Explore every episode of the podcast How To Survive Your Boss

Navigating workplace trust is one of those career lessons nobody actually teaches you — and in this episode of How to Survive Your Boss, Rajni Dhanjani drops the kind of real, hard-earned wisdom that only comes from years of battle scars across startups, corporate environments, creative agencies, and everything in between. From growing up in a cultural household that didn't quite match the room she walked into at her very first job, to managing toxic bosses, office politics, and the fine line between work bestie and professional liability — Rajni gets into all of it. She and hosts Kiana and Tara unpack why blindly trusting your coworkers (or your company) is one of the most costly early-career mistakes you can make, how to build a "professional persona" that protects you without killing your authentic self, and why being a human at work — not just an employee — is the single most underrated career skill. Whether you're fresh out of school, climbing the corporate ladder, or rebuilding after getting burned, this episode is exactly the conversation you didn't know you needed.

Key Takeaways:

• 🚨 Don't trust blindly — but don't go full cynic either. There's a difference between selective trust and walking into the office assuming everyone is out to get you. Find the middle ground.

• 🪞 You are a human first, an employee second. It took an entire MBA class 10 minutes to answer "what are you when you walk into work?" — and someone finally said a human. Don't forget that.

• 🎭 Build your professional persona. Your persona isn't fake — it's your authentic self with just enough protective distance. Think of it as your armor and your sparkle at the same time.

• 👀 Observe before you trust. People tell you who they are through their behavior, their talking points, and how they treat others. Pay attention before you open up.

• 🤫 Be careful who you vent to at work. If someone gossips with you, they'll gossip about you. There are no different rules for the workplace than there are for life.

• 💡 Be intentional about your workplace relationships. Don't rely on natural social instincts — work relationships require deliberate strategy, especially when promotions and visibility are on the line.

• 🧠 Bring your spidey senses to work. The same instincts you use to fact-check Instagram content or spot a red flag in dating? Use those at the office too.

• 🧭 Know your environment before you trust it. Company culture, regional culture, leadership style, and team dynamics all change what's appropriate — read the room, always.

• 📣 How you pitch an idea matters as much as the idea itself. "This is stupid" closes doors. "Help me understand this, because I think there might be another way" opens them.

💪 Don't lose yourself — even when it gets really bad. Getting burned doesn't mean you give up on who you are. Your career is yours. You have every right to be there.

TIMESTAMPS:

0:30 — Intro & guest welcome

2:34 — "Don't trust too easily" — Rajni's #1 career advice

4:06 — Don't go full cynical; keep your humanity

6:02 — You're a human at work, not just an employee

13:55 — Reading the room: spotting red flags in people

17:51 — Corporate vs. agency cultures — different animals

20:00 — Slack is not your friend; assume everything is monitored

25:19 — The "work bestie" trap and trauma bonding

26:35 — Specific story: gossiping with a coworker backfires

28:00 — Company culture reflects leadership character

37:55 — Don't bring your emotional needs to work

45:11 — School dynamics vs. workplace dynamics

56:41 — How to navigate trust with your boss

59:10 — Finding your "persona" — the balance between authentic and strategic

1:01:09 — Being intentional with workplace relationships

1:03:44 — Rajni's socials & wrap-up

1:07:32 — Top 5 takeaways from the episode

What does it actually look like to build a career without borders — and still thrive? In this episode, Kiana sits down with Kristine Young, an OG digital nomad and global marketing executive who has lived and worked across 8+ countries, from Russia to Hong Kong to South America, long before remote work was even a buzzword. Kristine gets real about ditching pre-med at Berkeley, ignoring the naysayers (including her own parents), and chasing a life that felt fully hers. She breaks down how she built a powerhouse career at brands like Adidas and Levi's while moving across continents, how to get credit for your work when you're not in the room, and why your network is only as strong as the real friendships behind it. Whether you're dreaming of working abroad, going remote, or just trying to stop living someone else's life plan — this one's for you.

Key Takeaways:

• ✈️ How Kristine went from pre-med at Berkeley to working across 8+ countries with zero blueprint

• 🌍 Why choosing a globally-relevant career (like marketing) makes the nomadic lifestyle a strength, not a liability

• 🧠 The mindset shift that made her walk away from med school — and why she has zero regrets

• 🏢 How to stay high-performing and respected at work even when you're remote or halfway around the world

• 📣 The real way to get credit for your work (hint: it's not just working hard in silence)

• 🤝 Why your colleagues become your best career currency — and how friendships, not just contacts, land you your next role

• 🌐 The non-negotiable traits you need to thrive in international business: flexibility, adaptability, and clear communication

• 📅 Small but powerful ways to show cultural respect that make you the easiest person in the room to work with

• 🗺️ What it was really like working for Adidas across 14 Asia-Pacific markets — Tokyo, Seoul, Beijing Olympics and all

• 💡 Why you don't have to choose between your career and the life you actually want to live

Timestamps:

0:00 Intro & guest introduction

3:39 How Kristine got started — medicine to travel

4:43 First international trip to Peru

5:17 Working & living in Russia

6:51 Quitting medicine & moving to South America

13:24 Building your personal brand & reputation

15:08 Self-promotion & getting credit at work

21:00 Networking — knowing people is key

22:02 The Adidas story — coffee to job offer in Hong Kong

26:16 Building a network early in your career

30:01 Maintaining your network over time

32:37 Key traits for international business

44:08 Adulting as a nomad — healthcare, taxes, laundry

53:36 Favorite country — Hong Kong & APAC marketing at Adidas

57:23 Wrap-up & call to action

In this episode, Kiana and Tara sit down with former Google and Amazon manager Jasper Seldin to crack the code on workplace success. Drawing from over a decade of experience in big tech and people leadership, Jasper shares actionable strategies for navigating office politics, managing difficult bosses, and accelerating your career. They discuss how to identify a rational manager, why your boss's boss is the most important person to impress, and how to advocate for your work so effectively that others promote it for you. Whether you're feeling stuck, misunderstood, or just ready to level up, this conversation is packed with tactical advice for working smarter and building a career that thrives.

Key Takeaways:

🎯 Reframe your manager as a human ally, not a corporate obstacle. Success comes from aligning your work with their goals.

📈 Master the art of the 2–3 sentence "win." Package your accomplishments so clearly that your boss can't help but share them upward.

⚠️ Learn to spot an irrational manager—poor communication, disorganization, misplaced priorities—and develop a plan before it derails your growth.

🫅 Your real job is to make your manager look good to their boss. Always tie your work to the organization's top-tier objectives.

🔒 Audit your social media like a hiring manager would. Your digital footprint can be the difference between a promotion and a pink slip.

Timestamps:

0:31 Intro & Jasper's background

4:50 Core advice: See your boss as human & align with their goals

7:47 Rational vs. irrational managers

16:33 What the boss's boss cares about & how to align

19:08 Advocating for yourself: situation-behavior-impact format

24:51 Specialize early & balance menial vs. strategic work

28:17 Why the boss's boss strategy works (even for introverts)

36:27 Work-life balance & finding purpose beyond the grind

43:35 Social media & career risk

54:13 Tech overhiring & STAR interview format

In this episode of "How to Survive Your Boss," Kiana and Tara welcome Keesha Jean-Baptiste, a seasoned HR and leadership expert with a unique background in marketing and talent management. Keesha shares hard-earned wisdom on navigating workplace politics, truth-telling, and compassionate leadership. Drawing from her extensive career—from agency HR roles to founding her own company—she offers practical advice on managing up, understanding organizational dynamics, and fostering healthier work environments.

🔍 Key Takeaways:

😶 Truth-telling isn’t always welcome – Not every leader is ready to hear unfiltered feedback. Understanding their priorities, pressures, and political landscape is key before sharing hard truths.

🫂 Build political capital through relationships – Influence in the workplace often depends on trust, rapport, and perceived value—not just on being right.

🎭 HR carries a stigma – Many see HR as protecting the company, not the people. Breaking that perception requires consistent advocacy, empathy, and human-centered actions.

🧠 Actions reveal intent – Watch what leaders do, not just what they say. Patterns of behavior show whether someone is operating with integrity and compassion—or just performing.

🐾 Share your truth safely – If you can’t speak up at work, confide in a trusted friend, pet, or even an AI chatbot. Getting it out is important for your mental health.

💬 Feedback framing matters – When voicing concerns, position them as collaborative problem-solving rather than criticism. Example: “Here’s a challenge I see—what’s your take on how we might approach it?”

❤️ Compassionate leadership transforms culture – Keesha now teaches compassionate leadership, emphasizing that workplaces should enable people to come home with good news—not just stress and frustration.

🛡️ Job hugging is real – In today’s economy, many employees are clinging to their roles despite poor treatment, making it even harder to speak up or leave toxic environments.

📚 HR is more than hiring & firing – It encompasses People (well-being, experience), Talent (skills, growth), and Culture (environment, behavior)—all vital to organizational health.

Keesha also introduces her Compassionate Leadership Certification program, designed to help leaders and teams foster more supportive, human-centered workplaces. If you’re struggling with a difficult boss, navigating office politics, or just trying to share your truth without backlash—this episode is for you.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 – Introduction and guest welcome

00:33 – Keesha’s career journey: from marketing to HR leadership

05:01 – The hard lesson: Not every leader wants to hear the truth

07:45 – The role of political capital and relationship currency at work

10:48 – How to tell if a leader is using information for good or bad

13:41 – Fragile egos, psychological safety, and giving/receiving feedback

18:57 – Personal story: A truth-telling failure with a new manager

22:46 – The HR stigma: Being seen as a label, not a person

27:24 – Flipping the script: Why bosses struggle with truth

30:11 – The true, expanded role of HR: People, Talent, and Culture

36:02 – The humanity problem in HR scripts and layoffs

40:26 – “Job Hugging” in a tough economy vs. the “Great Resignation”

43:24 – Should you still speak your truth? How and where to share safely

49:35 – A powerful leadership model: “Come home with good news”

51:11 – Introducing the Compassionate Leadership Certification

Ever dealt with simmering team drama, clashing egos with your boss, or department wars that kill productivity? Kiana and Tara sit down with Lisa Pomerantz—a powerhouse lawyer, mom, golfer, and mediation expert from Colorado—who has navigated litigation, in-house counsel roles, and now runs her own business helping people resolve workplace conflicts. Lisa breaks down what mediators really do (hint: it’s not just lawyer stuff), identifies sneaky conflict triggers like unclear roles or misaligned incentives, and shares compelling stories from medical practices and beyond where she transformed resentment into teamwork. Perfect for anyone searching “workplace conflict resolution,” “how to mediate at work,” “survive a toxic boss,” or “team mediation tips”—tune in to learn practical strategies for smarter confrontations, empathetic feedback, and navigating the double standards women face in high-stakes workplaces.

Key Takeaways
🧠 Spot conflict roots: Unclear roles, clashing incentives, or management blind spots fuel most workplace issues—dig deeper before reacting.
⚖️ Mediation magic: Neutral professionals like mediators or ombuds facilitate conversations, uncover hidden issues, and create collaborative agreements for teams.
👥 Shift perspectives: Step into others’ shoes—empathy tools can turn resentment into collaboration, as seen in Lisa’s multicultural medical team turnaround.
💬 Feedback finesse: Frame critiques as shared goals (“We both want this done right”), allow graceful exits, and pause to respond thoughtfully instead of reacting emotionally.
🚀 Boss battle strategies: Reframe conflicts as shared problems; if toxicity continues, it may be time to polish your résumé—protecting your peace beats constant stress.
👩‍💼 Women at work: With narrower margins for error, lean into strengths like advocacy and negotiation; push for company-wide training to level the playing field.
🛡️ Proactive peace: Don’t avoid conflict—address it early with respectful communication or involve EAPs/ombuds before small issues escalate.

In the explosive season one finale, Kiana and Tara tackle the ultimate workplace power move: quitting. They break down everything from the strategic two-week notice and the burnout bailout to the cathartic rage quit and the modern quiet quit. Drawing from personal horror stories and professional experiences—including counteroffers, toxic managers, and revenge-worthy exit interviews—they provide a raw, practical guide on how to leave a job on your own terms. Learn how to recognize the final red flags, protect yourself legally and financially, and walk away without burning bridges (unless you absolutely need to). This episode is your permission slip to bet on yourself and reclaim your career.

🎤 Know Your Exit Strategy – From the professional (two-week notice) to the passionate (rage quit) to the passive (quiet quitting), understand the pros and cons of every way to leave.

🔥 To Burn or Not to Burn Bridges – Learn when it’s strategic to leave a bridge intact and when lighting it on fire is not only justified but necessary for your well-being.

📄 Protect Yourself, Paper Trails Matter – A crucial checklist for your final days: final paychecks, PTO payout, exit paperwork, and equipment returns.

😮 The Boss’s POV on Being Quit On – Hear firsthand from Kiana about the shock, the guilt trips, and the management lessons learned when employees leave.

💡 Quitting Isn’t Failure, It’s Leveling Up – Debunk the myth that you must have another job lined up. Sometimes, leaving a toxic environment is the most strategic career and health decision you can make.

🚩 Red Flags on Your Way Out – Identify toxic final responses from employers, from guilt-tripping and gaslighting to trash-talking and delaying your final pay.

Listen for unforgettable stories, including the hotel pay-stub rage quit, the Slack-message resignation, and the email with the haunting smiley face. If you’re debating quitting, this episode is your sign.

In this episode, Kiana and Tara are back with Part 2 of their boldest conversation yet — all about getting fired. From Kiana’s first nerve-wracking experience firing someone to the lessons she learned after being fired herself, this episode dives deep into the boss’s point of view, real workplace red flags, and how being let go can actually be the best thing that ever happened to you. Whether you’ve been fired, done the firing, or fear it’s coming, this raw and funny conversation will leave you feeling empowered and a little less alone.✨ Learned lessons from both sides of the firing table🔥 What makes a boss decide “it’s time” — and how they prepare💡 Red flags before a firing (and why surprise terminations are toxic)🌱 Why getting fired might be a redirection, not a failure💬 How to handle the emotional aftermath and protect your confidence🚨 Common myths about unemployment and “cause” explained🧠 Kiana’s advice on reframing your firing story to strengthen your careerGetting fired doesn’t have to be the end — it can be your turning point. Tune in to hear Kiana and Tara unpack the uncomfortable truths, find humor in hard moments, and remind you to always keep your receipts and trust your gut.

In this episode, Kiana and Tara tackle one of the most anxiety-inducing topics in the workplace — getting fired. From the moment you sense something’s off to the final meeting with HR, this candid and hilarious conversation breaks down how firings really happen, what red flags to watch for, and how to protect yourself legally and financially. They cover everything from employment-at-will laws, performance improvement plans (PIPs), company culture fit excuses, and retaliation and discrimination cases to understanding your rights when it comes to unemployment benefits and severance agreements. Whether you’ve been let go, are worried about being next, or just want to learn how to recognize warning signs, this episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the realities of modern employment.

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

💼 Understanding employment-at-will and why you can be fired anytime 🚩 Red flags that signal you might be on the chopping block 📄 What a Performance Improvement Plan (PIP) really means ⚖️ Legal considerations: retaliation, discrimination, and your rights 💰 Unemployment benefits and severance — when you qualify and when you don’t 🧠 How to protect yourself: paper trails, reading contracts, and not signing away your rights 😂 Real talk on toxic bosses, scapegoat firings, and “soft” resignations

In this episode, Kiana and Tara dive deep into the realities of getting laid off—what it actually means, how to navigate it, and how it differs from getting fired. They break down everything from severance packages to red flags, and even share the behind-the-scenes perspective of managers and HR. Whether you’ve just been laid off, know someone who has, or want to stay prepared, this episode is packed with eye-opening insights and practical advice.

Key Takeaways: 🔍 Layoffs ≠ Getting Fired – Understand the legal and emotional differences. 📉 Reasons for Layoffs – Budget cuts, automation, outsourcing, mergers, poor leadership decisions, and more. 🛑 Red Flags – Sudden lockouts, no communication, waves of layoffs without leadership accountability. 🧾 Severance Tips – Why you should never sign on the spot and how to review your separation agreement. 🧠 Mindset Shift – A layoff is not a reflection of your talent or worth. 🧘‍♀️ Processing Emotions – Give yourself time to grieve, regroup, and rebuild confidence. 🧠 HR’s True Role – They're not your therapist—they’re there to protect the company. 🧠 Document Everything – Keep records, download important files, and protect yourself. 📉 Tech Industry Watch – Over 260,000 tech layoffs in 2023. Stay prepared. 🤝 Support Your Peers – Reach out, offer help, and keep networking strong.

SEO Keywords: layoffs, tech layoffs, getting laid off, severance package advice, COBRA insurance, WARN Act, HR role in layoffs, workplace red flags, career transition, job loss recovery, layoff survivor’s guilt, workplace automation, job restructuring, employment rights, layoff mental health

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 Introduction to Workplace Separation

01:20 Understanding Layoffs: Causes and Types

16:09 The Layoff Process: What to Expect

29:18 Employer's Perspective on Layoffs

36:25 Generational Perspectives on Work and Layoffs

36:53 Coping with Toxic Work Environments

38:02 Supporting Laid-Off Colleagues

38:39 Understanding Layoffs vs. Firings

42:02 HR's Role in Layoffs

46:53 Red Flags During Layoffs

01:00:20 Survivor's Guilt and Company Culture

01:02:05 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of How to Survive Your Boss, Kiana and Tara dive deep into the world of BONUSES — those elusive one-time payouts that can make (or break) your morale and finances. From performance and sign-on bonuses to holiday gifts and red flags, this episode covers it all. Kiana shares insights from her experience as both an employee and a boss, revealing truths most companies don’t tell you. Whether you're negotiating your first job offer or navigating end-of-year reviews, this episode is your go-to guide for making sense of bonus structures — and making sure you’re not leaving money on the table.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

💸 Not all bonuses are created equal — Learn the difference between performance, profit-sharing, sign-on, retention, spot, referral, and discretionary bonuses.

📉 Bonuses aren’t guaranteed — Even if it’s written in your offer letter, it’s often still “discretionary.”

📆 Timing is everything — You usually have to be employed at the time of payout to receive your bonus.

📋 Know the fine print — Watch out for vague language, ever-changing structures, unrealistic goals, and stock-based bonuses with long vesting periods.

🔍 Ask smart questions — Always clarify how bonuses are calculated, who decides them, when they’re paid, and what’s expected of you.

🚩 Red flags to avoid — From inconsistent bonus criteria to “pizza party” culture instead of real compensation, recognize the signs of poor leadership.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 Introduction to Bonuses

00:55 Types of Bonuses

01:06 Performance and Profit Sharing Bonuses

02:53 Sign-On and Retention Bonuses

04:28 Spot and Holiday Bonuses

05:48 Referral and Discretionary Bonuses

07:39 Understanding Bonus Structures

09:43 Boss's Perspective on Bonuses

17:49 Common Misconceptions About Bonuses

25:40 Red Flags in Bonus Agreements

26:09 Understanding Vague Contract Language

26:59 Historical Payouts and Red Flags

28:08 Employment Status and Bonus Payouts

32:25 Discretionary Bonuses and Criteria

37:07 Company Performance-Based Bonuses

38:12 Transparency and Timelines

39:24 Equity and Stock-Based Bonuses

47:30 Changing Bonus Structures

48:46 Final Thoughts on Bonuses

In this episode, Kiana and Tara break down the reality of promotions in the corporate world—what they really mean, the types you’ll encounter, how to ask for one, and red flags to watch out for. From vertical moves to honorary pizza party titles, they uncover the strategy, timing, and politics that go into climbing the career ladder. If you're wondering why you're stuck in your role or how to position yourself for growth, this episode is a masterclass in self-advocacy and smart corporate navigation.

🎯 Key Takeaways

• 🔺 Different Types of Promotions: Vertical, lateral, skills-based, honorary, cross-functional, and more—know the difference to know your worth.
  

• 💰 Dry & Title-Only Promotions: Why getting more responsibility without a raise can be a major red flag.
  

• 📣 Ask & Advocate: Promotions aren’t handed out—they’re earned through visibility, networking, and strategic self-promotion.
  

• 🧠 Mentality Check: Hard work isn’t always enough—timing, perception, and company politics play a huge role.
  

• 🚩 Red Flags to Watch: From vague promotion processes to being asked to “act the part” with no reward, learn how to protect your growth.
  

• 📊 How to Actually Get Promoted: Volunteer strategically, network across teams, express interest clearly, and document everything.
  

Whether you're early in your career or aiming for that next step up, this episode offers a real-talk guide to navigating promotions like a boss. No fluff—just truth bombs and actionable advice.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 Introduction and Catching Up

01:00 Types of Promotions Explained

01:32 Vertical and Lateral Promotions

02:23 Dry and Temporary Promotions

03:26 Honorary and Skills-Based Promotions

06:17 Dual Track and Cross-Functional Promotions

07:07 Title Only Promotions and Expanded Scope

08:10 Contractual and Tenure-Based Promotions

17:10 How to Get a Promotion

26:53 Boss POV: Giving Promotions

29:34 The Journey to Management

30:06 Expressing Career Goals

31:42 The Reality of Promotions

35:01 Taking Ownership of Your Growth

39:20 Red Flags in Promotions

52:53 Concluding Thoughts on Promotions

In this episode,  Kiana and Tara dive deep into the world of raises, breaking down the different types, how they work, and—most importantly—how to advocate for the raise you deserve. From merit-based increases and COLA (cost of living adjustments) to equity grants, spot bonuses, and promotion-related bumps, this episode offers practical advice, entertaining real-life stories, and a healthy dose of corporate reality. Learn how to track your contributions, recognize red flags, and navigate tricky conversations with confidence. If you've ever wondered when—or how—to ask for a raise, this one's for you.

💼 Key Takeaways:

🧠 Understand the Types of Raises: From merit and COLA to promotions, market adjustments, and stock-based compensation.

💰 Raises vs. Bonuses: Spot bonuses may feel rewarding, but they’re not the same as long-term pay increases—know the difference.

🧾 Paper Trail = Power: Track your accomplishments and quantify your contributions to build a strong case.

🔥 Red Flags to Watch: Vague promises, stalled conversations, no transparency, and promotion with no raise.

📊 Advocate Like a Pro: The right time to ask for a raise is when you’ve earned it—not when someone hands it to you.

🗣️ Boss POV: Get insight from Kiana’s leadership experience—what works, what backfires, and what not to do.

🚨 Game the System: Raises aren’t just about merit—they're about timing, relationships, and playing smart within company politics.

If you're navigating career growth, performance reviews, or simply tired of the pizza-party compensation culture, this episode helps you take control of your paycheck trajectory.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 Introduction to Raises

01:06 Types of Raises

04:01 Forms of Raises

07:06 How to Get a Raise

15:06 Manager's Perspective on Raises

20:13 Economic Factors and Raises

30:34 Advocating for Yourself

32:56 Unexpected Raises and Career Growth

33:48 Corporate Priorities and Compensation

34:08 Advocating for Non-Monetary Compensation

34:42 Misconception: Cost of Living Adjustments

35:50 Negotiation Tactics and Knowing Your Worth

38:54 Red Flags in Raise Discussions

52:09 The Importance of Transparency in Pay

58:54 Conclusion and Next Steps

In this episode of How to Survive Your Boss, Kiana and Tara dive deep into the world of performance reviews — what they are, why they matter, and how to navigate them without losing your sanity. Whether you’re dreading your first annual review or questioning the quality of feedback from your manager, this episode breaks down the different types, formats, and red flags to watch for. From real-life horror stories to actionable advice on self-advocacy and documentation, Kiana shares everything you need to protect your career, build a brag file, and survive even the shadiest of managers. If you've ever walked out of a review confused, frustrated, or gaslit — this one’s for you.

💡 Key Takeaways:

• 📋 Understand the purpose and structure of performance reviews — from self-assessments to 360 feedback.
  

• 🛠️ Different formats exist: written, scorecard, narrative, and binary — know what your company uses.
  

• 🚩 Major red flags to look out for: vague feedback, moving goalposts, no documentation, or all criticism with zero recognition.
  

• 🧠 Shift your mindset: Keeping your head down won’t get you noticed. Self-advocacy and visibility are essential.
  

• 📝 Create a brag file — track wins weekly to make performance reviews (and resume writing!) way easier.
  

• 🗣️ Not all feedback is created equal — only internalize input from people you respect or want to emulate.
  

• 🧨 Toxic reviews say more about the company than they do about you — assess the culture too.

  
  

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 Introduction to Performance Reviews

01:13 Purpose and Importance of Performance Reviews

02:18 Types of Performance Reviews

08:47 Formats and Methods of Performance Reviews

20:50 Common Misconceptions about Performance Reviews

27:37 Reflecting on Work Experiences and Feedback

28:12 Understanding Relevant Feedback

30:43 Handling Performance Reviews

33:05 Identifying Red Flags in Feedback

46:17 Concluding Thoughts on Performance Reviews

In this episode, Kiana and Tara dive deep into the nuanced world of taking time off from work. From standard paid time off (PTO) to legally protected leaves like FMLA and disability leave, they explore the many options available to employees. Kiana brings in her experience as a team leader to explain the boss’s point of view, shares practical steps on how to take time off responsibly, and highlights the cultural and legal differences across companies and countries. The episode also addresses common misconceptions, red flags in toxic work environments, and the evolving mindset around mental health, burnout, and boundaries in the workplace.

Whether you're negotiating a new job offer or unsure how to use your unlimited PTO without guilt, this episode will give you the clarity and confidence to take the break you deserve.

✨ Key Takeaways:

• 🏖️ Types of Time Off: Standard PTO, sick leave, holidays, floating holidays, sabbaticals, bereavement, and medical/mental health leave.
  

• ⚖️ Legally Protected Leave: FMLA, jury duty, disability leave, and paid family leave depending on your state.
  

• 💼 Policy Insights: Accrued vs. front-loaded PTO, unlimited PTO culture, and how to avoid giving away your unpaid vacation.
  

• 🧠 Boss POV: How managers think about time off and why good communication is key.
  

• 🚩 Red Flags: Guilt-tripping managers, retaliatory behavior post-PTO, or “unlimited PTO” that no one actually uses.
  

• 🧘‍♀️ Mental Health Matters: Don’t wait for burnout—PTO is part of your compensation, not a luxury.
  

• 📆 Planning Tips: Start with your employee handbook, notify your manager, block your calendar, and prep a handoff doc.
  

• 🌍 Global Perspective: Europe’s PTO culture vs. US standards—why it might be time to consider a move!

TIMESTAMPS:00:00 Introduction to Time Off

00:56 Types of Paid Time Off

01:19 Vacation and Sick Days

03:54 Personal and Floating Holidays

05:49 Legally Protected Leave

06:20 Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

07:06 Paid Family Leave and Jury Duty

08:19 Military Leave and Leave of Absence

10:18 Disability and Medical Leave

13:39 Mental Health Leave

14:19 Life Event Specific Leave

15:31 PTO Policies and Accrual

17:19 Unlimited PTO and Banked PTO

21:53 Requesting Time Off

25:19 Submitting Your PTO Request

25:39 Preparing for Time Off

27:39 Types of Leave: Bereavement, Paternity, and Sabbatical

29:51 Boss's Perspective on PTO

33:38 Misconceptions About Taking Time Off

40:32 Red Flags When Taking Time Off

47:30 Conclusion: Time Off is a Right, Not a Privilege

In this episode, Kiana and Tara explore the vital role one-on-one meetings play in professional development and team communication. They break down what these meetings should look like, how to prepare for them, common misconceptions, and red flags to watch out for. Whether you're a new employee or a seasoned professional, this conversation will help you take charge of your one-on-ones and make them work for you.Key Takeaways:

Purpose of One-on-Ones: These meetings are private, dedicated time with your manager to discuss progress, challenges, feedback, career goals, and workplace concerns.

Types of One-on-Ones

• Regular check-ins (weekly, biweekly, or monthly)

• Performance reviews

• Career development discussions

• Feedback sessions

• Project-based updates

How to Lead the Meeting

• Come prepared with an agenda and discussion topics

• Share accomplishments and advocate for your needs

• Send follow-up notes to document feedback and action items

Mentality Shift

• Use this time to talk about your growth—not just status updates

• Remember: your manager isn’t a mind reader—clearly express your needs and goals

Red Flags to Watch For

• Frequent cancellations without reason

• Meetings focused only on status updates

• No discussion of your growth or development

• Manager dominates the conversation or offers only negative feedback

• Dismissal of concerns, gaslighting, or boundary violations

• No mention of promotions, raises, or long-term goals

Pro Tip: Where legally allowed, record or transcribe your one-on-ones to keep a clear record of discussions and commitments.TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 Introduction to One-on-Ones00:44 Understanding the Purpose of One-on-Ones01:27 Common Issues with One-on-Ones03:40 Different Types of One-on-Ones07:27 Standard One-on-One Formats10:42 Boss's Perspective on One-on-Ones17:01 Maximizing Your One-on-One Meetings25:10 The Wrong Mentality in One-on-Ones26:52 Taking Control of Your One-on-One Meetings28:40 Preparing for Effective One-on-Ones31:22 Red Flags in One-on-Ones35:24 Handling Gaslighting and Toxic Environments48:06 Concluding Thoughts on One-on-Ones

In this episode, host Kiana and her sister Tara dive into the often confusing—and sometimes deceptive—process of onboarding at a new job. They break down what onboarding really entails, the different types of onboarding, and how to spot early red flags in a company’s culture. Whether you’re starting your first job or navigating a corporate role, this episode provides actionable insights to help you make the most of your onboarding experience—and avoid toxic workplaces.

Onboarding is a trial period for both you and the company. The first 90 days are critical for assessing fit—don’t ignore red flags just because you're excited about the job.

• Formal vs. Informal — Structured training vs. learning through experience.

• Tactical vs. Strategic — Administrative tasks vs. culture immersion and long-term growth.

• Cohort-Based vs. Individual — Group training (common in corporate roles) vs. role-specific onboarding.

• Horizontal vs. Vertical — Broad company exposure vs. deep dive into your department.

Onboarding is a prime opportunity to build allies across departments. These connections can support you later in your career.

Red Flags in Onboarding:

• Disorganized or nonexistent onboarding

• Lack of role clarity or bait-and-switch job descriptions

• Unrealistic workloads or no work at all (poor management)

• Difficulty accessing resources or key people (dysfunction)

• High turnover and disengaged employees (toxic culture)

• No work-life balance (e.g., bosses ignoring boundaries)

• Negative or manipulative leadership (e.g., blame-shifting, gaslighting)

• Resistance to feedback or questions (lack of investment in your success)

Onboarding reveals a company’s true culture. If they can’t onboard you well, they likely won’t support your long-term growth.

Stay skeptical. The onboarding “honeymoon phase” can mask problems—keep evaluating if the job aligns with your goals.

Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction to Onboarding
00:15 Welcome to the Podcast
00:49 Understanding Onboarding Basics
03:25 Phases of Onboarding
13:30 Types of Onboarding
22:00 Boss's Perspective on Onboarding
25:42 Corporate Meetings and Their Purpose
26:20 The Importance of Mentality in Onboarding
26:52 Common Misconceptions About Onboarding
27:36 Networking During Onboarding
29:49 Onboarding as a Mutual Evaluation Period
32:45 Red Flags in Onboarding
35:50 The Impact of Poor Onboarding
38:28 Telltale Signs of a Dysfunctional Company
48:31 Concluding Thoughts on Onboarding

Kiana and Tara delve into the interview process from the other side of the table, exploring the perspective of the hiring manager and highlighting crucial red flags for job seekers to watch out for. They discuss why many bosses find interviewing challenging and offer valuable insights into making a positive and memorable impression. This is the second and final part of their deep dive into interviews.

Key Takeaways:

• Bosses often dislike conducting interviews, similar to how candidates feel about being interviewed.

• Managers often form an initial impression of a candidate very quickly, sometimes within the first five minutes.

• It's essential to recognize potential red flags during the interview process that might indicate a negative work environment. (While the specific red flags aren't detailed in this snippet, the episode emphasizes their importance.)

• Interviewers are also trying to determine if a candidate is a good fit, just as the candidate is evaluating the company.

• Preparing authentic and memorable stories and examples is crucial for standing out to interviewers who may be speaking with numerous candidates.

• Tailoring your "tell me about yourself" answer with genuine and unique details can make a significant impact.

• Asking thoughtful and informed questions about the company and the manager demonstrates your engagement and helps you assess if the opportunity is right for you.

• Approaching the interview as a conversation can make the experience more positive for both the interviewer and the interviewee.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 Introduction and Personal Anecdote

00:20 Welcome to Part Two: Interview Insights

00:31 The Boss's Perspective on Interviews

02:55 Memorable Interview Moments

07:17 Mentality Check: Interviews as First Dates

07:52 Misconceptions About Job Interviews

15:38 Researching the Company and Manager

25:09 Identifying Red Flags in Interviews

26:11 Disorganization and Unpreparedness

27:15 Vague Work Expectations

28:36 Team Turnover and Negative Talk

30:16 Overpromising and Overtime Expectations

32:44 Gratitude and Hard to Work For

33:56 Handling Interruptions and Success Metrics

35:10 Company Culture and Inappropriate Questions

36:40 Passive Aggression and Immediate Job Offers

38:32 Work-Life Balance and Gut Instincts

40:08 Reverse Interview Questions

50:11 Final Thoughts and Key Highlights

Kiana kicks off season one with her sister Tara, who is navigating the early stages of her career. In this first part of their discussion, they delve into the crucial topic of job interviews. Kiana shares insights and experiences, highlighting that understanding the interview process is the first step in navigating workplace dynamics, even before you land the job. They begin by breaking down the fundamental types of interviews.

Key Takeaways:

• There are two main types of interviews: structured interviews with predefined questions and unstructured interviews that are more conversational.

• The typical interview process includes application submission (resume, cover letter, portfolio), internal screening (often automated using AI and applicant tracking systems), a phone screening with HR, an interview with the hiring manager, and potentially further interviews.

• After the final interview, there are reference checks, background screenings, and then the offer and negotiation stage.

• It's important to take time to consider an offer and to negotiate your salary.

• Common interview formats include phone interviews, one-on-one interviews (often via Zoom), panel interviews, behavioral interviews, technical interviews, group interviews, and pre-recorded/AI-driven interviews.

• Preparing a good elevator pitch is essential, as is being ready to discuss your resume.

This is part 1 of the episode. Tune in for the second part to hear more insights and tips on navigating the job interview process!

Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction to Corporate Survival
00:26 Welcome to the Podcast
01:20 Types of Interviews
02:32 Application Process
04:47 Screening and Phone Interviews
08:29 Interview with Hiring Manager
10:32 Offer and Negotiation
14:07 Common Interview Styles
15:57 Behavioral and Technical Interviews
18:49 Group and AI-Driven Interviews
22:35 Preparing for Interview Questions
28:11 Handling Expired Coupons: A Retail Dilemma
29:44 Interview Feedback: Demonstrating Independence
31:58 Behavioral Questions and the STAR Method
32:30 Situational Questions: Real-Life Scenarios
33:37 Technical and Job-Specific Questions
35:19 Cultural Fit and Personality Questions
41:47 Salary Expectations and Negotiations
50:44 Reverse Interview Questions: Evaluating the Company

In this episode, Kiana introduces her new podcast, How to Survive Your Boss. She shares her personal journey through toxic work environments and explains why she’s passionate about helping others navigate corporate politics. She discusses how bad leadership impacts mental health, why people stay in toxic jobs, and her mission to break the cycle of workplace dysfunction by providing the knowledge many don’t receive through traditional education.

What You’ll Learn:

• No one prepares you for navigating difficult bosses—colleges don’t teach it, HR won’t warn you, and experienced workers often gatekeep this knowledge

• Your career success depends heavily on your boss, not just your hard work

• Bad bosses can significantly damage your mental and physical health

• We often stay in toxic jobs because we normalize dysfunction, are conditioned to be grateful for employment, or believe we’re the problem

• Corporate culture frequently shifts blame downward, making employees question themselves rather than recognizing systemic issues

• Privileged knowledge about workplace navigation creates significant inequality in career opportunities

• Younger generations are rejecting toxic workplace practices, creating friction with established corporate cultures

• Trust between companies and employees has eroded, leading to job-hopping every two years becoming normalized

Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction: The Unspoken Truth About Surviving Your Boss
00:11 The Harsh Realities of Corporate Life
01:39 Why This Podcast Exists
02:48 Meet Your Host: Kiana
05:00 The Importance of Managing Your Boss
05:51 The Impact of Bad Bosses on Mental Health
09:15 Why We Stay in Toxic Jobs
15:33 Breaking the Cycle of Toxic Workplaces
19:49 The Privilege of Knowledge and Mentorship
23:51 Generational Shifts in Workplace Mentality
25:44 The Evolving Corporate Landscape
28:08 What to Expect in Season One