United States Courts

In Session: Leading the Judiciary - Episode 51: Leaders’ Role in Workplace Wellbeing

In Episode 51 of "In Session: Leading the Judiciary," industrial‑organizational psychologists Patricia Grabbarak and Katina Sawer explain why leaders, not wellness programs, are the decisive factor in employee well‑being. Drawing on their research and the book "Leading for Wellness," they argue that true workplace health hinges on trust, authenticity, and clear boundaries, especially in high‑stress environments like the judiciary. The duo breaks wellness down into physical, mental, emotional health and work‑life balance, noting that toxic or neutral cultures erode these pillars despite perks like yoga classes. They introduce the "generator" versus "extinguisher" framework: generators actively create energy, set boundaries, and model vulnerability, while extinguishers drain morale through overreach and neglect. Regular, honest feedback is essential for leaders to locate themselves on this continuum. Memorable analogies illustrate their points: a poorly baked cake cannot be saved by excessive icing, just as superficial programs cannot fix a toxic culture. They also differentiate "struggle statements"—leaders sharing genuine challenges—from mere complaining, emphasizing that measured vulnerability builds trust. Gratitude, they add, initiates a self‑sustaining positive cycle. For organizations, the implication is clear: wellness must be treated as a strategic goal, not an afterthought. Leaders need concrete, actionable roadmaps to shift from extinguishers to generators, which can improve retention, performance, and overall organizational resilience.