Workplaces that Work

About Workplaces that Work

Introducing Workplaces that Work, a podcast that talks about how putting people first makes teams that last! On this show I will cover all things workplace culture and how to help your team thrive. There be tips, tricks, resources and special guest speakers!

Publisher

Deanne Gagnon

Category

business

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

26 Sept 2023

Latest episode

17 Apr 2025

Latest episodes

25 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   17 Apr 2025

   S2 EPISODE 9: From Stepping Stone to Staying Power: Creating a Place People Want to Work with Jackie Knough

   In this episode of Workplaces That Work, I’m joined by Jackie Knough, Executive Director of Our Kids Count, a nonprofit in Thunder Bay doing incredible work for children and families. We talk about what it means to truly lead with heart, how to build trust across a team, and the power of asking for help. From flexible schedules to creating new growth opportunities, this conversation is full of practical insight, honesty, and inspiration for anyone in a leadership role—or hoping to be. Key Takeaways: Redefining Retention – It's not just about pay. Creating a workplace people want to stay in takes flexibility, care, and opportunities for real growth. No One-Size-Fits-All – When leaders take time to understand what each person needs, they can create roles that fit—and build a culture where people feel seen and supported. Transparency Builds Trust – Being open about challenges, funding, and decision-making helps everyone feel included and more connected to the bigger picture. Asking for Help Is a Strength – Great leaders don’t do it alone. Reaching out, building partnerships, and leaning on others can unlock more support than expected. Collaboration Is the Cornerstone – Amazing things happen when people work together. Community partnerships, shared events, and collective energy lead to real impact. Leadership Is a Work in Progress – You don’t have to have it all figured out. Being open to learning, feedback, and a little vulnerability makes for better leadership—and better teams. Events Mentioned: Duck Race – May 31 at Fort William Historical Park For the Love of Pizza – Every Tuesday in May Golf Tournament – July 17 Ribfest – August at the waterfront Mega Bike – September 18–19 Haunted Harbor Family Day – October 11 Get the details and tickets at ourkidscount.ca (https://ourkidscount.ca/)! Let’s Connect! I’d love to hear what you think of this episode. Got a question or topic you’d love to hear on the podcast? Email me at hello@deannegagnondynamics.com (mailto:hello@deannegagnondynamics.com). Find me on socials:LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/deannegagnon) | Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/deannegagnondynamics) | Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/deannegagnondynamics) Want to help your team thrive by creating a workplace where people feel valued, confident, and connected? Let’s chat (https://calendly.com/deannegagnondynamics/experiment1et)about how I can support you. If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, rate, and review—it truly helps others find the show. And as always—let’s keep creating workplaces that work.

2. 

   3 Apr 2025

   S2 EPISODE 8: No One Way to Be: Embracing Your Inner Tiger & Teddy Bear with Jennifer Barrow

   In this episode of Workplaces That Work, I’m joined by the vibrant and thoughtful Jenn Barrow—hairstylist, HR grad, new author, and mom of two—whose first book Tigers and Teddy Bears is sparking heartfelt conversations about identity, emotion, and permission to be our full selves. Jenn and I met serendipitously at an International Women’s Day event, and from the moment we started talking, it was clear we had a lot to say—and a lot in common. This episode is all about shaking off labels, embracing the full spectrum of who we are, and realizing… there’s no one way to live, work, parent, or lead. Key Takeaways: You Don’t Have to Choose—You Can Be Both We all carry both strength and softness. Being a “tiger” and a “teddy bear” isn’t a contradiction—it’s what makes us whole. There’s power in embracing the full range of who we are. There’s No One Way to Work Fulfillment doesn’t come from following a traditional path. Whether it’s a 9-to-5, shift work, creative gig, or something totally unconventional—your way of working is valid. Break the Labels We’ve all been handed limiting labels—based on gender, role, personality, or expectations. It’s time to push back and create space for people to show up as their full, layered selves. The Power of the “Good Kind of Uncomfortable” Growth doesn’t happen in the comfort zone. The good kind of uncomfortable is the kind that challenges us to learn, reflect, and stretch into new possibilities—even when it’s scary. You Be You There’s no one way to live, feel, or lead. The more permission we give ourselves (and others) to be who we truly are, the more honest, inclusive, and connected our lives—and workplaces—become. Resources Mentioned: Tigers and Teddy Bears by Jennifer Barrow – Available on Amazon (https://www.amazon.ca/), Indigo (https://www.indigo.ca/), Barnes & Noble (https://www.barnesandnoble.com/), and local vendors listed on Jenn’s website (https://www.tigersandteddybears.com/)Merch and apparel with a message coming soon! Let’s Connect! If this episode resonated with you, I’d love to hear from you! Have a topic or guest idea? Reach out anytime: hello@deannegagnondynamics.com Follow me on socials:LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/deannegagnon) | Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/deannegagnondynamics) | Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/deannegagnondynamics) Want to help your team thrive by creating a workplace where people feel valued, confident, and connected? Let’s chat (https://calendly.com/deannegagnondynamics/experiment1et)about how I can support you. If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, rate, and review—it truly helps others find the show. Thanks for tuning in. And remember—there’s no one way to be, but there is a way that’s right for you. 🐯🧸✨

3. 

   20 Mar 2025

   S2 EPISODE 7: The Power of Community, Connection and Uplifting Youth with Linda Bruins

   Be part of the impact. I’m joining Podcasthon: Podcasters United for Impact this week to shine a light on a cause that truly matters. In this episode, I sat down with Linda Bruins, Executive Director of Evergreen: A United Neighbourhood, a grassroots organization making a real difference in Thunder Bay’s Simpson-Ogden community. Evergreen is more than a safe space for youth—it’s a second home where they find support, respect, and belonging. Linda shares how consistency, trust, and the power of community help young people navigate challenges, build resilience, and create a better future. This one is full of heart and hope. Key Takeaways: The Power of Showing Up – Sometimes, the biggest impact comes from simply being there. Respect Over Everything – Kids at Evergreen learn life skills through everyday interactions—sharing meals, taking turns, and supporting each other. Breaking the Cycle – Young people are stepping up to be the change they want to see, supporting their peers in ways that will ripple into the future. Safe Spaces Matter – Evergreen provides a place where kids can just be kids, without fear or judgment. How You Can Help – Whether through donations, volunteering, or spreading the word, small efforts can create big change. Resources Mentioned Evergreen: A United Neighbourhood (https://evergreenunited.ca/)Podcasthon (https://www.podcasthon.org/?_sc=NzgyNTE4NSM0MDQyOQ%3D%3D)Rocking Spring Fundraiser Event – March 29th (https://ecommunity.uwaytbay.ca/comm/SinglePageRegEvent.jsp?EventKeyHex=32323338&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR1MpB6thw2naH6msVH4zNTx9Z9CSd9QuisyVy1kai5zeRB0Z2oJvW6gUjU_aem_Du2lMLz1Ygvc_kLnaHn9KQ) Connect with Linda on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/linda-bruins-99b03937?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app) If you have any thoughts you'd like to share about this episode, or an idea for a future episode topic, email me at: ⁠hello@deannegagnondynamics.com (mailto:hello@deannegagnondynamics.com)⁠⁠. Find me on the socials: ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/deanne-gagnon-5480b9218/) ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ (https://www.instagram.com/deanne.gagnon/?fbclid=IwAR3M5FDKPV_TOoi_mZyrV4mLzAs_uzIxRmiP_vL1QJjVhIZfWveuVNQBl8E) ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠ (https://www.facebook.com/deannegagnondynamics) Want to learn more about how you can improve your workplace culture with ⁠⁠⁠⁠Deanne Gagnon Dynamics⁠⁠ (https://www.deannegagnondynamics.com/)⁠⁠?⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Let’s chat⁠⁠ (https://calendly.com/deannegagnondynamics/experiment1et).⁠⁠ If you enjoyed this episode, please follow and leave a rating or review. Your support means the world and your feedback is greatly appreciated. Tune in next time for more insights and inspiration on how to create a thriving workplace!

Reach and audience

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

Spotify

5.0 / 5

2 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 43 / 100

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

Quality

72

Social presence

0

YouTube

0

Engagement

32

Contact Workplaces that Work

Guest appearances

Books guests

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