Christine welcomes Dr. Alyssa McGonagle, Associate Professor of Psychology and Organizational Science at UNC Charlotte, to explore how chronic health conditions intersect with work, leadership, and organizational culture. Drawing from both personal experience and over a decade of research, Dr. McGonagle shares how stigma, lack of awareness, and rigid workplace structures continue to impact employee well-being.
From invisible illnesses and disclosure challenges to the hidden toll of “energy depletion” at work, this conversation highlights why supporting employee health goes far beyond traditional wellness programs—and why proactive, systemic change is critical.
When most chronic health conditions are managed during work hours—but often go unseen—organizations have a greater responsibility than they may realize.
“People are putting everything they have into work—and there’s nothing left to manage their health.”
This conversation covers:
- How stigma and fear of disclosure impact employee performance, engagement, and career growth
- The concept of “work-health interference” and why energy depletion—not time—is often the biggest barrier
- Why flexibility, predictability, and ongoing conversations outperform one-time accommodations