Welcome to another episode of Solve and Thrive

In today’s episode, Pam sits down with Ren, the founder of Ren Coaching and Well-being, to explore practical ways managers can support employee well-being and navigate challenging workplace situations. With a focus on actionable strategies, Ren shares her experience working with both individuals and organisations to help tackle stress, foster resilience, and build healthier, more empowered teams.

About the Speakers

Pam is the host of Solve and Thrive and the founder of PM Business Support Services. Passionate about supporting managers and HR professionals, she brings insight and empathy to the task of helping leaders create environments where everyone can thrive.

Ren is a coach and well-being consultant and the founder of Ren Coaching and Well-being. They work with individuals and companies to help people overcome obstacles, manage stress, and unlock their full potential.

Key topics covered in this episode include:

Understanding the ‘Stress Container’

Ren introduces the concept of the “stress container”, a visual tool (adapted from Mental Health First Aid England) that helps individuals map out their personal stressors, both positive and negative. By externalising these pressures, managers can facilitate open and supportive conversations with their staff about what’s impacting them.

Focus on What You Can Control

Building on the stress container, Wren discusses the “circle of control versus circle of influence” model. By helping employees distinguish between what they can control, influence, or accept, managers can empower their teams to focus their energy where it matters most—reducing overwhelm and boosting morale.

Differentiating Overwhelm from Overload

Ren shares insights from coaches Jamie Smart and Michael Neil on the difference between overwhelm (a state driven by thoughts and emotions) and overload (having too much to do structurally). She encourages managers to work with employees to clarify what is at play, making it possible to take practical steps—like delegating tasks or offering emotional support.

Navigating the Drama Triangle

Ren introduces the “drama triangle”—a framework from transactional analysis (developed by Stephen Karpman) that identifies roles such as victim, rescuer, and perpetrator in workplace conflicts. By raising awareness of these dynamics, managers can avoid disempowering others, break unhelpful cycles, and model healthier, more collaborative interactions.

Learning Cycles and Self-Esteem

Finally, Ren highlights the link between stress and self-esteem—especially for employees new to a role or learning a new skill. She encourages managers to support reflection on progress and learning, helping individuals recognisegrowth and challenge unhelpful self-comparisons.

Useful Resources Mentioned

Mental Health First Aid England

Resources and training on identifying and supporting mental health in the workplace.

Website: https://mhfaengland.org/

Contact Information

Ren Coaching and Well-being

Website: www.ren.coach

PM Business Support Services

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

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 guest's contribution are 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.