Episode 236: The OD Praise Conundrum

Bob 'n Joyce Talk HR 'n OD · May 25, 2026 · 24m

In today’s episode, we wrestle with a tension many OD practitioners quietly carry: wanting our work to matter without wanting to be the center of attention.

Much of what we do happens behind the scenes — coaching leaders, shaping conversations, diffusing conflict, and helping teams succeed in ways that are often invisible to others. When things go well, the leader or team rightfully gets the credit. In many ways, that’s exactly how OD work is supposed to work.

But if we’re honest, there are moments when the lack of acknowledgment can sting. At the same time, many of us feel uncomfortable when…