Real InSight with Myke Ireland

EP030 - Dr Richard Chambers - Proving Nothing, Leading Everything

In this episode, I sit down with clinical psychologist and mindfulness expert Dr Richard Chambers to explore how leaders can thrive—not just survive—in today’s hyper-connected, high-expectation workplace.We begin with Richard’s origin story: how his early struggles with focus and anxiety led him in 1999 to discover mindfulness, eventually building a career supporting senior executives in performance, wellbeing and leadership.From there we pull apart two critical themes:Imposter Syndrome & Self-Worth in LeadershipMany high-performers land in leadership roles with minimal preparation—and the result is a constant cycle of trying to prove rather than lead. Richard and I discuss how mindfulness and self-compassion offer practical tools to step out of the “only-if-I-prove-my-worth” loop. We also talk about how organisations can foster psychological safety so that leaders and teams can speak honestly, delegate effectively, and avoid burnout.Digital Detox, Silence & Sustainable PerformanceIn a culture obsessed with busyness and connectivity, one of the most radical moves for a leader is to disconnect. Richard walks us through his “silent commute” experiment, how limiting passive tech and prioritising deep-work time rewires the brain for clarity and impact, and why the idea of mindfulness isn’t just about “quieting the mind” but about freeing it to make better decisions under pressure.Throughout the conversation you’ll pick up evidence-based tools (not just theory), including:How to build deep-focus blocks (and protect them) within leadership schedulesSigns that your leadership model is spinning into survival mode rather than strategic modeThe structural (systemic) as well as personal levers for better workplace wellbeingIf you’re a leader, high-potential, or executive wondering how to lead without losing yourself … this episode’s for you.-------------------------------------------------------------------------------• Visit Richard’s website where you’ll find free meditations, online courses and leadership-resources... https://www.drrichardchambers.com• Connect with Richard on LinkedIn...https://www.linkedin.com/in/drrichardchambers • Watch his TEDx talk “Mindfulness: defeating distraction and amplifying awareness” for a strong intro to his thinking...https://youtu.be/9QjI8nMiwJw?si=7Mqi_bLYbvtW4MSo🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe and hit the bell so you won’t miss future conversations on leadership, wellbeing and performance.As always, Real InSight would not be possible if not for the support of  @CorsairSolutions  [https://studio.youtube.com/channel/UCKKgLLOXQ-1qTwOBze7xLKA] and  @MyLumens  [https://studio.youtube.com/channel/UCOckQhSUhLgaAi0Jnsre6wA] 📥 Let us know in the comments: When was the last time you scheduled “silence” in your day? Chapters 0:16 Origin Story of a Mindfulness Expert 1:24 The Rise of Mindfulness in Leadership 3:14 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome 7:17 The Importance of Practical Skills 8:39 Insights from a TED Talk Experience 17:09 Embracing Self-Compassion 29:19 Navigating Workplace Well-being 34:00 The Balance of Responsibility 43:18 The Power of Silence 47:39 The Impact of Digital Detox 53:12 Final Reflections and Advice

EP029 - Rae Bonney OAM - Masculinity, Mental Health, Meaning and the Realities Facing Men Today

“It’s not always depression. Sometimes it’s divorce. Sometimes it’s debt. Sometimes it’s no access to your kids. So it's not all about mental illness, that’s a system problem.” Released to mark Men’s Mental Health Week in Australia, this powerful episode features Rae Bonney OAM — counsellor, speaker, and relentless advocate for the emotional wellbeing of men and boys. Rae joins Myke to share her personal and professional journey with unfiltered honesty — from growing up in a violent household to confronting her own destructive patterns and ultimately choosing accountability, therapy, and advocacy over silence. This episode is a deep dive into mens mental health, We look at the real reasons men shut down, break down, or check out. From self-harm and addiction to perfectionism and shame, Rae challenges the culture that tells men to “man up” and offers powerful alternatives rooted in curiosity, connection, and care. 🧠 If you're a father, a partner, a teacher, or a man navigating your own mental health — this one will shift something in you. What you’ll hear: - How Rae’s childhood in a violent, patriarchal household shaped her mission - The damaging impact of fatherlessness and systems that alienate men from parenting - Why male suicide is often situational — not just a “mental illness” problem - The invisible epidemic of male loneliness, especially post-40- How self-harm, disordered eating, and “functioning” behaviours often mask emotional collapse - Why the lack of male-specific mental health services is costing lives - How Men’s Sheds, jiu-jitsu, and grassroots communities create safer spaces One of the most striking moments? Rae recounts counselling young people who self-harm — not with judgement, but with presence. “It wasn’t about telling them to stop. It was about keeping them safe while they got through it.” If you’re raising boys, supporting men, or just trying to make sense of your own story, this conversation is one of the most honest you’ll hear. Men’s lives are at stake — and the way forward starts with listening, not lecturing. Rae Bonney doesn’t just talk about men’s mental health — she lives it, works in it, and fights for it. — 🌐 Connect with Rae: https://raybonney.auhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/raebonney 📺 Watch more episodes: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLAEay_1WvE2q95NOsLvXHrvHxelFjAryj&si=K2R6ATiJANF2SfeV — 🏚️ Find out more about Mens Shed: https://mensshed.org —Please note this episode openly discusses self harm and suicide. If you or anyone you know may be struggling please reach out for help at any of the below public services: https://www.beyondblue.org.auhttps://www.lifeline.org.au/https://www.neveralone.org.au #RaeBonney #MensMentalHealth #Masculinity #MaleSuicide #RealInSight #SupportNotStigma #GenerationalTrauma #Neurodiversity #ADHD #MentalHealthWeek #InvisibleStruggles #SelfHarmAwareness #ParentingBoys #maleloneliness 0:05 Mental Health Perspectives 1:26 Childhood Experiences of Violence 4:42 The Role of Male Role Models8:26 Parenting and Self-Management 13:02 Generational Trauma and Responsibility 17:08 The Loneliness Epidemic 23:48 Gender Conversations and Safety 26:21 Community Support for Men 32:58 Building Male Connections 37:18 Recognition and Advocacy 40:37 Understanding Male Responsibility 45:23 The Importance of Support Networks

EP028 - Assoc.Prof. Li Ping Thong - Designing The Future of Design

In this episode of Real InSight, we sit down with the inspiring and sharp-minded Associate Professor Li Ping Thong, a powerhouse of intellect, creativity, and leadership in the fields of design, culture, and education.As the Associate Dean of Digital Design at RMIT, Li Ping’s work spans far beyond the walls of academia. She’s a leading voice in how we teach, interpret, and live design. From shaping curriculum to challenging cultural norms, she brings a bold, human-centric approach to everything she does.In this deeply engaging conversation, Li Ping shares her journey — from her early days as a curious thinker to becoming a respected academic and change-maker. We explore the realities of working in academia through the lens of someone who brings cross-cultural insight and leadership to the field, and how empathy, representation, and creative freedom are essential to building more inclusive futures.We also dive into her thoughts on how education can be a force for change when we equip students to adapt to evolving technologies, critically shift design methods, and rethink systems.Whether you’re a student, educator, designer, or just someone curious about how creativity can change the world — this episode is packed with insight, perspective, and a healthy dose of inspiration.✨ Listen now — and don’t forget to share your own takeaways in the comments.#DesignLeadership #HigherEducation #RealInSight #CreativityAndCulture #RepresentationMatters #DesignJusticeLi Ping Thong – Publications (RMIT University)https://academics.rmit.edu.au/liping-thong/aboutGive Li Ping a follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lipingthong/0:09 ⁠Welcome to Real Insight⁠1:29 ⁠Journey into Academia⁠4:53 ⁠Exploring Research and Impact⁠10:30 ⁠Gamification in Education⁠16:21 ⁠The Future of AR and VR⁠21:16 ⁠Designing User Experiences⁠25:15 ⁠Bridging Technology and Education⁠30:09 ⁠The Role of AI in Design⁠38:19 ⁠Cultural Influences on Design⁠43:42 ⁠Finding Balance in Farm Life⁠47:59 ⁠Leaving a Legacy Through Design

EP027 - Mike Hagan - Building Better Workplaces for the Mind

In this insightful episode, we sit down with Mike Hagan, a seasoned workplace consultant with over 25 years of experience in General Management, Human Resources, Workplace Health, Safety, Wellbeing, and Corporate Compliance. Mike specializes in helping organizations strategically address workplace psychosocial factors that can lead to employee burnout, high turnover, and productivity losses. His pragmatic approach focuses on identifying root causes, implementing strategic solutions, and upskilling employees to proactively manage workplace challenges. Key Discussion Points: Understanding Psychosocial Hazards: Mike delves into the importance of recognizing and mitigating factors that negatively impact employee well-being and organizational performance. Strategic HR and WHS Integration: Insights into how integrating Human Resources with Workplace Health and Safety initiatives can lead to improved employee engagement and business outcomes. Leadership Development: The role of tailored leadership programs in fostering effective managers and cultivating a positive workplace culture. Mental Health Advocacy: Mike shares his passion for mental health advocacy and the significance of creating workplace cultures where 'It's OK not to be OK.' Join us as we explore practical strategies for transforming workplaces into environments that support both employee well-being and organizational success. Tune in to gain valuable insights on creating healthier, more productive workplaces. Find out more about Mike here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-hagan-a7b22417/?originalSubdomain=auAnd his various services here: https://mikehaganconsulting.com.au #WorkplaceWellbeing #HR #WHS #LeadershipDevelopment #MentalHealthAdvocacy #RealInsightPodcast Chapters 0:10 Introduction to Mike Hagan 2:35 Mike's Journey and Mental Health Experiences 5:59 Evolving Workplace Mental Health Perspectives 11:31 Debunking Psychosocial Health in Workplaces 13:11 Genuine Care vs. Compliance in Organizations 13:44 Understanding Organizational Motivations 13:55 The Role of Legislation in Workplace Change 16:53 Personal Experiences with Neurodiversity 20:47 Leadership and Mental Health in Organizations 32:23 Navigating Personal Challenges in Leadership 40:17 Embracing Neurodiversity in the Workplace 50:00 The Importance of Individualized Approaches 1:07:26 The Wellfish Program and Personal Well-being 1:13:05 Closing Thoughts and Future Conversations

EP026 - Leonie M Hicks - The Architecture of Innovation: Reimagining Work

🎙 Episode Summary In this premiere episode of Season 2, I sit down with Leonie M Hicks, a powerhouse in workplace design and a driving force at Unispace, the global firm reimagining how the world works. With over 20 years of experience in architecture and interior design, Leonie shares her insights into how spaces influence behavior, creativity, and collaboration—especially in a post-pandemic world. We explore the evolving role of technology in workplace environments, the psychological impact of design choices, and the importance of sustainability in modern office planning. Leonie also shares her journey from traditional architecture to pioneering flexible, human-centered workspaces for some of the world’s most forward-thinking companies.If you’ve ever wondered how physical environments shape culture, productivity, and the future of work—this one’s for you. 👤 About Leonie M Hicks Leonie M Hicks is a senior leader at Unispace, where she combines her deep knowledge of workplace strategy, sustainable design, and interior architecture to deliver transformative spaces for global clients. With a background in both academic design training and hands-on architectural practice, Leonie has led projects that respond to the unique needs of hybrid work, employee well-being, and brand identity. Her portfolio includes: Multinational HQ transformations Flexible co-working hubs Post-COVID workplace redesigns Leonie is also a respected speaker and thought leader, frequently featured at international conferences and in industry publications. 🧠 Key Themes: Hybrid work models & the new office landscape The role of environmental psychology in workplace design Bridging technology and space to enhance collaboration Why workplace design needs to be as dynamic as the people in it Hit play and let’s talk about the future of where—and how—we work.---- Download the  @unispaceglobal  [https://studio.youtube.com/channel/UCDV-65ZYVgnZdXED0nbhq5w] Future Workplace Insight Report https://www.unispace.com/global-workplace-insights-en---- Find out more about Leonie M Hicks https://www.linkedin.com/in/leonie-m-hicks/ InSight Systems and  @mykeireland  [https://studio.youtube.com/channel/UC8pKC-gOlzpJfitq233jP_g] would also like to recognize  @CorsairSolutions  [https://studio.youtube.com/channel/UCKKgLLOXQ-1qTwOBze7xLKA] and  @MyLumens  [https://studio.youtube.com/channel/UCOckQhSUhLgaAi0Jnsre6wA] for their ongoing support of Real InSight. 0:26 Introduction to the Interview 1:26 Journey to Sobriety 1:40 The Resilient Workplace Model 2:17 Workplace Strategy Explained 5:47 Measuring Success in Relocation 7:31 The Hybrid Workplace Challenge 9:10 Space Optimization Trends 12:40 Neurodiversity and Work Style 14:03 The Future of Hot Desking 21:09 Flexibility in Work Hours 22:57 Addressing Empty Spaces 23:50 Resilient Workplace Model Overview 25:23 Enablement and Technology 30:49 Adaptability in Workspaces 34:59 Well-being in the Workplace 38:02 Personal Experiences with Neurodiversity 48:03 Importance of Connection 51:07 Authenticity in Workplace Design 54:16 The Rewarding Nature of Projects 1:01:07 The Evolution of Classroom Technology 1:06:48 Designing with Nature in Mind 1:07:17 Conclusion and Further Resources