Live Long and Master Aging

Ross McCray: Challenging the work-life paradigm

Listen on

Episode notes

The coronavirus pandemic is threatening every facet of normal life. This episode of the LLAMA podcast was recorded before the global health crisis hit home for so many of us. It focusses on the work-life initiatives of a rapidly growing US company that could be a blueprint for how we live in the future.  But not until life returns to normal. VideoAmp founder and CEO, Ross McCray, is currently dealing with the huge challenge of running a software and data company, employing more than 230 people, from home. He is particularly focussed on providing employees with support for their general wellbeing, to match the facilities that they usually enjoy at the office. Ross is on a long-term mission to change the work-life paradigm. He wants to build a workplace model that nurtures the physical and mental fitness of employees, in an environment that prioritizes happiness and health span. This episode includes Ross’s original interview, with LLAMA’s Peter Bowes, and an update on the impact of coronavirus. 

In this interview we cover: 

  • Is there a blueprint or formula for best workplace practices that you can incorporate to other companies to make people truly happier and more effective?
  • Being highly energized throughout the day.
  • Providing workplace 24/7 gym facilities, personal training, healthy food, mental health support. 
  • Effectiveness and longevity during the working day. 
  • Work-life harmony - a nuanced approach to a fluid lifestyle.
  • Different lives, priorities and perspectives on life.
  • Balancing schedules - from medical appointments to office meetings and being a parent.
  • Clear, measurable goals and flexible work-time.
  • Physical challenges, weight loss and muscle building, at work.
  • A data driven approach to a new workplace model focussed on wellbeing.  

Coronavirus update:

  • Dealing with the everyday changes due to the coronavirus crisis. 
  • Adapting to a home-working environment with improvised gym equipment. 
  • Streamed workouts for virtual meetups to boost morale and maintain fitness.
  • Dealing with the uncertainly and unease. 
  • Rising to the occasion with inspirational quotes and “uplift vibes” through company playlists.