In this episode of Question The Default, Harry is joined by Dr Paul Litchfield, Independent Chief Medical Adviser to ITV and compass Group, on workplace mental health.
Paul shares the defining moment early in his career that set him on a lifelong mission to improve how workplaces respond to mental health.
The conversation explores how workplace culture has evolved, why many organisations still struggle to implement effective wellbeing strategies, and the simple evidence-based framework Paul believes every company should adopt. Paul also discusses his later work advising the television industry on duty of care, including supporting reality TV productions in protecting participants before, during and after filming.
Paul opens up about:
• The moment early in his career that sparked his commitment to workplace mental health
• Why “stress” became the entry point for mental health conversations in organisations
• Why many workplace wellbeing initiatives fail to create lasting change
• Supporting reality TV participants through screening, on-set care, and aftercare
• The hidden mental health risks of sudden fame and online scrutiny
• Why younger generations are experiencing declining happiness and rising isolation
A thoughtful episode about leadership, responsibility, and what it really takes to build workplaces that treat people as human beings.
Question The Default is in support of Campaign Against Living Miserably.
👤 Follow Host Harry Corin
💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/harrycorin
📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/harry.corin
🔗 Follow Question The Default
📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/questionthedefaultpod
🎧 TikTok – @questionthedefaultpod
💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/questionthedefaultpodcast
This episode discusses sensitive topics, including mental health and suicide. We understand this can be distressing or triggering, so please take care of yourself and only listen if you feel safe to do so. If you need support, crisis resources and helpful links are below:
Samaritans – Call 116 123 (free, 24/7) or visit samaritans.org
Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) – Call 0800 58 58 58 (5pm–midnight) or visit thecalmzone.net
Mind – Call 0300 123 3393 (Mon–Fri, 9am–6pm) or visit mind.org.uk
Shout – Text SHOUT to 85258 (24/7) or visit giveusashout.org
GamCare - Call 0808 8020 133 (24/7)
If you are in immediate danger, call 999 or go to your nearest A&E.
For listeners outside the UK, visit findahelpline.com for international support lines.
","author_name":"Harry Corin"}