A conversation between Franck-Philippe Georgin and Philippe Rodet raises concerns about how companies in France manage their employees, focusing on engagement and mental health. According to a recent report, only 8% of French workers feel truly engaged in their jobs, and almost half experience some form of psychological stress. These statistics point to a deeper problem in how work is structured and how leadership is practiced, rather than just isolated instances of bad management. Georgin points out that despite more tools, training, and performance metrics being introduced to improve management, the issue remains. He argues that the way managers operate in French companies still reflects old ideas of control, hierarchy, and giving orders—even if the methods have changed. This includes things like processes, approvals, regular reporting, and performance indicators, which can create a situation where employees are expected to be creative and independent while also feeling constantly watched and given unclear tasks. Rodet focuses on how poor management can directly affect health. He explains that when stress becomes long-term and recovery is not possible, the work environment becomes harmful. The body can adapt to a state of constant tension, which can affect sleep, focus, and energy levels. He also emphasizes the need to identify motivational problems early and the importance of close, personal relationships in addressing these issues. The idea of "Bienveilleurs," or kind colleagues, is proposed as a way to detect and help with workplace challenges. These are employees trained to listen and guide their peers to the right resources. They are not psychologists or caregivers, but instead form a support network within the company. This approach is inspired by Quebec’s concept of "sentinel personalities," aiming to build a sense of shared responsibility through peer relationships. Georgin, who studied at the ENA and has experience in both public and private sectors, says similar management challenges exist in both areas, especially as organizations become larger and more complex. He clarifies that "well-being management" isn’t about avoiding responsibilities or turning the company into a wellness center, but about finding a balance between work demands and caring for employees. Rodet, who is trained as an emergency doctor and specializes in stress and motivation, has worked with various organizations. He is also the author of Les Bienveilleurs (Eyrolles, 2026), a book that explores these ideas further.