Job postings that include the word “curiosity” have grown by 90% year over year. But curiosity isn’t just a personal trait — it’s becoming a business imperative. As Stefaan van Hooydonk shared on the Steelcase Work Better podcast, organizations that embrace curiosity empower people to learn faster, foster psychological safety, and spark innovation. This episode explores how leaders can create space for curiosity and why it’s the key to building stronger cultures and better business results.

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We think we know what our coworkers want – but we’re often wrong. In this episode of Work Better, behavioral scientist Nick Epley reveals why we misread even those closest to us, and how asking deeper questions can unlock trust, connection, and better collaboration. Epley challenges us to rethink small talk, lean into hard conversations, and design spaces that make connection the default – not the exception.

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Listening is hardest when it matters most – and many of us are doing it wrong. In this Work Better episode, researcher Jeff Yip reveals the five mistakes that sabotage our ability to truly hear others. Find out what they are, and learn why listening is the key to connection, engagement, and leadership – and how to start doing it better.

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94% of people say they’re more productive when they feel connected. In this episode of Work Better, Erica Keswin explains why great leaders act more like cruise directors — curating connection, not just managing tasks. Tune in for insights on building human workplaces that boost engagement, retention, and the bottom line.

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What you do matters – but do you feel it? In Part 2 of the Work Better Podcast “Why Mattering Matters,” host Chris Congdon talks with Zach Mercurio about how leaders can help people feel seen, valued, and needed. Learn why mattering isn’t a soft skill — it’s a performance driver.

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