S1:E4 - In this enlightening episode of Secrets of Learning and Development, hosts Julia and Valerie sit down with Karen Ferris, a renowned author, consultant, and speaker who has revolutionised the approach to organisational change and workforce resilience. Karen's journey from IT service management in the UK to becoming a pivotal figure in organisational change in Australia is nothing short of inspiring. Her books, including Unleash the Resiliator and Be Remarkable: Learn to Unlearn the New Leadership Mindset, have equipped leaders with the tools and mindsets necessary to thrive in an ever-changing world.

Karen dives deep into her unique transition from IT to organisational change, revealing how a chance encounter with a sustainability framework led her to discover her passion for helping organisations navigate complex change. Her story illustrates the importance of adaptability and how her IT background has influenced her innovative approach to change management.

A significant part of the discussion revolves around the concept of resilience—a term that has been overused and misunderstood, especially since the pandemic. Karen clarifies the true meaning of resilience, debunking common myths and stressing that it is not a fixed trait but a skill that can be developed. She emphasises that resilience isn't about simply "toughing it out" but rather about navigating complex situations with the right tools and support systems. Karen’s approach to building resilience in organisations involves customised programmes based on her books, which offer "superpowers" that individuals can use to manage stress and challenges effectively.

Karen also tackles the critical issue of leadership in today's hybrid and remote work environments. She argues that many leaders are struggling to adapt, clinging to outdated notions of control and performance measurement. Karen advocates for a fundamental shift in leadership mindset—moving away from micromanagement towards building trust and autonomy. She underscores the importance of the learn-unlearn-relearn cycle, encouraging leaders to embrace continuous learning and growth to stay relevant and effective.

Throughout the episode, Karen shares practical advice on how organisations can truly support mental health and resilience beyond superficial initiatives like gym memberships and yoga sessions. She stresses the need for genuine conversations about mental health in the workplace, creating environments where it's okay not to be okay, and equipping leaders with the skills to recognise and support employees in need.

Tune in to hear Karen Ferris's expert advice on creating resilient organisations and leading in a time of constant change. Be sure to check out her books for more in-depth strategies and follow her ongoing work in organisational development.

Key Learnings:
The Importance of Personalized Resilience: Karen emphasises that resilience isn't a one-size-fits-all concept. While the term has become widely used, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, true resilience requires personalized approaches tailored to the individual and their specific circumstances.
The Cycle of Learning, Unlearning, and Relearning: Karen discusses the critical need for leaders and professionals to embrace the cycle of learning, unlearning, and relearning. This process is essential in adapting to the ever-changing landscape of work, particularly in the face of challenges like the pandemic.

Guest Information:
Karen Ferris
https://linktr.ee/karenferris
https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenferris-resilience-change-management/