In the second episode of TIE’s spring semester series, Michelle Duffy, Vernon Heath Chair in the department of Work and Organizations at the Carlson School of Management, joins editor in chief of Toward Inclusive Excellence and podcast host Alexia Hudson-Ward to discuss positive practices in the workplace. Michelle’s research focuses on the emotional health of employees, its impact on an organization, and the role of micro interventions—brief, unique, and accessible exercises to improve mindfulness and well-being in and outside of the workplace. Michelle and Alexia dig into the effects of the pandemic on employee relations and mental health; how can staff maintain healthy and productive relationships in the midst of new working environments, stressful home lives, or even grief?

In the discussion, Michelle walks through how managers or those who hold more stability or power in their position—tenured professors, for example—can uplift and support their junior colleagues, not diminish or perpetuate harmful experiences. In addition, Michelle notes the importance of making space for “humanity” at work—pets, kids, or basement offices should be embraced, not looked down upon—and positive strategies she’s implemented at her own institution to encourage these results. Last, she underscores the effectiveness of empathetic and mindful leadership, and defines the qualities and actions of a compassionate leader.

Episode theme music: Black is the Night by Jeris (c) copyright 2014 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution Noncommercial (3.0) license. Ft: DJ Vadim (djvadim), NiGiD

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