Today, we have the privilege of chatting with Tom Schin, a seasoned expert in workplace culture and dynamics. Tom's fascinating journey began as a math major before transitioning to anthropology, and eventually carving out a notable career in HR and leadership across various sectors. We'll delve into his experiences in talent acquisition and leadership development, leading to his passion for helping businesses build better workplace cultures. Together, we'll explore the intricacies of recognizing and evaluating company culture, especially during tough times, and the pivotal role of leadership in shaping and maintaining these environments. Tom also sheds light on the significance of continuous learning, balancing accessibility with time management, and the evolution of workplace norms toward more supportive and civil interactions. This episode promises deep insights into navigating personal challenges within the workplace, fostering open communication, and the importance of managerial training, including the often-overlooked middle manager. We'll also touch on the growing conversation around mental health, resilience, and the shift towards a well-rounded employee wellbeing strategy. Time stamps: 00:00 Career evolution from academic publishing to HR. 06:21 True colors show during tough times. 08:44 Middle managers need support to lead effectively. 12:59 Managing emotional intelligence amid busy schedules. 14:26 Guide discussions, observe, and wisely assert boundaries. 17:09 Adaptability connects AI to human stories effectively. 21:32 Support employees patiently through good and bad. 25:51 Persistence and balance: try independently before seeking help. 29:33 Organizations focus on wellbeing, resilience, and engagement. 30:43 Mental health stigmas fading, discussions increasing gradually. 34:16 Why not prioritize continual learning and growth? Connect with Tom: https://www.linkedin.com/in/schinnn/ Company website: https://buildbetterculture.com/ Follow Elena: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaagaragimova/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elenaagaragimova/ Listen on: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shift-with-elena-agar/id1530850914 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5UKh6dWcuQwJlmAOqD8wij --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/elenaagar/support