If you’re a high-achieving woman who struggles with overthinking, people-pleasing, emotional triggers, or that relentless inner critic…this episode is for you. This week on Work Unscripted, Marlo sits down with therapist and former Army officer Elaine Belson to talk about the psychology behind the inner critic, or as Elaine calls it, the inner bully.

Together, they unpack the six habits that fuel self-doubt in high-functioning women: ruminating, mind reading, anticipating others’ reactions, comparing, second-guessing, and over-analyzing.

You’ll learn:

• Why high-achieving women experience such brutal inner criticism
• How emotional triggers and automatic thoughts form and how to interrupt them
• Coping mechanisms that actually work in high-pressure workplaces
• How to build emotional intelligence and self-validation skills
• How to handle perfectionism, imposter syndrome, and fear of failure
• Practical strategies to manage your emotions in the moment

If you’ve ever wondered why you feel “not good enough” despite being excellent at your job, this conversation will help you understand the root causes and give you tools to navigate work and life with more clarity, compassion, and confidence.

Learn more about Elaine: https://www.elainebelson.com/

Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@elainebelsonlcsw

Follow her on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elaine

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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Feeling stretched thin this holiday season? You’re not alone.

In this episode of Work Unscripted, Marlo Lyons shares practical, guilt-free strategies for setting healthy boundaries at work and home, especially when the lines between the two start to blur. From turning off notifications and communicating expectations clearly, to defining what “urgent” really means, Marlo helps you reclaim your time, protect your energy, and stay aligned with your values.

Whether you’re a people pleaser, a leader managing burnout, or just trying to unplug without guilt, this episode will show you that boundaries aren’t walls. They’re the foundation of balance, peace, and sustainable success.

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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Are your feedback conversations empowering your team or creating tension? In this episode of Work Unscripted, host Marlo Lyons talks with Joan Hibdon, author of "The Leader’s Guide to Mastering Feedback," about why most managers struggle to deliver effective feedback and how to transform criticism from destructive to constructive.

You'll find out why 65% of employees crave more frequent and meaningful feedback, learn practical frameworks for giving feedback well, and understand how to handle emotional reactions from underperforming employees. Joan breaks down the art of feedback, showing leaders how to turn crucial conversations into powerful tools for trust, growth, and continuous improvement.

If you’re ready to stop dreading feedback conversations and start mastering them, tune in to elevate your leadership skills, build stronger teams, and foster a culture of transparency and trust.

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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Ever wondered what truly separates the professionals who get ahead from those who just get by? It’s midyear and in this solo episode of Work Unscripted, host Marlo Lyons brings some unspoken truths that can transform your career trajectory and help you stand out in any job. Don’t worry, this isn’t your typical HR training, this episode is your backstage pass to navigating corporate politics, building credibility, and advancing professionally.

You’ll learn:

• How to make your boss your greatest career ally by anticipating needs and protecting their reputation.
• Why stakeholder alignment is critical and how to avoid common pitfalls that derail promising projects.
• The art of presenting ideas effectively by bringing proposals, not decisions, to create buy-in from senior leaders.
• Why your career growth is solely your responsibility, and practical steps to proactively manage it.
• What HR really knows about you, why silence isn’t safety, and how to avoid career-ending missteps.

Tune in for essential insights you won’t find in any employee handbook. Whether you’re new to the workforce or navigating corporate complexities, this episode is your strategic playbook to becoming indispensable at work.

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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

For many, parenthood includes hitting pause on your career. But does it have to impact your professional identity? On this episode of Work Unscripted, host Marlo Lyons sits down with Neha Ruch, author of The Power Pause, to explore how intentional career breaks for motherhood can redefine ambition, purpose, and professional fulfillment.

Neha shares her own journey of stepping away from a thriving career to prioritize motherhood, facing societal pushback, and eventually finding deep meaning and renewed ambition. Together, they discuss practical strategies for maintaining professional confidence, setting clear goals during career pauses, and reframing parenthood beyond traditional stereotypes.

If you’re navigating motherhood, contemplating a career break, or looking for tools to confidently re-enter the workforce, this episode provides an empowering roadmap to help you own your story and embrace ambition on your terms.

Key insights from the episode:

• Why taking a career break can enhance—not harm—your professional trajectory.
• How to redefine ambition and identity during motherhood.
• Practical steps for confidently returning to work after a strategic pause.
• Overcoming societal stigma and advocating for the value of parenthood in professional spaces.

Listen now to transform the way you think about career breaks, motherhood, and professional ambition.

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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Ever judged someone negatively after they got fired, without knowing the real story? You're not alone. In this solo episode of Work Unscripted, former HR executive Marlo Lyons exposes the uncomfortable truth behind workplace firings and the harmful assumptions we make about those who've been let go.

Marlo shares eye-opening stories from behind closed HR doors, highlighting the real reasons good employees get fired (often due to misalignment, management biases, or office politics) not incompetence. She challenges you to rethink your own perceptions and encourages genuine empathy, reminding us that today's fired colleague could be tomorrow’s influential decision-maker.

If you’ve ever been fired unfairly, fear it happening, or have distanced yourself from a coworker after termination, this episode will shift your perspective. Learn why staying connected can boost your career, and discover practical tips for navigating professional relationships with compassion and strategic foresight.

Key Topics Covered:

• How common biases lead to unfair firings
• Real-life HR stories exposing workplace injustice
• The hidden career risks of misjudging fired colleagues
• Practical advice on rebuilding professional bridges after termination

Listen now and start reframing how you think about people who leave, your future self will thank you.

Liked this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share with someone who needs to hear this.

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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Are you chasing happiness, or are you truly fulfilled? In this episode, Marlo sits down with Bernie Borges, the Fulfillment Architect and host of the Midlife Fulfilled Podcast, to explore what it means to build a meaningful life—especially in midlife.

Bernie reveals his powerful framework of five pillars: health, fitness, career, relationships, and legacy. You’ll discover why fulfillment is more enduring than happiness, how to recognize it in everyday achievements, and why leaders need to embrace "Fulfillment-Centric Leadership" to boost engagement, productivity, and retention in the workplace.

Whether you're a leader looking to inspire your team or simply someone navigating life's big questions, Bernie’s insights will challenge you to pause, reflect, and rethink what fulfillment truly looks like.

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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Is your workplace truly supportive—or are you caught in something more manipulative than you realize?

In this solo episode, Marlo Lyons breaks down the difference between a healthy company culture and a full-blown company cult. From love bombing new hires to rewarding blind loyalty over actual performance, Marlo unpacks the subtle emotional manipulation tactics that can trap even the most high-performing professionals. She shares red flags to watch for, including over-identification with the company, fear of leadership, and transparency that’s more performative than real.

Whether you're feeling disillusioned at work or fiercely loyal to your team, this episode will help you pause and evaluate your loyalty, your well-being, and what you truly want from your career. Because a good company earns your respect—it doesn’t demand your worship.

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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Have you ever had that subtle feeling urging you toward a decision, but brushed it off as fear or uncertainty? What if that feeling was your greatest ally, guiding you toward the life and success you’ve always wanted?

In this empowering episode of Work Unscripted, Marlo sits down with Wendy Sterling—intuitive prosperity mentor, speaker, and bestselling author—to explore the transformative power of intuition. Wendy shares her incredible personal journey of leaving a secure, 20-year corporate career after a dramatic life event, trusting her intuition, and building a thriving seven-figure business.

You’ll discover how to differentiate intuition from fear, practical strategies for tapping into your inner wisdom, and why pausing might be the most powerful action you take. Whether you’re navigating a career change, seeking deeper fulfillment, or ready to redefine your version of success, this conversation will inspire you to trust yourself more deeply—and live unapologetically aligned with your true purpose.

Connect with Wendy: wendypaigesterling.com

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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Have you ever been broke? Like, really broke? Marlo Lyons has, and now she's positioned herself to retire comfortably in her 60s. In this special solo episode, featuring insightful conversation clips from financial expert Randy Thurman, Marlo shares her personal journey from financial crisis to freedom, along with practical strategies you can apply immediately.

Randy Thurman, a CPA, Certified Financial Planner, and author of More Than a Millionaire, lays out his five critical steps to achieving true financial independence—whether you're just starting out or scrambling to catch up later in life. You'll learn why traditional financial advice often falls short, how to protect yourself from financial storms, and how your values can lead you to a fulfilling, prosperous life.

Tune in for an authentic, unfiltered look at how anyone—at any income level—can build lasting wealth. Your financial freedom journey starts today.

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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Step into a special recap edition of Work Unscripted, where host Marlo Lyons revisits the most powerful insights and expert advice shared this past quarter. From learning how to choose genuine fulfillment with Amy Wong, unlocking insider job market strategies with Jane Turkewitz, mastering fearless networking despite social anxiety with Michaela Alexis, to decoding and harnessing the strengths of ADHD in the workplace with Diann Wingert—this episode offers the very best strategies to thrive, adapt, and excel in both your professional and personal life.

Whether you’re new to the podcast or a dedicated listener, you’ll gain practical tools and inspiring perspectives to navigate whatever life and work throw your way. Join Marlo as she weaves together these essential conversations that will empower you to live—and work—unscripted.

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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

When it comes to navigating ADHD in the workplace, it’s time to think differently, in order to work differently. Marlo Lyons is joined by Diann Wingert, a former psychotherapist turned business coach, who shares her personal and professional journey with ADHD. Having received a late-life diagnosis herself, Diann understands the complexities of being neurodivergent in a corporate environment.

Marlo and Diann tackle the common misconceptions about ADHD, the emotional and professional struggles, and explore how ADHD can impact success when embraced with curiosity. They offer practical advice for both neurodivergent employees and leaders looking to create more supportive and understanding environments.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to better understand and leverage the full potential of neurodivergent talents in the workplace. Tune in to discover how embracing diversity of thought and experience can lead to greater innovation and productivity.

Listen to Diann Wingert's podcast, ADHDish
Subscribe to her LinkedIn Newsletter 

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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

What if success didn’t have to be a competition?

In this episode of Work Unscripted, host Marlo Lyons sits down with Ruchika Malhotra, global inclusion strategist and author of the upcoming book Uncompete (Penguin Random House, releasing November 4). Together, they explore how the culture of competition in corporate life fuels burnout, bias, and exclusion, and learn how redefining success can help us build more collaborative, fulfilling, and joyful workplaces.

Ruchika shares practical steps for shifting from a scarcity mindset to one of abundance, how leaders can address competition on their teams, and why choosing joy is a radical act of resistance in a competitive workplace.

If you’ve ever felt stuck chasing someone else’s definition of success, or you’re a leader looking to build a more equitable and collaborative culture, this conversation is your permission slip to uncompete.

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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Think HR is just about onboarding and exit interviews? Think again. In this episode, Marlo Lyons is dismantling common misperceptions and offering clearer perspective on how HR impacts your career and workplace relations. With years of firsthand experience, Marlo explores the dual nature of HRBPs and debunks myths about their role in supporting employees versus advancing business objectives. 

Tune in to learn how to effectively navigate your relationship with HR, leverage executive coaching, and manage workplace dynamics to align your career trajectory with corporate goals. Plus, Marlo shares the limitations HR faces in influencing leadership decisions and why HR may not always be your advocate in times of conflict.

Whether you're an employee, a manager, or an HR professional, this episode offers crucial insights into making HR work for you and understanding its strategic role in the corporate hierarchy. 

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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Does networking feel like a chore, especially with social anxiety shadowing your every move? Join us on this episode of Work Unscripted as Marlo Lyons sits down with Michaela Alexis, author of ‘No Fear Networking: A Guide to Building Relationships for the Socially Anxious.’ Michaela shares her personal journey from battling agoraphobia to speaking on stages across the country, providing practical strategies that cater to the socially anxious.

You learn key techniques for managing anxiety, from goal setting to understanding your social battery, and learn how to apply the ‘15% rule’ to gently expand your comfort zone. Whether you’re attending a bustling conference or a casual meet-up, Michaela’s insights will equip you with the tools to turn networking from a dreaded task into an empowering activity. Tune in and start building your community with confidence.

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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

It's true - sometimes people just don’t mesh. But in today’s episode, we’re diving into how communication styles can actually make or break workplace relationships. Marlo Lyons shares her personal journey with a challenging boss and how it transformed her approach to professional interactions. You'll learn the four main social styles—drivers, expressives, analyticals, and amiables—and how recognizing and adapting to these styles can dramatically improve your work relationships.

Marlo emphasizes the power of self-reflection and curiosity in overcoming communication barriers and reducing misunderstandings. Whether you’re navigating a difficult colleague or striving to enhance team dynamics, this episode provides practical strategies to shift your communication tactics and foster a more harmonious work environment. Tune in to learn how adjusting your style could not only mend bridges but also bring a newfound peace to your professional life.

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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Are you tired of the black hole of job applications, where you submit your resume and hear nothing back? Today, we're going to hear from an expert recruiter who's going to pull back the curtain on what's really happening on the other side. Jane Turkewitz, a seasoned executive recruiter and career coach, shares her unfiltered, expert advice on everything from crafting a standout resume that beats applicant tracking systems to acing your interviews with confidence.

You’ll learn why traditional job search wisdom might be holding you back, the importance of networking strategically, and how to maintain your mental health while on the hunt for your next big opportunity. Whether you're fresh in the job market or looking to make a strategic move, Jane's insights will equip you with the tools you need to navigate today's competitive job landscape effectively.

Learn more about Jane Turkewitz LinkedIn

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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

When life throws you a curveball, how do you respond? In this solo episode, Marlo Lyons explores resilience—the essential ingredient that empowers us to thrive amidst adversity. Whether facing natural disasters or personal challenges, mastering resilience is crucial not just for surviving but for truly thriving. Marlo shares practical strategies to build resilience, including methods to pause, reflect, and bounce back stronger from life’s challenges. Resilience isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a critical skill in today’s volatile world. Tune in to learn how to cultivate it and transform your approach to overcoming life’s inevitable obstacles.

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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Tired of making New Year's resolutions that fizzle out? Join Marlo Lyons on the inaugural episode of Work Unscripted as she sits down with Amy Wong, author of "Living on Purpose." Start the New Year by stepping away from fleeting resolutions and discover the five deliberate choices that can guide you to true fulfillment. 

Amy challenges the autopilot mode of living that so many of us fall into and discusses why feeling your way through life, rather than calculating every step, can lead to deeper satisfaction. This episode is not about the typical goals of weight loss or career change; it's about making foundational choices that transform your everyday experiences into a journey of joy and purpose.

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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Welcome to Work Unscripted. Join host Marlo Lyons as she draws on over two decades of experience to offer unfiltered, hard-hitting insights into navigating the professional world. Each episode delivers real stories from those who've dared to redefine success, alongside practical tools to elevate your career. Whether you’re stuck in a job rut or on the cusp of a major career transition, Marlo provides the strategies and support you need to move forward with confidence. Subscribe now to transform your professional life and discover a path to fulfillment that goes beyond the conventional.

Connect with Marlo Website | LinkedIn | Instagram 
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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

What happens when your performance review praises your results, but tears down your identity?

In this raw and vulnerable solo episode of Work Unscripted, host Marlo Lyons shares the real words from one of her own annual performance reviews— like “over-driving,” “over-reacting,” and “the Marlo show.” As a neurodivergent professional, Marlo unpacks how judgmental feedback lands, why it stings, and what leaders can do to make performance reviews feel constructive instead of personal.

You’ll learn:

• Performance review tips for employees: How to respond to a bad review without spiraling
• Performance review tips for managers: How to discuss reviews with empathy and curiosity
• How to present and write performance reviews that separate behavior from identity
• What to do after a bad performance review and how to turn judgment into growth

If you’ve ever walked away from a glowing review feeling bruised, or want to know how to make performance reviews feel good for your team, this episode will change the way you give and receive feedback forever.

Stay tuned for Part 2, where Marlo reads another review and shares more real-world lessons on how to prepare for, present, and recover from performance reviews that miss the mark.

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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Are you or someone on your team a highly sensitive person (HSP)? You’re not alone. Roughly 20% of the population is born with this trait, meaning their nervous system processes stimuli more deeply than others. In this eye-opening episode of Work Unscripted, host Marlo Lyons sits down with Heather Dominick, founder of the Highly Sensitive Leadership training program, to unpack what it really means to be an HSP in today’s fast-paced workplace.

They discuss how HSPs can prevent burnout, manage constructive and destructive criticism, and navigate crucial conversations—especially in feedback situations with managers. You’ll learn how to turn sensitivity into a superpower, communicate effectively with non-HSP leaders, and develop frameworks for giving and receiving feedback well.

Whether you’re an HSP professional, a manager leading an underperforming employee, or an HR leader striving to build inclusive environments, this episode provides actionable strategies to help highly sensitive people and their teams thrive.

Stay tuned to the end for a sneak peek of next week’s powerful episode, where Marlo shares her real performance review experience as a highly sensitive person: it’s raw, it’s real, and it’s one you won’t want to miss.

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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Most workplace advice skips the real truths: the things your manager won’t tell you, but that make or break your career. In this solo episode of Work Unscripted, host Marlo Lyons reveals the five unspoken rules that separate people who get stuck from those who move up fast.

You’ll learn why making your boss look good is essential, how stakeholder alignment protects your reputation, and why bringing proposals instead of final decisions builds buy-in. Marlo also unpacks why your career is YOUR job (not your manager’s) and why HR knows more about you than you think.

If you’re serious about career growth, leadership, and personal development, this episode will give you the inside track on navigating corporate life, positioning yourself for career opportunities, and avoiding mistakes that stall promotions.

Tune in to get the career advice no one else is telling you, and start using these five strategies today to stand out, get noticed, and rise faster at work.

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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Gen Z is entering the workforce in record numbers and managers everywhere are feeling the impact. Studies show that 60% of businesses have already fired Gen Z employees within months of hiring them, citing poor communication, lack of initiative, and struggles adapting to corporate life. But what’s really behind this trend, and what can we do about it?

In this episode of Work Unscripted, host Marlo Lyons sits down with Dr. Andrea Mata, clinical psychologist, speaker, and author, to unpack the root causes of Gen Z’s workplace challenges, from gentle parenting trends to trauma-informed education, and the cultural gaps that left many young professionals unprepared.

Dr. Mata explains why we may be on the cusp of a Gen Z mental health tsunami and offers strategies for both managers and parents: set high expectations, provide high support, and pair accountability with empathy. You’ll learn practical ways to coach Gen Z employees, build resilience, and create a culture of adaptability, without lowering the bar.

Whether you’re a manager frustrated with Gen Z performance, a parent preparing your child for future success, or a Gen Z employee navigating the workplace, this conversation is exactly what you need to hear.

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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

 Looking for a job in today’s market can feel overwhelming. Endless applications, ghosting, and tough competition leave many professionals stuck. That’s why career coach Marlo Lyons created this episode: to give you five practical, no-fluff job search hacks that actually work in a brutal market.

You’ll learn how to structure your search like a job, avoid the mistakes that sabotage your applications, upgrade your LinkedIn, build visibility, and create a support network that fuels momentum. If you’re wondering how to stand out and get hired faster in 2025, this is the episode you can’t afford to miss.

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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Is your job search stalled, or are you wondering why recruiters aren't responding to your resume? In this episode, host Marlo Lyons talks to veteran recruiter Kristen Fife, author of "The Recruiter's Playbook," who shares insider secrets about how recruiters operate and what they're really looking for in candidates.

Learn why recruiters only spend six seconds scanning your resume, how applicant tracking systems (ATS) affect your job applications, and practical tips for standing out in a competitive job market. Whether you’re navigating a career change, searching for your next role, or feeling stuck in your job hunt, Kristen’s expert advice will help you leverage professional networking, avoid common resume mistakes, and boost your visibility to recruiters and hiring managers.

If you're serious about landing your next job, this episode is a must-listen.

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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

We’re halfway through the year and performance reviews are right around the corner. If you’re aiming for a promotion in the next performance cycle, you can’t afford to wait. The time to take control of your career is now. In this episode, host Marlo Lyons shares exactly how to get noticed and promoted at work, cutting through the noise of corporate life to reveal what truly drives advancement.

If you’re putting in long hours and hoping someone in leadership will notice, consider this your reality check: hard work alone won’t get you ahead. You’ll learn the real reasons professionals get passed over for career opportunities, the common mistakes that stall your progress, and how to advocate for yourself with confidence. We’ll cover how to increase your visibility, build a business case for your promotion, and have high-impact feedback conversations that actually move the needle.

Whether you’re stuck in a plateau or ready for the next big step, this episode blends personal development, career strategy, and leadership insight to help you rise above the noise and accelerate your success. Stop waiting to be discovered. Start leading your career forward today.

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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Are you exhausted from running full-speed on the corporate treadmill? Feeling burned out, overwhelmed, or stuck in the never-ending rat race? You’re not alone, and 2026 can be the year everything changes.

In this powerful episode of Work Unscripted, Marlo Lyons sits down with coach and burnout expert Carolina Bakker to explore how high-achieving professionals can finally break free from chronic stress, people-pleasing, and overwork to create a life filled with clarity, boundaries, fulfillment, and joy.

Carolina shares her personal story of corporate burnout and the morning she woke up completely numb. It’s a moment that changed the trajectory of her life. Together, she and Marlo unpack why so many high performers hit this breaking point, what keeps us trapped in survival mode, and the mindset shifts that allow us to step off the treadmill for good.

You’ll learn:

• How to recognize early signs of burnout before they explode
• The unconscious beliefs driving your “rat race mindset”
• Why small, consistent actions (Carolina’s two-millimeter wrench) create massive transformation
• How to use the Three to Thrive method to reclaim your time and energy
• How accountability, boundaries, and self-awareness accelerate real change
• The single decision you must make if you want 2026 to feel different from 2025

If you’re ready to slow down, breathe deeper, and finally choose a life aligned with your values, this episode offers the roadmap you’ve been waiting for.

Connect with Marlo Website | LinkedIn | Instagram 
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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

What if 2026 brought you everything you’ve been chasing— the job, the title, the money, the house, the partner — and you still didn’t feel fulfilled?

In this solo episode, executive coach and author Marlo Lyons breaks down one of the most powerful (and overlooked) tools for personal development, career clarity, and long-term fulfillment: living in alignment with your core values.

You’ll learn:

• Why achieving your goals won’t guarantee happiness
• How misaligned values lead to burnout, stress, resentment, and frustration
• The difference between happiness and fulfillment
• How to define your core values and what they really mean
• The daily systems Marlo uses to protect her peace, energy, and purpose
• Two reflection questions that will help you step into 2026 with clarity and intention

If you’re tired of the rat race, craving a reset, or determined to make 2026 the year you finally feel grounded and in control, this episode gives you the roadmap.

Connect with Marlo Website | LinkedIn | Instagram 
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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Have you ever received feedback at work that made you question your entire career?

In this episode of Work Unscripted, Marlo Lyons cracks the code on five cryptic feedback phrases that derail high performers and shows you exactly how to translate them into actionable career growth.

This is your guide to:

• Developing emotional intelligence and empathy in the workplace
• Turning vague performance review comments into clear next steps
• Improving stakeholder alignment, collaboration, and executive presence
• Positioning yourself for promotion and leadership advancement

Feedback isn’t always clear. But with curiosity, self-awareness, and strategic reframing, it becomes one of your most powerful career tools.

If you’ve ever left a performance review confused, frustrated, or second-guessing yourself, this episode is your translation guide. Because sometimes you just need to decode the corporate riddles.

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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Board seats aren’t reserved for a lucky few, but they are reserved for leaders who understand the game.

In this episode of Work Unscripted, executive coach Marlo Lyons sits down with board career expert and co-author Naomi Kent to unpack their new book, Wanted: A Board Career, and break down what it really takes to build a meaningful, strategic board portfolio.

This is not a job search. And treating it like one is the biggest mistake executives make.

Together, Marlo and Naomi walk through the three phases every successful board career requires:

• Discovery: clarifying your “why,” your values, and your long-term board vision
• Preparation: crafting a board-ready brand, narrative, LinkedIn profile, and pitch
• Execution: building relationships and trust over time (not chasing openings)

They also tackle common myths about board service, the difference between nonprofit, private, and public boards, and why board readiness is about judgment, governance, and mindset.

Whether you’re an executive in transition, a senior leader thinking about your next chapter, or simply curious about board service as a purposeful career move, this conversation will help you think differently — and more strategically — about your path to the boardroom.

Want to learn more? Marlo dives much deeper into the board journey in her new book, Wanted → A Board Career, a step-by-step guide to becoming board-ready and landing a board seat.

Order the book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4tfMWbF

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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Most executives think they’re one promotion away from the C-suite and C-suite leaders think they're one step away from a board seat.

They’re not. 

They’re one mindset shift away and most never make it. In reality, moving up the corporate ladder into the C-suite or onto a board requires an entirely different way of thinking.

In this Cracking the Code mini episode of Work Unscripted, Marlo Lyons breaks down the critical mindset shift required to move from executive operator to strategic leader to board-ready advisor. You’ll learn why strong execution alone doesn’t translate to C-suite and boardroom influence, how boards evaluate judgment over résumés, and the key behaviors that separate enterprise thinkers from functional leaders.

This episode is especially relevant for senior leaders, C-suite executives, and high-performing professionals considering board service, governance roles, or long-term leadership legacy.

Want to learn more? Marlo dives much deeper into the board journey in her new book, Wanted → A Board Career, a step-by-step guide to becoming board-ready and landing a board seat.

Pre-order the book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4tfMWbF

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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

What needs to change for you to level up as a leader, and why do so many high performers get stuck right before promotion? In this episode of Work Unscripted, Marlo Lyons sits down with executive coach Kristen Johnson.

Kristen has worked with middle management inside some of the world’s most recognizable organizations—including PayPal, Google, Amazon, Sephora, Chase, and Cisco—giving her a rare, inside look at what truly separates managers from enterprise-level leaders.

Together, they break down:

• Why middle managers experience burnout at staggering rates
• The mindset shift required to move from execution to influence
• How to stop over-controlling and start developing leaders beneath you
• What actually gets you promoted (and what quietly holds you back)
• How to align values, boundaries, and ambition without blowing up your career
• Why career advancement requires intentional communication, not silent hustle

This episode is a must-listen for managers, senior leaders, and high performers who want to level up their careers, pursue promotion with clarity, and lead with impact instead of exhaustion.

If you’re ready to stop doing everything and start leading intentionally, this conversation will change how you think about your next move. 

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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

What if the very thing you’re hiding at work is actually the key to becoming a stronger, more trusted leader?

In this Cracking the Code mini-episode of Work Unscripted, Marlo Lyons breaks down how to show vulnerability and credibility at the same time that builds authority and influence. Because vulnerability in leadership doesn’t mean oversharing, emotional dumping, or losing control. It means leading with authenticity and competence.

In this quick, practical episode, you’ll learn:

• How vulnerability builds trust at work (and when it backfires)
• The difference between vulnerability vs. oversharing in leadership
• Three simple ways to demonstrate vulnerability while maintaining credibility
• How to admit what you don’t know without undermining your authority
• Why modeling boundaries is a powerful leadership skill

This episode is perfect for leaders, managers, and high performers who want to build trust, lead with confidence, and influence others, without sacrificing professionalism.

Short. Insightful. Real. That’s Cracking the Code.

Connect with Marlo Website | LinkedIn | Instagram 
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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Is your job actually a hostile work environment, or do you just have a terrible boss? In this eye-opening episode, employment law expert Nestor Barrero joins Marlo Lyons to break down the real legal differences between discrimination, harassment, bullying, and a simply toxic workplace.

If you’ve ever wondered whether what you’re experiencing at work is illegal, retaliation, or just deeply unhealthy, this conversation is your roadmap.

You’ll learn:

• What legally qualifies as discrimination (and what doesn’t)
• How harassment is defined under federal law
• The difference between a toxic workplace and a hostile work environment
• Why bullying is rarely illegal, but still destructive
• How to document workplace behavior for HR or legal action
• What managers must do to avoid retaliation claims
• When to escalate, when to let it go, and when to negotiate your exit

Packed with real-world examples, actionable steps, and clear legal distinctions, this episode helps you decode what’s happening at work and what you can do next. 

Connect with Marlo Website | LinkedIn | Instagram 
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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Ever received feedback with no examples, no clarity, and no idea what to do next?

Welcome to Part II of Marlo Lyons’ performance review series, where we break down one of the most frustrating workplace experiences: vague, cryptic, or confusing feedback.

In this solo episode, Marlo shares a deeply personal story of receiving unclear feedback that left her spiraling, second-guessing herself, and trying to decode meaning that no one could (or would) explain.

You’ll learn:

• What to do when feedback is vague, subjective, or impossible to interpret
• How to ask clarifying questions without sounding defensive
• Why “2% truth” is a powerful tool for self-reflection
• How to experiment with behavior changes using curiosity instead of shame
• Why vague feedback often says more about your manager than it does about you
• How to protect your self-worth when feedback feels unfair or inaccurate
• When to respond in writing, and when it’s better not to

Marlo also breaks down the difference between judgment vs. coaching, why leaders must give feedback like a map, not a mirror, and why high performers often get hit hardest by vague phrasing.

If you’re going through performance review season (or still recovering from one), this episode will help you navigate the emotional fallout while still learning, growing, and protecting your confidence.

Connect with Marlo Website | LinkedIn | Instagram 
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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Congratulations, you’ve been promoted! New title. Bigger paycheck. Maybe even that LinkedIn “I got promoted” announcement. Now what?

In this episode of Work Unscripted, Marlo Lyons cracks the code on what really happens after a promotion and why the fastest way to fail in your new role is to keep doing your old job. Because a promotion isn’t a reward. It’s a reset.

Whether you’re early in your career navigating your first leadership role, a mid-career professional struggling to let go of being “the expert,” or a senior leader trying to scale impact instead of staying busy, this episode unpacks the real shifts required to succeed and create long-term career growth

You’ll learn:

• What must change immediately after you’ve been promoted
• Why your expertise can become your biggest liability
• How to transition from doing the work to leading the work
• How to stop being indispensable and start building scalable impact
• The mindset shifts required for sustainable leadership success

If you’ve ever wondered how to succeed in your first 90 days after a promotion, how to step into a new leadership role with confidence, or how to avoid common promotion mistakes, this conversation is for you. 

Because the real question isn’t “Was I ready?” 

It’s: Are you willing to let go of who you were good at being so you can become the leader your new role requires?

Connect with Marlo Website | LinkedIn | Instagram 
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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

If the phrase “sell yourself” makes you cringe… this episode is for you. In this episode, executive coach Marlo Lyons sits down with visibility strategist Chardét Ryel to unpack a skill most professionals avoid but desperately need: authentic self-promotion.

Whether you’re pursuing a promotion, navigating a job search, building a business, or stepping into greater leadership visibility, you are pitching yourself every single day. The problem? Most people either overperform, underplay, or completely misunderstand how to communicate their value.

You’ll learn:

• Why self-selling is a leadership skill (not an ego exercise)
• How to drop performative leadership and communicate with authenticity
• The role of emotional intelligence and empathy in effective pitching
• Why podcast visibility can accelerate career advancement

If you’ve ever felt uncomfortable advocating for yourself or unsure how to talk about your strengths without sounding rehearsed, this conversation will shift your mindset. Because leadership visibility isn’t about being louder. It’s about being clearer.

Connect with Marlo Website | LinkedIn | Instagram 
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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

What if leadership isn’t about influence at all? In this episode of Work Unscripted, host Marlo Lyons sits down with researcher and leadership expert Dr. Jacob Kashiwagi to explore a radically different leadership philosophy: “no influence leadership.”

Instead of persuading, motivating, or trying to change people, Dr. Kashiwagi argues that great leaders focus on something much simpler and much harder: understanding people and aligning them in the right roles to succeed.

Their conversation challenges some of our more traditional ideas about leadership development and raises important questions for today’s workplace:

• Can leadership actually be taught?
• Why do some leaders succeed in one organization but fail in another?
• What do Gen Z employees really want from work?
• Why are so many corporate decisions based on belief instead of data?

Marlo and Dr. Kashiwagi also explore how authenticity, deep listening, and humility are becoming critical leadership skills in an era shaped by AI, automation, and rapid organizational change.

For leaders, managers, and HR professionals navigating culture shifts, workforce expectations, and performance challenges, this episode offers a powerful reframing: Leadership isn’t about influencing or controlling people. It’s about understanding them.

Connect with Marlo Website | LinkedIn | Instagram 
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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Ever gotten feedback that worked… for about three days? In this Cracking the Code mini episode of Work Unscripted, Marlo Lyons breaks down why most workplace feedback doesn’t lead to lasting change and what actually does.

Drawing on behavioral science and real workplace dynamics, Marlo unpacks why feedback often fades fast and inevitably triggers defensiveness, confusion, or short-term compliance instead of real growth. And more importantly, she gives you a clear, practical framework to turn feedback into sustained behavior change.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why feedback can actually decrease performance for some employees
• The real reason people revert to “factory settings” after feedback
• How to close the gap between intention and action
• A simple if–then framework to make behavior change stick
• How leaders can give feedback that drives ownership, not resistance

Whether you’re a leader, manager, or individual contributor, this episode will completely change how you think about constructive feedback, emotional intelligence, and performance improvement at work.

Because lasting change doesn’t come from “do better.” It comes from building systems that make “better”… inevitable.

Connect with Marlo Website | LinkedIn | Instagram 
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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Too many people are doing their jobs and doing them well… and wondering why it’s not enough. In a workplace shaped by layoffs, stalled hiring, burnout, and limited development opportunities, simply “doing your job well” is no longer a strategy for career growth. In this episode of Work Unscripted, executive coach Marlo Lyons sits down with HR executive and gamification expert Casey Webster to explore what it really means to think like a CEO, no matter your role or level.

Marlo and Casey talk through:

• What it means to think like a CEO, even early in your career
• How to build cross-functional influence and break down silos
• A simple four-part framework to increase visibility, engagement, and career growth
• Why gamified learning resonates more than traditional training and sticks long-term 
• How to take ownership of your development when your company won’t

This conversation is especially relevant for employees, leaders, and HR professionals navigating today’s uncertain work environment and looking for practical ways to grow, adapt, and stay competitive.

Because real career advancement comes from thinking differently about the work you do and the value you create.

Connect with Marlo Website | LinkedIn | Instagram 
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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Feeling stuck in your career? Thinking about quitting your job? Telling yourself you want more…but not sure what that actually means? 

In this Cracking the Code episode of Work Unscripted, executive coach Marlo Lyons challenges the story you tell yourself: What you want isn’t always what you need.

You may think you want: 

• A new job
• A promotion
• More money
• Less stress
• More autonomy

But what you actually need is clarity, alignment, courage and space to reflect. 

This episode explores why we’re quick to invest in short-term comforts like daily lattes, impulse spending, staying busy yet hesitate to invest time, money and energy into our long-term career growth and personal fulfillment.

Through a powerful story about a solo bike trip through Europe that changed the trajectory of her life, Marlo shares how creating space to think can reveal what you truly need in your career and life.

You’ll learn:

• How to know if you need a new job or a new perspective
• The difference between career dissatisfaction and career misalignment
• Why investing in yourself isn’t about money. It’s about courage
• How to stop chasing career symptoms and start addressing the source
• How to rethink your time and energy like your future depends on it
• Simple ways to create space for career clarity

If you’re feeling stuck in your career…
If you’re overwhelmed, burnt out, or restless…
If you keep saying “I want more” but don’t know what that means…

This episode is your reset.

Because clarity and alignment create fulfillment, and fulfillment can’t be compartmentalized.

Connect with Marlo Website | LinkedIn | Instagram 
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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Building emotional resilience starts with one mindset shift and it works even in the middle of chaos. What’s your first thought when something goes wrong? Do you ask, “Why is this happening to me?” Or… something more empowering? In this Cracking the Code episode of Work Unscripted, Marlo Lyons breaks down one of the most powerful mindset shifts you can make to build emotional resilience, self-trust, and confidence, especially in high-stress moments.

Through a real-life story (flat tire, tech issues, and a full day of chaos), Marlo walks you through how she moved from reactive thinking to calm, grounded self-leadership, and how you can do the same.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How to shift from victim thinking to growth thinking
• Why nervous system regulation is the first step to emotional intelligence
• How to separate facts from the story that creates stress
• A simple 5-step playbook to handle challenges without spiraling
• How to build confidence and self-trust at work by collecting evidence of your own capability

This mindset shift is about learning how to respond, rather than react, when life throws something your way. Because resilience is about becoming the person who can handle them.

Connect with Marlo Website | LinkedIn | Instagram 
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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Let’s talk about money. It’s the thing we all think about… but rarely talk about honestly. In this episode of Work Unscripted, Marlo Lyons sits down with career and life coach Wendy Sterling to unpack the deeper forces shaping how we earn, spend, and experience wealth, way beyond budgets, strategies, and spreadsheets.

Because here’s the truth: most high-achieving professionals aren’t stuck because they don’t work hard enough. They’re stuck because they’re operating from hustle culture, money anxiety, and misalignment they don’t even realize is there.

Wendy introduces the concept of Energetic Intelligence (the new EI) - understanding how your nervous system, money mindset and emotional patterns drive your life decisions. Today she shares how they directly impact your decisions, your income, and your career trajectory.

In this conversation, you’ll learn:

• Why your money story may be quietly limiting your growth
• How nervous system regulation impacts decision-making, income, and burnout
• The hidden cost of hustle culture and why slowing down actually creates better results
• What it really means to raise your standards in work, money, and life
• How to shift from stress and scarcity into alignment, clarity, and sustainable success
• How to overcome money blocks and build wealth without burnout.

If you’ve ever felt like you’re doing everything “right”… but still not experiencing the level of success, ease, or fulfillment you want, this episode will challenge how you think about money, work, and your next level.

Because building wealth isn’t just about what you do. It’s about how you think, feel, and show up while doing it.

Connect with Marlo Website | LinkedIn | Instagram 
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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

“Executive presence.” It’s the feedback everyone gets and no one can clearly define. In this Cracking the Code mini episode of Work Unscripted, Marlo Lyons breaks down what executive presence actually means, why so much of the feedback around it is vague, biased, and frustrating and what behavioral science says you can actually do about it.

Marlo challenges the traditional narrative and reframes executive presence as your
ability to create confidence, clarity, and trust in high-stakes environments – not how loud, dominant, or polished you appear.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

● Why executive presence is often shaped by bias and outdated leadership norms
● How to respond when you’re told you “lack presence” at work
● The difference between authenticity and ineffective communication habits
● How to build presence through self-awareness, audience awareness, and
intentional behavior
● Practical ways to strengthen your communication, visibility, and leadership
impact

If you’ve ever been told to “be more strategic,” “have more edge,” or “look more like a leader,” this episode will give you the clarity and confidence to define executive presence on your own terms.

Connect with Marlo Website | LinkedIn | Instagram 
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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

You can be successful… and still be completely exhausted. In fact, for many high-achieving leaders, that’s exactly what’s happening. As we head into Q2, the pace picks up, the pressure builds, and for a lot of professionals, stress, burnout, and reactivity start to feel like the norm.

In this episode of Work Unscripted, host Marlo Lyons sits down with coach Margo Boster to talk about what it really means to be “successfully exhausted” and why so many high performers don’t recognize it until they hit a wall.

Margo’s new book “Mindfully Exhausted” details how stress shows up in the body, how our brains are wired to react (not relax), and why pushing harder isn’t the solution.

You’ll learn practical, science-backed tools that help leaders regulate stress and show up differently:

• How to recognize early signs of burnout (before it’s too late)
• Why you can’t “think” your way out of stress and what actually works
• Simple brain, body, and breath techniques to calm your nervous system
• How to move from reactive to responsive leadership
• Small daily practices that create long-term change

This conversation is for anyone who looks successful on paper… but feels anxious, depleted, or constantly “on” behind the scenes. Because real success isn’t just about performance. It’s about how you feel while you’re achieving it.

Learn more about Margo’s book and coaching work on her website: margoboster.com

Connect with Marlo Website | LinkedIn | Instagram 
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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Most workplace conflict isn’t about strategy, performance, or communication. It’s about broken trust. In this episode of Work Unscripted, Marlo Lyons sits down with researchers and authors Michelle and Dennis Reina who have spent 30+ years studying how trust is built, broken, and rebuilt in organizations.

Michelle and Dennis break down the three essential dimensions of trust: character, communication, and capability. And more importantly, what happens when each one beaks down. In this conversation, you’ll learn:

• The most common ways trust is broken at work (and why it’s usually unintentionally)
• Why small trust breaches compound into major breakdowns
• How to rebuild trust after betrayal without forcing it
• Why self-trust is the foundation of effective leadership
• How to build trust intentionally in remote and hybrid teams

This episode is for leaders, managers, and professionals navigating team dynamics, cross-functional work, and high-stakes conversations.. Because trust is the foundation of everything.

Learn more with the Reina Trust Building® assessment tool: reinatrustbuilding.com/ITS-book

Connect with Marlo Website | LinkedIn | Instagram 
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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

What if the next promotion, the bigger paycheck, or the better title still doesn’t make you happy? If success feels empty, you may be caught in achievement addiction – the cycle of chasing external milestones, titles, and validation that never actually delivers lasting fulfillment.  

In this episode of Work Unscripted, Marlo Lyons sits down with executive and life coach Trixi Tschiedel Menhardt to unpack why so many high achievers feel restless, depleted and disconnected, enen when they look super successful on paper.

In this episode you’ll learn:

• What achievement addiction is and why high performers are most vulnerable to it
• Why external validation leaves professionals feeling empty, overwhelmed, or stuck
• How burnout rewires your brain and why peace can feel unfamiliar after years of stress
• How to use self-regulation and the Positive Intelligence framework to break the cycle
• How to stop chasing external validation and start choosing fulfillment on your own terms

This conversation is especially relevant for leaders, executives, and professionals who are tired of feeling like the next milestone will finally be “enough” to feel fulfilled. Are you ready to reclam choice, peace and a sense of purpose that doesn’t depend on a title? Because fulfillment isn’t something you achieve. It’s something you choose. 

Connect with Marlo Website | LinkedIn | Instagram 
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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Two small words you use every day may be quietly damaging your workplace relationships: why and should.

In leadership conversations, feedback moments, and everyday team communication, these common words often land differently than intended, triggering defensiveness, shame and disconnection instead of clarity and collaboration.

"Why did you do that?" can sound like an interrogation. "You should have handled it differently" can sound like judgment. And when people feel accused or shamed, they stop collaborating and start defending.

In this Cracking the Code mini episode of Work Unscripted, Marlo Lyons breaks down the psychology behind why these words  – why and should – undermine psychological safety at work and what to say instead.

In this episode, you’ll learn: 

• Why "why" triggers a defensive response and the curiosity-based alternative that opens dialogue
• How "should" creates shame and shuts down collaboration and the forward-focused replacement that builds trust
• Simple language swaps any leader or professional can use immediately
• How to communicate with greater emotional intelligence, clarity, and psychological safety
• How to keep difficult conversations productive without triggering defensiveness

Whether you're a leader giving feedback, navigating team conflict, or simply trying to communicate more effectively at work, the words you choose matter more than you think.

Small language shifts. Significant leadership impact.

Connect with Marlo Website | LinkedIn | Instagram 
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Work Unscripted is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co.