Episode 197: Unwinding from Work

In this episode of the Leading & Learning Through Safety Podcast, Dr. Mark French explores the psychological importance of the home-to-work transition (HWT) — the intentional process of mentally and physically unwinding after a workday. Drawing from a recent article in the Journal of Occupational Health Psychology, Mark examines how continuous activation of stress systems throughout the workday requires a deliberate unwinding process to maintain long-term wellbeing.

Mark reflects on his career as a frontline safety professional, often serving as the lone point of responsibility for a 24/7 operation. He highlights the reality many safety leaders face: constant availability, middle-of-the-night calls, and difficulty fully disengaging. He discusses how organizational structures often reinforce this imbalance and argues that leaders must implement clear escalation policies, flow-based decision tools, and supervisor accountability to protect both safety teams and operational continuity.

The episode also explores the research surrounding cognitive, emotional, and physiological recovery — including how poor transition habits can impact rest, alcohol use, and tobacco consumption. Mark emphasizes that unwinding must be intentional, not accidental. Whether through exercise, gaming, nature walks, meditation, or small rituals like grounding at a favorite tree, each person must find their own meaningful method of decompressing.

Ultimately, the episode is a reminder that leaders cannot pour into others if they are continually depleted. To lead effectively — and safely — we must prioritize our own recovery so we can show up fully for the people who depend on us.