The Surfing Corporate Podcast tackles the highs and lows of corporate life with a humorous and relatable point of view. Hosted by Aileen Merciel and Glenda Pacanins, former media executives who have experienced first-hand what really goes on behind fancy corporate doors, this podcast aims to entertain as well as provide practical advice to employees who are currently navigating turbulent corporate waters.
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Données mises à jour le 24/07/2026
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How to Leverage Power at Work (without turning into an insufferable egomaniac)
mercredi 20 novembre 2024 • Durée 50:54
Aileen and Glenda dive into the complexities of power in the workplace with Harvard Professor Julie Battilana, co-author of Power, for All: How it Really Works and Why It’s Everyone’s Business and founder of the Social Innovation and Change Initiative at Harvard Kennedy School.Together, they explore how power shapes behavior, influences decision-making, and impacts relationships with colleagues. From understanding power dynamics to avoiding "power poisons," they share strategies for leveraging influence in positive ways—whether you're a leader or just starting out. Listen in for insights on using power ethically, navigating hierarchy, and creating more inclusive (and less toxic) work environments.
Resources:
You can buy Julie’s book, Power, for All here. To see the overview of the online Harvard course she teaches, Power and Influence for Positive Impact, click here. If you’re interested in a scholarship, here’s the link to the application form and eligibility requirements.
Episode Breakdown
Introduction to Power Dynamics in the Workplace
Understanding Power: Definitions and Misconceptions
The Relational Nature of Power
Power Poisons and Their Effects
Strategies for Using Power Effectively
Case Study: Vera Cordero and Power for Good
Building a Culture of Accountability
Democratizing Power in Organizations
Evolving Governance: Employee Representation in Decision Making
Social Enterprises: A Model for Democratic Decision Making
The Challenge of Change: Corporate Transformation and Profit Focus
Changing the Rules: The Need for New Metrics and Accountability
Understanding Power: Agitation, Innovation, and Orchestration
Power Dynamics: Approaching Conversations with Empathy
Hope and Collective Action: The Future of Change
Additional Episode Sources:
Don't Let Power Corrupt You - HBR
How power affects the brain | BPS
5 Traps to Avoid as You Gain Power as a Leader - HBR
Credits:
Co-hosts: Aileen Merciel and Glenda Pacanins
Produced by Aileen Merciel and Glenda Pacanins
Script: Aileen Merciel
Edited and Mixed by Aileen Merciel
Original theme song: Chaliwa Music
The rest of our music is by BlueDot sessions
Advertise with Us!
If you want to advertise on Surfing Corporate, write to us at advertising@airwavemedia.com
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Corporate Horror Stories - Embarrassing Work Moments That Will Haunt Us Forever (ReRun)
Saison 5 · Épisode 7
mercredi 30 octobre 2024 • Durée 42:23
This Halloween, we’re turning the spotlight on the spookiest stories of all—the ones that happen at work. Join us as we dive into horrific embarrassing moments that people have experienced in the office, from group chats gone terribly wrong to falling face first in front of your new boss, and the story of coworker gift that scarred lives forever.
We’ve gathered the most cringeworthy corporate confessions that will have you laughing, gasping, and maybe even feeling a little better about your own work mishaps.
So grab your pumpkin spice latte, turn off your work notifications, and get ready for a fun ride through the land of corporate horror stories.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
From Office Star to Office Dinosaur: How Ageism Sneaks up on You
Saison 5 · Épisode 6
mercredi 23 octobre 2024 • Durée 54:24
In this week’s episode of Surfing Corporate, we tackle the often-overlooked topic of ageism in the workplace with special guest Maureen Wiley Clough, host of the It Gets Late Early podcast and newsletter. Together, we discuss shocking research, including how tech workers over 40 are 26% less likely to be hired than their younger peers, and why women experience ageism at nearly double the rate of men. More importantly, we provide actionable strategies for overcoming age-based bias, staying competitive, and fostering an age-diverse workforce.
Chapters
Introduction and Personal Experiences
Defining Ageism and Examples
Gendered Ageism and Youngism
Ageism in the Tech Industry
Including Age in Diversity and Inclusion Programs
The Power of a Positive Mindset about Aging
Combatting Ageism and Valuing Older Workers
Calling Out Ageism and Shifting Perspectives
Challenges Faced by Women in the Workplace
Strategies for Individuals: Leveraging Networks and Reframing Age
Strategies for Companies: Creating Awareness and Educating Employees
The Value of Intergenerational Teams in the Workplace
About our guest:
Want to hire Maureen to come talk to your team about ageism? Can can reach out to her on her website, LinkedIn, Instagram and Threads.
Listen to her podcast It Gets Late Early here and we highly recommend you subscribe to her newsletter.
Episode Sources
10 Things You Should Know About Age Discrimination - AARP
Ageism in the Workplace: Statistics to Know | Built In
Ageism at Work Is Getting Worse, AARP CEO Says. It’s Bad for Everybody.
New Survey Reveals that Almost 80 per cent of Women Face Ageism in the Workplace
The New Glass Ceiling: Research Proves That Women Face “Gendered Ageism” Throughout Their Careers
How older workers can push back against the reality of ageism
Credits:
Hosts: Aileen Merciel & Glenda Pacanins
Producers: Aileen Merciel and Glenda Pacanins
Script, editing and post: Aileen Merciel
Surfing Corporate's original theme song is by Chaliwa Music.
Interested in advertising with Surfing Corporate?
Write to us at advertising@airwavemedia.com
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Jekyll and Hyde Boss: Navigating Brilliant but Volatile Leaders
Saison 5 · Épisode 3
mercredi 16 octobre 2024 • Durée 37:45
Aileen and Glenda challenge the traditional view of categorizing bosses as either good or bad, focusing instead on those who embody both traits. Leaders who can be inspiring and brilliant, but also mean and volatile. Join us as we explore the psychology behind these unpredictable corporate characters. We talk about what it’s like to work for leaders like Elon Musk, and Steve Jobs’, and we share our own experience working for a Jekyll and Hyde boss.
Episode Highlights:
Introduction to Jekyll and Hyde Bosses
Research Insights
Aileen and Glenda's personal experience with brilliant but volatile bosses
Case Studies: Elon Musk & Steve Jobs
Survival Strategies
Key Takeaways
Sources:
Washington Post article: “The worst kind of boss is not the one who’s always a jerk.” The study, led by Fadel Matta from Michigan State University, discusses how employees fare better with consistently bad bosses than with unpredictable ones.
Leaderonomics.com article: “How To Manage Having A Brilliant Jerk for a Boss.” This article explores the book The Brilliant Jerk Conundrum: Thriving with and Governing A Dominant Visionary by Marc Epstein and Rob Shelton, discussing how dominant visionary leaders can become brilliant jerks.
Elon Musk case study: “Amazing and Terrible, What It's Like to Work with Elon Musk," which includes accounts from two of his former executives, Esther Crawford (former Director of Product Management at Twitter) and Jim Cantrell (former SpaceX executive).
Steve Jobs case study: The episode references the biography of Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson, highlighting how Jobs’ demanding personality and perfectionist tendencies impacted his team.
Credits:
Co-hosts: Aileen Merciel and Glenda Pacanins
Produced by Aileen Merciel and Glenda Pacanins
Script: Aileen Merciel
Edited and Mixed by Aileen Merciel
Original theme song: Chaliwa Music
The rest of our music is by BlueDot sessions
Advertise with Us!
If you want to advertise on Surfing Corporate, write to us at advertising@airwavemedia.com
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Goodbye Comfort Zone, Hello Career Pivot! Making Moves That Matter
Saison 5 · Épisode 4
mercredi 9 octobre 2024 • Durée 54:24
Whether by choice or necessity, career pivots are becoming more common as industries shift, layoffs are rampant, and personal values evolve. Aileen and Glenda break down the key drivers behind career changes, and offer insights into navigating the challenges and opportunities that come with starting over.
The episode features a candid interview with Daniela Chaparro, a former high-powered marketing executive who left her corporate career to start over doing social work, helping families of autistic children. Daniela shares her inspiring journey, the hurdles she faced, and valuable advice for anyone considering a major career shift.
Sources:
What to Ask Yourself Before a Career Pivot
5 Common Career Change Challenges (And How To Conquer Them)
How To Successfully Change Careers In Your 40s
Episode Highlights
- Motivations for a Career Pivot
- Challenges and Pressures of Making a Career Change
- Facing Pushback and Warnings
- Starting over from Scratch
- Making a Difference and Finding Reward
-Navigating Financial Constraints
- Adjustments and Personal Growth
- Advice for Career Pivots
Credits:
Hosts: Aileen Merciel and Glenda Pacanins
Producers: Aileen Merciel and Glenda Pacanins
Editing and Postproduction: Aileen Merciel
Want to Advertise on Surfing Corporate?
Write to us at advertising@airwavemedia.com
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Can We Talk About Politics at Work? Spoiler: It’s Complicated
Saison 5
mercredi 2 octobre 2024 • Durée 27:21
Aileen and Glenda discuss the challenges and implications of political discussions in the workplace, especially during an election season. They explore the impact of political polarization on work dynamics and relationships, and they offer strategies for managing tricky political interactions effectively while maintaining professionalism and respect in the workplace.
00:00 Navigating Political Conversations at Work
05:05 The Impact of Political Discussions on Workplace Dynamics
10:02 Legal Considerations and Free Speech in the Workplace
15:00 State Laws and Employee Protections
19:57 Social Media's Role in Political Discourse
24:58 Strategies for Managing Political Discussions
30:11 Finding Common Ground in a Divisive Environment
Sources:
3 Reasons Why It’s Unethical To Discuss Politics At Work
Politics in the Workplace: What Employers Need to Know | Littler Mendelson P.C.
To avoid talking politics with friends or co-workers, try the 'white flag approach,' Stanford communication expert says
How to Manage Political Discussions in the Workplace
3 Strategies For Managing Political Conversations At Work
Credits:
This episode of Surfing Corporate was produced by Aileen Merciel and Glenda Pacanins.
Writing, editing and post production is by Aileen
Original theme song: Chaliwa Music
Other music: BlueDot Sessions
Check out our website and follow us on IG and Threads
Reach out to us at surfingcorporate@gmail.com
If you're interested in advertising on Surfing Corporate, email us at advertising@airwavemedia.com
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Inside the Intense Amazon Culture - Part 2
Saison 5 · Épisode 2
mercredi 25 septembre 2024 • Durée 28:03
In the second part of our interview, we discuss Amazon's promotion process—often described as a 'black box'—and we explore how the company treats men and women differently. We also discuss the pivotal moments that led Kristi to quit drinking alcohol, a decision that became a turning point in her life. Finally, we uncover the powerful reasons behind her choice to walk away from the world’s largest company, despite the staggering financial incentives that came with staying.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Inside the Intense Work Culture of Amazon - Part 1
Saison 5 · Épisode 1
mercredi 18 septembre 2024 • Durée 52:16
Ever wondered what it's really like to work at Amazon? In the first episode of our two-part season premiere, we sit down with Kristi Coulter, former Amazon executive and author of Exit Interview: The Life and Death of My Ambitious Career. Kristi pulls back the curtain on the high-pressure, high-stakes culture inside one of the world's most influential companies. From the notorious Jeff Bezos question mark emails to the iconic six-pager memos that set the tone for every meeting, Kristi shares how she navigated the relentless pressure and constant ambiguity that define life at Amazon.
You can learn more about Kristi here and more about Surfing Corporate here.
Follow Surfing Corporate on Instagram and write to us at surfingcorporate@gmail.com
The podcast we referenced during the episode is It Gets Late Early.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Overview
01:29 Kristy Coulter's Career Journey and Decision to Join Amazon
08:13 First Impressions of Amazon's Work Culture
14:44 The Lifeboat Exercise: Ranking Employees
22:43 The Challenges of Working at Amazon
25:07 Changes in Amazon's Work Culture
25:46 High Turnover and Lack of Recognition
37:43 The Pressure to Do More
43:58 Unique Aspects of Amazon's Culture
46:48 The Stress of Question Mark Emails
48:31 Challenges Faced by Employees
48:37 The Power and Pitfalls of Six-Pagers
55:30 Lessons from Calista: Being Tough but Fair
01:00:24 Navigating the Brutal and Demanding Culture at Amazon
01:16:01 Promotions and Achievements at Amazon
01:21:16 The Sexist Culture at Amazon
01:26:34 Conforming to a Masculine Ideal
01:35:26 The Boozy Culture and Struggle with Alcohol
01:40:42 Addressing Gender Dynamics and Creating Inclusive Work Environments
01:41:30 From Viral Essay to Career Opportunities
01:43:13 Transformation and Lessons Learned at Amazon
01:46:21 Strong Bonds and Lasting Connections
Want to advertise on Surfing Corporate?
Email us at advertising@airwavemedia.com
Show Credits:
Cohosts: Aileen Merciel and Glenda Pacanins
Producers: Aileen Merciel and Glenda Pacanins
Script, editing, music design: Aileen Merciel
Theme Song: Chaliwa Music
Other music: BlueDot Sessions
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
How to Deal with Frenemies at Work
Saison 4 · Épisode 5
mercredi 24 avril 2024 • Durée 36:10
Frenemies are a slithery and dangerous corporate species that can be found in all types of workplaces, in every industry, country, continent, or planet. Frenemies are people who pretend to be your friend, but they’re also in some ways an enemy or rival. They can be charming and very likable one minute, and then stab you in the back with a recently sharpened machete the next (ouch).
A recent study found that interactions with frenemies can heighten our stress responses MORE than aversive relationships. And over the long term, that seems to provoke worse cardiovascular health. So the sooner you learn tools to deal with frenemies, the better.
EPISODE SOURCES
How to Navigate Your Relationship With a Workplace Frenemy
“Why workplace frenemies are our most stressful colleagues”
How to get along with your work frenemy and protect yourself
CREDITS
Hosts: Aileen Merciel and Glenda Pacanins
Intern: Stephany Gil de Sucher
Original theme song by Chaliwa Music
Library Music: Blue Dot Sessions
Check out Surfingcorporate.com and follow us on Instagram.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Why Work Recognition May be Better for Employers than Employees
Saison 4 · Épisode 4
mercredi 13 mars 2024 • Durée 24:42
We discuss our latest updates (we go full LinkedIn-style bragging about our recent 2024 Ambie Nomination), we talk about our new podcast partners, and we dive deep into what studies says about work recognition, and how this practice can substantially employee behavior and employer brands.
For more info about The Ambies, click here.
Check out the other awesome shows of the Airwave Podcast Network!
Episode Sources:
The Importance of Employee Recognition: Research & Statistcs - Quantum Workplace
Why Employee Recognition is More Crucial Than Ever - Forbes
Episode Credits:
Co-hosts: Aileen Merciel & Glenda Pacanins
Production, editing and sound design by Aileen Merciel
Intern: Stephany Gil De Sucher
Orignal Theme Song: Chaliwa Music
Other music by BlueDot Sessions
Don't forget to follow us on Instagram and sign up for our newsletter at our website.
If you're interested in advertising on Surfing Corporate, email us at advertising@airwavemedia.com
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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