What Happens at Work – Details, episodes & analysis

The bad boss—a work experience many of us unfortunately share. In this episode, former colleagues JJ and Brian recount how they handled a challenging company-wide acquisition and a difficult new manager. Then we hear from Heather R. Younger, best-selling author and authority on caring leadership, who offers an unexpected perspective on their story.

This episode features radio producer Kachelle, who takes us on a wild ride through a new job’s many surprises. Communications expert Gini Dietrich then offers her take on why internal (and external) comms matter so much and how to effectively communicate with and support your team during times of change.

What’s it like to take the journey from full-time to self-employment? In this episode, Mike shares his story of climbing the corporate ladder and then striking out on his own. Then Harvard Business School professor, Joseph Fuller, helps us better understand the gig economy, the Great Resignation, and the role of contractors in workplace culture.

Making tough decisions takes on new meaning as Alex describes the challenges of working in urgent care at the height of COVID-19. This episode also features HR leader Debra Corey who shows us how to be rebellious in your work to bring about deeper impact, engagement, and purpose.

Why do first days and first impressions matter, and what can we do to make the most of them? In this episode, we hear from Ian whose first day doesn’t go as planned. Then we learn how things should have gone from first-impressions expert, Gia Kazarian.

We spend a good portion of our professional lives in transition—job searching, navigating interviews, and starting new jobs. But how do we stick the pivot? In this episode, we hear from Laura who navigates a challenging job search process. Then Jenny Blake, career strategist and author of Pivot, gives us the answers to those important work-transition questions.

Providing employees with a psychologically safe workplace is the key to lasting employee engagement. Maria’s story puts this in perspective, as she finds great support and guidance after dealing with a volatile client. Dr. Tim Clark then digs deep into the stages of psychological safety at work and how to create safer spaces.