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the mentl space
the mentl space is a podcast for open, honest conversations about mental health, wellbeing, leadership and the cultures that help people thrive.
Hosted by Scott Armstrong, founder of mentl, the show brings together leaders, psychologists, doctors, authors, athletes, entrepreneurs, advocates and people with lived experience to explore what mental health means in real life, at work, at home and in the community.
From workplace wellbeing, burnout, psychological safety and inclusion, to parenting, men’s mental health, resilience, digital wellbeing, leadership and the human stories behind change, each episode asks what it really takes to move from awareness to action.
This is a space for practical insight, personal honesty and better conversations about how we live, lead and support one another.
Because when we talk more openly, we make it easier for everyone to thrive.
the mentl space
Burnout, balance, and building a culture that cares
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In this powerful episode of the mentl space, Scott Armstrong sits down with Leah Cotterill, CEO of Cigna Healthcare Middle East & Africa and a judge for 'the mentl awards 2025'.
Filmed at the stunning Folly Brasserie – the official venue for this year’s awards – this conversation explores how mental health, leadership and culture intersect in a fast-paced, high-performing region like the UAE.
Leah shares deeply personal stories and professional insights, from managing burnout and leading with empathy to Cigna’s award-winning 5% pledge and why trust is at the heart of thriving workplaces.
Whether you're a CEO, people leader, or just passionate about wellbeing, this one is not to be missed.
🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe and share if this conversation resonates with you.
🌟 LEARN MORE:
Enter the mentl awards 2025: mentlawards.com
CHAPTERS & TIMESTAMPS
00:00 – Welcome to Folly Brasserie & Leah Cotterill introduction
01:09 – What does mental health mean to Leah?
04:24 – How’s your mental health today?
06:56 – Balancing leadership and wellbeing as a CEO
09:15 – “I don’t have an off switch, but I have a dial” – managing energy
11:46 – Why executive coaching changed Leah’s leadership
13:43 – How becoming a parent reshaped her mindset
16:37 – Where leadership is failing (and how to fix it)
21:10 – What derails leaders? Lessons from psychological assessments
26:06 – UAE paradox: High energy, high burnout
30:10 – Cost of living, social isolation and the loneliness epidemic
32:38 – What employers must do differently
36:28 – Why some leaders still don’t believe wellbeing drives performance
39:07 – Inside Cigna’s 5% pledge and coaching initiative
51:35 – ROI of empathy and investing in people
58:54 – The power of niche mental health support
1:05:46 – Gen Z, wellbeing-first careers & the future of leadership
1:10:38 – Why wellbeing is not a compromise – it's a performance driver
1:13:02 – “Assume good intent. Be kind.” – Trust as the secret to culture
1:15:30 – Closing thanks & call to action for the mentl awards
