Why Workplace Wellbeing Is Still a Taboo Topic

78% employees believe their employers should help tend to their wellbeing.

Episode #5 – Felizitas Lichtenberg, Global Head of Diversity and Inclusion, Wellbeing and Sustainability at SumUp

In this episode, we speak with Felizitas Lichtenberg about the evolution of employee wellbeing, why it’s still a taboo topic, and how organizations can create more inclusive and personalized wellbeing programs. Felizitas shares how companies can reduce stigma around mental health, prevent burnout, and support employees through life’s challenges to improve engagement, performance, and retention.

What you will learn:

• How organizations can break the stigma around mental health in the workplace
• Key advice for future wellbeing leaders
• The top 3 wellbeing trends shaping 2025
• Why wellbeing is critical for employee engagement and retention
• Key strategies to prevent burnout and support employees through life’s challenges
• How AI and technology are personalizing workplace wellbeing

Key Takeaways from the Episode:

?? Wellbeing in the Workplace Is Still a Taboo Topic

→ Many employees feel uncomfortable discussing mental health at work, leaders must foster a culture of openness and trust to reduce stigma

?? Burnout Prevention Starts with Holistic Support

→ Organizations must take a whole-person approach to wellbeing, addressing mental, physical, and emotional health, not just offering perks

?? AI and Personalization Are the Future of Wellbeing

→ AI-driven tools are helping companies customize wellbeing programs to meet individual needs rather than using a one-size-fits-all model

?? Leaders Must Set the Example for Wellbeing

→ Leadership plays a crucial role in normalizing conversations around mental health, encouraging employees to seek support without fear

?? We couldn't do it without you!

Thank you Felizitas Lichtenberg for sharing your time, expertise, and vision with our listeners.

Also our episode and series partner, Wellhub and their brilliant team Cesar Carvalho (he/his) , Carolee Gearhart , Bruno Annicq , Ellen Hochberg , Victor R. , Thiago Pessoa ,

Lívia de Bastos Martini , Gustavo Ramos and Christopher Dean .

A big thank you to our previous guests:

• Episode #1 - Tina Steck, Global Head of Well-Being at Unilever
• Episode #2 – Mark Kelly, Global Head of Benefits and Wellbeing at Boston Consulting Group (BCG)
• Episode #3 – Stella Gavinho, Group Head of Wellbeing at Entain
• Episode #4 - Steven Forti, Chief Wellness and Resiliency Officer, Hospital for Special Surgery

Upcoming Guests Include

• Marni McDowell, PhD , Senior Director, Global Wellbeing, Micron Technology
• Kasia Curry , Global Wellbeing & Health Compliance, Baker Hughes
• Yulia O'Mahony , Director, Global Head of Health & Wellbeing at Philip Morris International (PMI)
• Chester Elton , NY Times Best selling author “Anxiety at Work”, LinkedIn Influencer, Thinkers50 Top Management Thinker and Leadership Coach

To name a few :)

P.S. If you enjoyed the WorkLife Wellness Series, subscribe to our Newsletter, and Repost to help create a culture of wellbeing where everyone can thrive! ??