Let’s Deconstruct - a mini podcast series

Welcome to Let’s Deconstruct – an audio perspective deconstructing some of the best articles I’ve written over the years.

From the stress paradox, to the power of empathy, to the importance of authentic leadership, here I read out, explore and deconstruct my favourite topics to leave you feeling inspired, informed or, at the very least, thinking.

Thanks for coming to my mini podcast. Grab a cup of tea and Let’s Deconstruct.

1) LET’S DECONSTRUCT: AN AUTHENTIC SELF

In this first episode, I introduce the purpose of Let's Deconstruct, before looking back on an article I wrote on the importance of authenticity, emotions and self-expression. I explore why it is key to not repress who you are and how authentic leadership is incredibly powerful in the workplace. 

2) LET’S DECONSTRUCT: THE STRESS PARADOX

Are you too stressed? In this episode, I look at the subject of stress. Too much and we feel overwhelmed, too little and we lack a sense of motivation. What is the optimum balance of stress? Is stress really the enemy or is it how we approach stress? I go onto explore practical ways we can manage our stress, from "hacking our happiness hormones" to tapping into a sense of perspective.

3) LET'S DECONSTRUCT: ONLINE COMMUNICATION - A FALSE SENSE OF CONNECTION?

In this episode, I look at the topic of online communication and ask whether it is helping us or inhibiting us from connecting with others in the best possible way. Are we becoming too reliant on texts to keep in touch with others? How can we maintain our authenticity and "realness" when communicating digitally? And what about the positives that online communication bought about from the pandemic, when we were forced to socially distance from our friends and loved ones?  

4) LET’S DECONSTRUCT: WHY ASKING FOR HELP IS A STRENGTH NOT A WEAKNESS

In the fourth episode of Let's Deconstruct, I look at the concept of asking for help and why such a vulnerable act is, paradoxically, a sign of strength. After reading aloud the article, I go onto explore the common barriers we face when asking for support and some useful techniques for the next time you need to ask for help. 

5) LET’S DECONSTRUCT: CHANGE - A FORCE TO EMBRACE

Change. Love it or hate it? In this episode of Let’s Deconstruct, I consider the importance of change, especially how embracing change (even if uncomfortable) can lead to personal growth. I ponder on whether we are in danger of becoming stifled by “sameness”, lured by a false sense of security. I go on to look at the difference between passive change (forced upon us) and active change (something we have decided to do), considering the implications the pandemic has had for both.

6) LET’S DECONSTRUCT: THE POWER OF EMPATHY

In the sixth episode of Let’s Deconstruct, I highlight the power of empathy - both inside the workplace and outside the workplace. I look at why empathy is so important in leaders and teams, as well as how individuals can practice becoming more empathetic through a variety of techniques, starting with becoming a better listener.

7) LET’S DECONSTRUCT: THE AMBIVERT COMPLEX

Are you extroverted or introverted? Do you fail to fit neatly in either camp? In this episode, I look at the less explored category of the “ambivert”. Exploring the characteristics of the ambivert, I go on to look more broadly at human “labels” and whether they can be helpful or harmful.

8) LET’S DECONSTUCT: THE BOREDOM BENEFIT

In the eighth episode, I consider boredom. Something most of us shy away from, yet, paradoxically, something we should actually embrace and seek out. I ponder on what exactly happens to us when we are bored, why leaving children to be bored can be a good thing, and the effects the pandemic had on us where our usual means of entertainment were cut off.