Mel Upton | Balancing performance and care in business

Mel Upton is the CEO of Positive Group APAC, a mental wellbeing company focussed on leadership training and group learning. She’s also a veteran of the legal industry and has led wellbeing programs throughout her 25 year legal career.Mel joins JK from a hotel room in Auckland on her first international trip since the start of the pandemic, another sign we are slowly finding our way back to some kind of normal.JK and Mel kick off the pod talking about Mel’s background in the legal industry, and her experience in setting up wellbeing programs as a leader in law firms. She gives us some insight into how to have difficult conversations, and how to be comfortable when you’re having an off day. Mel also shares a first hand experience of dealing with a team member going through significant mental ill-health. She reminds us that hard conversations are hard, and that it’s important to prepare and be mindful when approaching a hard conversation to steer it toward a positive outcome.Later, Mel gives some insight into the work she’s doing now with Positive Group, and how they communicate the sometimes complex scientific concepts behind mental wellbeing in a way that resonates with business leaders and stimulates change in their clients' businesses.Read and Listen:Moving Upstream: The case for a more proactive approach to mental health in the workplace - Dr Brian Marien of Positive GroupA Podcast of One’s Own - podcast by Julia GillardThe Measure of a Man - A Spiritual Autobiography - Sidney Poitier Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Om Podcasten

There’s never been a more important time to take care of and fully understand mental wellbeing. Sir John Kirwan, All Black legend, mental health advocate and Co-founder of Groov sits down for intimate conversations with incredible and inspiring leaders from all walks of life.JK, who has been the face of mental health in New Zealand for over 20 years, gets in-depth with every guest on their own wellbeing stories, what keeps them well, and how they are prioritising and championing wellbeing in their organisations and communities. Sure to entertain, inspire and provoke ideas, JK tackles mental wellbeing in the only way he can. Welcome to Open Minded.Connect with us on social media for weekly content at @groovnow.Groov podcast disclaimer: The Groov 'Open Minded' podcast may contain content that might be objectionable. The views and opinions expressed in the Open Minded podcast episodes are those of the individuals interviewed and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Groov. Some episodes are for mature audiences and include language and subject matter that may not be suitable for young listeners. Listener Discretion is advised. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.