In today’s episode, Pam explores the vital question: “How can managers lead change without losing their team?” In a time where change is a constant in every industry, the way managers approach transitions can mean the difference between thriving teams and burned-out employees.

Pam is joined by the effervescent Michelle Thomas, founder of The Happy Business Club and self-styled happiness expert. Michelle brings her signature blend of humour, realism, and actionable advice, championing the belief that joy and well-being should be at the core of any successful business.

Michelle believes that too often, business wellbeing is reduced to short-term ‘sticking plaster’ fixes when what’s needed are sustainable, fun, and practical tools to build true resilience. Enter her “hacktices”, unique practices developed to help teams not just survive change but bounce back stronger, together.

Throughout the episode, Pam and Michelle cover:

• Why “well-being” isn’t just about physical or mental health, but encompasses relational, fiscal, environmental, and purpose-driven wellbeing.
• The pitfalls of easy fixes, and why resilience needs daily practice, not just crisis management
• The art of doing a “life audit” to recognise the overlooked skills and resources already within your team
• Michelle’s “Happy Cha Cha Cha” for overcoming overwhelm—transforming big goals into manageable, energising steps
• The magic of boundary-setting (especially for people-pleasers) and how to prioritise without guilt
• Tiny changes you can make to boost personal and team energy, focusing on incremental improvement (“better than nothing, better than usual, better than ever”)
• Building self-belief with regular reminders of “proof of awesomeness”, and why celebration and positive feedback matter.
• Practical strategies for managers to foster a happy, engaged, and self-sustaining workforce
• How to apply these techniques to your unique team dynamics, whether you manage a large staff or a small, close-knit group

Michelle and Pam bring honest, practical insights laced with laughter, stories, and real-world experience. Whether you’re a manager, team member, or business owner, there’s something here to help you uplift your culture, lead change confidently, and keep your people happy and motivated.

Listen in for a fresh perspective on making change feel less like a burden and more like an opportunity—one joyful, practical step at a time.

Useful Resources Mentioned

Michelle Thomas – The Happy Business Club

Happiness-centred business support, workshops, and a regular magazine for small business owners who care about wellbeing and culture.

Website: www.thehappybusinessclub.co.uk

Instagram: @thehappybusinessclub

Facebook: @TheHappyBusinessClub

Happiness and Resilience Tools

• Michelle’s “Life Audit” and “Happy Cha Cha Cha” practices – available through workshops and resources at The Happy Business Club
• Follow Michelle on her social channels for regular tips and community support

Pam Molyneux – PM Business Support Services

Supporting leaders to thrive through change.

Website: https://www.pmbusinesssupportservices.co.uk/

From Team Member To Manager Guide: https://pmbusinesssupportservices.co.uk/freebies

Disclaimer:

The Solve & Thrive podcast is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. We share practical strategies and lived experiences to help managers navigate challenging workplace situations, but you should always seek appropriate professional or legal guidance specific to your circumstances. As a manager, business owner, or HR professional, you are the expert on the unique context of the situation —so please do right by the individual circumstances. Our content and our guests contribution is intended as supportive tips and suggestions, not absolute solutions, and may not apply in every situation. Any legal or policy references discussed are accurate as of the date of recording and may not reflect current updates.