Realistic Happiness

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In this episode of Realistic Happiness, we’re joined by Vanessa Monsequeira, VP of People at Gorilla, Leadership and Career Coach, and builder of Employee Experience as a Product, on a mission to make work suck less.We explore what it really takes to feel seen, safe, and fulfilled at work, and why outdated leadership models are no longer sustainable in today’s fast-paced, high-pressure environments.We discuss:- Feeling Invisible at Work: Why psychological safety is the foundation for authenticity and how past workplace trauma can silence your voice, even in supportive environments- The Dark Side of Leadership: From micromanagement to insecurity and favoritism, Vanessa reveals the emotional blind spots that leaders often carry and how they impact team trust and performance- The Achiever’s Paradox and Burnout: Why high performers struggle to say no, and how constantly proving your worth can lead to exhaustion.- Redefining Boundaries and Recognition: How to assert your limits without damaging your career and why recognition is essential to meaningful work, not just a nice-to-haveIf you’re navigating a career shift, feeling overwhelmed in your role, or questioning your sense of purpose at work, this episode offers real-world advice and deep insight into how workplaces and individuals can evolve for the better.Connect with Vanessa:LinkedInConnect with your Realistic Happiness community:⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠Connect with your host, Daisy:⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠Threads⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠Connect with our producer, Jamie:⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram

In this episode of Realistic Happiness, we’re joined by Iryna, founder of HERO Alliance and a seasoned trainer specialising in stress management, resilience, and positive psychology. With over eight years of experience creating evidence-based workplace well-being programs, Iryna is passionate about helping individuals and teams cultivate emotional balance and sustainable success.We discuss:- The Overload of Modern Stress: Explore why stress feels more intense today than ever before, from constant digital stimulation to societal pressures, and how to manage information overload.-Strategic Slowness vs. Hustle Culture: Learn why doing less can actually lead to more fulfilment and how to prioritise quality over quantity in daily routines.- Emotional Detox and Recognising Burnout: Discover how to identify when you’re tipping from good stress to bad stress, and the importance of tuning into your body’s signals to prevent burnout.- The Myth of Quick Fixes: Uncover why common stress hacks like cold showers and breath-work can only do so much, and why consistency and small, meaningful actions make a lasting impact.- Parenting and Stress Management: Iryna shares her experience as a mom of two, highlighting how parental stress differs and how to maintain self-compassion while juggling responsibilities.- The Power of Small Daily Highlights: Find out how creating small moments of joy each day can serve as a powerful antidote to stress and feelings of emptiness.If you’re feeling overwhelmed by life’s demands, struggling to find balance between work and personal life, or seeking practical ways to handle stress without burning out, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to help you slow down, reconnect, and regain control.Connect with Iryna:LinkedInWebsiteConnect with your Realistic Happiness community:⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠Instagram⁠Connect with your host, Daisy:⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠Threads⁠⁠YouTube⁠Connect with our producer, Jamie:⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠Instagram

In this episode of Realistic Happiness, we're joined by Niels, a Facilitator, Storyteller, and Performer, who guides professionals in bridging the gap between their current reality and dream life.We discuss:- Closing the Dream-Reality Gap: Explore Niels' unique framework for identifying the gap between your current situation and your future aspirations, and learn how to embody your ideal self today.- Overcoming Fear of Judgment: Understand how societal expectations and fear of external opinions hold you back, and gain practical strategies to confidently pursue your passions without guilt or hesitation.- Navigating Career Transitions with Creativity: Hear Niels' inspiring journey from finance to acting, how he balances stability and passion, and actionable tips for integrating creative pursuits into your life.- Redefining Failure: Learn how reframing failure as a first attempt at learning can empower you to take courageous steps towards your goals without fear.- Unleashing Your Inner Child: Discover the power of playful exploration and spontaneous creativity to enhance personal and professional fulfilment, along with practical ideas for reconnecting with your joyful inner self.- Embracing Authenticity over Attachment: Delve into the tension between seeking approval and staying true to your authentic self, and how shifting this balance can transform your life.If you're navigating career doubts, struggling to balance practicality with passion, or looking for ways to authentically express yourself without fear of failure—this conversation offers inspiring insights and real-world advice to help you live the life you're dreaming of right now.Connect with Niels:LinkedInConnect with your Realistic Happiness community:LinkedInInstagramConnect with your host, Daisy:LinkedInInstagramThreadsYouTubeConnect with our producer, Jamie:LinkedInInstagram00:00. Introduction: What is the Dream-Reality Gap?05:56. Flipping Your Mindset: "Be-Do-Have"08:27. How to Test Your Creative Dreams13:17. Overcoming Fear of Judgment & Pursuing Passion17:08. Designing Your Life in Phases22:28. Living with Purpose and Vision25:32. What Happens When You Suppress Creativity?29:44. Reconnecting With Your Inner Child33:33. Facing Loneliness and Self-Doubt on Your Journey39:01. Moving Beyond External Validation44:05. Final Thoughts: Changing Your Relationship with Failure

Sponsored by Avery: The Hiring Intelligence PlatformUse our link to get early access & a 1-month free trial.⁠⁠https://www.getavery.ai/realistic-happiness⁠Breaking Cages: Escaping Autopilot to Create the Life You Truly Want | Realistic Happiness PodcastAre you stuck in autopilot, feeling disconnected from your dreams and true potential? In this powerful episode, Daisy speaks with Dana, author of "Breaking Cages," about the mental barriers—cages—that keep us from living authentically and achieving genuine happiness.We explore:- The four mental cages holding you back: perception, shadow beliefs, comfort, and automated thinking- How to recognize and break free from subconscious patterns limiting your life- Why leaving a prestigious job and stepping into the unknown can unlock your real purpose- Practical techniques to manage stress and negative thoughts in daily situations- The importance of listening to your inner voice, even when it's uncomfortable- How gratitude and playfulness can transform your perspective and happinessWhether you're feeling trapped in routine, considering a life change, or just looking for clarity, this episode is your roadmap to breaking free from limitations and stepping courageously toward your authentic self.Connect with Dana:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dana-almo-krusinova/Website: https://danaalmo.com/Connect with your Realistic Happiness community:LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/realistichappiness⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/realistichappinesspodcast/⁠⁠⁠⁠Connect with your host, Daisy:LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/daisy-ilaria/⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/daisy.ilaria⁠⁠⁠⁠Threads: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.threads.net/@daisy.ilaria⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@DaisyIlaria⁠⁠⁠⁠Connect with our producer, Jamie:LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-everett1/⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/jamie.everett1/

Sponsored by Avery: The Hiring Intelligence PlatformUse our link to get early access & a 1-month free trial.⁠https://www.getavery.ai/realistic-happiness⁠How Data-Driven Wellness Is Redefining Workplace Happiness | Realistic Happiness PodcastWhat actually makes people happy at work—and how can companies use real data to fix what's broken? In this episode, Daisy sits down with Chris, co-founder of Hapstar, a personalized wellbeing platform that's helping organizations move beyond yoga and free coffee toward real mental health support.We explore:- Why "one-size-fits-all" wellbeing doesn't work- How data and AI can reveal hidden issues before they escalate- The link between social connection and happiness- What most companies get wrong about employee wellbeing- How Hapstar has helped prevent serious mental health crises- The future of AI therapy, anonymous support, and personalized wellbeingWhether you're a leader, HR professional, or just trying to feel better at work—this episode is packed with insights on the future of workplace wellbeing and how to create environments where people can truly thrive.Connect with Chris:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-powellhapstar/Website: https://hapstar.app/

Sponsored by Avery: The Hiring Intelligence PlatformUse our link to get early access & a 1-month free trial.https://www.getavery.ai/realistic-happinessIn this episode of Realistic Happiness, we’re joined by Agnieszka, a Psychology Professor and Therapist for high-achievers, who helps individuals and organizations build sustainable, emotionally intelligent work environments.We discuss:- Breaking Out of Autopilot: How to recognize when you're running on default mode, and what changes when you put your well-being at the center of every decision.- Avoidance and Procrastination: Understand the psychology behind avoidance behaviors, how they masquerade as productivity, and practical ways to reclaim your focus.- Redefining Productivity Through Boundaries: Learn how to set clear, professional boundaries at work without fear or guilt—and why saying "yes later" is the key first step.- The 7 Skills of Workplace Well-being: Discover the framework Agnieszka uses to help people articulate their emotional needs and communicate them effectively in professional settings.- Manager Dynamics and Emotional Health: Explore the impact of leadership on mental well-being and how to navigate difficult conversations with your manager without losing confidence.- Friendships at Work & Remote Realities: Why workplace friendships matter, how remote work has changed connection, and ways to rebuild meaningful interaction even from afar.Connect with Agnieszka:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/agnieszka-bojanowska-phd/Website: https://www.wellmadetraining.nl/Connect with your Realistic Happiness community:LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/realistichappiness⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/realistichappinesspodcast/⁠⁠⁠Connect with your host, Daisy:LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/daisy-ilaria/⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/daisy.ilaria⁠⁠⁠Threads: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.threads.net/@daisy.ilaria⁠⁠⁠YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@DaisyIlaria⁠⁠⁠Connect with our producer, Jamie:LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-everett1/⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/jamie.everett1/

Sponsored by Avery: The Hiring Intelligence PlatformUse our link to get early access & a 1-month free trial.https://www.getavery.ai/realistic-happinessIn this episode of Realistic Happiness, we’re joined by Darren Ryemill—award-winning entrepreneur, mental health advocate, and founder of Hapstar, a business dedicated to improving workplace well-being.⚠️ This episode contains open discussion of mental health struggles, including suicidal thoughts. Listener discretion is advised.Darren shares his deeply personal story of hitting rock bottom at the height of his professional success and the system he created to rebuild his life from the inside out.We discuss:- Redefining Success and Fulfillment: How chasing external milestones like money, awards, and career progression can still leave you feeling empty—and how to reconnect with what really matters.- Burnout, Breakdown, and Breakthrough: Darren’s honest account of how burnout and divorce led him to a breaking point, and the steps he took to restore his mental health without medication.- The Wheel of Life: Discover the method Darren used to evaluate and improve every area of his life: including fun, finances, relationships, and purpose—through incremental change.- Happiness as a Leadership Tool: Why happy employees perform better, stay longer, and need fewer resources—and how leaders can use data to support mental well-being without big budgets.- Why Your Happiness is Your Responsibility: The difference between what makes you appear successful and what actually makes you feel fulfilled—and why it’s up to you to define and protect your version of happiness.If you’ve ever looked around and thought, “Is this it?”—even when everything should be going right—this episode offers refreshing honesty, actionable strategies, and real hope for rebuilding a life that feels meaningful.Connect with Darren:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrenryemill/Hapstar: https://hapstar.app/Connect with your Realistic Happiness Community:LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/realistichappiness⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/realistichappinesspodcast/⁠⁠Connect with your host, Daisy:LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/daisy-ilaria/⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/daisy.ilaria⁠⁠Threads: ⁠⁠https://www.threads.net/@daisy.ilaria⁠⁠YouTube: ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@DaisyIlaria⁠⁠Connect with our producer, Jamie:LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-everett1/⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/jamie.everett1/

Sponsored by Avery: The Hiring Intelligence PlatformUse our link to get early access & a 1-month free trial.https://www.getavery.ai/realistic-happinessIn this episode of Realistic Happiness, we’re joined by Abdul Ahad, a self-employed data consultant who believes work is just a transaction — not the source of your identity or happiness.We discuss:- The Truth About Transactional Work: Why treating your job as a simple exchange of time for money can protect your mental health and help you avoid burnout.- Burnout, Overworking & Boundaries: How modern workplace expectations — like wearing multiple hats or always being 'on' — are leading to quiet dissatisfaction and how to reclaim your energy.- Redefining Identity Beyond the Job Title: Why tying your self-worth to your career sets you up for emotional exhaustion, and how to find fulfillment outside of work.- The Illusion of Office Perks: From puppy yoga to free lunches—are wellness initiatives addressing the root of burnout, or just masking deeper issues?- Making Work Work for You: Tips for choosing roles that support your real-life goals, like more time with family, and why it’s okay to prioritize what you want.- Tangible Fulfillment Outside of Work: How hobbies like pottery, gardening, or cooking offer more satisfaction than endless backlogs or Zoom meetings ever will.If you’ve ever questioned whether your job should be your purpose—or felt like work was taking more than it gives—this episode offers a refreshing perspective on detachment, identity, and realistic happiness at work.Connect with Ahad:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abdulahadjamil/Website: https://kydanalytics.io/Connect with your Realistic Happiness Community:LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/realistichappiness⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/realistichappinesspodcast/⁠Connect with your host, Daisy:LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/daisy-ilaria/⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/daisy.ilaria⁠Threads: ⁠https://www.threads.net/@daisy.ilaria⁠YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@DaisyIlaria⁠Connect with our producer, Jamie:LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-everett1/⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/jamie.everett1/

Sponsored by Avery: The Hiring Intelligence PlatformUse our link to get early access & a 1-month free trial.https://www.getavery.ai/realistic-happiness⁠In this episode of Realistic Happiness, we’re joined by Tammi, a psychic medium and energy expert, who demystifies intuition, spiritual awareness, and how understanding energy can help us navigate life’s transitions with greater confidence.We discuss:- Psychic vs. Mediumship: Understanding the Difference – Learn how psychics tap into energy fields while mediums connect with loved ones who have passed, and how these abilities are more accessible than you might think.- Tapping Into Your Intuition for Career and Life Decisions – Discover how to trust your inner voice, break through external noise, and make empowered choices in your career and personal life.- Energy & Emotional Well-being: How Your Environment Affects You – Understand how the people and spaces around you influence your energy, and how to align yourself.- Reframing Life’s Uncertainties & Challenges – Whether it’s job uncertainty, grief, or personal setbacks, learn how to embrace life’s unpredictability while staying grounded in self-awareness.- The Science Behind Energy & Auras – Explore the intersection of neuroscience and spirituality, and how modern technology is proving what ancient wisdom has known for centuries.If you’ve ever felt a strong gut instinct about a job opportunity, sensed a deeper connection with certain people, or struggled with self-doubt when making big decisions, this episode will shift your perspective on how intuition and energy play a role in your daily life.Disclaimer: This episode explores personal experiences, spiritual perspectives, and intuitive practices. While intuition and energy awareness have psychological and scientific foundations, topics like mediumship, psychic abilities, and auras are based on personal beliefs and interpretations rather than established scientific evidence. Listeners are encouraged to approach the discussion with an open mind while forming their own perspectives.Connect with Tammi:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tammi-greyvensteyn/Book a 1:1 with Tammi: https://calendly.com/tammigreyvensteyn/1-1psychicreadingConnect with your Realistic Happiness Community:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/realistichappinessInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/realistichappinesspodcast/Connect with your host, Daisy:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daisy-ilaria/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/daisy.ilariaThreads: https://www.threads.net/@daisy.ilariaYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DaisyIlariaConnect with our producer, Jamie:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-everett1/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamie.everett1/