EP6: How to build a Trauma-Informed Workplace to support Employee Mental Health with Stephanie Lemek

Break The Wheel: An HR Podcast

Join our host, David Murray, on another episode of Break the Wheel, where we tackle a seldom-discussed topic in the public sphere. In this episode, David is joined by Stephanie Lemek, a former HR Executive and Founder of The Wounded Workforce. Together, they explore various aspects of the workplace, HR practices, and employee well-being.

With over 16 years of HR experience, Stephanie shares valuable insights from her passion project, The Wounded Workforce, shedding light on the prevalence of workplace trauma and the critical importance of fostering safe and supportive environments. The conversation touches upon key issues such as the significance of pay transparency, the influence of Gen Z on work culture, and the necessity for trauma-informed workplaces.

David and Stephanie delve into broader themes, addressing mental health, the establishment of healthy boundaries, and the evolving dynamics of the modern workplace. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of these crucial topics and learn how we can create more compassionate and inclusive workspaces.

Cheers to creating positive change in the workplace and fostering a culture of well-being and inclusivity!

Key Takeaways:

-Trauma-Informed Workplaces: Stephanie Lemek emphasizes the importance of creating safe, empowering, and inclusive work environments that support employees' mental health and well-being.

-Generational Dynamics: The discussion highlights the shifting expectations of different generations in the workplace, emphasizing the need for boundaries, empowerment, and meaningful work.

-Transparency and Trust: The episode underscores the significance of transparency in pay raises, AI monitoring, and workplace communication to build trust and foster a positive work culture.

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction and Unique Workplace Perspectives

01:54 - Impact of Pay Raises and Ethical Compensation

03:11 - Changing Work Relationships and Pay Transparency

04:16 - Gen Z's are about to join our workforces, are we ready?

06:29 - AI Monitoring Employee Messages in the Workplace

08:21 - Trust and Transparency in Technology Use

10:02 - Leveraging Technology with Trust and Intent

10:48 - Building Trauma-Informed Workplaces

14:33 - Principles of Trauma-Informed Cultures

15:14 - Implementing Trauma-Informed Practices

17:49 - Why having a Trauma-Informed Workplaces Important in Businesses

19:35 - Talent Shortage and Future Workforce Challenges

23:29 - People Misunderstand: About Mental Health, Mental Health at Work and Trauma

28:06 - Break the Wheel or Break a Heel: All about Employee Mental Health

32:02 - Wheel Breaker of the Week: Starbucks Prioritizes Accessibility and Inclusivity

41:57 - Workplace Horror Story: Dealing with Sensitive Information

44:23 - Wobbly Wheel of the Week: Layoffs at Broadcom

45:06 - HR Speak Funny: Golden Handcuffs

46:39 - Decline to Comment: Navigating Workplace Challenges

48:20 - Cheers to Change: Setting Boundaries for Work-Life Balance

You can also watch Break the Wheel on Youtube:

https://www.youtube.com/@ConfirmHR

Connect with Stephanie Lemek:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanielemek/

Website: https://www.thewoundedworkforce.com/

Connect with Confirm:

Website: https://www.confirm.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/confirm.hr/

Connect with David Murray, host:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dimurray/

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