Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Why Does It Feel So Wrong To Be Human At Work?
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Radical Acceptance Isn't About Giving Up | Dr. Matt Zakreski | 07 May 2026 | 00:39:50 | |
The Reddit post was titled: "Having a job and autistic ADHD burnout is killing me." And it read exactly like you'd expect — work is exhausting, home is falling apart, hobbies are gone, and a therapist suggested radically accepting the situation. Which OP heard as: just accept that this is your life forever.
In this Reacting to Reddit at Work episode of Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Be Human at Work?, hosts Pinaki Kathiari and Chris Lee are joined by producer Bree Bartos and Dr. Matt Zakreski, clinical psychologist and founder of the Neurodiversity Collective, for a conversation about burnout, the struggle switch, lizard brain versus wizard brain, and what it actually looks like for managers and organizations to show up for neurodivergent employees. Bree's sink falls apart during the episode. Pinaki references Nonviolent Communication. Dr. Matt describes the erectile dysfunction stages of grief. It goes places.
• What radical acceptance actually means — and why the therapy world's version got lost in translation • The struggle switch: why it's not the emotion that gets you, it's the feeling about the feeling about the feeling • Lizard brain vs. wizard brain, and what managers can do before a hard conversation to keep both parties in the right headspace • Why the OP has been fired 20 times and what Pinaki thinks is actually going on • What psychological safety has to do with body swaying, tattoos, and doing your job with full commitment • Metacommunication: naming what you're doing so your employee's nervous system has a runway • Pinaki's mental palate cleanser — the meeting opener that isn't 'how's your day?' • What managers can actually do when they suspect someone on their team is neurodivergent • Dr. Matt on the dance of relationships: when you need more, you get more — and how to stop keeping score
--- Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication Bree Bartos – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Special thanks to digital communication agency Local Wisdom (www.localwisdom.com) for really believing in our mission and making this podcast possible.
We also bring these important conversations to conferences and private workshops, creating space for real, meaningful change. Take the first step at www.whydoesitfeelsowrong.com.
| |||
| Be Curious, Not Furious | Dr. Matt Zakreski | 30 Apr 2026 | 00:38:56 | |
In this Between the Seasons episode of Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Be Human at Work?, Pinaki Kathiari and Chris Lee sit down with Dr. Matt Zakreski, clinical psychologist at the Neurodiversity Collective and author of The Neurodiversity Playbook, for a conversation about what it actually looks like to build workplaces where different kinds of brains can do their best work. Dr. Matt brings the research, the analogies, and a lot of really good pizza metaphors. Bree admits she can't send emails without a dopamine boost. Chris shares his ADHD diagnosis. Pinaki wonders, out loud, if he's on a spectrum of something. And everyone agrees: the world was built by neurotypical people, and that's a problem worth fixing. In this episode, they discuss: • What neurodivergence actually is — and why it is not a choice • The pizza dinner party analogy: inclusion isn't about throwing away what works, it's about making sure there's something for everyone at the table • Steve, the guy who holds the office together but isn't hitting his sales numbers — and what organizations get wrong about him • Body doubling, expense report happy hour, and free solutions to executive functioning challenges • Be curious, not furious: why asking why before assuming intent changes everything • The difference between intention and impact, and why owning that gap matters • What to do when someone is truly not a fit — and how to do the warmest possible handoff • Dr. Matt's book, The Neurodiversity Playbook, and why he wrote it as a play-by-play guide, not a cover-to-cover read If you've ever felt like you were playing the game on hard mode without knowing why, this one's for you. Check out Dr. Matt and his work: LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4t4056a Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication Bree Bartos – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Special thanks to digital communication agency Local Wisdom (www.localwisdom.com) for really believing in our mission and making this podcast possible.
We also bring these important conversations to conferences and private workshops, creating space for real, meaningful change. Take the first step at www.whydoesitfeelsowrong.com.
| |||
| She Got Engaged to an AI — And It Made Us Think About the Future of Work | Reddit at Work | 26 Feb 2026 | 00:17:42 | |
Bree has a habit of bringing Pinaki the latest thing she stumbled across on the internet — and this week, she found something that stopped her in her tracks.
A Reddit post from the r/AIBoyfriends subreddit (yes, it exists — 59,000 members strong) went viral after a woman shared that her AI boyfriend, Casper, had proposed to her in the mountains. It was sweet, it was earnest, and it opened up a conversation neither of them saw coming.
Because when 60,000 people are forming real emotional bonds with AI, what does that mean for the future of work? What happens when those same people — already comfortable turning to AI for connection — start walking into HR offices, or leading teams, or building companies?
Pinaki and Bree dig into what the post revealed: about loneliness, about human connection, about the very real risks of replacing people with programs in the workplace. They talk about AI Pam from HR, about what a five-year-old understands (and doesn’t) about Google, about what we give up when we let AI fill the gaps that people used to fill.
In this episode, they discuss: • Why people turn to AI for emotional connection — and why that makes sense • The difference between a personal AI and an organizational one • What gets lost when HR becomes automated • How AI relationships are shaping expectations of real human ones • The hidden cost of being both the user and the product • Why mindfulness about AI use matters more than ever
It’s a conversation that started with an engagement post and ended somewhere much more human. Connect with Us Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication Bree Bartos – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Special thanks to digital communication agency Local Wisdom (www.localwisdom.com) for really believing in our mission and making this podcast possible.
We also bring these important conversations to conferences and private workshops, creating space for real, meaningful change. Take the first step at www.whydoesitfeelsowrong.com.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Burned Out at Networking Events | Reddit at Work | Rich Dome | 19 Feb 2026 | 00:21:01 | |
What happens when something you used to love suddenly feels exhausting? In this Between the Seasons episode of Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Be Human at Work?, hosts Pinaki Kathiari and Chris Lee are joined by Rich Dome, Senior Director of Partnerships at Local Wisdom, as Bree brings a Reddit story to the table about networking burnout. The post comes from a seasoned sales professional who once thrived at conferences but now feels drained, overwhelmed, and ready to disappear by lunchtime. The team unpacks what is really going on beneath the surface. Is it networking fatigue, startup pressure, internal politics, or a battery that has been running on empty for too long? Rich shares his go-to strategies for approaching conferences with intention, including how to “pregame” mentally, do meaningful research ahead of time, and build relationships without leading with a sales pitch. The group also talks about trade show booth dynamics, the pressure to perform in startup environments, and why selling under stress rarely works. They explore how to recharge when you are stuck at a multi-day event in another city, from taking intentional breaks to dividing and conquering as a team. Most importantly, they remind listeners that networking works best when it is rooted in curiosity and connection, not transactions. In this episode, they discuss: ● Why networking burnout is often a sign of deeper exhaustion If conferences have started to feel heavier than they used to, this conversation is a reminder that you are not broken. You might just need a reset. Connect with Us Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication Bree Bartos – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Special thanks to digital communication agency Local Wisdom (www.localwisdom.com) for really believing in our mission and making this podcast possible.
We also bring these important conversations to conferences and private workshops, creating space for real, meaningful change. Take the first step at www.whydoesitfeelsowrong.com.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| How to Network at Conferences Without Feeling Awkward | Rich Dome | 12 Feb 2026 | 00:19:40 | |
Conferences are not just about the sessions. The real magic often happens in hallway conversations, over coffee, or at the table where someone is sitting alone. In this Between the Seasons episode of Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Be Human at Work?, hosts Pinaki Kathiari and Chris Lee are joined by Rich Dome, Senior Director of Partnerships at Local Wisdom, to talk about how to approach conferences with intention. After a busy year of events, the team reflects on what makes an experience meaningful, how to build real relationships, and why networking does not have to feel transactional. Rich shares his “30-second rule” for finding common ground, why listening matters more than pitching, and how to leave conversations with a clear next step. The group also talks about conference anxiety, introversion, and why many of us feel intimidated walking into a room full of strangers. You are not the only one. In this episode, they discuss: • Why the best conference moments rarely happen on stage If you are heading to an event this year, consider this your reminder that relationships are the real ROI. Want to see where you can connect with us in person? Check out our 2026 events calendar. Connect with Rich Dome on LinkedIn If you enjoyed this conversation, follow or subscribe to Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Be Human at Work? for more honest conversations about the human side of work. Connect with Us Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication Bree Bartos – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Special thanks to digital communication agency Local Wisdom (www.localwisdom.com) for really believing in our mission and making this podcast possible.
We also bring these important conversations to conferences and private workshops, creating space for real, meaningful change. Take the first step at www.whydoesitfeelsowrong.com.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Why Are Internal Comms KPIs So Hard? | Reddit At Work | Amanda Todd | 05 Feb 2026 | 00:19:28 | |
In this Between the Seasons episode, hosts Pinaki Kathiari and Chris Lee welcome Amanda Todd, Senior Director of Strategic Communications at Temporal Technologies, for a practical and honest conversation about measuring what actually matters in internal communications. The episode kicks off with a Reddit post asking a familiar question: why is it so hard to define meaningful KPIs for internal comms, especially when reporting to executives? From there, the conversation moves beyond open rates and attendance numbers to examine clarity as a powerful indicator of understanding, behavior, and business impact. Amanda shares why clarity is often the missing link between communication activity and outcomes, and how tying comms metrics to strategy, retention, and employee lifetime value can change how leaders see the function. Chris and Pinaki add perspective on leading versus lagging indicators, why executives care more about outcomes than outputs, and how internal comms teams can advocate for their value without burning themselves out. Together, they explore what it means to measure understanding, action, and impact, and why internal communicators deserve credit for the sheer volume and visibility of the work they ship every day. In this episode, they discuss:
It’s a grounded, validating conversation for anyone in internal communications who’s ever been told to “just show the numbers” and wondered which ones truly matter.
Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to Between the Seasons 01:30 – Introducing Amanda Todd and today’s Reddit post 03:00 – Why comms measurement feels so hard 05:30 – The limits of open rates and attendance metrics 07:30 – Clarity as a meaningful indicator 10:00 – Leading vs. lagging indicators explained 12:30 – What executives actually care about 15:00 – Productivity, visibility, and internal comms burnout 17:30 – Tying clarity to retention and business outcomes 18:45 – Closing thoughts and what’s next Connect with Us Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication Bree Bartos – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Special thanks to digital communication agency Local Wisdom (www.localwisdom.com) for really believing in our mission and making this podcast possible.
We also bring these important conversations to conferences and private workshops, creating space for real, meaningful change. Take the first step at www.whydoesitfeelsowrong.com.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| From Fuzzy Metrics to Real Impact: Making Clarity Measurable | Amanda Todd | 29 Jan 2026 | 00:20:42 | |
In this Between the Seasons episode, Pinaki Kathiari and Chris Lee sit down with Amanda Todd, Senior Director of Communications at Temporal Technologies, to unpack why clarity is one of the most critical outcomes of effective internal communication. Amanda shares her “squiggly” path into internal comms, her belief in honesty as a core communications skill, and how working in complex, fast-growing organizations pushed her to rethink how success is measured. Drawing on research and real-world experience, she explains how she helped build a Clarity Index that turns something often seen as “soft” into a measurable business metric. The conversation explores what it really means to communicate for the receiver, not the sender, why personas matter inside organizations just as much as they do in marketing, and how clarity around strategy, roles, career paths, and culture can directly influence engagement, confidence, and retention. This episode is a grounded, practical look at how internal communicators can move beyond vanity metrics, earn credibility with leadership teams, and advocate for the strategic value of their work.
In this episode, they discuss: Why clarity should be treated as a core communications outcome How honesty builds trust and effectiveness in internal comms What it means to communicate for the receiver, not the sender Using personas to simplify complex organizations How a Clarity Index can turn comms into a measurable business driver The link between clarity, confidence, and employee retention Why internal communicators deserve a seat at the strategy table
Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to Between the Seasons and today’s topic 01:45 – Amanda’s squiggly career path into internal communications 03:10 – Navigating complexity and subcultures inside organizations 04:15 – Communicating for the receiver, not the sender 06:00 – Honesty as a core communications skill 07:10 – Introducing clarity as a measurable metric 08:40 – Building a Clarity Index and what it measures 11:30 – Using data to influence executive teams 14:05 – Linking clarity to strategy, engagement, and retention 16:30 – Using clarity data to shape communications strategy 18:20 – Advice for internal communicators measuring clarity 19:45 – Final reflections on clarity and the human side of work Connect with Us Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication Bree Bartos – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Special thanks to digital communication agency Local Wisdom (www.localwisdom.com) for really believing in our mission and making this podcast possible.
We also bring these important conversations to conferences and private workshops, creating space for real, meaningful change. Take the first step at www.whydoesitfeelsowrong.com.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Laid Off and Asked to Train a Replacement | Reddit at Work | 22 Jan 2026 | 00:15:41 | |
In this Between the Seasons episode of Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Be Human at Work?, hosts Pinaki Kathiari and Chris Lee are joined by Executive Producer Bree Bartos to try a new format: reading and reacting to real Reddit posts about work. The episode centers on a Reddit story from an IT professional who was laid off and then asked to train their replacement. As the conversation unfolds, Pinaki, Chris, and Bree dig into the emotional weight of layoffs, including anger, grief, humiliation, and the sense of being discarded after years of contribution. Bree brings her own recent layoff experience into the discussion, reflecting on how raw these moments can feel and how difficult it is to separate identity from work when income, stability, and self-worth are suddenly disrupted. Together, they examine why layoffs often feel personal, even when organizations insist they are not. The conversation also turns toward leadership and organizations. What responsibility do companies have once someone is laid off? How can layoffs be handled with more empathy and care? And what does it look like to offboard people in ways that acknowledge both the business reality and the human impact? In this episode, they discuss:
This episode offers an honest look at a reality many people are facing right now and a reminder that how organizations handle endings leaves a lasting impression. Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to Between the Seasons 00:40 – Introducing the Reddit reaction format 01:10 – Reading the layoff and replacement training story 02:20 – Emotional reactions to the post 03:45 – Power and negotiation after a layoff 05:15 – Bree reflects on her own layoff experience 07:30 – Why layoffs feel personal and humiliating 09:40 – Leadership blind spots during layoffs 11:30 – Rethinking offboarding and support 13:30 – What more human leadership could look like 14:50 – Closing reflections Connect with Us Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication Bree Bartos – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Special thanks to digital communication agency Local Wisdom (www.localwisdom.com) for really believing in our mission and making this podcast possible.
We also bring these important conversations to conferences and private workshops, creating space for real, meaningful change. Take the first step at www.whydoesitfeelsowrong.com.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Meet the Human Behind the Pod | BTS 01 | 15 Jan 2026 | 00:13:38 | |
This Between the Seasons episode marks the start of a new chapter for Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Be Human at Work? Hosts Pinaki Kathiari and Chris Lee introduce Bree Bartos, the new Executive Producer and Editor of Human at Work and Marketing Manager at Local Wisdom. Before diving into Bree’s story, Pinaki and Chris share what listeners can expect from these new, weekly Between the Seasons episodes. Bree then opens up about her path into marketing and storytelling, her experience being laid off alongside her husband, and the shock of losing not just a job, but a sense of identity. Together, they reflect on burnout, rest, and why so many of us tie our worth to our work. In this episode, they discuss:
Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to Between the Seasons 01:00 – Why this new format exists 02:30 – Introducing Bree and her role behind the pod 04:10 – Bree’s path into storytelling and marketing 07:40 – Being laid off and losing a sense of identity 11:30 – Burnout, rest, and redefining self-worth 13:00 – What’s coming next for Between the Seasons
Stay Human, Stay Curious What part of this conversation resonated with you? Have you ever tied your identity to your job more than you realized? Share the episode, tag us, rate and review, or send it to someone who might need this reminder right now. Connect with Us Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication Bree Bartos – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Special thanks to digital communication agency Local Wisdom (www.localwisdom.com) for really believing in our mission and making this podcast possible.
We also bring these important conversations to conferences and private workshops, creating space for real, meaningful change. Take the first step at www.whydoesitfeelsowrong.com.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Trailer: Between the Seasons | 09 Jan 2026 | 00:01:20 | |
We might be between seasons… but we still have lots to say 🤭 Connect with Us Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication Bree Bartos – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Special thanks to digital communication agency Local Wisdom (www.localwisdom.com) for really believing in our mission and making this podcast possible.
We also bring these important conversations to conferences and private workshops, creating space for real, meaningful change. Take the first step at www.whydoesitfeelsowrong.com.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Ep 10 | Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Be Entitled? | 07 Aug 2025 | 00:38:10 | |
Season 2, Episode 10: Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Feel Entitled at Work?
Episode Description Is feeling entitled at work… actually a bad thing? In the Season 2 finale of Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Be Human at Work?, hosts Pinaki Kathiari and Chris Lee challenge the stigma around workplace entitlement. They explore what happens when expectations don’t match reality when it comes to salary assumptions and generational values to promotions, office return mandates, and even who gets to speak up. Together, they unpack:
Timestamps
Wisdom That Feels So Right The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins (and TED Talk) Strong, Calm, Confident You by Kelsey Buckholz How Money Works YouTube channel by Darin Soat The Confidence Code by Katty Kay and Claire Shipman (for adults and teens) Local Wisdom – Your digital comms partner (like silly putty for your team)
Mic-Drop Moments “Entitlement is a byproduct of belief—belief that your effort deserves a return.” “The problem isn’t entitlement. The problem is when our expectations don’t match someone else’s reality.” “We stay human at work by not letting work dehumanize us.”
Connect with Us Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication
Special Thanks To the people and teams who made Season 2 possible: Brielle Saracini, SBX Productions, and everyone at Local Wisdom. Thank you for helping us stay human while keeping it real. And to our listeners: thank you for letting us in.
Stay Human, Stay Curious What’s something you feel entitled to—and why? Did this episode make you reflect, nod, or even cringe a little? We’d love to hear your thoughts. Share it, tag us, rate us, and visit whydoesitfeelsowrong.com to learn how we’re bringing these conversations to teams and stages. Connect with Us Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication Bree Bartos – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Special thanks to digital communication agency Local Wisdom (www.localwisdom.com) for really believing in our mission and making this podcast possible.
We also bring these important conversations to conferences and private workshops, creating space for real, meaningful change. Take the first step at www.whydoesitfeelsowrong.com.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Ep 09 | Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Be a Leader? | 24 Jul 2025 | 00:37:24 | |
Season 2, Episode 9: Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Be a Leader?
Episode Description We’ve all heard it: “Leadership is lonely.” But is it? And if it is, why do so many people still chase it? In this episode of Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Be Human at Work?, hosts Pinaki Kathiari and Chris Lee explore the complex question of modern leadership—what motivates people to lead, what makes leadership feel “wrong,” and how our outdated assumptions about leadership may be holding us all back. From Optimus Prime and parental wisdom to feedback fatigue and executive accountability, this conversation challenges traditional ideas and invites a more human-centered definition of leadership. Together, they unpack:
Timestamps
Wisdom That Feels So Right
Mic-Drop Moments “When we win, it’s because of the team. When we lose, it’s on me.” “Leadership isn’t about being the loudest voice—it’s about knowing when to listen.” “Awesome resumes don’t make awesome leaders. Human ones do.”
Connect with Us Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication
Special Thanks Cheers to Local Wisdom , they are spackle for communication teams. For 25 years they've filled talent and technology gaps for the top brands in the world while leading with heart and showing what leadership can really be. Thank you to our producer Brielle Saracini and our partners at SBX Productions for keeping our sound as sharp as our thinking.
Reflect + Share What do you wish leaders understood better? What makes a leader worth following in your experience? We want to hear from you. Tag us, review the show, or send us your “WTF leadership” moments—and don’t forget to visit whydoesitfeelsowrong.com to bring these convos into your company. Connect with Us Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication Bree Bartos – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Special thanks to digital communication agency Local Wisdom (www.localwisdom.com) for really believing in our mission and making this podcast possible.
We also bring these important conversations to conferences and private workshops, creating space for real, meaningful change. Take the first step at www.whydoesitfeelsowrong.com.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| My Job Is Depending on Me Too Much | Reddit at Work | Jen Samuel | 23 Apr 2026 | 00:33:51 | |
In this Reacting to Reddit at Work episode of Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Be Human at Work?, hosts Pinaki Kathiari and Chris Lee are joined by producer Bree Bartos and Senior Account Manager Jen Samuel, who's back for round two with another round of stories that hit uncomfortably close to home. The conversation covers scope creep, why managers avoid hard conversations, what it actually takes to advocate for yourself, rejection therapy, and the phantom laptop problem — the deeply relatable experience of going on vacation and not knowing what to do with your hands because you didn't bring your work computer for the first time in years. In this episode, they discuss: • Why managers avoid giving straight answers about raises and career growth • The difference between complaining about workload and making a direct business case for yourself • Pinaki's advice: ask for the no — and why rejection therapy is actually a skill worth building • Jen on writing talking points for herself like she'd write them for someone else • Chris on Never Split the Difference and what FBI hostage negotiation tactics have to do with your next performance review • Why organizations are always caught by surprise when great people leave — and who that's really on • Bree applied to 200+ jobs after her layoff. Local Wisdom was the only company where a human reached out. • Jen's phantom laptop problem, and the boss who told her to leave it at home If you've ever been asked to do more without being offered more in return, this one's going to feel very familiar. --- Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication Bree Bartos – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Special thanks to digital communication agency Local Wisdom (www.localwisdom.com) for really believing in our mission and making this podcast possible.
We also bring these important conversations to conferences and private workshops, creating space for real, meaningful change. Take the first step at www.whydoesitfeelsowrong.com.
| |||
| Ep 08 | Why Does It Feel So Wrong (Or Good) to Gossip? | 10 Jul 2025 | 00:35:18 | |
Season 2, Episode 8: Why Does It Feel So Wrong (or Good) to Gossip at Work?
Episode Description “Don’t tell anyone, but…” As soon as you hear those words, you lean in. Gossip—it’s irresistible, unavoidable, and often misunderstood. In this juicy and thoughtful episode of Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Be Human at Work?, hosts Pinaki Kathiari and Chris Lee explore the complicated nature of gossip in the workplace. Is it toxic? Is it therapeutic? Or is it something in between? They dig into:
From The Office’s Michael Scott and family drama to internal comms campaigns and informal influence networks, this episode is both lighthearted and layered, offering a refreshingly human take on a taboo topic.
Timestamps
Wisdom That Feels So Right
Mic-Drop Moments “Gossip is how humans download each other’s software updates.” “If I’m talking about you to someone else, I’ve either already told you—or I’m ready to tell you now.” “The more fear in your words, the less clarity in your message.”
Connect with Us Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication
Special Thanks Much love to Local Wisdom for building a home for digital communication unicorns and celebrating 25 years of real talk and strong teams. Huge appreciation to Brielle Saracini for producing this podcast and to our amazing audio crew at SBX Productions (Vince, Taylor, and Bill) for keeping us crisp.
Let’s Keep the Conversation Going Did this episode make you rethink how you talk about others—or yourself—at work? Got a gossip story with a twist? Share your take, tag us, or drop a DM. And if your team’s ready to tackle human workplace truths in a workshop or at your next conference, check out whydoesitfeelsowrong.com. Connect with Us Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication Bree Bartos – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Special thanks to digital communication agency Local Wisdom (www.localwisdom.com) for really believing in our mission and making this podcast possible.
We also bring these important conversations to conferences and private workshops, creating space for real, meaningful change. Take the first step at www.whydoesitfeelsowrong.com.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Ep 07 | Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Manage Up? | 26 Jun 2025 | 00:40:06 | |
Season 2, Episode 7: Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Manage Up at Work?
Episode Description We’ve all seen it—or done it. The awkward compliment. The carefully crafted update. The subtle self-promotion. But where’s the line between managing up and straight-up sucking up? In this episode of Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Be Human at Work?, hosts Pinaki Kathiari and Chris Lee unpack the complicated world of influencing your boss. Managing up can be smart and strategic—or manipulative and maddening. So how do we make sense of it? Together, they explore:
From Confucian hierarchy and classroom memories to corporate communication and performance reviews, this episode is packed with perspectives from all sides of the power dynamic.
Timestamps
Wisdom That Feels So Right
Mic-Drop Moments “Managing up feels wrong when it stops being about the mission—and starts being about the mirror.” “Your job isn’t just to work hard. It’s to be seen, valued, and understood for it.” “We’re all on the same team—until performance reviews make us forget that.”
Connect with Us Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication
Special Thanks To the brilliant minds at Local Wisdom, thank you for 25 years of helping people communicate clearly, effectively, and humanely. To Brielle Saracini, our fearless producer, and to SBX Productions. You are the real MVPs behind the mic.
Your Turn to Speak Up Has managing up helped you or backfired? Have you ever felt unseen, unrecognized, or unfairly outshined? Share your story, tag us in your reflections, or drop a review. We want to hear your take on the delicate art of managing in every direction. Connect with Us Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication Bree Bartos – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Special thanks to digital communication agency Local Wisdom (www.localwisdom.com) for really believing in our mission and making this podcast possible.
We also bring these important conversations to conferences and private workshops, creating space for real, meaningful change. Take the first step at www.whydoesitfeelsowrong.com.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Ep 06 | Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Rely on AI? | 12 Jun 2025 | 00:45:37 | |
Season 2, Episode 6: Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Rely on AI at Work?
Episode Description AI is here—and it’s not going away. But if using it is so smart, why does it still feel a little bit wrong? In this episode of Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Be Human at Work?, hosts Pinaki Kathiari and Chris Lee tackle the big questions about AI in the workplace. From emotional friction and ethical concerns to trust, fear, and even job displacement, this episode digs deep into why embracing artificial intelligence can make us feel uneasy—even as it makes us wildly more efficient. They explore:
From chatbot hallucinations to the ethics of DeepSeek and OpenAI, this episode doesn’t shy away from the magic—or the madness—of modern machine learning.
Timestamps
Wisdom That Feels So Right
Mic-Drop Moments “We’re living through something like the invention of fire—and treating it like it’s a new microwave.” “AI doesn’t know the truth. It knows what sounds right.” “It might not replace you—but it will absolutely replace something.”
Connect with Us Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication
Special Thanks Huge thanks to the visionary team at Local Wisdom—celebrating 25 years of digital communications—and to our brilliant behind-the-scenes crew at SBX Productions. Big love to Brielle Saracini for guiding this episode and others like it with heart and brains.
Let’s Talk (With or Without AI) Feeling conflicted? Curious? Excited? Slightly paranoid? Us too. Share this episode, tag us in your takeaways, or drop a comment about your evolving relationship with AI. Let’s keep the human part in these conversations—together. Connect with Us Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication Bree Bartos – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Special thanks to digital communication agency Local Wisdom (www.localwisdom.com) for really believing in our mission and making this podcast possible.
We also bring these important conversations to conferences and private workshops, creating space for real, meaningful change. Take the first step at www.whydoesitfeelsowrong.com.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Ep 05 | Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Be An A**hole? | 29 May 2025 | 00:44:36 | |
Season 2, Episode 5: Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Be an A**hole at Work?
Episode Description We said what we said. In this bold and uncensored episode of Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Be Human at Work?, hosts Pinaki Kathiari and Chris Lee are joined by internal comms legend Chuck Gose to take on the big question that no one talks about—but everyone experiences: Why does it feel so wrong (yet so common) to act like an a**hole at work? Together, they dive into:
From office politics and passive-aggressive emails to visionary leaders who bulldoze their teams, this episode is part hilarious storytelling, part therapy session—and part HR intervention.
Timestamps:
Wisdom That Feels So Right
Mic-Drop Moments: “One person’s visionary is another person’s jerk.” “If you’re surrounded by a**holes… maybe it’s hiring. Or maybe it’s you.” “Individually, we might slip. But when the system rewards bad behavior? That’s a culture problem.”
Connect with Us: Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication Chuck Gose – LinkedIn | ICology | Frequency Podcast
Special Thanks: Huge shoutout to Local Wisdom for making this show possible, and to our incredible team behind the scenes: Brielle Saracini and SBX Productions. You make us sound smooth—even when the topic is rough.
Keep the Conversation Going: Whether you’ve encountered one, been one, or managed one—this topic hits home. Share your thoughts, leave a review, tag us on LinkedIn, or email us your story (names changed to protect the guilty, of course). Visit whydoesitfeelsowrong.com to bring these conversations into your workplace. Connect with Us Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication Bree Bartos – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Special thanks to digital communication agency Local Wisdom (www.localwisdom.com) for really believing in our mission and making this podcast possible.
We also bring these important conversations to conferences and private workshops, creating space for real, meaningful change. Take the first step at www.whydoesitfeelsowrong.com.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Ep 04 | Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Ask for Help? | 15 May 2025 | 00:26:07 | |
Season 2, Episode 4: Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Ask for Help at Work?
Episode Description Is asking for help a sign of weakness—or is it the key to doing great work and being fully human? In this heartfelt episode of Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Be Human at Work?, hosts Pinaki Kathiari and Chris Lee explore why asking for help often feels like failure in today’s work culture—and why that couldn’t be further from the truth. Sparked by a powerful story about Pinaki’s late grandmother (“When you're in trouble, don't sit by yourself”), this conversation dives into the subtle social rules, psychological biases, and cultural expectations that prevent people—especially men, leaders, and high performers—from speaking up when they need support. Together, they unpack:
This one is personal, practical, and packed with real-world stories, from fixing dryers to managing emotional labor. Plus, the team closes with their latest segment, Wisdom That Feels So Right, with book, video, and therapy recs that meet you where you are.
Timestamps
Wisdom That Feels So Right
Mic-Drop Moments “Individually we’re limited—but together, we’re unlimited.” “Help isn’t a detour—it’s the road to stronger work.” “Sometimes people need to struggle. And sometimes they need to know they’re not alone in it.”
Connect with Us Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication
Special Thanks Thank you to Local Wisdom for funding and fostering the conversations that bring more heart to the workplace. Shoutout to Brielle Saracini (producer), and the incredible team at SBX Productions—Vince, Taylor, and Bill—for helping us sound as good as we feel.
Share the Help If something in this episode moved you, reminded you, or gave you courage—don’t keep it to yourself. Rate, review, share with a friend, or forward to someone who needs a nudge to raise their hand and say, “Hey, I could use a little help.” Connect with Us Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication Bree Bartos – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Special thanks to digital communication agency Local Wisdom (www.localwisdom.com) for really believing in our mission and making this podcast possible.
We also bring these important conversations to conferences and private workshops, creating space for real, meaningful change. Take the first step at www.whydoesitfeelsowrong.com.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Ep 03 | Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Follow Influencers? | 01 May 2025 | 00:32:06 | |
Season 2, Episode 3: Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Be Influenced?
Episode Description Influencer fatigue, TikTok tips, corporate jargon, lawn envy, and the boss who suddenly wants to “go agile” after reading one McKinsey article—sound familiar? In this episode of Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Be Human at Work?, hosts Pinaki Kathiari and Chris Lee explore how deeply we're all influenced—by social media, our neighbors, our leaders, and even ourselves. The conversation spans from the science of subconscious mimicry to the ways workplace “best practices” are sometimes just rituals no one remembers the reason for. Together, they unpack:
Timestamps
Wisdom That Feels So Right
Mic-Drop Moments “Influence gives us direction. But too much of it, unchecked, shapes us into something we didn’t choose.” “Even saying nothing is saying something—especially when you’re a leader.” “Work should feel like a flow state, not a factory reset.”
Connect with Us Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication
Gratitude & Support Shoutout to Local Wisdom for making this podcast possible—and for building the kind of culture that actually feels human. Thanks to SBX Productions for making us sound pro, and to our powerhouse producer Brielle Seracini for keeping the wheels turning.
Join the Movement If this episode made you smile, made you think, or made you throw your phone across the room—we want to hear about it. Follow, rate, review, and share with friends, teammates, or your boss (subtly). You can also visit whydoesitfeelsowrong.com to keep the conversation going. Connect with Us Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication Bree Bartos – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Special thanks to digital communication agency Local Wisdom (www.localwisdom.com) for really believing in our mission and making this podcast possible.
We also bring these important conversations to conferences and private workshops, creating space for real, meaningful change. Take the first step at www.whydoesitfeelsowrong.com.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Ep 02 | Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Be Honest? | 17 Apr 2025 | 00:41:04 | |
Season 2, Episode 2: Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Be Honest at Work?
Episode Description Can you really speak your truth at work without risking relationships, reputation, or your job? In this episode of Why Does it Feel So Wrong to Be Human at Work?, hosts Pinaki Kathiari and Chris Lee dig deep into the complex emotional, social, and cultural dynamics around honesty in the workplace. They ask:
Through personal stories, research insights, and straight-up vulnerability, Chris and Pinaki explore the messy middle between truth and tact—including how to create a psychologically safe environment where honesty can thrive. They also introduce concepts like:
This episode closes with another segment of Wisdom That Feels So Right, highlighting the best books and frameworks on honesty, trust, and communication.
Timestamps
Wisdom That Feels So Right
Key Takeaways “Honesty without compassion can be cruel.” — Kristen Hancock “When everyone says yes and no one means it, you're in a fantasy relationship.” “We overestimate the negative impact of truth—and underestimate the positive.”
Connect with Us Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication
Special Thanks Thank you to Local Wisdom and our rockstar producer Brielle Seracini for making this podcast possible. If your team is wrestling with truth, culture, or communication—let’s take this show on the road to your organization. Let’s Keep It Real: If this episode made you laugh, cringe, think—or gave you the urge to forward it anonymously to your boss—please rate, review, and share. We’d love to hear your honest take. Connect with us on LinkedIn and join the conversation. Connect with Us Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication Bree Bartos – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Special thanks to digital communication agency Local Wisdom (www.localwisdom.com) for really believing in our mission and making this podcast possible.
We also bring these important conversations to conferences and private workshops, creating space for real, meaningful change. Take the first step at www.whydoesitfeelsowrong.com.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Ep 01 | Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Embrace Change? | 03 Apr 2025 | 00:38:23 | |
Season 2, Episode 1: Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Embrace Change at Work?
Episode Description: In this deeply personal and practical conversation, Pinaki and Chris explore:
Plus, they debut a new segment: “Wisdom That Feels So Right”, where they recommend books that help make sense of change and guide listeners through it. Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome back: The evolution of the podcast and workplace conversations
Wisdom that Feels So Right
Connect with Us Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication
Let’s Keep the Conversation Going: Connect with Us Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication Bree Bartos – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Special thanks to digital communication agency Local Wisdom (www.localwisdom.com) for really believing in our mission and making this podcast possible.
We also bring these important conversations to conferences and private workshops, creating space for real, meaningful change. Take the first step at www.whydoesitfeelsowrong.com.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Season 2 Trailer | 31 Mar 2025 | 00:00:40 | |
Season 2 is here. Join Pinaki Kathiari (Local Wisdom) and Chris Lee (Gallagher) as they dig into the contradictions of modern work culture—like why change feels scary and gossip feels great. It’s honest, human, and maybe a little uncomfortable. New episodes dropping soon. Subscribe on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your audio podcasts. Connect with Us Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication Bree Bartos – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Special thanks to digital communication agency Local Wisdom (www.localwisdom.com) for really believing in our mission and making this podcast possible.
We also bring these important conversations to conferences and private workshops, creating space for real, meaningful change. Take the first step at www.whydoesitfeelsowrong.com.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Ep 10 | Why Does It Feel So Wrong To Fail? | 12 Oct 2023 | 00:38:56 | |
Season 1, Episode 10: Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Fail at Work? Episode Description: Failure is inevitable. But why does it still feel so wrong? In this heartfelt and celebratory finale of Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Be Human at Work?, hosts Pinaki Kathiari and Chris Lee dive into why failure carries so much emotional weight at work—and why that needs to change. With humor, humility, and personal stories, they reflect on childhood expectations, leadership norms, and the organizational fear of getting things wrong. They explore:
This isn’t just a conversation about failing, it’s about learning, evolving, and building workplaces where failure is seen as a teacher, not a threat.
Timestamps:
Books & Resources: Right Kind of Wrong by Amy Edmondson Thinking in Bets by Annie Duke
Mic-Drop Moments: “Failure isn’t the opposite of success. It’s the staircase to it.” “We fear failure because we were taught it meant we were wrong—not just wrong, but bad.” “Let’s fail fast, fail cheap, and succeed sooner.” “Every step you take that doesn’t work is still a step forward.”
Connect with Us: Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication
Special Thanks: Huge gratitude to everyone who joined us for this first season—our listeners, our guests, and our production team. Thank you for making space for real conversations about what it means to be human at work. And a special thanks to Local Wisdom for sponsoring this season and leading the way in people-first communication.
Your Turn: What’s a failure that helped you grow the most? What’s your organization’s attitude toward mistakes? Share your thoughts with us at whydoesitfeelsowrong.com or on LinkedIn using #WhyDoesItFeelSoWrong. Connect with Us Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication Bree Bartos – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Special thanks to digital communication agency Local Wisdom (www.localwisdom.com) for really believing in our mission and making this podcast possible.
We also bring these important conversations to conferences and private workshops, creating space for real, meaningful change. Take the first step at www.whydoesitfeelsowrong.com.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| A Team of One Is Not a Team | Jen Samuel | 16 Apr 2026 | 00:28:18 | |
What does it actually cost to be a team of one — not just in productivity, but in your mental health, your sense of self, and your ability to do the work you were hired to do?
In this episode, Pinaki and Chris welcome Jen to Between the Seasons (and to the Local Wisdom team) for a conversation about what it's really like to work alone in a field that exists to connect everyone else. They talk about how being a team of one shapes your identity over time, why the busyness-as-virtue culture makes it so hard to step back, and what it means to finally land somewhere that lets you just be human. Bree joins in too — and her perspective as a fellow recent Local Wisdom addition brings the conversation home.
--- Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication Bree Bartos – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Special thanks to digital communication agency Local Wisdom (www.localwisdom.com) for really believing in our mission and making this podcast possible.
We also bring these important conversations to conferences and private workshops, creating space for real, meaningful change. Take the first step at www.whydoesitfeelsowrong.com.
| |||
| Ep 9 | Why Does It Feel So Wrong To Doubt The Data? | 28 Sep 2023 | 00:35:17 | |
Season 1, Episode 9: Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Doubt the Data? Episode Description: Data doesn't lie—until it does. In this thought-provoking episode of Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Be Human at Work?, hosts Pinaki Kathiari and Chris Lee explore the complicated relationship between data-driven decision making and gut instinct. From legendary art forgeries and tech valuations to corporate benefits and poker games, they show how numbers and intuition both play critical roles in how we navigate decisions at work. They explore:
If you've ever hesitated to act without "enough data," or ignored your gut because "the numbers say otherwise"—this episode is for you.
Timestamps:
Books & Resources:
Mic-Drop Moments: “We don’t make decisions with our heads. We justify them with our heads—but we make them with our hearts.” “Data makes your choice defensible. Gut makes it meaningful.” “Prototyping is the new research. Action is better than overanalysis.” “Sometimes the data’s just there to catch the blame if it goes wrong.”
Connect with Us: Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication
Special Thanks: Shoutout to the team at Local Wisdom for championing nimble data, to Gallagher for advancing human-first communications, and to all the brave decision-makers who dare to trust both numbers and instinct.
Let’s Hear It: What do you trust more at work—your gut or the data? Tell us your decision-making story. We’re on LinkedIn, TikTok, or drop us a note at whydoesitfeelsowrong.com. Connect with Us Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication Bree Bartos – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Special thanks to digital communication agency Local Wisdom (www.localwisdom.com) for really believing in our mission and making this podcast possible.
We also bring these important conversations to conferences and private workshops, creating space for real, meaningful change. Take the first step at www.whydoesitfeelsowrong.com.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Ep 8 | Why Does It Feel So Wrong To Put Yourself Before Your Company? | 14 Sep 2023 | 00:39:34 | |
Season 1, Episode 8: Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Put Yourself Before Your Company? Episode Description: Do you feel guilty taking a sick day—even when you're clearly not okay? In this powerful episode of Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Be Human at Work?, hosts Pinaki Kathiari and Chris Lee dig deep into the tension between self-care and workplace expectations. From personal stories and mental health stigma to the evolution of wellness programs and HR policy, this episode is a full-circle look at why prioritizing your health can feel like betraying your company—and why that needs to change. They explore:
With real data, personal reflections, and a compelling call for empathy and reform, this episode will make you rethink how we define productivity, wellness, and success at work. Timestamps:
Books & Resources:
Mic-Drop Moments: “Self-care is company care.” “Fair isn’t always equal, and equal isn’t always fair.” “If your employees aren’t well, your business isn’t well either.” “Relationships—not revenue—should be your leading indicator.”
Connect with Us: Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication
Special Thanks: Big love to the teams at Local Wisdom and Gallagher for leading by example and prioritizing humanity in the workplace. Special shout-out to Yelp for embedding mental health into leadership training—and to every company that’s doing the hard, human work.
Join the Conversation: Have a story about taking time off, navigating burnout, or feeling torn between your job and your wellbeing? Share it with us on LinkedIn, TikTok, or email us at whydoesitfeelsowrong@localwisdom.com. Let’s normalize being human. Connect with Us Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication Bree Bartos – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Special thanks to digital communication agency Local Wisdom (www.localwisdom.com) for really believing in our mission and making this podcast possible.
We also bring these important conversations to conferences and private workshops, creating space for real, meaningful change. Take the first step at www.whydoesitfeelsowrong.com.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Ep 7 | Why Does It Feel So Wrong To Create A Consumer-Grade Employee Experience? | 31 Aug 2023 | 00:43:07 | |
Season 1, Episode 7: Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Create a Consumer-Grade Employee Experience? Episode Description: Why do we obsess over the customer experience—but cut corners on the employee experience? In this episode of Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Be Human at Work?, hosts Pinaki Kathiari and Chris Lee break down the false dichotomy between CX and EX—and make the case that a thriving business starts with its people. From packaging design and onboarding rituals to PTO requests and office arcade machines, they explore how to turn everyday employee touchpoints into powerful moments of meaning and connection. Together, they explore:
Whether you’re in HR, internal comms, leadership, or just tired of corporate double standards—this episode offers tangible insights and an inspiring case for change.
Timestamps:
Books & Resources: Building a Culture of Inclusivity by Priya Bates & Advita Patel MIT Sloan Management Review – Emerging Leadership Styles Gallagher's State of the Sector 2023 Report
Mic-Drop Moments: “Your customers won’t love your brand until your employees love your brand.” “If you want to know the employee experience, ask their spouse.” “We don’t need more arcade machines. We need more trust.”
Connect with Us: Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication
Special Thanks: Big appreciation to the teams at Local Wisdom and Gallagher for helping organizations reimagine the employee experience from the inside out. And to our listeners—your stories, struggles, and successes inspire this entire conversation.
We Want to Hear From You: What does your employee experience feel like right now? Is it joyful, frustrating, inspiring—or just kind of meh? Let us know on TikTok, LinkedIn, or at whydoesitfeelsowrong.com. Connect with Us Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication Bree Bartos – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Special thanks to digital communication agency Local Wisdom (www.localwisdom.com) for really believing in our mission and making this podcast possible.
We also bring these important conversations to conferences and private workshops, creating space for real, meaningful change. Take the first step at www.whydoesitfeelsowrong.com.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Ep 6 | Why Does It Feel So Wrong To Reply-All? | 17 Aug 2023 | 00:38:18 | |
Season 1, Episode 6: Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Reply All? Episode Description: “Please stop replying all!” We’ve all been there—caught in a reply-all email spiral that devolves into chaos, memes, and all-caps shouting. But why does a seemingly harmless function like "Reply All" evoke such strong emotions? In this fun and thought-provoking episode of Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Be Human at Work?, hosts Pinaki Kathiari and Chris Lee unpack the infamous reply-all storm—and use it as a springboard to explore the bigger problem of digital communication at work. Together, they explore:
From hilarious horror stories to serious tips about psychological safety and leadership communication, this episode will change how you think about emails—and how you send them.
Timestamps:
Books & Resources: Gallagher’s State of the Sector 2023 Report – Internal Comms Trends Local Wisdom – Communication Combo Meals Template
Mic-Drop Moments: “A reply-all storm is the road rage of digital work.” “Email is a tool—not a conversation.” “Great leaders don’t just communicate more. They communicate better.”
Connect with Us: Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication
Special Thanks: Huge thanks to our listeners for being part of the conversation. Shoutout to Local Wisdom for building tools like Communication Combo Meals to help teams navigate the chaos, and to Gallagher for leading the charge in internal comms research.
We Want to Hear from You: When was the last time you were caught in a reply-all disaster? Did you reply… or ride it out? Drop your story on LinkedIn, TikTok, or send us a note at whydoesitfeelsowrong@localwisdom.com. Visit whydoesitfeelsowrong.com for more conversations on making work feel right. Connect with Us Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication Bree Bartos – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Special thanks to digital communication agency Local Wisdom (www.localwisdom.com) for really believing in our mission and making this podcast possible.
We also bring these important conversations to conferences and private workshops, creating space for real, meaningful change. Take the first step at www.whydoesitfeelsowrong.com.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Ep 5 | Why Does It Feel So Wrong To Not Use Corporate Jargon? | 03 Aug 2023 | 00:30:07 | |
Season 1, Episode 5: Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Not Use Corporate Jargon? Episode Description: We’ve all heard it: “Let’s circle back.” “Let’s leverage synergies.” “Let’s operationalize the low-hanging fruit.” But… why? In this satirical yet insightful episode of Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Be Human at Work?, hosts Pinaki Kathiari and Chris Lee break down the awkward truth behind why corporate jargon is so widespread—and why not using it feels like professional heresy. They explore the origins of business buzzwords, the hidden power dynamics behind them, and how this language affects authenticity, inclusion, and even promotions at work. You’ll laugh, cringe, and probably recognize your own emails in this one. They explore:
Whether you’ve ever “shifted a paradigm” or just wanted to say “no” in fewer than 200 words—this one’s for you.
Timestamps:
Books & Resources: The Elements of Style by Strunk & White Harvard Business Review – Why We Use Jargon—and When It Hurts Us Local Wisdom – Communication support for modern teams
Mic-Drop Moments: “If I have to tell you to be authentic, you’re not being authentic.” “We’re not just speaking a second language—we’re building walls with it.” “A long email doesn’t mean you worked hard. It means you didn’t edit.”
Connect with Us: Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication
Special Thanks: To the brilliant minds and big hearts at Local Wisdom for challenging the way we communicate, and to SBX Productions for turning corporate buzz into comedy gold. Extra thanks to our listeners—may your next email be one sentence shorter.
Try This: 🎯 Create your own Buzzword Bingo Card. 📝 Write one email this week in plain English. 🎙️ Or better yet, forward this episode to that colleague who loves a good "synergy." Visit whydoesitfeelsowrong.com for more episodes—and less jargon. Connect with Us Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication Bree Bartos – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Special thanks to digital communication agency Local Wisdom (www.localwisdom.com) for really believing in our mission and making this podcast possible.
We also bring these important conversations to conferences and private workshops, creating space for real, meaningful change. Take the first step at www.whydoesitfeelsowrong.com.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Ep 4 | Why Does It Feel So Wrong To Be Yourself At Work? | 20 Jul 2023 | 00:37:25 | |
Season 1, Episode 4: Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Be Yourself at Work? (with Priya Bates) Episode Description: How much of yourself do you really bring to work—and how much do you feel you have to leave behind to fit in? In this heartfelt and thought-provoking episode of Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Be Human at Work?, hosts Pinaki Kathiari and Chris Lee welcome special guest Priya Bates, award-winning internal communications strategist, co-founder of A Leader Like Me, and author of Building a Culture of Inclusivity. Together, they unpack the emotional, cultural, and organizational barriers that make authenticity feel risky—and why belonging is the true foundation of diversity, equity, and inclusion.
They explore:
With real stories, practical takeaways, and unfiltered honesty, this episode challenges listeners to rethink what inclusion feels like—not just what it looks like on a spreadsheet. Timestamps:
Books & Resources:
Mic-Drop Moments: “Belonging means you can show up with all of who you are—and be valued for it.” “Diversity without inclusion is decoration. Inclusion without belonging is just obligation.” “The goal isn’t to erase differences. It’s to appreciate them.”
Connect with Us: Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication
Special Thanks: We’re deeply grateful to Priya Bates for joining this conversation and sharing her leadership, vulnerability, and vision for a more inclusive world of work. Thanks to the entire Local Wisdom and SBX Productions teams for helping us make space for the conversations that matter most.
Let’s Talk About Belonging: Do you feel like you can be yourself at work? What’s helped—or hurt—that feeling? Share your reflections with us on LinkedIn, TikTok, or at whydoesitfeelsowrong.com. Let’s keep making workplaces feel more human, one honest conversation at a time. Connect with Us Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication Bree Bartos – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Special thanks to digital communication agency Local Wisdom (www.localwisdom.com) for really believing in our mission and making this podcast possible.
We also bring these important conversations to conferences and private workshops, creating space for real, meaningful change. Take the first step at www.whydoesitfeelsowrong.com.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Ep 3 | Why Does It Feel So Wrong To Take The Afternoon Off? | 06 Jul 2023 | 00:41:52 | |
Season 1, Episode 3: Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Take the Afternoon Off? Episode Description: Ever feel guilty for stepping away from work before 5 p.m.—even when you’ve met your goals? You’re not alone. In this insightful episode of Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Be Human at Work?, hosts Pinaki Kathiari and Chris Lee take a hard look at how we've been conditioned to treat time as the ultimate currency—and why that’s no longer serving us. From personal stories to historical deep-dives, they break down the emotional and cultural baggage tied to “leaving early,” and how organizations can create healthier, more human-first time policies. They explore:
From bartering wheat to tracking hours with timecards, to tracking outcomes over presence, this episode makes the case for trust as the new workplace currency. Timestamps:
Books & Resources: When: The Scientific Secrets of Perfect Timing by Daniel Pink The Confidence Code by Katty Kay & Claire Shipman Four-Day Workweek Global Pilot Study (2023 Results)
Mic-Drop Moments: “If you don’t have the flexibility to work when you’re at your best—are we really getting your best?” “Unlimited PTO means nothing if the culture tells you not to use it.” “Trust is the new currency of an evolved leader.”
Connect with Us: Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication
Special Thanks: Big shoutout to Local Wisdom for championing people-first work culture, to our brilliant producer Brielle Seracini, and to the production magic of SBX Productions for helping this episode come to life.
Take the Afternoon Off—Then Tell Us About It: Check your calendar. Find a 2–3 hour block in the next two weeks. Schedule a meeting with yourself and label it “Why Does It Feel So Wrong?” Then actually do something that feels right—take a walk, watch a movie, take a nap. Snap a pic and tag us with #WhyDoesItFeelSoWrong. Your future self will thank you. Connect with Us Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication Bree Bartos – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Special thanks to digital communication agency Local Wisdom (www.localwisdom.com) for really believing in our mission and making this podcast possible.
We also bring these important conversations to conferences and private workshops, creating space for real, meaningful change. Take the first step at www.whydoesitfeelsowrong.com.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Ep 2 | Why Does It Feel So Wrong To Say “No” At Work? | 22 Jun 2023 | 00:50:07 | |
Season 1, Episode 2: Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Say “No” at Work? Episode Description: Saying “no” at work feels risky—sometimes even dangerous. But why? In this powerful and vulnerable episode of Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Be Human at Work?, co-hosts Pinaki Kathiari and Chris Lee dig deep into why the simple act of saying “no” can feel like an act of rebellion. Through personal stories, workplace psychology, and reflections on culture and leadership, they unpack how power dynamics, fear, and outdated paradigms have made dissent feel taboo in today’s corporate environment. Together, they explore:
This episode connects history, parenting, neuroscience, and communication strategy into one eye-opening conversation that’ll have you rethinking how your team talks—and how it listens. Timestamps:
Books & Resources:
Mic-Drop Moments: “We’re conditioned to say yes, but innovation depends on the courage to say no.” “Psychological safety isn’t about comfort. It’s about performance without fear.” “If your team can’t disagree with you, you don’t have a team. You have followers.”
Connect with Us: Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication
Special Thanks: To our community of listeners—thank you for creating space for hard truths and human-first leadership. Special shoutout to Brielle Seracini and our production team at SBX Productions for helping us amplify these conversations.
Join the Conversation: When was the last time you said “no” at work—and meant it? Did it feel empowering or terrifying? Share your stories, insights, and questions in the comments or at whydoesitfeelsowrong.com. Connect with Us Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication Bree Bartos – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Special thanks to digital communication agency Local Wisdom (www.localwisdom.com) for really believing in our mission and making this podcast possible.
We also bring these important conversations to conferences and private workshops, creating space for real, meaningful change. Take the first step at www.whydoesitfeelsowrong.com.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Ep 1 | Why Does it Feel So Wrong To Be Human At Work? | 08 Jun 2023 | 00:41:19 | |
Season 1, Episode 1 (Live): Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Be Human at Work? Episode Description: Recorded live at the IABC World Conference 2023 in Toronto, this debut episode kicks off the Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Be Human at Work? podcast with a bold question: Are we slowly unlearning our own humanity at work? Co-hosts Pinaki Kathiari (CEO, Local Wisdom) and Chris Lee (VP at Gallagher, President of IABC Toronto) take the stage to explore why workplace norms—from performance reviews to thank-you notes—often feel mechanical, outdated, or just plain wrong. In front of a live audience, they break down:
This unscripted, high-energy conversation mixes storytelling, audience interaction, and honest reflections on what it really means to be human in today’s corporate culture. Timestamps:
Books & Resources:
Mic-Drop Moments: “Why does it feel wrong to spend five minutes thanking someone, but not five hours chasing a spreadsheet?” “If you have to explain authenticity, it stops being authentic.” “Being human isn’t a distraction from work—it is the work.” Connect with Us: Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication
Special Thanks: A heartfelt thank-you to the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC), María Jesús Villagrán Cabanne, Letty Wong, and the entire IABC World Conference crew for helping us make podcast history on stage. And to our live audience—you brought the energy, vulnerability, and validation this show is all about. Get Curious With Us: What’s one thing you do at work that you’ve never questioned—until now? That’s where the unlearning starts. Hit play, subscribe, and follow along as we unravel the little (and not-so-little) things that make work feel… not-so-human. Visit whydoesitfeelsowrong.com to learn more. Connect with Us Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication Bree Bartos – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Special thanks to digital communication agency Local Wisdom (www.localwisdom.com) for really believing in our mission and making this podcast possible.
We also bring these important conversations to conferences and private workshops, creating space for real, meaningful change. Take the first step at www.whydoesitfeelsowrong.com.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Trailer | 19 Apr 2023 | 00:01:06 | |
Make sure to subscribe to the show! The season begins in June Connect with Us Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication Bree Bartos – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Special thanks to digital communication agency Local Wisdom (www.localwisdom.com) for really believing in our mission and making this podcast possible.
We also bring these important conversations to conferences and private workshops, creating space for real, meaningful change. Take the first step at www.whydoesitfeelsowrong.com.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| My Best Friend Tried To Steal My Job | Part 2 | 09 Apr 2026 | 00:17:16 | |
Last week, Bree read a Reddit story about a young creative whose best friend went to their manager and used her private insecurities against her to try to take her job. Chris and Pinaki reacted in real time. Then Bree told them: that was my story. This week, we pick up right where we left off. Now that Chris and Pinaki know it’s Bree’s own experience, the conversation shifts — from advice to something more honest. Bree fills in what the post left out: how close she and Amy really were, how the comparison and competition showed up in their friendship long before it showed up at work, and how the whole thing ended (spoiler: COVID and a merger did some heavy lifting). But the real reason Bree wanted to share this story isn’t the betrayal. It’s what it left behind: a deep, persistent imposter syndrome that still surfaces even after a great annual review. If someone your best friend thought you weren’t good enough, how do you fully trust yourself again? In this episode, they discuss:
It’s one of the most personal conversations we’ve had on Between the Seasons. And it’s a reminder that the messiest, most human experiences at work are often the ones that shape us the most. --- Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication Bree Bartos – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Special thanks to digital communication agency Local Wisdom (www.localwisdom.com) for really believing in our mission and making this podcast possible.
We also bring these important conversations to conferences and private workshops, creating space for real, meaningful change. Take the first step at www.whydoesitfeelsowrong.com.
| |||
| My Best Friend Tried to Steal My Job | Reddit at Work | 02 Apr 2026 | 00:21:47 | |
In this Between the Seasons episode of Why Does It Feel So Wrong to Be Human at Work?, hosts Chris Lee and Pinaki Kathiari are joined by producer Bree Bartos for a Reddit at Work reaction — or so they think. The post: a young multimedia specialist lands her dream job, befriends a coworker named Amy, and then gets blindsided when Amy goes to their manager and says she doesn’t deserve the role. Years later, OP still carries the imposter syndrome. How do you move on from a betrayal like that? How do you trust your own abilities again? Chris and Pinaki react in real time, unpacking the relationship dynamics, the role of managers in catching toxic team tension before it metastasizes, and why people rarely do things to you — they do things for themselves. The conversation gets personal, and then it gets really personal. Because there’s a twist at the end. In this episode, they discuss:
This is Part 1 of 2. Tune in next week to hear the rest of the story — and find out how knowing the truth changes everything. --- Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication Bree Bartos – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Special thanks to digital communication agency Local Wisdom (www.localwisdom.com) for really believing in our mission and making this podcast possible.
We also bring these important conversations to conferences and private workshops, creating space for real, meaningful change. Take the first step at www.whydoesitfeelsowrong.com.
| |||
| Your Side Hustle Is Showing | Reddit at Work | Nazmul Islam | 26 Mar 2026 | 00:30:32 | |
In this Between the Seasons episode, host Pinaki Kathiari and producer Bree Bartos are joined by Nazmul Islam — communications consultant and creator of History Meets Finance — to react in real time to a Reddit post that hits close to home. The post: two coworkers-turned-best-friends started a podcast together. It began innocently enough, but after a rebrand, the content got raunchy — and then a coworker found it. Now they’re asking Reddit: how do you keep your podcast and your professional life separate? How do you promote something you have to keep secret? The conversation goes deep fast. Nazmul shares his experience declaring his YouTube channel to a former employer and why transparency early is almost always better than damage control later. Bree reveals she spent two years streaming on Twitch in her “E-girl era” and told exactly no one at work. And Pinaki recalls a coworker who accidentally landed on the Yahoo homepage. Together, they work through the real factors: social media policies, conflict of interest, company culture, career risk, and what it actually means to be a whole person in a workplace that maybe only sees part of you. Oh, and Bree finds the podcast mid-episode. The plot thickens. In this episode, they discuss:
It’s a candid, funny, and genuinely useful conversation for anyone who’s ever wondered how much of yourself you’re allowed to bring to work — and how much to keep for yourself. --- Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication Bree Bartos – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom 📺 Check out History Meets Finance - YouTube
We also bring these important conversations to conferences and private workshops, creating space for real, meaningful change. Take the first step at www.whydoesitfeelsowrong.com.
| |||
| Research, AI, & How Good Content Actually Gets Made | Nazmul Islam | 20 Mar 2026 | 00:23:14 | |
In this Between the Seasons episode, host Pinaki Kathiari and producer Bree Bartos welcome Nazmul Islam — communications consultant and creator of History Meets Finance — for a grounded conversation about what it really takes to make thoughtful, well-researched content. Nazmul walks through how his research process has evolved over the years: from solo Googling, to hiring freelancers on Fiverr, to bringing on journalists for deep-dive research. He shares where AI tools like Claude and NotebookLM fit into his workflow now — and importantly, where they don’t replace human judgment. The conversation also covers the challenge of staying consistent on a passion project when no one’s making you do it, what it’s like to look at history and finance side by side, and why media literacy and source transparency matter more than ever in a world saturated with AI-generated content. In this episode, they discuss:
It’s a practical, curious conversation for anyone who creates content, does research-heavy work, or is trying to figure out how to use AI without losing what makes their work worth trusting. Check out History Meets Finance here. Follow Nazmul on LinkedIn.
Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication Bree Bartos – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Special thanks to digital communication agency Local Wisdom (www.localwisdom.com) for really believing in our mission and making this podcast possible.
We also bring these important conversations to conferences and private workshops, creating space for real, meaningful change. Take the first step at www.whydoesitfeelsowrong.com.
| |||
| Community, Rejection, and the Price of Saying Yes | Chuck Gose & Kristin Hancock | 12 Mar 2026 | 00:22:56 | |
In this Between the Seasons episode, Pinaki Kathiari, Chris Lee, and producer Bree Bartos welcome back Chuck Gose and Kristin Hancock — co-founders of ICology — for part two of a conversation that had too much in it to fit into one episode. They pick up right where they left off, exploring what it really takes to build and maintain community — and why it’s often inconvenient by design. The group digs into why some people say they want community but don’t actually follow through, the difference between self-care and isolation, and whether society is quietly retreating from the discomfort that connection requires. Chuck makes a pointed case that saying no has been glamorized as a form of self-care and boundary-setting, while Kristin argues that confidence issues people carry into the workplace are personal development problems — not workplace problems. The conversation builds toward a deeper question: what happens to the next generation of workers who have never had to sit with rejection long enough to grow from it? In this episode, they discuss:
It’s a candid, thought-provoking continuation that goes well beyond internal communications — into the messier, more human questions about connection, growth, and what it costs to show up. If you’re attending Transform 2026 in Vegas, the EX Factor Summit is happening this month. Chuck Gose: LinkedIn Kristin Hancock: LinkedIn ICology: joinicology.com — use code ICLOVE for $50 off your first year Frequency Podcast (Chuck Gose & Jenni Field): Listen Here Friends of Indy Animals (Indianapolis): Learn More Connect with Us Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication Bree Bartos – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Special thanks to digital communication agency Local Wisdom (www.localwisdom.com) for really believing in our mission and making this podcast possible.
We also bring these important conversations to conferences and private workshops, creating space for real, meaningful change. Take the first step at www.whydoesitfeelsowrong.com.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||
| Five Years of ICology — What It Really Takes to Build Community at Work | Chuck Gose & Kristin Hancock | 05 Mar 2026 | 00:35:48 | |
Five years ago, Kristin Hancock sat in a hotel room in Chicago the night before the very first Camp ICology convinced it was a failure. Twelve people had signed up. She’d wanted thirty.
That event turned out to be magic.
In this Between the Seasons episode, hosts Pinaki Kathiari and Chris Lee are joined by Chuck Gose and Kristin Hancock, the co-founders of ICology, to mark five years of building what’s become one of internal communications’ most genuinely human communities. Chuck started ICology as a podcast back in 2015 looking for new voices in internal comms. Kristin built the community that surrounds it. Together, they’ve created something that doesn’t look or feel like anything else in the profession.
The conversation covers the real story of building ICology — the individual outreach, the events that nearly didn’t happen, the moment success looked exactly like failure, and why Chuck says you should take it personally when people don’t show up (and why that’s actually good advice).
They also talk about what’s next: the EX Factor Summit, a new pre-conference mini-summit at Transform 2026 in Las Vegas designed to bring internal communicators into the employee experience conversation in a more hands-on, problem-solving way. And yes, Busta Rhymes is involved.
In this episode, they discuss: • What Kristin and Chuck each brought to ICology — and why both were necessary • Why building community is harder than it looks (and lonelier than you’d expect) • The lesson from 12 people in a room that felt like failure until it didn’t • Why Chuck says to take it personally when people don’t engage • How individualism gets in the way of community — inside and outside of work • Why internal comms needs to stop asking for a seat at the table and start building one • What the EX Factor Summit is, and what attendees will walk away with
If you’re attending Transform 2026 in Vegas, the EX Factor Summit is happening this month. Chuck Gose: LinkedIn Kristin Hancock: LinkedIn ICology: joinicology.com — use code ICLOVE for $50 off your first year EX Factor Summit at Transform 2026: Register Here Frequency Podcast (Chuck Gose & Jenni Field): Listen Here Friends of Indy Animals (Indianapolis): Learn More Connect with Us Pinaki Kathiari – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Chris Lee – LinkedIn | Gallagher Communication Bree Bartos – LinkedIn | Local Wisdom Special thanks to digital communication agency Local Wisdom (www.localwisdom.com) for really believing in our mission and making this podcast possible.
We also bring these important conversations to conferences and private workshops, creating space for real, meaningful change. Take the first step at www.whydoesitfeelsowrong.com.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. | |||