Emma McConnell >>> )In this episode, you will learn:about the impact of one person's self-criticism and self-doubt on the whole teama strategic approach to managing such situationswhat leaders should do before they can effectively help others navigate complex feelingsWhether you're currently facing a similar situation or simply want to develop more sophisticated leadership capabilities, this discussion offers practical wisdom for handling those moments when being both compassionate and protective feels like walking a tightrope. Click here to find more leadership resources connected to the Human-Savvy Podcast Episodes >>>> Do YOU have a questions for Human-Savvy? Are you a leader or a professional in need for some interpersonal/team dynamics/leadership advice? We are here to help you! Please send your letter to [email protected] with the title "Dear Human-Savvy..." and we promise to fully anonymise it and record an episode entirely devoted to tackling your challenge!Also, we deeply value your feedback. Please email us your thoughts, ideas and suggestions to [email protected] or follow and message Dr Liv on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-liv-oginska-53b345200Find your FREE RESOURCES here >>> (click)

Send us Fan MailHave you ever wondered why one team struggles to keep their members while others thrive under very similar workplace conditions? This episode tackles a common leadership challenge: high turnover and disengagement. In this episode, Dr Liv and Dr Emma dive deep into the "Triple S Approach" – a powerful framework for understanding workplace satisfaction through three essential dimensions: Safe, Seen, and Stimulated. (click here to contact / learn more about Dr Liv Oginska >>> )(click here to contact / learn more about Dr Emma McConnell >>> )In this episode, you will learn:that the most revealing insights often emerge from the gap between how leaders perceive a situation versus how team members experiencehow to perform a systematic investigation process in which you can gather perspectives without bias, identify recurring themes among people's perspectives, and create action plans that address root causes rather than symptomspractical questions to ask in surveys and one-on-one conversations that reveal what's really happening beneath the surface.Whether you're managing a struggling team or simply want to enhance workplace satisfaction, this episode provides concrete strategies backed by emotional intelligence research. Join us to discover how skilled leaders can transform team dynamics by asking better questions and seeing employees as whole humans rather than just their output or mistakes.Click here to find more leadership resources connected to this episode >>>> FREE RESOURCE: The “Triple S” of employee retentionDo YOU have a questions for Human-Savvy? Are you a leader or a professional in need for some interpersonal/team dynamics/leadership advice? We are here to help you! Please send your letter to [email protected] with the title "Dear Human-Savvy..." and we promise to fully anonymise it and record an episode entirely devoted to tackling your challenge!Also, we deeply value your feedback. Please email us your thoughts, ideas and suggestions to [email protected] or follow and message Dr Liv on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-liv-oginska-53b345200Find your FREE RESOURCES here >>> (click)

Send us Fan MailEver notice how one person's complaint can spread through your team like wildfire? You're not alone. Workplace venting is a natural human behaviour that serves important psychological functions, but when left unchecked, it can create an avalanche of negativity that drains everyone's energy.This episode provides a practical framework for transforming these potentially toxic interactions into productive problem-solving sessions. In this episode, Dr Liv and Dr Emma explore the science behind why we vent – from seeking emotional release to building connection with others – and reveal how leaders can respond effectively without becoming emotional sponges.The centrepiece of our discussion is the "3-minute De-monstering Method," a structured approach that gives people space to express their feelings while guiding them toward solutions. You'll learn exactly what to say when someone appears in your doorway ready to unload their frustrations, how to validate emotions without amplifying negativity, and specific questions that activate the logical brain after emotional venting.(click here to contact / learn more about Dr Liv Oginska >>> )(click here to contact / learn more about Dr Emma McConnell >>> )In this episode, you will discover how to:Manage venting and complaining in the team while making everyone feel heardProtect your own energy as a leaderWhether you're a team leader drowning in complaints or someone who wants to vent more productively, these evidence-based techniques will transform how you approach difficult workplace conversations. Click here to find more leadership resources connected to this episode >>>> THE ADVANCED LEADERSHIP RESOURCE -> How to turn venting into "healthy debrief"Do YOU have a questions for Human-Savvy? Are you a leader or a professional in need for some interpersonal/team dynamics/leadership advice? We are here to help you! Please send your letter to [email protected] with the title "Dear Human-Savvy..." and we promise to fully anonymise it and record an episode entirely devoted to tackling your challenge!Also, we deeply value your feedback. Please email us your thoughts, ideas and suggestions to [email protected] or follow and message Dr Liv on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-liv-oginska-53b345200Find your FREE RESOURCES here >>> (click)

Send us Fan MailWe've all been there – returning from an inspiring conference bubbling with ideas, only to face blank stares and polite nods from our teams. One listener shares their frustration after introducing concepts like autonomy and micro job crafting to teammates who seemed completely uninterested. What causes this disconnect between our enthusiasm and our team's reception?In this episode, Dr Liv and Dr Emma discuss the leadership must-haves of building trust in a team and motivating people to try new things. (click here to contact / learn more about Dr Liv Oginska >>> )(click here to contact / learn more about Dr Emma McConnell >>> )In this episode, you will discover:the must-haves of building trust with your teamthe must-haves of igniting intrinsic motivation in peopleWhether you're struggling with team buy-in or preparing to introduce your next big idea, this episode provides the frameworks and practical steps to move from frustration to successful implementation.Click here to find more leadership resources connected to this episode >>>> Do YOU have a questions for Human-Savvy? Are you a leader or a professional in need for some interpersonal/team dynamics/leadership advice? We are here to help you! Please send your letter to [email protected] with the title "Dear Human-Savvy..." and we promise to fully anonymise it and record an episode entirely devoted to tackling your challenge!Also, we deeply value your feedback. Please email us your thoughts, ideas and suggestions to [email protected] or follow and message Dr Liv on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-liv-oginska-53b345200Find your FREE RESOURCES here >>> (click)

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when a leader receives feedback that they're "too emotional" for their role? In this episode, Dr Liv and Dr Emma discuss the vital relationship between emotions and effective leadership. They unpack the painful experience of having your emotional responses questioned, especially when it comes from a male supervisor to a female leader. (click here to contact / learn more about Dr Liv Oginska >>> )(click here to contact / learn more about Dr Emma McConnell >>> )In this episode, you will discover:how to approach someone's comments about your personality in the professional settinghow emotions impact leadership skills - whether they are helpful or destructive the practical strategies for managing emotions in high-stakes momentsWhether you've been told you're "too emotional" or struggle with regulating your responses in challenging situations, this episode provides actionable tools to transform emotional awareness from a perceived weakness into one of your greatest leadership strengths. Click here to find more leadership resources connected to this episode >>>> Do YOU have a questions for Human-Savvy? Are you a leader or a professional in need for some interpersonal/team dynamics/leadership advice? We are here to help you! Please send your letter to [email protected] with the title "Dear Human-Savvy..." and we promise to fully anonymise it and record an episode entirely devoted to tackling your challenge!Also, we deeply value your feedback. Please email us your thoughts, ideas and suggestions to [email protected] or follow and message Dr Liv on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-liv-oginska-53b345200Find your FREE RESOURCES here >>> (click)

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Dr Liv and Dr Emma discuss a letter from a person who has a new manager in the organisation and there has been a vast change in the atmosphere. The new manager seems to negatively impact employee wellbeing and retention. This listener is concerned about the future of the team, as well as their own engagement and safety. (click here to contact / learn more about Dr Liv Oginska >>> )(click here to contact / learn more about Dr Emma McConnell >>> )In this episode, you will learn how to:understand the impact interpersonal connections on our professional livesnotice the emotional contagion and its impact on the organisationuse emotional intelligence to be more kindnotice the difference between being judgemental and using our judgement, and apply the latter “manage up” approach a conversation without the pre-conceived ideasuse the “Social review” alongside the “6-Month Review”Click here to find more leadership resources connected to this episode >>>>  A Leadership Guide: Approching Employee ReviewsDo YOU have a questions for Human-Savvy? Are you a leader or a professional in need for some interpersonal/team dynamics/leadership advice? We are here to help you! Please send your letter to [email protected] with the title "Dear Human-Savvy..." and we promise to fully anonymise it and record an episode entirely devoted to tackling your challenge!Also, we deeply value your feedback. Please email us your thoughts, ideas and suggestions to [email protected] or follow and message Dr Liv on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-liv-oginska-53b345200Find your FREE RESOURCES here >>> (click)

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Dr Liv and Dr Emma discuss a letter received from a medical professional who recently joined a new practice. They are concerned about the way their colleagues approach patient care, and they have recently become quite reactive to others, responding harshly and unpleasantly. (click here to contact / learn more about Dr Liv Oginska >>> )(click here to contact / learn more about Dr Emma McConnell >>> )In this episode, you will learn how to:discover and utilise your VALUESapproach your leader when don't feel comfortable with the way things work at your organisationmake a decision whether you should stay or gotake the first step toward better emotional self-managementClick here to find more leadership resources connected to this episode >>>> A Leadership Guide: Helping someone (including yourself!) defining their valuesDo YOU have a questions for Human-Savvy? Are you a leader or a professional in need for some interpersonal/team dynamics/leadership advice? We are here to help you! Please send your letter to [email protected] with the title "Dear Human-Savvy..." and we promise to fully anonymise it and record an episode entirely devoted to tackling your challenge!Also, we deeply value your feedback. Please email us your thoughts, ideas and suggestions to [email protected] or follow and message Dr Liv on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-liv-oginska-53b345200Find your FREE RESOURCES here >>> (click)

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Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Dr Liv and Dr Emma help one of the listeners - a manager of a 20-person team - who struggles with one particular individual who seems always unhappy and generates a lot of negativity in the group.(click here to contact / learn more about Dr Liv Oginska >>> )(click here to contact / learn more about Dr Emma McConnell >>> )In this episode, you will learn how to:recognise what is and what isn't in your power as a leaderprepare for the Discovery Conversations that are a pre-requisite of any feedback sessiondiscover someone's "why", "what" and "who"inquire about the "must-have" of employee's happiness - autonomyanalyse team's wellbeing through the lens of psychological safetyIMPORTANT! This episode brings to you a FREE DOWNLOADABLE GUIDE:How to help someone who is underperforming/lost/unhappy in their jobDo YOU have a questions for Human-Savvy? Are you a leader or a professional in need for some interpersonal/team dynamics/leadership advice? We are here to help you! Please send your letter to [email protected] with the title "Dear Human-Savvy..." and we promise to fully anonymise it and record an episode entirely devoted to tackling your challenge!Also, we deeply value your feedback. Please email us your thoughts, ideas and suggestions to [email protected] or follow and message Dr Liv on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-liv-oginska-53b345200Find your FREE RESOURCES here >>> (click)