EP297 Transforming Workplace Culture – With Attorney Brian Gottheil

In this episode, Toronto-based attorney Brian Gottheil, the Director of Training & Transformation at Bernardi (Hrlawyers.ca), joined the LMIPodcast on the road alongside Thomas G. Giglione of WeAgreeMediators to discuss the importance of transforming workplace culture and the role of HR investigations and training. He shares his journey from being an employment lawyer to leading workplace transformation efforts, highlighting the value lawyers can bring as investigators.

Brian emphasizes the dangers of making assumptions during investigations and the need for procedural fairness. He also stresses the importance of addressing cultural issues beyond just the investigation findings to prevent repeat incidents.

When it comes to DEI training, Brian advocates for a more proactive, civility-based approach that empowers employees as allies, rather than treating them as perpetrators. He cites research showing the limitations of traditional DEI training methods.

Brian also discusses the importance of interactive, role-play-based training that can lead to real behavioral changes, and shares an example of a company that successfully transformed its toxic workplace culture through a comprehensive training and culture change initiative. It’s a quick listen but this clip is packed full of content for anyone wanting a quick education on workplace investigation, training, and compliance in Canada.

Learn more: https://hrlawyers.ca/