Behind every toxic workplace, every failing team, every leader who's struggling to connect, there's usually the same root cause: people have forgotten how to genuinely connect with each other. Connection isn't some mysterious talent - it's a skill that can be learned, practiced, and mastered.

It's Bullying No Way week, but here's the uncomfortable truth: we're teaching kids that bullying is unacceptable while tolerating it from high-performing adults in our workplaces. Australian organisations are losing $15 billion annually to workplace bullying, yet many leaders still struggle with the same question - what do you do when your star performer is also your biggest bully? Through real client stories and practical solutions, this piece explores why choosing profits over people always backfires, and how high performance and respectful behaviour aren't mutually exclusive.

In our hybrid world, genuine connection has become both harder to create and more critical than ever. When we feel truly seen, our brains release oxytocin, reducing stress and enhancing creativity. Discover how one principal's simple signature move—writing handwritten birthday cards to all 1200 students—reveals the neuroscience of connection and challenges us all to find our own way of making others feel valued. What's your signature move?

As Easter approaches, workplace celebrations reveal more than just who likes chocolate. They shine a spotlight on inclusion and belonging—who's invited, who's not, and how it affects us. Social pain is real! When someone feels excluded from Easter treats, their brain processes it similarly to physical pain. This explains why seemingly small slights can trigger such strong emotional responses. This Easter, let's focus on creating workplaces worth belonging through simple actions: have a conversation, quit making assumptions, and engage in more conversations, more often!

Creating psychologically safe workplaces where everyone feels they belong isn't just a nice-to-have anymore—it's essential. Cultural celebrations provide the perfect platform to reinforce these values, but the real impact comes from embedding inclusive principles into our everyday workplace culture. These micro moments matter. It's not about grand gestures but creating space for genuine connection and understanding.