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In this episode of DBA Chronicles, we welcome Dr. Steve Winkel, Vice President of Talent and Engagement at Constant Contact, seasoned HR executive, and mental health advocate.
With nearly two decades of experience in talent strategy and organizational development, Steve brings a rare and powerful perspective - one that sits at the intersection of research,leadership, and lived experience. As both a leader shaping workplace culture and an individual navigating mental health challenges, his work offers critical insights into what it truly means to build inclusive, human-centered organizations.
Steve’s DBA research explores mental health disclosure in the workplace, examining how employee sentiment, psychological safety, and organizational dynamics influence whether individuals choose to speak up or stay silent. His findings challenge assumptions, uncover hidden barriers, and highlight the transformative impact of supportive leadership.
But this conversation goes beyond research.
It is about:
- The courage it takes to show up authentically at work
- The role leaders play in shaping psychologically safe environments
- And how vulnerability, when modeled at the top, can unlock trust, performance, and innovation
Why This Episode Matters
Mental health in the workplace is no longer a peripheral issue, it is central to leadership, culture, and performance. This episode highlights a critical shift:
- From stigma to openness
- From policy to practice
- From compliance to genuine human connection
Dr. Winkel’s research reveals that while fear of disclosurestill exists, many employees who do share their experiences are met with support, understanding, and meaningful accommodations, pointing to a growing opportunity for organizations to do even better.
For leaders, practitioners, and DBA scholars, this conversation offers a powerful reminder:
Psychological safety is not a moment, it is a culture
And leadership is not just about performance, it is about people.
Connect with Us:
LinkedIn: DBA Chronicles Website: www.dbachronicles.org
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