In this episode, I sit down with Steve Dann to unpack the hidden relationship between alcohol, workplace stress, and leadership culture.

Steve is an experienced senior leader with over 30 years in UK policing and eight years as a Senior Cvil Servant in the Home Office. He was recognised for strategic leadership in Afghanistan, receiving US Military Superior Civilian Medal and the UK Civilian Service Medal. He was awarded the King’s Coronation Medal for leadership as Border Force Gold Commander in 2023

With his decades of experience across high-stakes roles in policing and government, Steve brings a rare, honest perspective on how stress shows up in the workplace - and why drinking is often the unspoken coping strategy.

We talk about macho team dynamics, drinking as emotional armour, and the gaps in HR and wellbeing support that leave people quietly struggling. Steve also shares how our chat opened his eyes to the role alcohol might actually be playing in rising stress-related absences.

If you lead people, care about culture, or just want to understand what’s really going on behind closed doors, this conversation is a must-listen.

Here are the highlights:

Steve Dann's Impressive Career Background (1:59)

Challenges and Coping Mechanisms in High-Stress Roles (8:16)

Impact of Alcohol on Stress and Performance (11:18)

The Role of Alcohol in Workplace Stress (25:17)

Barriers to Addressing Alcohol and Stress in the Workplace (28:57)

Potential Solutions and Future Conversations (48:50)

Connect with Steve:

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/dannsteve

Email contact:steve@everus-si.com

Offer to Listeners: As a thank you to podcast listeners, I’m offering the opportunity for a free consultation call to leaders or HR professionals in policing, public sector or high-risk industries who are looking to strengthen their workplace resilience and leadership in the face of behavioural risks - including the hidden impact of alcohol. To take up the offer, simply mention this podcast when you reach out via LinkedIn or email.

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