306: Redesigning Workplace Culture Without the Contract with Matthew Cook

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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