Toxic Workplace

No Job Is Worth This: Sunny's Story of Working as a Therapist for Sexual Predators

Sun, 26 Jan 2025 01:52:09 GMT

In this episode, we hear Sunny’s story—a therapist and military veteran who took her first civilian job at a civil commitment center for sexual offenders, hoping to grow as a clinician by working with a challenging population. Instead, she found herself in a toxic workplace filled with traumatic experiences, overwhelming demands, and unrealistic demands from leadership. From being forced to process her trauma in front of abusers to enduring severe burnout and a lack of support, Sunny’s journey reveals the emotional toll of working in such an environment. Ultimately, she shares how she found the strength to walk away, rebuild her confidence, and prioritize her well-being, offering valuable insights for anyone struggling in a toxic workplace.

Content Warning: This episode includes descriptions of sexual misconduct and other sensitive topics that may not be suitable for all listeners.

On the Cheap: Buli's Toxic Workplace Story of Bad Management with Dodgy Practices

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 11:37:38 GMT

Buli, fresh out of college and living in the UK, joined the Kickstart scheme to find work. She was placed in a company where management cut corners, from skipping proper training to forging certificates, all while overworking their staff. Buli found herself burdened with an overwhelming workload, earning minimum wage for her efforts. As the company prioritized cost-cutting over care, Buli and her colleagues bore the brunt of the mismanagement. Her story highlights the red flags and shady practices that many employees encounter in poorly run workplaces. Ultimately, Buli’s resilience helped her rise above it all, finding strength and confidence through the struggle.

*****Do you have a toxic workplace story to share?***********

Go to www.toxicworkplacepodcast.com and click on "Be a Guest." Your story will be shared anonymously. All names are changed to protect the employee and the company.

Does listening to this podcast help you navigate your toxic workplace? Be sure to leave a review on Apple Podcasts.

You may also go to www.toxicworkplacepodcast.com and leave a private review.

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Buried in a Pile of Work: Grace's Toxic Workplace Story of an Excessive Workload and a Non-Existent Manager

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 02:07:49 GMT

Grace graduates with a Master’s degree with high hopes that she will pave a new career path in the tech world. She lands a position in Product with a well-known tech company and is excited about the possibilities. Soon after she is onboarded, she realizes her new manager is completely hands off, giving her zero direction and feedback. The low morale and cut-throat competition in her department makes it challenging for her to onboard and progress in her position. She’s left to fend for herself and feels like she’s in a sink or swim situation, where her manager is merely sitting back and watching, waiting for her to sink. However, she doesn’t give up and pushes through without any recognition. Grace realizes some hard learned truths about herself and what she’s truly searching for in her career.

Revolving Door of Poor Leadership: Chelsea's Toxic Workplace Story of A Non-Profit School with No Direction

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 12:12:57 GMT

Chelsea is an educator who finds herself entrenched in a toxic workplace characterized by poor leadership and revolving door turnover. The organization is constantly undergoing new leadership which causes a lack of direction, misaligned roles, unchecked behavior, and nepotism, Chelsea grapples with frustration and confusion while juggling personal tribulations. However, her dedication to her family and unwavering work ethic kept her persevering through the storm. Ultimately, Chelsea emerged with a newfound perspective, prioritizing her well-being and aspirations over the toxicity of her workplace.

*****Do you have a toxic workplace story to share?***********

Go to www.toxicworkplacepodcast.com and click on "Be a Guest." Your story will be shared anonymously. All names are changed to protect the employee and the company.

Does listening to this podcast help you navigate your toxic workplace? Be sure to leave a review on Apple Podcasts.

You may also go to www.toxicworkplacepodcast.com and leave a private review.

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Bullied to the Brink: Kylie's Toxic Workplace Story of a Bullying Manager

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 03:20:08 GMT

Kylie lands a job at a large utility company, which starts on a positive note. She excels in her accounting role and earns praise from colleagues and supervisors. However, her experience takes a sharp downturn when she begins reporting to a bullying manager. Despite her persistent dedication, Kylie faces numerous obstacles, including being denied necessary overtime, burdened with increasing workloads, and subjected to unfounded accusations of poor performance. Additionally, opportunities for professional advancement within the company are consistently withheld from Kylie, leaving her feeling trapped and undervalued. Through Kylie's narrative, this episode highlights the destructive effects** of workplace bullying and underscores the pressing need for systemic changes to cultivate healthier work environments.

***Please note, this episode discusses suicide.

Do you have a toxic workplace story to share?

Go to www.toxicworkplacepodcast.com and click on "Be a Guest." Your story will be shared anonymously. All names are changed to protect the employee and the company.

Does listening to this podcast help you navigate your toxic workplace? Be sure to leave a review on Apple Podcasts.

You may also go to www.toxicworkplacepodcast.com and leave a private review.

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Not All That Glitters Is Gold: Victoria's Toxic Workplace Story of Cheap Sales and a Sham Business

Mon, 08 Jan 2024 05:17:49 GMT

Victoria is a dedicated real estate professional and busy mom who discovers a promising opportunity in real estate sales. Impressed by a wonderful interview experience, she eagerly joins the company, initially captivated by their seemingly excellent professionalism and integrity. However, as she begins her new role, Victoria becomes disillusioned when she realizes the company engages in cheap sales practices and the management fosters a toxic workplace culture. The initial excitement turns into disappointment as she grapples with the contrast between her expectations and the harsh reality of management's unethical business practices and toxic work environment.

*****Do you have a toxic workplace story to share?***********

Go to www.toxicworkplacepodcast.com and click on "Be a Guest." Your story will be shared anonymously. All names are changed to protect the employee and the company.

Does listening to this podcast help you navigate your toxic workplace? Be sure to leave a review on Apple Podcasts.

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Faithful Facade: Haylee's Toxic Workplace Story of a Christian Non-Profit with Hidden Political Motives

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 04:24:45 GMT

Haylee gets the opportunity to work with a trusted, long-time family friend, Jenna, in an exclusive Christian non-profit organization. Haylee is led to believe this non-profit is funding amazing projects that brings goodness into the world, but in reality they're funding political agendas. Haylee looks up to Jenna and believes she is going to gain professionalism and mentorship under her direction, but is quickly disappointed when she learns Jenna is a micromanager with a passive aggressive personality. Jenna starts to form the untrue narrative that Haylee doesn't respect her authority and is not well received by her colleagues.

*****Do you have a toxic workplace story to share?***********

Go to www.toxicworkplacepodcast.com and click on "Be a Guest." Your story will be shared anonymously. All names are changed to protect the employee and the company.

Does listening to this podcast help you navigate your toxic workplace? Be sure to leave a review on Apple Podcasts.

You may also go to www.toxicworkplacepodcast.com and leave a private review.

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Door-to-Door Deception: Amanda's Toxic Workplace Story of Working for a Magazine Crew Cult

Sun, 12 Nov 2023 01:03:54 GMT

Amanda is fresh out of high school and ready to escape her small hometown in Nebraska. She meets a guy at a rock concert who invites her to join his travels around the country as a "salesman." He offers her a one-way bus ticket to Texas to join him on a sales opportunity. Seeking adventure and excitement Amanda accepts, but on arrival she is disappointed to find herself thrown into a door-to-door sales routine with a magazine crew that operates more like a cult than a legitimate business. The manipulative crew leaders isolate her from family and friends while gradually introducing deceptive practices to boost sales and strip Amanda of her identity. She faces a complex web of psychological manipulation and coercive tactics. Her story unfolds as a quest for self-discovery amidst the unexpected dangers of seeking a new life away from home.

Resources:

Magazine Crews:

* https://www.theatlantic.com/business/archive/2015/04/trapped-into-selling-magazines-door-to-door/388601/

* http://america.aljazeera.com/articles/2015/2/24/human-trafficking-victim-mag-crew-kid-at-door.html

* https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_Honey_(film)

General Cult/Trafficking Info:

https://freedomofmind.com/cult-mind-control/influence-continuum/ https://freedomofmind.com/cult-mind-control/bite-model/ * https://janjalalich.com/help/characteristics-associated-with-cults/

* https://freedomofmind.com/cult-mind-control/trafficking/

* https://polarisproject.org/labor-trafficking/ (Anything on Janja Lalich or Steven Hassan's websites are great for cult research/education. I have some of their books as well!)

Commercial Cults:

* https://www.marketplace.org/2020/03/10/five-signs-your-workplace-might-turning-into-a-cult/

* https://www.economist.com/business/2022/03/05/company-or-cult

* https://www.huffpost.com/entry/multilevel-marketing-companies-mlms-cults-similarities_l_5d49f8c2e4b09e72973df3d3

*****Do you have a toxic workplace story to share?***********

Go to www.toxicworkplacepodcast.com and click on "Be a Guest." Your story will be shared anonymously. All names are changed to protect the employee and the company.

Stern Stares and Side Eye: Sam's Toxic Workplace Story of Bullying and Discrimination as a Male Nurse in Rural NC

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 01:01:37 GMT

Sam is a recent college graduate who lands an RN position in a pediatric unit at a rural North Carolina hospital. Sam is quickly disheartened when he realizes he is not welcome by the other nurses. As the only black, male nurse in the hospital he experiences discrimination, relentless questioning of his abilities, and a demoralizing work environment. He grapples with constant bullying and exclusion. Despite his determination to make a difference, the hostile reception at the hospital leaves Sam struggling with crushed self-esteem and questioning his capabilities.

Do you have a toxic workplace story to share?

Go to www.toxicworkplacepodcast.com and click on "Be a Guest." Your story will be shared anonymously. All names are changed to protect the employee and the company.

Does listening to this podcast help you navigate your toxic workplace? Be sure to leave a review on Apple Podcasts.

You may also go to www.toxicworkplacepodcast.com and leave a private review.

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Troubled Waters: Anna's Toxic Workplace Story of an Environmental Non-Profit Run by a Berating Boss

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 03:00:33 GMT

Anna lands a dream job at a non-profit dedicated to safeguarding the local lakes, the community's primary water supply. Initially thrilled by the opportunity to contribute to a meaningful cause, Anna is welcomed into the organization by a seemingly supportive boss. Anna quickly realizes, however, a stark contrast between the charismatic façade and the true nature of her boss when she reads a berating email sent to a previous employee. The workplace atmosphere becomes increasingly toxic as he berates employees, takes undue credit for their collective achievements, and micromanages their work.

Do you have a toxic workplace story to share?

Go to www.toxicworkplacepodcast.com and click on "Be a Guest." Your story will be shared anonymously. All names are changed to protect the employee and the company.

Does listening to this podcast help you navigate your toxic workplace? Be sure to leave a review on Apple Podcasts.

You may also go to www.toxicworkplacepodcast.com and leave a private review.

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Alley-Oops and Overload: Adam's Toxic Workplace Story of a Basketball Non-Profit Run by Poor Management

Tue, 03 Oct 2023 00:13:57 GMT

Adam lands a job at a non-profit organization with a noble mission—mentoring teens through basketball. Little did he know, his new boss brings a different kind of game to the table. Adam finds himself in a chaotic mix of disorganization, poor time management, and a glaring lack of leadership skills at the helm. As he tries to navigate the challenges, the overwhelming workload consumes him. This episode sheds light on the importance of effective leadership and organizational structure, even in the well-intentioned world of non-profit mentorship through sports.

*****Do you have a toxic workplace story to share?***********

Go to www.toxicworkplacepodcast.com and click on "Be a Guest." Your story will be shared anonymously. All names are changed to protect the employee and the company.

Does listening to this podcast help you navigate your toxic workplace? Be sure to leave a review on Apple Podcasts.

You may also go to www.toxicworkplacepodcast.com and leave a private review.

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Working Twice as Hard for Respect: Cassie's Toxic Workplace Story of Working as a School Therapist

Sat, 26 Aug 2023 19:00:47 GMT

From day one Cassie is treated as an outsider by the teachers and parents of the school she works for. The school is in a mostly white, upper-class, neighborhood and Cassie is a woman of color with a diverse background. The administration and her colleagues do not welcome her with open arms. They are cold, distant, and second guess her professional insight. Cassie works hard to win the respect of the administration, but no matter how hard she tries, they continue to dismiss her. The environment eventually pushes Cassie into an anxiety ridden state where she finally gets the courage to do something about it.

Do you have a toxic workplace story to share?

Go to www.toxicworkplacepodcast.com and click on "Be a Guest." Your story will be shared anonymously. All names are changed to protect the employee and the company.

Does listening to this podcast help you navigate your toxic workplace? Be sure to leave a review on Apple Podcasts.

You may also go to www.toxicworkplacepodcast.com and leave a private review.

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Reference: https://health.clevelandclinic.org/stress-dreams-why-do-we-have-them-and-how-to-stop/#:~:text=Frequently%20having%20stress%20or%20anxiety,thoughts%20and%20stress%20in%20order.

Looks Can Be Deceiving: Sarah's Toxic Workplace Story of a Non-Profit Organization Run by a Narcissistic Leader

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 02:40:07 GMT

Sarah is excited to work at a non-profit organization whose mission aligns with her own values and passions. From the outside, this organization looks perfect. They emphasize "women empowering women," but Sarah starts to see the complete opposite as her self-serving, narcissistic boss has no shame in embarrassing Sarah and her colleagues in front of others.

Do you have a toxic workplace story to share? Go to www.toxicworkplacepodcast.com and click on "Be a Guest." Your story will be shared anonymously. All names are changed to protect the employee and the company. Does listening to this podcast help you navigate your toxic workplace? Be sure to leave a review on Apple Podcasts. You may also go to www.toxicworkplacepodcast.com and leave a private review.

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You Better Have a Fake Smile on Your Face: Judy's Toxic Workplace Story of Burnout and Career Sabotage

Sat, 01 Jul 2023 20:44:31 GMT

Judy works as a Senior Software Engineer at a health care clinic. She quickly realizes her new employer doesn't believe in work/life balance when she gets interrogated for taking a day off to attend her aunt's funeral. She is expected to drop everything on her days off to respond to work related questions. Her boss is sexist and demeaning. Leadership expects everyone to maintain a positive attitude despite the burnout culture.

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Reference: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/stress/art-20046037

Blurring the Lines: Birdie's Toxic Workplace Story of an Insecure Councilman with No Boundaries

Tue, 16 May 2023 03:09:00 GMT

Fresh out of college, Birdie lands a job working for a councilman in Louisiana. At first, the councilman seems endearing and has a casual demeanor, but not long after Birdie starts in her position she realizes the councilman has no boundaries and a verbally abusive temper. He takes his frustrations out on Birdie while overloading her with work that is beyond the scope of her position.

*****Do you have a toxic workplace story to share?***********

Go to www.toxicworkplacepodcast.com and click on "Be a Guest." Your story will be shared anonymously. All names are changed to protect the employee and the company.

Does listening to this podcast help you navigate your toxic workplace? Be sure to leave a review on Apple Podcasts.

You may also go to www.toxicworkplacepodcast.com and leave a private review.

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Reference:https://www.mckinsey.com/~/media/mckinsey/dotcom/client_service/public%20sector/pdfs/how_can_american_government_meet_its_productivity_challenge.ashx

Targeted for Termination: Herman's Toxic Workplace Story of Being Forced Out by Management After a Company Merger

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 01:13:52 GMT

Herman spends 15 years working for a local newspaper before it gets bought out by another newspaper. He is relieved when he doesn't lose his job right away, but things are never quite the same. After the merger, the company morale declines and burnout increases. He and his colleagues are treated as second-rate employees by management and Herman quickly finds himself as a moving target for a director that tries to stump his productivity and push him out the door.

Does listening to this podcast help you navigate your toxic workplace? Be sure to leave a review on Apple Podcasts. You may also go to www.toxicworkplacepodcast.com and leave a private review.

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Reference:https://hbr.org/2019/12/what-happens-when-your-career-becomes-your-whole-identity

Death by a Thousand Cuts: Rose's Toxic Workplace Story of a Bullying Boss and Finding Her Confidence

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 04:57:07 GMT

Rose gets promoted to a managerial position shortly after joining a non-profit organization. The director she reports to gives no direction, is dismissive to her suggestions, had poor management skills and creates low morale within Rose's department. Rose starts to realize her director is nothing but a bully which triggers lingering insecurities from adolescence. Rose decides to take a stand and speak out for what she knows is right, which empowers her with newfound strength and courage.

Does listening to this podcast help you navigate your toxic workplace? Be sure to leave a review on Apple Podcasts. You may also go to www.toxicworkplacepodcast.com and leave a private review.

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Pushed to the Breaking Point: Josh's Toxic Workplace Story of Extreme Burnout and Overload

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 04:42:00 GMT

Josh lands a job with a city planning agency in an up-and-coming suburban city. The management hierarchy is run by a director that emulates a Tony Soprano vibe; he's hard to get through to and expects people to hustle for his approval. In addition, Josh's workload is that of two people. The workload and poor management start to weigh on Josh after he gets put on a PIP and he works his way out of it. The exertion to prove himself takes a toll on his health and he goes through one of the most challenging times in his life.

Does listening to this podcast help you navigate your toxic workplace? Be sure to leave a review on Apple Podcasts. You may also go to www.toxicworkplacepodcast.com and leave a private review.

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References:

Harvard Health Publishing: Is Adrenal Fatigue "Real"?

Set Up to Fail: Miranda's Toxic Workplace Story of Gossip, Bullying and Lack of Training by Management

Mon, 30 Jan 2023 01:39:54 GMT

Miranda works in the accounting and finance industry. She lands a job at a firm where she is set up for failure from the start. The person assigned to her training is incompetent and makes things confusing. Miranda's boss is aggressively frustrated with her mistakes during her training. Her co-workers openly gossip about her peers with bullying, racist and sexist remarks. Miranda's confidence starts to dwindle as she feels isolated and anxious in this hostile environment.

*****Do you have a toxic workplace story to share?***********

Go to www.toxicworkplacepodcast.com and click on "Be a Guest." Your story will be shared anonymously. All names are changed to protect the employee and the company.

Does listening to this podcast help you navigate your toxic workplace? Be sure to leave a review on Apple Podcasts.

You may also go to www.toxicworkplacepodcast.com and leave a private review.

Follow Toxic Workplace on Facebook, TikTok, X and Instagram @ToxicWorkplacePodcast

Trained in Unethical Sales: Jules' Toxic Workplace Story about a Relentless Push by Management

Mon, 16 Jan 2023 02:50:39 GMT

Jules is a recent college graduate who lands a sales position at a large corporation. The compensation package is excellent and the job growth and development seems promising, but once Jules becomes acclimated she realizes management only cares about one thing... sales. The pressure from management on Jules and her team is relentless. The expectation is that the sales associates are to take any measures necessary to close a sale, including misleading and lying to customers. This causes Jules to be pushed to a moral breaking point.

*****Do you have a toxic workplace story to share?***********

Go to www.toxicworkplacepodcast.com and click on "Be a Guest." Your story will be shared anonymously. All names are changed to protect the employee and the company.

Does listening to this podcast help you navigate your toxic workplace? Be sure to leave a review on Apple Podcasts.

You may also go to www.toxicworkplacepodcast.com and leave a private review.

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Hiring Employees for Grant Money: Sheila's Toxic Workplace Story of Gaming the System

Mon, 02 Jan 2023 21:52:59 GMT

Sheila decides to leave her job in retail to pursue an office job with the hope it would be a stepping stone to a career in IT. She gets placed at a large, well-known company through a non-profit, job-placement agency. Once inside, she realizes the management churns through employees as a way to collect grant money which makes for a highly toxic workplace environment. The managers and supervisors are bullies who make the working conditions stressful and anxiety ridden for Sheila and her co-workers.

Do you have a toxic workplace story to share of a toxic job from your past? Please go to www.toxicworkplacepodcast.com and click on “Be a Guest” to fill out the submission form.

Does listening to this podcast help you navigate your toxic workplace? Be sure to leave a review on Apple Podcasts. You may also go to www.toxicworkplacepodcast.com and leave a private review.

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Links:

www.dol.gov/grants

Don't Settle For Less: Khloe's Story of Back-to-Back Toxic Workplaces and Bad Management

Thu, 19 May 2022 05:29:38 GMT

After graduating business college, Khloe's professor offers her a position at his company. He paints the position to be one that will jumpstart her career in the industry in which she studied. She excitedly accepts the offer only to realize the job is nothing as he described and the workplace functions in silos under his micro-management. She witnesses a darker side to her professor. After an inappropriate comment he makes to her colleague, she quickly puts in her two weeks notice and with some luck she receives another job offer shortly after... what she doesn't realize is she is diving right into another toxic workplace.

*****Do you have a toxic workplace story to share?***********

Go to www.toxicworkplacepodcast.com and click on "Be a Guest." Your story will be shared anonymously. All names are changed to protect the employee and the company.

Does listening to this podcast help you navigate your toxic workplace? Be sure to leave a review on Apple Podcasts.

You may also go to www.toxicworkplacepodcast.com and leave a private review.

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The Wicked Witch of the APL: Pamela's Toxic Workplace Story of an Evil Director

Sat, 16 Apr 2022 18:55:29 GMT

Pamela gets a job at a non-profit animal protective league in 2002. She loved her job and the people she worked with. After 15 years of great leadership and a positive workplace, new management is hired and morale quickly plummeted. The once happy organization became miserable and toxic under her management. The board members were under the spell of the executive director and the people working within the organization lost their voice in any decision making. Turnover surged and Pamela became a target and a scapegoat of which the executive director used to escape accountability which in turn created a highly toxic workplace.

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Bullied by Mr. Tough Guys: Ezrah's Toxic Workplace Story of Machoism and Bullying

Mon, 07 Mar 2022 03:14:43 GMT

Ezrah’s job is at a plant where management leads with an iron fist and a "Mr. Tough Guy" mentality. He becomes the target of repeated bullying and unsafe work conditions. Although the workplace is toxic, he sticks around for the benefits and higher wages, but like all toxic environments, it eventually takes a toll on his physical and mental well-being.

If you love listening to this podcast, please leave a review in Apple Podcasts!

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Podcast Links:

https://goodmenproject.com/featured-content/the-sad-truth-about-bullying-autistic-adults-lbkr/

https://www.law.cornell.edu/wex/sexual_harassment

https://www.stopbullying.gov/resources/get-help-now

Dr. Evil and Her Political BS: Connie's Toxic Workplace Story of Corruption in a Public Hospital

Mon, 21 Feb 2022 01:12:26 GMT

Connie is a director for a public hospital in a metropolitan area. She is passionate about serving her community and facilitating an efficient organization, but her world comes crashing down after accepting to take on a new ward ruled by a bullying doctor, Dr. M, who becomes determined to sabotage Connie's career and force her out of her job. Dr. M’s political ties and demands create a toxic work environment for everyone around her.

If you love listening to this podcast, please leave a positive review in Apple Podcasts!

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Reference Links:

20 Signs That Your Boss May Be a Psychopath | Psychology Today

If you love listening to this podcast, please leave a review in Apple Podcasts!

Do you have a toxic workplace experience you’d like to share on the podcast? Please to www.toxicworkplace.com and click on “Be a Guest” to fill out the submission form.

Keep Your Head Down & Drink the Kool-Aid: Stevie's Toxic Workplace Story of Employee Stalking

Mon, 07 Feb 2022 04:29:52 GMT

Stevie lands a job in the music industry at her dream company. With a new sense of freedom and determination to prove herself in this new role, she puts up with a toxic, bullying supervisor who is equally determined to sabotage her new career. As if bad management isn't enough, she is stalked by two employees within the company. This turbulent workplace pushes Stevie to the brink...

If you love listening to this podcast, please leave a positive review in Apple Podcasts!

Do you have a toxic workplace experience you’d like to share on the podcast? Please go to www.toxicworkplacepodcast.com and click on “Be a Guest” to fill out the submission form.

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Reference Links:

Emotional Abuse | Psychology Today

https://www.bamboohr.com/blog/8-workplace-romance-facts-need-know-right-now/

Job burnout: How to spot it and take action - Mayo Clinic

If you love listening to this podcast, please leave a review in Apple Podcasts!

Do you have a toxic workplace experience you’d like to share on the podcast? Please to www.toxicworkplace.com and click on “Be a Guest” to fill out the submission form.

Have you been impacted by sexual assault and abuse? Contact Helping Survivors, an organization dedicated to giving you the resources and support you need and deserve. Visit their website : https://helpingsurvivors.org/

I'll Be Watching You: Lena and Sophie's Toxic Workplace Story of a Magazine with Trust Issues

Fri, 12 Nov 2021 03:21:05 GMT

Lena and Sophie accept a job with a business magazine and are excited to get a shot at a career in publishing. Despite the red flags, both have high hopes that the magazine can be elevated with their hard work and contributions, but the culture is controlled and monitored by the CEO and HR department who get a kick out of office gossip and drama. The surveillance of the staff generates a toxic, “big brother" atmosphere where no one trusts each other and feel as though they're always being watched.

If you love listening to this podcast, please leave a positive review in Apple Podcasts!

Do you have a toxic workplace experience you’d like to share on the podcast? Please go to www.toxicworkplacepodcast.com and click on “Be a Guest” to fill out the submission form.

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Walk in Your Truth: Jessica's Toxic Workplace Story of Racism and Discrimination in NYC

Fri, 05 Nov 2021 11:58:17 GMT

Jessica was on a successful career path in NYC as a buyer in e-commerce. At first she loved her job, her boss and the company, but eventually she started to realize an underlying discriminatory bias within the company. There was an incident that uncovered the racist beliefs of a key manager which shook Jessica to her core. Speaking up about the incident only made the situation more uncomfortable. She eventually shifted to the HR department where her toxic boss seems to be pushing her out of the company by overloading her with work and giving no support.

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If you love listening to this podcast, please leave a review in Apple Podcasts!

Do you have a story to share of a toxic job from your past? Please go to www.toxicworkplacepodcast.com and click on “Be a Guest” to fill out the submission form. All names are changed to protect the employee and the company.

Violated on Wall Street: Elizabeth's Toxic Workplace Story of Sexual Harassment in a Boys Club Firm

Thu, 28 Oct 2021 05:15:11 GMT

Elizabeth Miles Graham, author of You Know What They Say: A Memoir Presaging #metoo, tells her story of being manipulated, devalued and sexually harassed at a trading firm on Wall Street. Elizabeth loved her career in finance and her firm, but after a restructure at the company, it turned into a toxic boy's club complete with sexual harassment. Her job as a VP quickly became a glorified assistant to her toxic supervisor who had a hand in the sexual harassment she dealt with on a daily basis. This story of courage, strength and overcoming a mental health crisis is a must-listen!

Visit Elizabeth's website: https://elizabethmilesgraham.com/

To purchase a copy of her book: https://www.amazon.com/You-Know-What-They-Say/dp/1736028804

Help others dealing with sexual harassment: https://timesupnow.org/

Want to be a guest? https://www.toxicworkplacepodcast.com/contact

Research Credit:

Julia Boorstin; Survey: It’s still tough to be a woman on Wall Street — but men don’t always notice; Published Tue, Jun 26 2018 6:30 AM EDT Updated Tue, Jun 26 2018 12:07 PM

https://www.cnbc.com/2018/06/25/surveyon-wall-street-workplace-biases-persist---but-men-dont-see-t.html

Follow on IG! @ToxicWorkplacePodcast

If you love listening to this podcast, please leave a review in Apple Podcasts!

Do you have a toxic workplace experience you’d like to share on the podcast? Go to: https://www.toxicworkplacepodcast.com/contact. All names are changed to protect the employee and the company.

This is Not Okay: Gwen's Toxic Workplace Story of a Helicopter Boss with No Trust

Thu, 21 Oct 2021 04:49:47 GMT

Gwen's new company seems ideal in the beginning. They have a beautiful facility which includes a gymnasium, beer machine and welcoming people, but once she gets inside the company, she realizes there is no depth and no trust. The president helicopters around all day looking over shoulders and policing time. Her toxic boss cusses out an assistant and is quick to throw anyone under the bus. She finds herself miserable at her job and loathing a place that once seemed promising.

Follow on IG! @ToxicWorkplacePodcast

If you love listening to this podcast, please leave a review in Apple Podcasts!

Too Good to be True: Maria's Toxic Workplace Story About a Narcissistic Boss

Thu, 14 Oct 2021 04:15:47 GMT

Maria moves to France from Colombia to settle with her newlywed husband. She is optimistic to start a career in France and finds a sales job at a company that promises an atmosphere that seems too good to be true. Within the first month, Maria experiences derogatory and sexist remarks from her toxic boss who rages at staff and is an insecure control freak. Maria says she never thought she could be part of a workplace this toxic.

Follow on IG! @ToxicWorkplacePodcast

If you love listening to this podcast, please leave a review in Apple Podcasts!

Overworked and Underpaid: Clara's Toxic Workplace Story of Finding Confidence and Knowing Her Potential

Fri, 08 Oct 2021 02:35:23 GMT

Clara worked at a toxic financial services firm as a customer service representative. Her resilient work ethic and determination made her the perfect target for the company to pile on the work load with the messiest of client issues. Since she started as a temp worker, the company never gave her the full pay she deserved and held back her potential. This is a story of discovering confidence and finding potential through perseverance in a workplace that relentlessly buried their employees.

Demeaning Doctors: Donna's Toxic Workplace Story about Working for Manipulating MDs

Thu, 30 Sep 2021 05:53:00 GMT

Donna is a nurse practitioner that worked for a neurology group of twelve doctors for eight years of her career. She would be kept well past her scheduled work hours, sometimes working up to 12 hour shifts 5 days a week. These toxic doctors would triangulate the staff, gaslight their abilities and take full advantage of Donna's willingness to work hard.

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If you love listening to this podcast, please leave a review in Apple Podcasts!

Churn and Burn: Walter's Toxic Workplace Story of Burnout Culture in the Financial Industry

Fri, 24 Sep 2021 04:22:45 GMT

Walter kickstarts his career in a financial services firm and quickly realizes the company has no real vision other than to generate revenue at any cost. All work and responsibilities get pushed to the bottom and the leadership has a revolving door. Employees are constantly over worked and burnout is a part of this toxic workplace culture.

Follow on IG! @ToxicWorkplacePodcast

If you love listening to this podcast, please leave a review in Apple Podcasts!

Mean Girls: Stacy's Toxic Workplace Story about Non-Profit Cliques

Fri, 17 Sep 2021 04:07:57 GMT

Stacy lands her dream job at one of the largest non-profits in the U.S. The organizational culture in this story is cliquey and exclusive. Her toxic supervisors treat Stacy like an intern despite her credentials and background. This toxic workplace revolves around workplace bullying, power cliques, unqualified supervisors and a lack of communication.

Follow on IG! @ToxicWorkplacePodcast

If you love listening to this podcast, please leave a review in Apple Podcasts!

A No Boundaries Business: Brooke's Toxic Workplace Story of a Workaholic Boss

Sat, 11 Sep 2021 06:05:22 GMT

Brooke jumps ship from a failing work culture only to find herself in the icy waters of a new toxic work environment. Her boss doesn't listen and leads with a workaholic mentality. Non-existent leadership and a lack of processes proves poor management in this episode of Toxic Workplace.

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If you love listening to this podcast, please leave a review in Apple Podcasts!

Deceived by a Narcissistic Boss: Michelle and Jen’s Toxic Workplace Story (Part II)

Wed, 08 Sep 2021 01:52:27 GMT

Michelle and Jen's story unravels as they both realize how the company they signed on with has a complete lack of accountability, respect, and abuse of power from an extremely controlling CEO. The employees who feed into the CEO's façade also participate in the gaslighting and confusion that comes straight from the top.

Follow on IG! @ToxicWorkplacePodcast

If you love listening to this podcast, please leave a review in Apple Podcasts!

Deceived by a Narcissistic Boss: Michelle and Jen’s Toxic Workplace Story (Part I)

Mon, 30 Aug 2021 01:55:52 GMT

Michelle and Jen sign on with a company that appeared to be reputable on the surface but they would quickly come to realize nothing is as it seems.... The charming owner has another side to him that can't be seen on the surface. His control issues, lack of accountability and disconnection from daily operations makes for a toxic workplace experience.

Follow on IG! @ToxicWorkplacePodcast

If you love listening to this podcast, please leave a review in Apple Podcasts!

Antidote Episode: Free Yourself From Your Toxic Workplace Story - Interview with Alisha Wolf of Goldfinch Wellness

Thu, 13 Jun 2024 12:28:23 GMT

Alisha Wolf is a psychotherapist and coach who has developed a niche expertise in understanding and healing from toxic workplaces using self-regulation, self-compassion, and the creation of a coherent narrative. Alisha has been helping her clients navigate out of toxic workplaces and over the years she’s gained incredible insight on how we build our stories around toxic workplaces, how we can get stuck in that narrative and she's here to help us get unstuck.

In this interview, Alisha talks about the role of righteous anger, how we can get stuck in "thought court" against our toxic workplaces, and the role of radical self-acceptance.

To learn more about Alisha and the work she offers, visit GoldfinchWellness.com

After Hours: Nobody Likes an Ass-Kisser... Except Your Boss

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 03:18:09 GMT

We've all dealt with them, the self-serving ass-kisser that gets ahead because they stroke the boss's ego. In this quick After Hours episode, I talk about why ass-kissers are successful and how they erode a workplace.

Antidote Episode: Surviving a Cult Business - Interview with Amanda Fangman

Sun, 19 Nov 2023 02:03:02 GMT

In this bonus episode, I talk with Amanda Fangman, an aspiring writer and educator who specializes in teaching people about undue influence and coercive control in the workplace – from labor trafficking and exploitation to cultic abuse at work.

If you haven't listened to Amanda's story of working for a magazine crew (Season 2, Episode 14), please listen before playing this episode as it gives context to our discussion.

Amanda seeks to arm people with the crucial knowledge she wished she had before joining the workforce: general awareness of these issues, education on the warning signs and indicators of a high control workplace.

Visit Amanda’s website:

www.AmandaFangman.com

Follow Amanda on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecultbusiness/

Resources:

www.igotout.org is a consortium of cult survivors supporting the #igotout movement

Dr. Janja Lalich: https://janjalalich.com/ "Promoting a deeper, more accurate understanding of cults with the intent to avoid their manipulation, exploitation, and abuse."

Steven Hassan: https://freedomofmind.com/ "Everyone deserves the right to live a life free from undue influence"

Is Your Corporate Culture Cultish? https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/am-i-working-cult-5-signs-you-corporate-7-tips-avoid-joining-baker

General Cult/Trafficking Info:

https://freedomofmind.com/cult-mind-control/influence-continuum/ https://freedomofmind.com/cult-mind-control/bite-model/ * https://janjalalich.com/help/characteristics-associated-with-cults/

* https://freedomofmind.com/cult-mind-control/trafficking/

* https://polarisproject.org/labor-trafficking/ (Anything on Janja Lalich or Steven Hassan's websites are great for cult research/education. I have some of their books as well!)

Commercial Cults:

* https://www.marketplace.org/2020/03/10/five-signs-your-workplace-might-turning-into-a-cult/

* https://www.economist.com/business/2022/03/05/company-or-cult

* https://www.huffpost.com/entry/multilevel-marketing-companies-mlms-cults-similarities_l_5d49f8c2e4b09e72973df3d3

After Hours: HR is Not Your Friend

Fri, 06 Oct 2023 02:05:24 GMT

Welcome to After Hours, bonus episodes that discuss different aspects of a toxic workplace. In each episode, I’ll pick a topic that is a reoccurring theme or pattern that you’ll hear in my podcast stories. In this episode, I discuss why HR is not your friend. HR is an advocate of the company and they are part of management's agenda. When dealing with a toxic workplace, HR is oftentimes a main contributor to a poor work culture.

What did you think of this episode? Send me some feedback at www.toxicworkplacepodcast.com. Scroll to the bottom of the homepage to find the feedback form. I'd love to know your thoughts or ideas for future topics.Do you have a story to share? Send a submission request through my website by clicking on "be a guest." I look forward to hearing from you!

Antidote Episode: How to Deal with Narcissists at Work - Interview with Chelsey Brooke Cole, Licensed Psychotherapist, Author, Speaker, and Coach Specializing in Narcissistic Abuse

Mon, 11 Sep 2023 04:03:25 GMT

Do you work with a narcissist? Listen as Chelsey Brooke Cole, author of If Only I'd Known: How to Outsmart Narcissists, Set Guilt-Free Boundaries, and Create Unshakeable Self-Worth, talks about the different traits of narcissistic personality disorder and how they wreak havoc over the workplace. Chelsey discusses how to deal with these toxic people, how to set boundaries, and why empaths are more drawn to them.

Order Chelsey's book on Amazon here, https://a.co/d/9Rcl7cc.

Visit Chelsey's website at www.ChelseyBrookeCole.com

Follow her on social media:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/chelseybrookecole

X: https://twitter.com/chelseybcole FB:https://www.facebook.com/chelseybrookecole

Follow Toxic Workplace on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram @ToxicWorkplacePodcast

Antidote Episode: Never, Never Quit... Following Your Dreams (My Dad's Story)

Sat, 22 Apr 2023 21:57:44 GMT

There’s no one I can think of that has inspired me to chase my dreams more than my dad. My dad made a successful career through courage, perseverance, and putting his family first. Despite the failures from his past, he never quit his dream of owning his own business. As you’ll hear in this episode, nothing came easy for him. He struggled "behind the eight-ball" for years before his business took off.

Antidote Episode: Zenica Chatman - Career Coach Helping Women Rediscover Their Inner Strength and Confidence after a Toxic Workplace

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 13:45:07 GMT

Zenica Chatman is a Certified Personal and Executive Coach with a focus of helping women rediscover their inner strength and confidence after encountering workplace bullying. In this bonus episode, Zenica shares her own experience of racially fueled bullying at her dream job during the height of her career. Her workplace experience gave her new insight and strength which led her onto a new career path of inspiring others. She coaches women on how to work through their own negative experiences by realizing their true value and discovering who they are at their core. Zenica shares powerful messages and insight that is helpful to anyone dealing with workplace trauma or bullying.

Visit Zenica's website: www.zenicachatman.com

Follow her on Instagram: z_chatman

Do you have a story to share? Go to www.toxicworkplacepodcast.com and click on "Be a Guest." Your story will be shared anonymously. All names are changed to protect the employee and the company.

Does listening to this podcast help you navigate your toxic workplace? Be sure to leave a review on Apple Podcasts. You may also go to www.toxicworkplacepodcast.com and leave a private review.

Follow Toxic Workplace on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram @ToxicWorkplacePodcast

Antidote Episode: Coach Ruben - Leading the Workplace Through Health and Well-Being

Mon, 05 Dec 2022 04:05:41 GMT

Coach Ruben Guzman is an inspirational public speaker, professional leadership consultant and lifestyle coach who is passionate about empowering others to live a healthy, thriving life. In this episode, Coach Ruben discusses what it takes to become an effective leader; why poor leadership and bad management lead to toxic workplaces; how unfulfilled lives lead to health issues; and how we can empower ourselves to get out of a bad job and take control of our well-being.

Visit www.CoachRuben.com for more information about Ruben, his blogs, videos, and lifestyle consulting services.

Follow Coach Ruben on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/c/RubenGuzman-aka-CoachRuben

Books mentioned in the interview:

Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol S. Dweck
What Got You Here Won't Get You There: How Successful People Become Even More Successfulby Marshall Goldsmith

The Dalai Lama, when asked what surprised him most about humanity, he said:

“Man. Because he sacrifices his health in order to make money. Then he sacrifices money to recuperate his health. And then he is so anxious about the future that he does not enjoy the present; the result being that he does not live in the present or the future; he lives as if he is never going to die, and then dies having never really lived.”

Would you like to be a guest on Toxic Workplace? Visit www.toxicworkplacepodcast.com and click on "be a guest"

Like this podcast? Please leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Thank you!

Antidote Episode: Finding Authenticity and [Re]Humanizing the Workplace - Interview with Laura Warnod of The Culture Cabinet

Sun, 01 May 2022 23:32:08 GMT

Laura Warnod, MSc, is a consultant and coach who is "re-humanizing" the workplace. Laura's personal story of resilience inspired her to leave her 9 to 5 job to become an entrepreneur and create her platform, The Culture Cabinet. Laura coaches people to embrace their true self, hone in on their resilience, and lead with authenticity within the workplace. Her goal as a cultural architect is to transform company cultures into environments that foster personal growth and bring purpose to our daily lives.

Follow Laura on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theculturecabinet/

Subsribe to Laura's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/WLaura7

The Culture Cabinet Website is coming soon!

Antidote Episode: Narcissists in the Workplace and How They Got There in the First Place - Interview with Leslie Miller, LICSW

Sun, 03 Apr 2022 04:48:55 GMT

Narcissists find their way to the top of organizations because their lack of empathy resembles a competitive spirit. Listen to this Antidote Episode where we hear from Leslie Miller, a licensed independent clinical social worker who specializes in trauma and narcissistic abuse. She discusses why a narcissist fits the mold of a corporate boss so perfectly and how to cope when you deal with one.

Leslie takes a mind-body approach to physical and mental health. Her website is full of recourses including a blog, counseling and coaching services, and support groups.

Visit Leslie's website here:

https://lesliemillerlicsw.com/

Follow Leslie on Instagram:

@therapist_narcissisticabuse

Book mentioned in the interview:

Patricia Evans, The Verbally Abusive Relationship

https://www.verbalabuse.com/

Want to be a guest on the podcast? Go to https://www.toxicworkplacepodcast.com/contact

Antidote Episode: Navigating a Toxic Workplace and How to Plan Your Escape - Interview with Alisha Wolf of Goldfinch Wellness

Sun, 20 Mar 2022 06:24:37 GMT

Alisha Wolf, owner of Goldfinch Wellness, is a licensed clinical social worker and therapist. Her practice specializes in helping people through toxic workplace situations. In this interview, you'll listen as Alisha discusses her thought provoking approach to finding your inner calm and "coming home to yourself" as an exercise of "changing your lens" on toxic situations. It's clear that she has formulated a wise insight on how to manage emotions that are triggered from bad work experiences. She discusses how she helps her clients see the big picture and the steps needed to get out of a bad situation.

Alisha offers therapy and virtual coaching sessions through her website. Visit https://alisha-wolf.squarespace.com/ for more information.

Navigating Workplace Toxicity - Regaining Confidence and Trust in Self:

https://alisha-wolf.squarespace.com/navigating-workplace-toxicity

Introduction to Toxic Workplace

Mon, 23 Aug 2021 01:44:17 GMT

The goal of this podcast is to expose workplace toxicity, and to uncover the why and how it became toxic in the first place. We want to enlighten employees and reshape how people function at work. Let’s learn how to set boundaries and appreciate each other. Ultimately, this podcast is part of a change: the change needed to grow and thrive as a workforce. We want to empower employees everywhere…. Because the last place you want to spend the majority of your waking hours is at a Toxic Workplace.

Follow on IG! @ToxicWorkplacePodcast

If you love listening to this podcast, please leave a review in Apple Podcasts!