Work Truths: Off the Record

🎙️ Episode 11 of Work Truths: Off the Record is live, and this time I’m joined by two of my own colleagues from the Motion Learning Coaching Team: Rakhee Patel and Helen Brooks, both leadership coaches.This felt like a particularly special conversation because, after hearing so many guest stories this series, we step back and reflect on what all of it means in practice for coaches. Rakhee and Helen bring such thoughtful, grounded insight to the topic, and I loved exploring with them what we actually do when a client says, “I know the evidence is there, but I still can’t believe it.”We talk about the power of internal validation, why so many people explain away success, and why simply telling someone they’re amazing often misses the point. Rakhee shares how she helps clients build “proud stories” they can actually take in, while Helen reflects on the importance of support, psychological safety and helping people realise they have choices.Because we’re all leadership coaches, I was especially interested in the organisational angle too: how we help clients notice when a feeling is internal, when it’s a signal from the environment, and how coaching can ripple outward into better leadership, more inclusive cultures and a stronger sense of belonging.If you’re curious about the coaching lens on imposter thoughts, this final conversation brings together many of the series’ key themes in a really practical way.Guest InformationHelen Brookshttps://www.motionlearning.com/helen-brookshttps://www.brookscoaching.nethttps://www.linkedin.com/in/helen-brooks-b882b7/Rakhee Patelhttps://www.motionlearning.com/rakhee-patelhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/rakhee-patel-pcc-93820911/

Episode 10 of Work Truths: Off the Record is live, and I’m delighted to be joined by Dan Cardwell, who describes himself as a failed writer, comedian and poet who works in marketing.Dan’s story is a brilliant one because it shows how imposter feelings can live alongside creativity, humour and professional experience. In our conversation, we explore that inner “bully” voice that kicks in just as he starts to feel confident, and how it can turn even a senior marketing role into a place of doubt and self-qualification.What really stood out for me was Dan’s honesty about how this has shaped the way he shows up: from over-explaining and second-guessing himself, to trying to look polished on the outside while feeling anything but on the inside. We also talk about the way his background in comedy and performance has both helped and complicated things — because when you’re used to being on stage, it can be hard to know whether you’re being authentic or just performing confidence.Dan shares how becoming more himself at work, using humour more deliberately, and being more specific about his own experience have started to shift things. He also reflects on what it means to hear praise, and why specific, thoughtful feedback lands better than big general compliments.If you’re interested in the overlap between creativity, performance and self-doubt, this one is a fascinating listen.Guest InformationAccording to himself, Dan Cardwell is “get ready for pitch BS – a fractional CMO who builds commercial marketing infrastructure from zero for companies where the product is genuinely excellent but commercially invisible to the buyers who need it most. ‘He’ is also embarrassed ‘he’ wrote that. I’m also a failed stand-up comedian and writer, with seven Edinburgh shows to my name – including Dan versus Food, in which I got a large theatre full of hundreds of people to watch me eat lunch.”Dan's Website and Social Links:Find Dan on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/dcardwellFor creative stuff: www.dancardwell.com

In episode 9 of Work Truths: Off the Record I’m delighted to be joined by Tarquin Bennett-Coles, a global talent scout with more than 25 years’ experience identifying, interviewing and supporting leaders across sectors.Tarquin’s story is a fascinating one because his experience of imposter thoughts is closely tied to something very specific: his name. In our conversation, we explore what it’s like to grow up with a name that can trigger assumptions before you’ve even spoken, and how that shaped his sense of belonging in professional spaces.What I found especially interesting was the way Tarquin has learned to manage those feelings in practical ways. He talks about doing his homework before meetings, building a sense of common ground, and surrounding himself with people who remind him of what he’s already achieved. We also discuss the impact of working across different countries and cultures, and how that sometimes changed the story his name seemed to tell about him.Tarquin reflects honestly on the moments when self-doubt made him want to pull back, and how support from others — personally and professionally — helped him keep moving forward. There’s something really powerful in his reminder that we all need a bench of people we can turn to.If you’re interested in identity, belonging and the hidden pressures that can sit behind apparently confident careers, this episode is well worth a listen.Guest InformationTarquin has spent over 25 years as a Global Talent Scout; identifying, interviewing and supporting leaders in the life science and tech sectors. He is a trained competency interviewer and profiler and passionate Equity, Diversity & Inclusion advocate who is deeply networked within the industries he serves. His focus is on senior leadership roles.Tarquin has worked in boutique search firms and was a Global Talent Scout with AstraZeneca and supported scaling biotech CellCentric, as their Director of Talent, as they doubled in size in 6 months. He has been involved in many high-profile hires including the CEO for the global vaccine NGO CEPI (Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations). He is an industry STEM advocate who chairs industry panels (Gap Summit, Excellentium etc) and bee a regular guest on Royal Pharmaceutical Society podcasts and written articles on talent issues & EDI.Tarquin is a pro bono careers advisor for Cambridge Judge Institute, a mentor for the Homerton Changemakers programme, a campaign committee member for East Anglian Air Ambulance and a volunteer for Form the Future, Cambridge Rape Crisis Centre, Beacon for rare Diseases and advisor to Gynii Me.He recently completed his 100th whole blood donation and holds Black belts in three martial arts disciplines; Karate, Combat Sombo and Judo. He has also trained and competed internationally in MMA, Karate, Jeet Kune Do Concepts, Savate Kickboxing and Kali/Escrima stick fighting. Tarquin’s Website and Social Links:

Episode 8 of Work Truths: Off the Record is live, and this week I’m joined by Dr Lucy Ryan, a UK-based positive psychologist and author whose work focuses on women’s professional development.If you’re a woman in midlife – or live with one, or work with one, or are friends with one – you might want to listen to this. I invited Lucy, author of ‘Revolting Women: Why midlife women are walking out and what to do about it’, to talk to me about the relationship between the imposter phenomenon and being a woman in midlife. Turns out, it’s an interesting one!Lucy brings such an important perspective to our topic, because she sees it not just as self-doubt, but as a signal that something important is shifting. In our conversation, we explore why she believes these feelings can show up at exactly the point of growth – when someone is stretching into new territory, taking on more, or rethinking what they want from work and life.Lucy’s research on women over 50 opens up so many questions about visibility, confidence and career transitions in midlife. We discuss why some women feel less relevant or increasingly invisible as they get older, how gendered ageism plays into that, and why menopause can amplify self-doubt for some, while post-menopausal life can bring a renewed sense of confidence and freedom too.We also discuss what she found in her research about midlife women stepping sideways, stepping down, or stepping out altogether – often because of care responsibilities, exhaustion, boredom, or a wish for something more creative.If you want a conversation that looks at imposter feelings through the lens of midlife, menopause and women’s careers, this one is packed with insight.Guest InformationAs Managing Director of Mindspring International for the last 23 years, Lucy has a lifetime of corporate experience. Lucy has trained, consulted with, and coached over 13,000 leaders in global, blue-chip companies across 29 countries. Her 2021 bestseller, ‘Lunchtime Learning for Leaders’ synthesised her down-to-earth approach. Lucy is a passionate advocate for women’s professional development, helping organisations attract, retain, and promote their female leaders and gender proof their succession plans.Noticing a trend of female midlife clients leaving their corporate roles, she led a unique five-year doctoral research project exploring this phenomenon, filling a long-standing data gap. Lucy’s 2023 book, ‘Revolting Women: why midlife women walk out (and what to do about it)’, was an instant Amazon bestseller and hailed by the Sunday Times as “clear, pithy and enraging”. Her book won Business Book of the Year (Diversity & Inclusion), 2024.Lucy is an accredited Master Practitioner Coach and nominated in 2024 as one of the top 100 global coaches for women, and one of the ‘top 5 women to watch in 2024’.Lucy holds a Masters in Positive Psychology from the University of East London, and a PhD in Organisational Leadership from University of Liverpool. She lectures in Positive Leadership & Happiness at the University of East London. Lucy joined Stanford University’s Catalyst Programme in September 2025.Lucy’s Website, Social Links and Books:mindspring.uk.comwww.lucyryan.co.ukhttps://www.amazon.co.uk/stores/Lucy-Ryan/author/B09BBHX42Z?ref=ap_rdr&shoppingPortalEnabled=true

Episode 7 of Work Truths: Off the Record is live, and this time I’m talking with Eric Johnson, the instrument operations group leader for the ISIS Neutron and Muon Source.Eric has one of those job titles that sounds brilliantly impressive – and yet he talks very honestly about not always recognising himself in it. That tension sits right at the heart of our conversation. We explore what it feels like to work in a highly technical environment alongside very intelligent specialists, while seeing your own role as the person joining things up rather than being the expert in every detail.Eric is deeply honest in this conversation, and his willingness to be truthful about his own experiences of feleing like an imposter allowed us to explore vital aspcets of this experience – such as how it shows up in the body. The knot in the stomach, the urge to freeze, the inner voice that does everything possible to make him feel small. We also talk about the habit of focusing only on problems, and how that can shape not just work you deliver, but also the way you see yourself.There’s something really practical in Eric’s story too. He explains how keeping a record of thanks and specific feedback helped him begin to notice his own value, especially in the moments when he could see that the questions he asked really mattered.If you’re interested in hearing more about what happens behind the masks we wear at work, or in how to start re-learning your own value bit by bit, then this episode is a fascinating listen.Guest Information Erik Johnson is a Chartered Engineer and Group Leader for Instrument Operations at the ISIS Neutron and Muon Source, part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI).He is responsible for the operation, build, maintenance and upgrade of large-scale scientific instruments and experimental facilities, working across engineering, operations, safety and multidisciplinary technical teams, and leading and communicating with a wide range of technical specialists.Erik's Links:https://www.linkedin.com/in/erik-johnson-ceng-3a554179Source: ISIS Neutron and Muon Source www.isis.stfc.ac.ukUKRI: https://www.ukri.org/

Episode 6 of Work Truths: Off the Record is live, and today I’m joined by Dr Terri Simpkin, an academic and self-described ‘chaos wrangler’!Terri brings a brilliantly fresh perspective to the imposter phenomenon because she doesn’t just research it — she has lived experience of it too. In our conversation, we explore how imposter feelings are shaped by the wider systems around us, not just by what’s happening inside our own heads. That means looking at childhood messages, class, underrepresentation, and the ways social narratives can quietly tell us we simply ‘don’t belong’.One of the things I found most powerful was Terri’s personal story of moving through university and a PhD while carrying the fear that she would be ‘found out’. She also explains why the word syndrome is so misleading, and why calling it a phenomenon matters so much. For the record #NotASyndromeWe talk about the cycle she identified through her profound academic research –links between procrastination, perfectionism, overwork, self-doubt, and the exhausting crash that often follows success. And for managers, colleagues and organisations, Terri shares what to look out for when someone keeps discounting their achievements, refuses praise, or seems unable to see their own evidence of success.If you’re interested in how systems, language and lived experience intersect, this episode is a fascinating one. It is packed with useful content.Guest InformationTerri has enjoyed a long and international career as a senior academic, business leader, trusted adviser, consultant, and public speaker with over 30 years of experience across higher education, industry, and the not-for-profit sector. She has also led her strategy consultancy, Mischief Insight and Impact, for more than 25 years across Australia and the UK.With a career that is international but grounded in Australia and the UK, she brings expertise in organisational capability development, strategic management, SHRM, leadership evolution, counters to ‘WEIRD’ perspectives and workforce transformation. Her portfolio includes designing leadership programs in STEM, stewarding international academic operations, advising governments on workforce strategy, and speaking internationally on leadership, inclusion, impostor phenomenon, and the future of STEM work (but without the futurist ‘fluff’).Her professional practice centres on cultivating capability in people and systems, and she is often engaged in high-ambiguity contexts where familiar answers and standard interventions have lost traction or failed.Terri’s Website and Social Links: https://www.uptomischief.com.auhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/terrisimpkin/Terri’s Upcoming UK Events:https://heyzine.com/flip-book/52e7142fae.html

Episode 5 of Work Truths: Off the Record is live, and I’m delighted to be joined once again by Emma Clark, a highly experienced employment lawyer.In this conversation, Emma and I look at where and how the imposter phenomenon shows up in real working life – especially in promotion decisions, performance management, discrimination, and the damage that toxic workplaces can do.Emma brings a sharp legal lens to the subject. We talk about why women, and particularly women of colour, can face extra barriers when confidence is read through biased ideas like ‘executive presence’, how performance improvement plans can become a negative turning point for people already doubting themselves, and why workplace culture can tip normal self-doubt into something much more serious.I was especially interested in Emma’s reflections on the legal consequences for employers. We talk about the role of grievances, the significance of occupational health responses, and the powerful implications of making reasonable adjustments. Emma adds her insight for managers too – notice when someone starts withdrawing, notice with curiosity when someone starts making mistakes, and notice drops in confidence.If you work in HR, lead people, or simply want to understand the workplace impact of imposter phenomenon more clearly, this episode will give you plenty to think about.Guest InformationEmma is an employment and partnership lawyer who advises both senior executives and organisations. She has over 22 years’ experience and her expertise spans advisory work, employment litigation and corporate transactions across a variety of sectors. She has been ranked and recognised for the last 4 years by the main legal directories (Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners).The directories include the following comments:Emma Clark is an extraordinary lawyer, the best I’ve worked with. Exceptionally knowledgeable, smart, strategic, pragmatic. She is also incredibly personable, responsive, easy to communicate with. I always felt confident that she was achieving the best possible outcome for me.’’ The Legal 500 2026“Emma is a heavy weight lawyer at the top of her game. Her knowledge of partnership and board disputes is extensive and her experience and commercial acumen makes her a real force to be reckoned with. You would want Emma in your team. Absolutely no question!” The Legal 500 2025“She is exceptional, compassionate and has an outstanding knowledge of employment law.”– Chambers UK 2025“She has a great mix of legal expertise and business acumen with the right touch of assertiveness.”-Chambers UK 2025Emma’s Website and Social Links: https://keystonelaw.com/lawyers/emma-clark/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmaclarkemploymentlawyer/Lawcare Organisation: https://lawcare.org.uk/

Series 2 of Work Truths: Off the Record continues with a reflective and truly insightful conversation with Charlotte Allocca, an integrative therapist based in London. Ever wondered what therapists experience behind their closed doors that tell them feelings of being an imposter are present? Well, listen to find out. I was especially interested in speaking with Charlotte because her work focuses on self-doubt, low self-esteem, and the stories people tell themselves about who they are and what they’re capable of. That gives her a very particular lens on imposter feelings – both how it manifests in the therapy room and what she hears about how it manifests in the workplace.We talk about how imposter phenomenon often shows up as a disconnect between what someone is clearly capable of and what they believe about themselves. Charlotte shares what she looks out for with clients, from reassurance-seeking and hyper-vigilance to people minimising their own achievements and moving the goalposts every time they succeed.A big part of our conversation is about where those stories come from. We explore how childhood labels, family narratives, underrepresentation, and experiences of not quite ‘fitting in’ can shape the inner voice people carry into adult life. Charlotte also explains why she sees self-compassion not as a soft option, but as a practical and necessary way of challenging our harsh internal critic when it gets vocal.And for people managers and colleagues? You’ll find out about spotting the signs when someone is masking their struggle, and how to create space that feels safe enough for honest conversation.If you’ve ever felt like you were doing fine on the outside while carrying a much louder story inside, this episode will resonate.What helps most when imposter thoughts show up — reassurance, evidence, or simply being listened to? Listen now to find out.Guest InformationCharlotte Allocca is an integrative therapist based in Clapham, and she works a lot with people who struggle with self-doubt, low self-esteem and things like imposter phenomenon.Much of her work is about helping people understand where those internal beliefs about ‘not being enough’ have come from and supporting them to develop a more secure sense of who they are, beyond just what they achieve.Charlotte’s Website and Social Links:www.charlottealloccacounselling.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/charlotte-allocca-625287367/Recent Blog Post by Charlotte:https://www.bacp.co.uk/news/news-from-bacp/blogs/2025/blogs-and-vlogs/10-september-imposter-syndrome/

Episode 3 of Work Truths: Off the Record Series 2 continues with a powerful conversation with Denise McMurray, Chief People Officer at the RSPB.I found this conversation particularly rich as Denise brings both deep professional experience and a very personal understanding of imposter experiences. We talk about what it can feel like to move into a completely new profession, to take a step down in title and salary, and to question whether your previous experience really transfers – even when, to others, it clearly does.We also explore the particular pressures that can come with working in the people profession, where complexity, constant challenge, and high expectations can make self-doubt even louder. Denise speaks openly about how confidence can be chipped away when you’re trying to do the right thing in difficult situations, and why psychological safety and self-compassion matter so much.And if you’re a leader of people? There are some really practical reflections in this episode too as Denise shares why curiosity matters, why rushing to reassure someone can miss the point entirely, and how starting with “what went well?” can create a much better conversation.If you’ve ever felt like you had to earn your place all over again or quietly wondered whether you were really equipped for the role you’re in, I think this episode will resonate.What helps most when imposter thoughts show up — reassurance, evidence, or simply being listened to? Listen now to find out.Guest InformationDenise is Chief People Officer at RSPB and a CIPD Fellow, with over 25 years’ experience across the Public, private and charity sectors, leading strategic HR and Organisational Development functions across complex organisations. She holds Master’s level qualifications in both Human Resource Management, Organisational Design and Development, Executive Coaching and Mentoring and is a qualified mediator, bringing a strong evidence-based, systems-thinking approach to people, culture and organisational performance.Her career has been shaped by deep expertise in and passion for strategic HR, people and organisational development, employee experience culture transformation and large-scale change, with a passion for aligning people strategies, values and behaviours to organisational purpose and long-term outcomes. She has a track record of enabling transformation and change, developing high-performing and inclusive cultures, and strengthening organisational capability to deliver sustainable impact.Denise’s Social Details:https://www.rspb.org.ukhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/🌻denise-mcmurray-chartered-fellow-cipd-454b662a/

🎙️ Series 2 of Work Truths: Off the Record continues with a brilliant conversation with Dr Kate Atkin, and this one is full of practical insight, honesty, and plenty to think about.Kate is a speaker, facilitator, author, and researcher who completed her PhD on the imposter phenomenon in 2024, and has literally written the book on the topic. She also speaks from lived experience, which makes our conversation feel especially grounded and human.We talk about why Kate is certain that we must be using the word phenomenon rather than syndrome, and what that change in language says about how we understand imposter feelings. And importantly how it empowers those experiencing it.We also explore the difference between healthy self-doubt and the kind of imposter experience that shows up even when there is clear evidence of success.What stood out most for me was Kate’s insight into what can trigger these feelings – from early parenting messages and social expectations, to workplace culture, perfectionism, procrastination, and the pressure to keep proving yourself.And if you’re wondering how you could help someone experiencing these thoughts and feelings then you’ll be pleased to know we also get into this too. We talk about what doesn’t help, including vague reassurance, and what can make a real difference instead – specific strengths-based feedback, keeping evidence of your wins, and learning to compare yourself with yourself rather than with everyone else.If you have ever downplayed your achievements, held yourself back, wondered whether you are really as capable as other people seem to think you are. This episode is for you!And the icing on the cake? You’ll find out about the power of a Wonderful Me file, and hear how the Muppets can help….!What helps most when imposter thoughts show up — reassurance, evidence, or simply being listened to? Listen now to find out.Guest InformationKate Atkin is an inspirational speaker, training consultant and author. Hailing from a farming background in rural Lincolnshire, Kate had a successful career with Barclays Bank before starting her own learning and development business. Despite failing the 11+ exam and not having a first degree, in 2015 she completed an MSc in Applied Positive Psychology and now has a PhD for her study into the imposter phenomenon, coping strategies and psychological courage in the workplace.Kate is author of The Presentation Workout and The Confident Manager and her third, and most personal book, The Imposter Phenomenon, was published by Pearson in July 2025.Kate's website and book:www.kateatkin.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/kateatkin/https://www.amazon.co.uk/Imposter-Phenomenon-feel-fraud-about/dp/1292469064/

Series 2 of Work Truths: Off the Record is all about the Imposter Phenomenon — and I'm starting with a powerful conversation with Dr Katie FordKatie has no less than 27 letters after her name, as well as ‘Dr’ before it. Yet her story is a powerful reminder that imposter feelings don’t disappear just because someone has the qualifications, the experience, or the external success.In our conversation, Katie opens up about what it really felt like to be the ‘clever one’ at school, then suddenly feel out of place, average, and at risk of being ‘found out’. She shares how those feelings shaped her career, how burnout and shame fed the cycle, and what it took to begin changing her relationship with herself.What I loved most about speaking with Katie is that this isn’t a story about magically overcoming self-doubt. It’s about listening to ourselves more honestly, understanding where imposter thoughts come from, and learning how support, self-compassion, and psychological safety can change everything.Guest InformationDr Katie Ford BVSc(Hons) CertAVP(SAM) PGCert MSc FRCVSDr. Katie Ford is widely regarded as one of the veterinary profession's leading thought leaders in the space of wellbeing, imposter phenomenon and what it actually means to be human in a high-demand career.She is a Fellow of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, holds a Master's degree in Emotional Wellbeing, and is trained across multiple coaching modalities including somatic and trauma-informed practice and CMI Level 7 leadership. In 2020, she co-founded Vet Empowered alongside Claire Grigson, a coaching and professional development company built by vets, for veterinary professionals; they are trusted by large corporations to support their graduate schemes and colleagues.Katie is an international keynote speaker who has taken the stage at some of the world's largest veterinary conferences, most recently in Canada. She facilitates international team builds and works with major organisations and universities.In 2023 she received the RCVS Inspiration Award. In 2024 she was named Bright Minds Wellness Champion, voted for by over 2,000 of her peers. In 2025 she was awarded her Fellowship for Meritorious Contributions to the profession.Katie's Social Links:@katiefordvet https://www.instagram.com/katiefordvet https://www.facebook.com/katiefordvethttps://www.linkedin.com/in/katiefordvet/ www.katiefordvet.comResearch Referenced:The Impact of Self - Efficacy and Perceived Organizational Support on the Impostor Phenomenon. American Journal of Management. 15. 23-29. Tackling Impostor Syndrome Individually and Institutionally: A Longitudinal Impostor Syndrome Curriculum for Pediatric Residents. Academic Medicine 97(11S):p S140, November 2022.Buffering Impostor Feelings with Kindness: The Mediating Role of Self-compassion between Gender-Role Orientation and the Impostor Phenomenon. Frontiers in Psychology, 8."Overcoming the Fear That Haunts Your Success" - The Effectiveness of Interventions for Reducing the Impostor Phenomenon. Front Psychol. 2020 May 15;11:405.

Series 2 of Work Truths: Off the Record will launch on Wednesday 6th May! Join host Rachel Morris again, as this time she dives deep into Imposter Phenomenon. Expect another round of honest conversations bringing expert insights and personal experiences to the surface, as Rachel and her guests discuss this often-misunderstood but deeply affecting experience.

What does burning the candle at both ends really look like?And how bad can the consequences be?In this episode of Work Truths Off the Record, host Rachel Morris speaks with Jay Asthana about his personal journey with burnout, starting from his early career as a pot washer to becoming a chef in prestigious London hotels. Jay shares his experiences of overwork, the impact of high expectations, and the eventual diagnosis of type 1 diabetes. He reflects on the importance of support from friends and family, the challenges of recovery, and the lessons learned about self-acceptance and prioritising mental health. The conversation emphasises the need for balance and the dangers of ignoring one's well-being in pursuit of success.Guest InformationJaiveer Asthana has had many careers over his lifetime. Never quite knowing what he wanted to do, he threw himself into everything. Eventually he started his own company Turtle Massage where he helps athletes back into sports after injuries. Jaiveer is a amateur film maker who will be releasing his second feature film in early 2026.You can find more info on Jay's socials:Instagram: @turtlemassage - Business Instagram: @ogflavourja - Indie film Website: Turtlemassage.comAnd Jay's books: Semi fictional life story about online dating as a create your own adventure bookhttps://amzn.eu/d/395YE9zSelf defense for kidshttps://amzn.eu/d/2rT7XZD

What have we learnt from our guests this season?And how do coaches work with their clients to support them before, during and on the recovery from burnout?In the final episode of Work Truths Off the Record series 1, host Rachel Morris and coaches Julie Nelson and Amy Funkhouser Watkins discuss and draw insight from the previous episodes of the first series. They reflect on their own and other guests' experiences along with the stories from their coaching practices.The conversation emphasises the importance of recognising early signs, the individual nature of burnout, and the critical role of support systems in recovery.The coaches share practical strategies for helping individuals navigate their burnout experiences, highlighting the need for kindness, grace, and community support.Guest InformationAmy Funkhouser WatkinsAmy Funkhouser Watkins is an executive coach, leadership team facilitator and founder of Hummingbird Insights, LLC. She helps leaders and teams reach their greatest potential with a focus on results and authenticity. She brings over 25 years of experience in business and leadership helping people thrive in change and complexity, bringing her integrity, compassion, courage and curiosity to every situation. Her LinkedIn profile is https://linkedin.com/in/amyfunkhouser. Julie NelsonJulie Nelson is an executive and leadership coach, accredited in coaching and change management, and a certified NLP Master Practitioner. She is the designer of the BeYou Programme, which empowers individuals to build confidence, resilience, and authentic leadership. Julie delivers personal growth, management training, and leadership development programmes across diverse sectors, drawing on her senior leadership experience and a strong background in HR, Learning and Organisational Development. Her holistic coaching approach creates psychologically safe spaces for transformation. Her work as a coach supports clients to prevent, navigate, and recover from burnout—helping them rediscover balance and purpose.Julie is also an associate coach at Motion Learning, creators of the Work Truths podcast https://www.motionlearning.com/julie-nelson.Connect with her on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-n/

In this episode of Work Truths Off the Record, host Rachel Morris speaks with Julianne Gilbert, a seasoned leader, about the critical issue of workplace burnout. They explore the definition of burnout, its recognition in teams, and the responsibilities of managers and organisations in addressing it. Julianne shares her insights on the signs of burnout, strategies for managers to support their teams, and the importance of creating a supportive work environment.Key Discussion PointsBurnout can manifest in various individual ways.Recognising burnout requires understanding team dynamics.Leaders must be proactive in checking in with their teams.Managers need a toolkit for supporting employees.Creating a culture of openness is essential for addressing burnout.Employers have a responsibility to support mental health.Self-care for managers is vital to prevent burnout.Good intent in management can foster a supportive environment.Guest InformationJulieanne Gilbert is Executive Director, People at City Lit, leading the HR and Student Services team. Julieanne has over 25 years of experience working and leading teams within both private and public sectors including retail, energy and business schools.Julieanne is known for her values-driven and human-centric approach to leadership and development. As a qualified coach, she’s passionate about empowering individuals and organisations to thrive through authentic connection, empathy, and purpose-led growth.She would be delighted to connect and her LinkedIn profile is: www.LinkedIn/in/julieannegilbert

A content warning for today’s episode: our conversation includes two brief mentions of suicide in the context of burnout. If you’re struggling, please reach out to Samaritans on 116 123. Take care as you listen.In this episode of Work Truths Off the Record, host Rachel Morris engages with Alexander Maxwell Cole, an expert in occupational psychology, to explore the complex topic of workplace burnout. They discuss the interplay between organisational demands and individual experiences, the importance of recognising early warning signs, and the critical role of leadership in preventing burnout. The conversation emphasises the need for supportive workplace cultures and proactive measures to address burnout, highlighting that it can be prevented with the right resources and communication.Key Discussion PointsBurnout is stress that wasn't managed properly.The interplay between organisation and individual is crucial.Burnout can have profound psychological and physical effects.Identifying early warning signs is essential for prevention.Leadership plays a significant role in employee well-being.Supportive workplace culture is vital for addressing burnout.The impact of difference between rhetoric and reality in organisations.Prioritising well-being is essential for individuals facing burnout.Organisational responsibility includes providing adequate resources and support.Guest InformationAlexander Maxwell-Cole is an accomplished Lecturer in Occupational and Organisational Psychology, Human Resource Management, and Organisational Behaviour, with a proven track record of fostering knowledge transfer and external engagement through strategic partnerships with industry leaders and professional bodies.His influence extends to shaping professional practice and policy, achieved through active participation in discipline-relevant forums that bridge academia and real-world application. As an experienced practitioner in strategic human resource management and development, Alexander has spearheaded innovative initiatives and delivered impactful organisational behavioural and psychological interventions. These efforts span performance management, training and development, organisational development and change, as well as retention and employee engagement.Additionally, he excels in leading and motivating teams while addressing workplace stress and emotional well-being, empowering organisations to thrive in dynamic environments.

How does the experience of burnout differ from person to person?And do the signs also differ?In this episode of Work Truths Off the Record, host Rachel Morris speaks with Sophie Peaty, an expert in leadership development, about her personal experience with workplace burnout.Sophie shares her journey through burnout, the signs she ignored, and the importance of self-care and support. They discuss the role of employers in recognising and addressing burnout, the need for vulnerability in leadership, and the significance of kindness towards oneself and others during challenging times.The conversation emphasises that recovery from burnout is not linear and encourages open dialogue about mental health in the workplace.Key Discussion PointsBurnout can manifest as an inability to switch off, not just exhaustion.Personal experiences of burnout can provide valuable insights for helping others.Recognising early warning signs, like sleep disturbances, is crucial.Support from colleagues and managers can make a significant difference.Vulnerability from leaders can help reduce stigma around burnout.It's important to have open conversations about mental health at work.Recovery from burnout is a personal journey and varies for everyone.Employers should create a culture that supports mental well-being.Guest InformationSophie Peaty is a Leadership and Development Coach and the Founder of Shine Leadership.With over a decade of experience in global retail leadership and people development, she now works with individuals and teams to grow capability and confidence, strengthen resilience, and lead with authenticity.Drawing on her own journey of learning how to thrive and lead well in high-pressure environments, she brings a warm, practical and human perspective to her work.An EMCC Senior Practitioner Coach, she has delivered leadership programmes to thousands of people globally.You can find more info here:Website: www.shine-leadership.co.ukLinked In: www.linkedin.com/in/sophiepeatyMusic in this episode by Blue Dot Sessions (www.sessions.blue)

Do you know your legal responsibilities to your employees in relation to burnout and mental health issues?Have you got the right type of insurance? And the right type of legal support?In this episode of Work Truths Off the Record, host Rachel Morris engages with legal experts Emma Clark and Cordelia Rushby to explore the multifaceted issue of workplace burnout.They discuss the legal implications of burnout, how to balance policies and processes with compassion and care, and the responsibilities of both employees and employers in addressing mental health in the workplace. The conversation highlights the need for compassion, proactive management, and the significance of early intervention in preventing burnout.Key Discussion PointsBurnout is a complex set of symptoms that can be misunderstood.Legal insights are crucial for both employees and employers regarding burnout.Early warning signs of burnout often include over-engagement and perfectionism.Employers have a legal duty to ensure the mental health of their employees.It's essential for individuals to seek medical advice and support early.Understanding symptoms rather than labelling them as burnout is empowering.Compassionate management can significantly impact employee well-being.Employers should actively engage in creating a supportive workplace culture.Training for managers is vital to recognise and address burnout effectively.Insurance policies can provide crucial support for employees and employers.Guest Information - Emma ClarkEmma is an employment and partnership lawyer who advises both senior executives and organisations. She has over 22 years’ experience and her expertise spans advisory work, employment litigation and corporate transactions across a variety of sectors. She has been ranked and recognised for the last 4 years by the main legal directories (Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners).Her LinkedIn profile is below and she would be delighted to connect: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmaclarkemploymentlawyer/Guest Information - Cordelia RushbyCordelia is an injury, health and insurance lawyer. She’s instructed by both insurers and senior executives in connection with workplace health and injury issues, giving her the advantage of insight and perspective when providing strategic advice, conducting audits, or managing claims. With nearly 40 years experience, she provides a wide range of advice on commercial issues connected with the management of workforce injury and health often bridging the gap between human resources, employment concerns and claims. She provides advice on insurance coverage to both senior executives and insurers. She has been ranked and recognised for many years by the main legal directories for Insurance and reinsurance litigation, and for Personal Injury (Legal 500 and Chambers and Partners). Her LinkedIn profile is below and she would be delighted to connect;https://www.linkedin.com/in/cordelia-rushby-a2687369/?originalSubdomain=uk

Can you recognise the physiological and psychological signs of impending burnout?What can you do to help your body and mind to avoid burnout?In this episode of Work Truths: Off the Record, host Rachel Morris welcomes Rachel Philpotts, award-winning author, nutritionist and mental health expert, who shares her personal journey through burnout and the significant changes it prompted in her life.Together they explore the warning signs of burnout, the possible routes to recovery and the importance of addressing physiological as well as psychological elements with self-care, nutrition and support.Key Discussion PointsBurnout is a significant issue affecting many individuals today.The journey through burnout can lead to profound personal change.Understanding the complexities of burnout is crucial for recovery.Burnout is a physiological as well as psychological experienceNutrition, diet and lifestyle all play a vital role in mental health and burnout recovery.Self-care practices can help prevent burnout.Awareness of burnout symptoms is the first step towards healing.Sharing experiences can provide comfort to others facing similar challenges.Professional guidance can aid in navigating burnout effectively.Burnout recovery is a personal journey that varies for everyone.Guest InformationRachel Philpotts is the founder of re:Nu - a functional medicine clinic for burnout and beyond- and the award-winning author of The Burnout Bible: How to tackle fatigue and emotional overwhelm naturally. Having experienced burnout in her 30s, she quit the corporate world and retrained. Now as a nutritionist, functional medicine practitioner and mood expert, she helps tired and wired career women to wake up feeling energised, focussed and ready to fulfil their true potential utilising root cause clinical testing and ultra-personalised health programmes. Alongside her clinic work, Rachel delivers health and wellbeing workshops to the professional services sector and hosts day retreats.You can find more info here:Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-philpotts/Website: https://renuclinic.co.ukInstagram: www.instagram.com/renu_clinic_Music in this episode by Blue Dot Sessions (www.sessions.blue)

How can organisations help when employees face burnout? How do values and behaviours affect an organisation's susceptibility to burnout?In this episode of Work Truths Off the Record, host Rachel Morris speaks with HR professional Justine Cooper about the pervasive issue of workplace burnout. They explore Justine's personal experiences with burnout, the multifaceted nature of its definition, and the importance of recognising warning signs. The conversation delves into strategies for individuals experiencing burnout, the role of teammates in identifying it, and the responsibilities of employers in creating a supportive culture. Justine emphasises the need for connection and the evolution of leadership styles, ultimately highlighting the significance of seeking help and support in overcoming burnout.Key Discussion PointsEveryone is susceptible to burnout, regardless of their position.Recognising warning signs in ourselves and others is crucial.Teammates play a significant role in spotting changes in behaviour.Connection in the workplace is essential for mental health.Employers must align their actions with their stated values.Creating a supportive organisational culture can mitigate burnout.Leadership styles are evolving towards more empathy and understanding.Guest InformationJustine Cooper has a background of 30 years experience in the field of Human Resources, leading teams of HR professionals in high performing organisations for growth through organisational and cultural change across a diverse range of industries including retail, legal and financial services, and energy management. In addition to developing talent management strategies to attract, develop and retain talent, she is passionate about developing trusted and inclusive cultures, where everyone thrives. Justine has been developing strategies to build diverse teams and foster inclusive cultures since 2005, across all dimensions of diversity, cultures and geographies.Justine holds a BA (Hons) degree in Business Studies & Information Technology and a Masters in HR Leadership. She is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Personnel & Development, a Certified Fellow of the Australian HR Institute and a qualified Coach/Mentor with Distinction from the CIPD Advanced Certificate.You can find more info here:https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinecooper1/

Discover a therapist’s grounded, compassionate take on burnout—what it looks like before the crash, how it blurs home and work, and the small workplace shifts that actually help.Drawing on 40 years of practice, guest Miranda Rock distinguishes pre-burnout from breakdown, unpacks the “stress curve,” and shares vivid client moments like "I feel like the phone is harassing me".In this conversation, host Rachel Morris and guest Miranda Rock discuss the multifaceted nature of burnout, emphasising that it is not solely a product of work-related stress. Miranda highlights the impact of personal life challenges and individual personality traits on one's ability to cope with stress. The discussion also touches on the importance of resilience and how it varies among individuals.Key Discussion PointsBurnout is influenced by factors outside of work.Personal life stressors can contribute significantly to burnout.Resilience varies from person to person.Coping mechanisms are shaped by personality traits.Experiences in life can affect one's stress levels.It's important to recognize the complexity of burnout.Not everyone copes with stress in the same way.Understanding personal limits is crucial for mental health.Life events can compound work-related stress.Resilience can fluctuate over time.Guest InformationMiranda Rock is an Accredited Master Executive Coach, and an Accredited Therapist. She brings many years of experience of working in 1:1 settings to her coaching, coach supervision, leadership development work and therapy clients. Her clients - individuals and teams - come from a range of industry sectors including financial services, professional services, energy and Health Services.As a therapist over many decades, her work draws upon an underpinning of psychological training and experience. Clients don't get stuck because they're not trying, they get stuck because the issues are often not external but inside themselves. Clients often say 'I've never joined the dots before', once they see the influence of their personal history on their current coaching or therapy dilemma.Her own personal history includes working in senior roles in HR in Corporate settings and for Partnerships.You can find more info here:Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mirandarock

Join host Rachel Morris for Series 1 of Work Truths: Off the Record, as she sits down with a range of experts to explore the issue of Burnout, what it is, how to spot the signs, and how to help yourself and others handle and overcome it.

Why is burnout so often a hidden collapse?In this candid episode, host Rachel Morris and guest Catherine Lightfoot reframe burnout not as a single crash but as a “slow disappearing of self,” often hidden by masking - especially for neurodivergent professionals - and intensified by personal and organisational change.Listeners will get concrete takeaways for themselves and others:How to spot disconnection behind the word “fine,”How to design humane policies and communication processesHow to encourage simple regulation rituals like brief daily check‑insTune in for a practical compass—self, share, support—and the deceptively powerful prompt Catherine shares which she now lives by: What do I need right now?Key Discussion PointsBurnout as a slow fade, not a single crash — why “slowness” matters and what it looks like day to day.The hidden toll of masking (especially for ADHD and other neurodivergences) and how it obscures warning signs.Two deceptively simple check‑ins that rebuild regulation: a “six‑minute” ritual and a five‑year micro‑journal.Why “I’m fine” is a red flag — and how managers can navigate power dynamics to earn real answers.Support that actually helps vs. harms: choosing therapy, somatic work, or coaching at the right stage.The guilt/shame loop that delays stopping — and the moment an external voice can (and should) break it.Policy meets humanity: what great employers do to prevent, respond, and communicate without adding harm.A cautionary tale for HR ops: automated processes (like performance letters) that retraumatize people on leave.Rebuilding identity when work has become “who I am” — a question every high performer should ask.A practical framework to share with teams: self, share, support — or as she puts it, What do I need right now?Guest InformationCatherine Lightfoot is an executive coach, HR consultant, and the founder of Fire & Light Coaching. Her work helps leaders and organisations move through complexity with clarity and care.With a background in senior leadership across sectors, Catherine brings a rare combination of strategic insight and lived experience to her work. Her own journey through burnout, fertility treatment, ADHD diagnosis, and maternity leave and return has shaped her understanding of how crucial the right support at the right time can be—especially for women and neurodivergent professionals navigating high-pressure environments. She now specialises in ADHD coaching for leaders as well as maternity coaching for women getting ready for and returning from leave.Through her coaching and consultancy, she helps others create sustainable change leaning in to their strengths and finding their authenticity.You can find more info on her website, socials or sign up to her newsletter.Website: https://fireandlightcoaching.com/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherine-lightfoot-coach/Newsletter: https://fire-light-coaching.kit.com/email-list-newInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/fireandlightcoach/