Are you ready to rethink workplace culture for lasting happiness and performance?

In this episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O’Brien sits down with Matthew Cook, co-founder of The Shift, for an in-depth discussion on how organisations and leaders can intentionally shape workplace culture to foster happier, more engaged teams. Drawing from personal experience, ongoing research, and real-world examples, Matthew explores why company culture is more prominent post-COVID, how the “psychological contract” between employer and employee has shifted, and what leaders can do to create teams where everyone thrives.

In This Episode, You’ll Discover:

• How the psychological contract at work is now more transactional, with employees expecting more than just what’s on paper.
• The need for organisations to intentionally design (not inherit) their workplace structures and cultures.
• Practical steps leaders can take: from self-awareness and introspection to adaptive management and fostering new mindsets within teams.
• The growing importance of EQ (emotional intelligence) and AQ (adaptability quotient) for managers and leaders.

Related Topics Covered:

Mindset at Work, Societal Shifts, Leadership & Responsibilities

Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®:

• Website
• LinkedIn
• YouTube

Connect with Matthew Cook | Co-founder of The Shift:

• Website
• LinkedIn

Related Episodes You’ll Love:

Ep 289: Leadership Choices that Define your Culture

Ep. 267: Creating a Positive Workplace

About Happier at Work®

Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive.

If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®.

Join Aoife O’Brien for weekly insights on leadership, workplace culture, career clarity, imposter syndrome, and creating work that works for you.

Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald.

Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ

Mentioned in this episode:

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