Work in Progress

About Work in Progress

Work in Progress is the podcast that dives into real workplace challenges, hosted by Lisa Lie and Laura Johnson with expert guests. Each episode tackles classic issues like giving feedback, setting goals, and avoiding burnout, providing practical advice and relatable stories – the good, the bad, and the hilarious. It’s your go-to for tips from those who know work inside out. Tune in for a laugh and leave ready to handle whatever work throws your way!

Publisher

Learna and Strivin

Category

business

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

20 Jan 2025

Latest episode

25 Jun 2025

Latest episodes

17 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   25 Jun 2025

   How to get real accountability in your team

   Leadership coach Leeat Bosco discusses how to cultivate a culture of ownership and accountability within teams, enabling leaders to foster trust and improve performance without micromanaging in this interview episode.

2. 

   18 Jun 2025

   How to move from mate to manager

   Hayley Curcio, Head of Learning at Mecca, discusses transitioning from teammate to manager, providing practical strategies for new leaders to build confidence and effectively lead their former peers in this interview.

3. 

   16 Jun 2025

   How to lead your team through change

   Felicity Davis, Director of People Operations at Linktree, discusses leading teams through change, sharing strategies for evolving company culture while maintaining team energy in this interview.

4. 

   26 May 2025

   How to take control of your career (instead of waiting for someone else to)

   Talent strategist Anton Roe discusses taking control of one's career instead of waiting for external validation, offering insights into owning professional growth in this interview episode.

5. 

   19 May 2025

   How to be curious (and stop jumping to conclusions)

   We’ve all done it -jumped to conclusions before we had all the facts. But what if curiosity was the real secret to better decisions, stronger relationships, and more open conversations?In this episode of Work in Progress, we chat with Gemma Saunders, founder of Workplace Edit, about how curiosity can transform the way we work and lead. From asking better questions to challenging our own assumptions, Gemma shares practical tips on how to stay open-minded—even when we think we already know the answer.Listen in to discover why curiosity is the key to better workplaces, stronger teams, and a more inclusive culture. About our guest - Gemma Saunders (https://www.linkedin.com/in/gemmalallen/) is the Founder of Workplace Edit, a consultancy dedicated to building more inclusive and equitable workplaces. She has been a finalist at the LGBTI Awards and been on the board of Wear It Purple and Minus18 - charities that do pivotal work in diverse gender and sexuality inclusion. Gemma is proudly queer, a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and has been listed in HRD's hotlist. You can also find her content on Learna, covering topics like ‘Be curious, not judgmental’ and more.

6. 

   5 May 2025

   How to ask for what you want (without the awkwardness)

   Asking for what you want at work—can feel daunting. In this episode of Work in Progress, Matt McFarlane joins Lisa and LJ to help you navigate these tough conversations with confidence and ease. You’ll discover how to read the room, frame your request to get a positive response, and learn how to turn a “no” into an open door for future success. If you’re tired of hesitating or overthinking every request at work, Matt’s tips will leave you speaking up clearly and confidently.Listen in to find out why timing matters, how to ask without feeling pushy, and what to do next—even if you get a "no". About our guest - Matt McFarlane (https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewmcfarlane/)is a startup compensation strategist and the founder of FNDN, dedicated to helping high-growth companies get pay right. With years of experience in People Operations, Matt has built compensation frameworks that scale, creating clarity and fairness in the way startups approach salaries, job levels, and pay transparency. He’s led comp strategies at companies growing from startup to scale up. At FNDN, Matt’s mission is simple: to take the guesswork out of compensation so startups can attract, retain, and reward top talent—without the growing pains.

7. 

   21 Apr 2025

   How to think clearly when everything feels messy

   When everything feels messy, thinking clearly can seem impossible. In this episode of Work in Progress, Steph Clarke shares some great ways to cut through overwhelm, reset your thinking, and move forward with confidence — even when certainty feels out of reach. Whether you’re stuck in overthinking, struggling to prioritise, or facing big decisions, Steph will give you some tips to clear the mental clutter and reclaim your clarity. Listen in to discover how to navigate complexity, trust your gut, and take intentional action, no matter how messy things get. About our guest - Meet Steph Clarke (https://www.linkedin.com/in/steph-clarke/) – your guide to the future (and the tough questions that get you there). Steph doesn’t just think about the future—she helps teams imagine it, prepare for it, and make smarter decisions about what’s next. A futurist, facilitator, friendship enthusiast and strategic foresight specialist, she’s all about nudging people beyond ‘business as usual’ and into bold, exciting possibilities. Expect thought-provoking questions, fresh perspectives, and maybe even a little disruption — because the best ideas come when we step outside our comfort zones.

8. 

   7 Apr 2025

   How to work with change (and help others do the same)

   Change is inevitable—but why does it feel so hard to embrace?In this episode of Work in Progress, we sit down with Dr. Ben Hamer, a leading expert in the future of work, to break down why we resist change and, more importantly, how to work with it instead of against it.From navigating uncertainty to getting others on board without dragging them along, Dr. Ben shares practical strategies for making change feel less like something to survive and more like an opportunity to grow.Whether you’re leading a team through a transition, trying to shake up outdated ways of working, or just wondering why change feels so uncomfortable, this episode will give you the tools to adapt, influence, and thrive in a fast-moving world.Listen in to discover why we resist change, how to help your team break free from ‘that’s how we’ve always done it’ mode, and how to make change feel worthwhile for everyone. About our guest -  Dr. Ben Hamer (https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-ben-hamer/) is a futurist, keynote speaker, and LinkedIn Top Voice, recognised as the number one thought leader for the Future of Work in the Asia-Pacific. As a former Head of Future of Work at PwC Australia, Ben has led research and global projects, including time at the World Economic Forum and as a Visiting Scholar at Yale University. Currently, he is an Adjunct Professor at Edith Cowan University and a Board Member for the Australian HR Institute (AHRI) and Netball NSW. A sought-after media commentator, Ben is also the host of The ThinkerTank Podcast, where he explores big ideas and challenges conventional thinking about the world of work. Through his work, he helps organisations and leaders prepare for the future today, making change more understandable, actionable, and human.

9. 

   19 Mar 2025

   How to get better results (by thinking differently)

   Great results don’t come from doing the same old thing—they come from thinking differently. In this episode of Work in Progress, we’re joined by Wade Kingsley, founder of The Ideas Business and champion of creative potential, to explore how fresh thinking leads to real innovation. Wade shares his insights on breaking free from the “that’s how we’ve always done it” mindset, harnessing the power of Dreamers, Doers, and Doubters, and taking small, meaningful steps toward big results. Listen in to discover some practical ways you can challenge the status quo, fostering collaboration, and unlocking the creative spark that drives progress. About our guest - ⁠Wade Kingsley⁠ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/wadekingsley/) is a creative powerhouse and founder of The Ideas Business, dedicated to making the world a more creative place. With over 20 years of experience spanning keynote speaking, facilitation, and consultancy, Wade specialises in helping individuals and teams unlock their creative potential. Through ventures like Morning Musely and Story Straight, Wade champions innovative thinking, storytelling, and bold ideas that inspire action and drive results. His mission? To empower people and organisations to think differently, connect deeply, and create meaningfully.

10. 

    11 Mar 2025

    How to lead with empathy (and still get results)

    Leadership isn’t just about hitting goals—it’s about how you get there. In this episode of Work in Progress, we sit down with Jessica Trumble, founder of We Are Charlotte, to unpack the art of leading with empathy while still getting results. Jess shares practical strategies for balancing compassion with accountability, building trust in high-pressure environments, and navigating tough conversations with authenticity and grace. Listen in for some insights on how to grow as an empathetic leader, even if it doesn’t come naturally, and why leading with heart doesn’t mean letting go of results. About our guest - Jessica Trumble (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jtrumble-charlotte/)is a dynamic leader and founder of We Are Charlotte, where she’s on a mission to put people at the heart of workplace transformation. With a knack for building high-performing teams and a career steeped in executive coaching and organisational strategy, Jess blends insight, ambition, and heart to help businesses unlock the potential of their people. She’s all about creating spaces where individuals thrive, and businesses grow—because, for Jess, good work starts with good people.

11. 

    3 Mar 2025

    How to recover from setbacks (and come back stronger)

    Setbacks are a part of life, but how you bounce back can make all the difference. In this episode of Work in Progress, we’re joined by Jane Martino, a leader and entrepreneur with a passion for mentoring and coaching. Jane shares her strategies for turning setbacks into opportunities, building resilience, and helping others find their way forward. Whether you’re navigating challenges in your career or supporting a team through tough times, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you come back stronger. Tune in to hear Jane’s insights on how to shift your mindset, learn from the tough moments, and create a culture of resilience that lifts everyone up. About our guest - Jane Martino (https://www.linkedin.com/in/janemartino/) has experienced it all—highs and lows, successes and setbacks, breaks and breakthroughs. As the founder of multiple ventures, including Smiling Mind, a wellbeing platform reaching over 9 million users, and now Kintsugi Way, she brings a wealth of experience from launching businesses, publishing books, and navigating the ups and downs of raising three children. Jane’s passion is clear: helping people turn life’s toughest moments into growth and resilience. Today, she’s here to share her wisdom on mental fitness, purpose, and finding strength in life’s imperfections.

12. 

    24 Feb 2025

    How to influence with words (say what matters and make it stick)

    In a world full of noise, knowing how to communicate with influence is a real superpower. In this episode, Arabella Macpherson shares insights on how to get your message across clearly and effectively, so people not only hear what you’re saying but are inspired to act on it. You’ll learn practical strategies for building trust, conveying confidence, and making sure your ideas land the way you intend. If you want to communicate with impact, this episode is your guide to saying what matters and making it stick. About our Guest - Arabella (https://www.linkedin.com/in/arabellamacpherson/)has over 16 years of experience consulting with senior leadership teams to help them enhance performance and foster open communication. With a strategic approach and actionable steps, she guides teams toward clarity and alignment, empowering companies to reach their full potential.

13. 

    17 Feb 2025

    How to juggle everything without burning out (tips for balancing work chaos)

    In the way we work today, juggling it all can feel like a one-way ticket to burnout. In this episode, Dr. Lillian Nejad shares tips and strategies for finding balance in the chaos. From knowing how to prioritise what’s really important to learning when to step back, you’ll discover practical ways to manage your workload without sacrificing your well-being. If you’re ready to handle the hustle without burning out, tune in for some real-life tips that work. About our Guest - Dr. Lilian (https://www.linkedin.com/in/lilliannejad/)is a clinical psychologist with over 25 years of experience across public health, corporate, and private practice, specialising in empowering adults to overcome mental health challenges. Driven by a commitment to accessible mental health resources, she creates evidence-based tools—from online courses to her app, Contain Your Brain—to help people build resilience, reduce worry, and improve well-being at work and home

14. 

    10 Feb 2025

    How to set work goals you’ll actually hit (hacks for realistic goal-setting)

    Setting goals is one thing—actually hitting them is another. In this episode, Charlotte Rush shares her best hacks for setting realistic, achievable goals that fit your career dreams without the overwhelm. From breaking big objectives into manageable steps to keeping track of your progress, you’ll learn how to create goals that stick and set yourself up for real success. If you’re tired of goals that fizzle out, this episode’s got you covered. About our Guest -  Charlotte Rush (https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlottearush/) was an Organisational Psychologist and Head of Growth at Inventium and is now Senior Manager at Bendelta (https://www.linkedin.com/company/bendelta/) , a workplace consultancy dedicated to creating productive, innovative, and sustainable organisations. With a mission to improve workplace well-being, Charlotte uses science-backed strategies to help teams and leaders thrive, fostering happier and more pioneering work environments.

15. 

    3 Feb 2025

    How to give feedback without making it weird (say what you mean with confidence)

    Hands up if you’ve had to give feedback and it just felt awkward or forced? In this episode, Lauren Humphrey shows us how to deliver feedback that’s honest, helpful, and keeps things comfortable. You’ll learn tips to share your thoughts clearly and confidently, skip the fluff, and make your feedback something people can actually action and use to grow. If you’ve ever found yourself avoiding feedback or overthinking how to say it, this one’s for you! About our Guest - Lauren Humphrey (https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenfhumphrey/), co-founder of The Mintable (https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-mintable/)and Tandem, has a proven track record of commercialising technology, attracting top talent, and building high-growth, high-performance teams. Passionate about helping people reach their full potential, she focuses on creating experiences that customers love while driving innovation and growth.

16. 

    27 Jan 2025

    How to get along with anyone (tips to adapt, connect, and manage different communication styles)

    Working with all kinds of personalities can be a challenge, but knowing how to connect with people is a game-changer at work. So today, Lucy Allen joins us to share some great tips on adapting to different styles at work, building strong connections, and getting along with anyone — no matter how different they might be. This conversation is all about some advice for making teamwork easier and your workday smoother. About our Guest - Lucy Allen (https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucy-allen-tgc/), from The Graceful Collective (https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-graceful-collective/), She’s a corporate coach, facilitator, and speaker dedicated to transforming workplaces through mindset, communication, and leadership training. With over a decade of experience working with brands like Lululemon, Qantas, and ANZ Bank, she inspires teams to reach their full potential by helping them create positive, engaging environments for growth.

17. 

    20 Jan 2025

    How to learn what you need (when you’re already busy)

    Learning at work can feel overwhelming when your plate is already full. In this episode, Lisa Lie, founder of Learna, shares her journey from advertising to building a microlearning app that helps people grow, adapt, and have better work days. Hear Lisa’s personal stories, lessons learned, and practical tips on how to make learning manageable and something that actually feels worth your time. If you’ve ever wondered how to keep learning when life gets busy, this one’s for you. About our Guest - Lisa Lie (https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-lie-42b705a1/), the founder of Learna (https://www.linkedin.com/company/learna-app/posts/?feedView=all), has always been passionate about learning, which led her to create a microlearning app that transforms how people learn, grow, and engage at work. With a career spanning advertising, people and culture, and the tech start-up world, Lisa's mission is  to help people learn, grow and have better work days.

Who has been a guest on Work in Progress

Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.

• Leeat Bosco
• Hayley Curcio
• Felicity Davis
• Anton Roe

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

YouTube views

79,630

Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025

Podcast Authority Score: 41 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

48

Social presence

0

YouTube

85

Engagement

0

Contact Work in Progress

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.