Podcasts about bad bosses

Let's be honest: most bosses are forgettable. They're neither terrible enough to inspire a mutiny nor brilliant enough to earn your loyalty. But the ones who do stand out? They're either the reason you quit or the reason you stayed. This week, Jimmy and James ditch the usual rant about bad bosses (though, let's face it, they've had a few) to tackle the far trickier question: What actually makes a good one?Turns out, it's not about charisma, a fancy title, or even a well-stocked biscuit tin. It's about clarity—knowing where you're going and making sure your team gives a damn about getting there. It's about adaptability, because what works in a crisis won't fly in a calm. And it's about trust: not the corporate buzzword kind, but the I-won't-throw-you-under-the-bus kind. Oh, and asking questions. Why Am I Talking? should be every boss's mantra (thanks, James's old boss).But here's the kicker: being a good boss isn't about being liked. It's about creating an environment where people want to do their best work—even when the system is stacked against them. So if you're tired of pointless targets, blame games, and bosses who treat you like a spreadsheet, this is your therapy session. No fluff, no jargon, just the hard truths about leading without losing your soul (or your team's).Five key points:Clarity of purpose is non-negotiable—if your team doesn't know where they're going, they'll just wander into a ditch.Adaptability separates the memorable from the mediocre; one size does not fit all.Blame is the enemy of progress—good bosses fix problems, not people.Asking questions beats having answers; your ego is the least interesting thing in the room.Trust is the glue—without it, your team's just a bunch of people waiting for the next screw-up.Got a question - get in touch. Click here.

In Episode 123 of The Reride Podcast, the boys kick things off by talking about the differences between good bosses and bad bosses, sharing stories and opinions on the leadership qualities that can make or break a workplace. They also discuss the tragic incident at a barrel race in Las Vegas, touching on the mindset behind these situations and why having hobbies, goals, and positive outlets can play such an important role in people's lives. With a little rain around during the winter months, the conversation shifts to rainwater versus filtered town water. The boys compare the taste, benefits, and experiences of both, while sharing why many people still prefer to keep things natural. To finish off the episode, they dive into the world of smoked meats, chatting about different smoking techniques and how various cooking methods can completely change the flavour of your food.As always, there's plenty of laughs, honest opinions, and good conversation throughout this episode of The Reride Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On a recent podcast, former First Lady Michelle Obama has said that Gen Z needs “bad bosses”. In particular, they need to be “unappreciated” or “bored” to make them better leaders. Is there any truth to this?Joining Seán to discuss is Donal O' Donaghue from Sanderson Recruitment.

On a recent podcast, former First Lady Michelle Obama has said that Gen Z needs “bad bosses”. In particular, they need to be “unappreciated” or “bored” to make them better leaders. Is there any truth to this?Joining Seán to discuss is Donal O' Donaghue from Sanderson Recruitment.

From micromanagement to missed promotions, hosts get real about bad bosses—and when the problem is you.Accounting ARCWith Liz Mason and Byron PatrickCenter for Accounting TransformationIn a candid, unfiltered episode of Accounting ARC, Liz Mason, CPA, CEO of High Rock Accounting, and Byron Patrick, CPA.CITP, senior product manager at Karbon and co-founder of TB Academy, confront one of the profession's most relatable—and uncomfortable—topics: bad bosses. But the conversation goes further than workplace horror stories. Mason and Patrick explore a more nuanced reality: sometimes the boss is the problem—and sometimes it's the employee.  MORE Accounting ARC: Why Relationships Still Drive Career Success | The Real Problem with AI in Accounting | AI Can Fix Your Workflow—or Break It in Seconds | Efficiency Is the Wrong Goal for AI | Accounting's Hidden Talent Risk: The Sandwich Generation | Built Fast. Sold Faster. Broken Later? The Truth About Accounting Tech | Recognize When You Need to Recharge Before You Burn Out | Valuing More Than the Balance Sheet | Accounting's “Untalked-About” Frontier | Why Happiness is Hard-Fought for High Achievers | The Fastest Way to Lose Talent Is “Dick Leadership” | Post-Holiday Fatigue Isn't a Failure; It's a Signal | OCR, Research Bots & Meeting Assistants: What Actually Helps Now | Return Season is the New Stress Test | Small Firms May Have the Biggest Advantage in 2026 | Downgraded: What the DOE Said About Accounting | “We wanted to talk about this topic because it's really important to understand when you're the problem, when your boss is the problem, and what acceptable boundaries are,” Mason says early in the episode.Unpack real stories about bad bosses, miscommunication, and the career lessons that come with both. This episode challenges how accountants think about leadership, accountability, and growth. 

Most leaders believe they're doing a better job than they actually are. Global studies show that while managers rate themselves highly in terms of their effectiveness, less than a third of their employees agree with that assessment. So what's behind this gap and is there anything leaders can do to address it, without adding even more to their full plates? In this episode of "Leadership Biz Cafe", global C-suite executive coach and former Microsoft executive Sabina Nawaz reveals why even the most well-intentioned leaders develop blind spots and self-sabotaging habits that quietly damage their teams - and what you can do to avoid it. Drawing from her bestselling, award-winning book "You're the Boss: Become the Manager You Want to Be (and Others Need)", Sabina introduces her framework of Power Gaps and Pressure Pitfalls - the hidden forces that grow in proportion to your authority and stress - and shares practical and easy to implement strategies for recognizing and overcoming them. Whether you're a new manager or a seasoned executive, this conversation will sharpen your self-awareness, improve how you communicate and give feedback, and help you become the leader your team actually needs. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

An Australian farmer has found a live frog in a bag of lettuce.A reddit user posted a picture of what they received from their company instead of a raise: water bottle, pen, one single piece of candy, crackers, and what appears to be a measuring tape.Employee blasts boss for asking to 'adjust' dad's funeral. DeHuff shares some boss horror stories from his radio days.2 people arrested after police find baby monkeys hidden in underwear.Students at Medomack Valley High School in Waldoboro, Maine accidentally served dirt at a charity dinner.We got an update on the Michigan shoplifter. Let's just say Connery is happy with the news.T-shirt design contest for the show - send them to dehuffpodcast@gmail.com… If DeHuff chooses your design to be used for production, you'll win a T-shirt!

Leadership is supposed to be a privilege… so why does it feel like a slow burn to the ground? In this raw, unfiltered continuation of the leadership mental health conversation, Nicole Kalil sits down again with organizational psychologist and workplace mental health expert Melissa Doman to unpack what's really happening behind the scenes of leadership today — and why the good ones are dangerously close to walking away. Because here's the truth no one wants to admit: we expect leaders to be everything — strong, empathetic, decisive, available, perfect — with no room for human error. And then we wonder why burnout is skyrocketing and leadership pipelines are drying up. This episode goes beyond surface-level advice and into the uncomfortable reality: Leaders are human (shocking, we know) Unrealistic expectations are breaking them And we all play a role in either making it better… or making it worse Melissa brings both expertise and real talk to the table — from leadership archetypes (hello, frustrated martyr) to the “sea otter” model of healthy leadership (yes, it's a thing and yes, you want it). Together, they challenge the outdated narratives, call out toxic expectations, and offer a radically simple starting point: act like leaders are people. Because if we don't figure this out? The good leaders won't stay. And what's left… is not a future anyone wants. Thank you to our sponsors! Visit Upwork.com right now and post your job for free! Families are better when they're working together… go to myskylight.com/WOMANSWORK for $30 off your Skylight Calendar. Become a Fora Advisor today at Foratravel.com/woman  Connect with Melissa: Website:https://www.melissadoman.com/ Book:https://www.amazon.com/Cornered-Office-Leadership-Mental-Health/dp/139435035X  IG: https://www.instagram.com/thewanderingmel/ LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissadoman1/ Related Podcast Episodes: What Happens When Leadership Becomes Unsustainable: Leader Mental Health with Melissa Doman | 403 Leadership Unblocked (The Hidden Beliefs Sabotaging Your Ability To Lead) with Muriel M. Wilkins | 367 What Good Leaders Can Learn from Bad Bosses with Mita Mallick | 351 Share the Love: If you found this episode insightful, please share it with a friend, tag us on social media, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform!

Listeners share their worst bosses ever!

Listeners share their worst bosses!

Let's just say the quiet part out loud: work is broken. Burnout is everywhere. People are disengaged. Leaders feel like they can't win. Employees feel invisible. And somewhere along the way, work became more about transactions than human connection. In this episode, Nicole Kalil sits down with Nidhi Tewari — licensed clinical social worker, Harvard Business Review Advisory Council member, Thinkers50 Radar Award recipient, and author of Working Well — to unpack what's really going wrong at work… and what actually fixes it. Thank god, it's not another productivity hack. It's attunement. In this episode, we cover: Why modern work culture is failing (and why it's not entirely new) The real reason burnout and disengagement are skyrocketing What “attunement” is — and why it goes deeper than emotional intelligence The 4 core skills of attunement: flexibility, reading cues, self-regulation, and collaboration Simple ways to practice attunement at work — without adding more to your plate Why asking instead of assuming is a leadership superpower How workplace connection directly impacts performance, retention, and fulfillment Because maybe the goal isn't to care more. Maybe the goal is to show it — consistently, clearly, and in a way people can actually feel. Thank you to our sponsors! Gusto is online payroll and benefits software built for small businesses. Try Gusto today at gusto.com/TIWW, and get three months free when you run your first payroll. Refresh your spring wardrobe with Quince. Go to Quince.com/TIWW for free shipping and 365-day returns! Shopify has everything all in one place, making your life easier and your business operations smoother. Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial today at shopify.com/tiww  Visit Upwork.com right now and post your job for free! Families are better when they're working together… go to myskylight.com/WOMANSWORK for $30 off your Skylight Calendar. Connect with Nidhi: Website: https://www.nidhitewari.com/   Book: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/788782/working-well-by-nidhi-tewari Related Podcast Episodes What Good Leaders Can Learn from Bad Bosses with Mita Mallick | 351 Leading From The Inside Out with Dana Maor | 278 What Happens When Leadership Becomes Unsustainable: Leader Mental Health with Melissa Doman | 403 Share the Love: If you found this episode insightful, please share it with a friend, tag us on social media, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform!

On today's MJ Morning Show:Missing USF students remains foundMorons in the newsFed-mandated new technology coming to our new carsSloth WorldMan charged after dancing naked at Aldi10 types of bad bossesBTS shows in Tampa2 charged for driving riding mower into Ocala Target, posting onlineDon't put packages on kitchen tableUPS Bobby is getting a new routeWhite House Correspondents DinnerDoctor who removed wrong organ arrested while driving for LyftWorst girlfriend storyLady angry over having bag over the 50 lbs limitPhones testMJ and Michelle's movies over the weekendRoadkill found in Louisiana Chinese restaurant freezerFester's story from the restroomLake Nona parking lot video - jacked-up pickup rolls onto a LamborghiniDavid Spade has a new movie"Michael" had largest opening weekend for a bio picCyndi Lauper handles a heckler during a concertSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Bad bosses: the office equivalent of a microwave with a broken timer. It either leaves your career frozen in the middle or burns it to a crisp, and you're never quite sure which setting it's on today. In this episode of A Job Done Well, Jimmy Barber and James Lawther dissect the scourge of the workplace: the boss who turns a dream job into a daily grind. With a mix of war stories, dry humour, and hard-won wisdom, they explore why a bad boss can overshadow even the most rewarding roles, and—more importantly—what you can do about it.From the hypocrites who preach morality while chasing bonuses, to the indecisive leaders who'd rather watch a business burn than make a call, Jimmy and James leave no stone unturned. They tackle the personal nature of bad boss experiences (one person's nightmare is another's mentor), the traps employees fall into (avoidance, bitching, disengagement), and the rare but glorious moments when understanding your boss's pressures—divorce, imposter syndrome, or just being in over their head—can turn a toxic relationship into a tolerable one.But let's be clear: this isn't a self-help seminar. Sometimes, the only solution is to wait it out, adapt, or—if all else fails—run for the exit. Because, as they remind us, no boss lasts forever. And if you're lucky, neither will the damage they inflict.Five key points:Bad bosses have a disproportionate impact on job satisfaction, often overshadowing even the most rewarding roles.Only about 10% of bosses are truly bad, but their influence can feel all-consuming.Common bad-boss traits include inconsistency, hypocrisy, indecisiveness, and lack of clarity.Employees often fall into traps like avoidance, reinforcing bad behaviour, or becoming cynical and disengaged.Practical solutions include understanding your boss's pressures, improving communication, and knowing when to cut your losses and move on.Got a question - get in touch. Click here.

Leadership gets glorified a lot and understood very little—and in this episode of This Is Woman's Work, Nicole Kalil cuts straight to the part no one wants to talk about: leader mental health. She's joined by Melissa Doman, organizational psychologist, former clinical mental health therapist, founder of the Workplace Mental Health Method, and author of Yes, You Can Talk About Mental Health at Work and Cornered Office. Melissa works with global companies like Google, Microsoft, Salesforce, and Estée Lauder, helping leaders and organizations have honest, practical conversations about mental health—especially at the top. Together, they unpack the outdated leadership norms that reward burnout and punish humanity, the real mental health toll of constant pressure and scrutiny, and what it actually looks like to lead in a way that's both effective and human. Because if leadership becomes miserable enough, the good ones won't stay—and that should scare all of us. In this episode, Nicole and Melissa explore: Why leadership mental health is still the elephant in the corner office How outdated ideas about power, stoicism, and authority hurt leaders Common mental health struggles leaders face, including anxiety, worry, negativity, and helplessness Why communicating capacity is a leadership skill, not a weakness How followers can better support leaders  What companies can do right now to make leadership more sustainable At the end of the day, this conversation makes one thing clear: if we want better workplaces, stronger teams, and sustainable success, we have to start treating leaders like humans—not machines. Thank you to our sponsors! Gusto is online payroll and benefits software built for small businesses. Try Gusto today at gusto.com/TIWW, and get three months free when you run your first payroll. Refresh your spring wardrobe with Quince. Go to Quince.com/TIWW for free shipping and 365-day returns! Shopify has everything all in one place, making your life easier and your business operations smoother. Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial today at shopify.com/tiww  Visit Upwork.com right now and post your job for free! Connect with Melissa: Website:https://www.melissadoman.com/ Book:https://www.amazon.com/Cornered-Office-Leadership-Mental-Health/dp/139435035X  IG: https://www.instagram.com/thewanderingmel/ LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissadoman1/ Related Podcast Episodes: Leadership Unblocked (The Hidden Beliefs Sabotaging Your Ability To Lead) with Muriel M. Wilkins | 367 The Stress Paradox: Why We Need Stress (and How to Make It Work for Us) with Dr. Sharon Horesh Bergquist | 294 What Good Leaders Can Learn from Bad Bosses with Mita Mallick | 351 Share the Love: If you found this episode insightful, please share it with a friend, tag us on social media, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform!

What if the “panic habits” leaders default to are the very things burning out their best people? In this Partnering Leadership episode, Mita Mallick—author of The Devil Emails at Midnight—joins Mahan to unpack practical ways senior leaders can replace performative urgency with clear operating rules that people can trust. You will hear why bad bosses are made, not born, and how pressure from markets, role models, and personal crises can turn ordinary leaders into micromanagers.Mita gets specific about power dynamics. A 4:30 a.m. email from the CEO trains teams to jump, even when the intent is “no rush.” She explains how to set explicit after-hours rules and model them yourself. The goal is to stop the 4 a.m. back-and-forth and restore predictable rhythms for high-stakes work.Calendars signal culture. Mita argues for a deliberate meeting cleanse, real breaks, and protected one-on-ones. You will hear why “we are not AI agents,” why canceling a meeting can be the kindest move you make this week, and how simple touch points create loyalty.Leaders also get a playbook for honest feedback. Mita shares how to create safety, why alumni calls six to twelve months after someone leaves yield the most actionable insight, and how a short journaling habit helps you see patterns in your own behavior before they damage trust.Finally, Mita challenges a core assumption: most work is not life or death. Treating it that way creates burnout. She closes with a frank read on the broken employee–employer contract and a likely shift toward more consultant-style work, which makes clarity, expectations, and operating rules even more important for CEOs and boards.Actionable TakeawaysYou will learn how to set a clear after-hours rule that stops the 4 a.m. reply spiral, including what “urgent” actually means in your context.Hear how to replace micromanagement with outcomes and guardrails when life outside work feels out of control.You will learn why your calendar is your culture, and how a simple meeting cleanse reveals time for deep work and real one-on-ones.Hear how to protect one-on-ones without turning them into therapy. Mita shares a practical cadence and a simple check-in script that builds connection.You will learn a low-cost feedback system: invite coaching, thank in the moment, follow up with changes, and never hunt “who said what.”Hear how to get clearer truth with alumni calls six to twelve months after exit interviews, when the emotion is gone and facts are usable.You will learn to write simple hybrid rules that reduce proximity bias and make global teams feel fair and seen.Hear how to reset leader expectations about urgency and burnout, starting with this line: “Most of our work is not life or death.”You will learn why culture becomes the worst behavior you tolerate and how to intervene when disengagement starts to spiral.Hear how to prepare for a future with looser roles and project-based deployment, and why clarity and operating rules will be your retention edge. Connect with Mita MallickMita Mallick LinkedIn The Devil Emails at Midnight: What Good Leaders Can Learn from Bad Bosses  Connect with Mahan Tavakoli:Mahan Tavakoli Website Mahan Tavakoli on LinkedIn Partnering Leadership Website

When you think of networking, do you feel discomfort or even dread?Most of us learned that “networking” is fundamentally transactional, asking for and doling out favors in order to further our aims. Maybe you or someone you know is the type to be constantly trying to connect people to prove their own worth, or counting themselves out because they feel like they have nothing to offer. That's the kind of networking that makes us go, “Ugh, I'd rather stay home.”But networking can be about building real, powerful connections. And we need relationships, networks, and communities more than ever. And you don't have to be a dedicated extrovert. You can cultivate a way of building connections and community that works for your nervous system and your lifestyle. The goal is discernment–knowing when to give, when to receive, and trusting that you have something worth bringing.As my guest today shares, if we want to redefine networking, it starts with checking our biases and our burdens about what and who networking is and who it's for. Monique Kelley is a trusted, purpose-driven professor at Boston University, a consultant and published author who serves in a fractional capacity for Fortune 50 and global biopharmaceutical companies seeking a strategic corporate, product or executive communications head who advances business objectives and alleviates their headaches. Professor Kelley wrote the book (literally) on effective networking, Redefining Networking: How to Lead with Your Unique Value. She is also a Boston Founding Member of women C-suite and executive community CHIEF.Monique has built a strong network that she taps into for her consulting, referrals for her former coworkers and opportunities for her students and industry peers. At BU, she teaches the first and only Career Readiness course within the College of Communication. She teaches students and professionals alike her approach to effective networking and has facilitated “lead with your value” workshops for corporations and professional organizations, including Johnson & Johnson's Global Commercial Strategy Organization and Ticket to Biotech.Listen to the full episode to hear:How to reach out without making it transactionalWhy networking should start with people you already know, not strangersSimple steps for connecting and communicating your unique valueWhy you have to take the time to build equity and trust before making an askWhy reciprocity and long-term relationships are the real goals of networkingHow thinking about what you can contribute in return can take the pressure off asking for helpLearn more about Monique Kelley:Redefining NetworkingConnect on LinkedInRedefining Networking; How to Lead with Your Unique ValueLearn more about Rebecca:rebeccaching.comWork With RebeccaThe Unburdened Leader on SubstackSign up for the weekly Unburdened Leader EmailResources:My journey to find friends helped me find community instead | Shannon WattsDorie ClarkAdam GrantThe Devil Emails at Midnight: What Good Leaders Can Learn from Bad Bosses, Mita MallickEP 139: Bad Bosses Aren't Born, They're Made: Breaking Toxic Leadership Cycles with Mita MallickThe RootsJohn Candy: I Like Me

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I'm a daily writer of over 32 years.  A terrestrial radio and podcasts host for 46 years.  Everything I create and share through broadcasting is a personal experience. Alexa hasn't lived a day in any decade or century yet endlessly offers information and acceleration to anyone tapping in.  Street Speak is all about making an authentic connection with a digital device and sheer know it all.  None of this is scripted.  This really is Alexa from Amazon.  You can't predict a single word Alexa shares.  She's AI technology.  Endlessly we are warned to never believe what she shares.  Yet it sounds amazingly authentic.  Ultimately, it's your choice.  So why am I using my real name versus Arroe?  The AI unit thinks if she he or it has to be authentic so do I. This is Street Speak with Alexa and Clarence…Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/arroe-collins-unplugged-totally-uncut--994165/support.

I'm a daily writer of over 32 years.  A terrestrial radio and podcasts host for 46 years.  Everything I create and share through broadcasting is a personal experience. Alexa hasn't lived a day in any decade or century yet endlessly offers information and acceleration to anyone tapping in.  Street Speak is all about making an authentic connection with a digital device and sheer know it all.  None of this is scripted.  This really is Alexa from Amazon.  You can't predict a single word Alexa shares.  She's AI technology.  Endlessly we are warned to never believe what she shares.  Yet it sounds amazingly authentic.  Ultimately, it's your choice.  So why am I using my real name versus Arroe?  The AI unit thinks if she he or it has to be authentic so do I. This is Street Speak with Alexa and Clarence…Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/arroe-collins-like-it-s-live--4113802/support.

Interested in Launching your own Podcast? Podcast Principles can help! Book a call below to learn more. https://calendly.com/podcastprinciples/discover   On this episode of Listen Then Speak, I sit down with my friend (and repeat guest) Mita Mallick to talk about her new book, The Devil Emails at Midnight: What Good Leaders Can Learn from Bad Bosses. We get into the real workplace dynamics so many people quietly deal with: chaos, burnout, and “lethal loyalty”, and what it actually looks like to set boundaries without blowing up your career. Mita shares how her upbringing as the daughter of Indian immigrant parents shaped the way she approached work, why “keep your head down and work hard” can backfire in modern corporate culture, and how bad bosses don't just create stress, they create ripple effects that drain entire teams. We also unpack one of the book's most memorable archetypes, “The White Rabbit” manager, and walk through practical ways to manage up, prioritize what's urgent vs. important, and build a communication framework that protects your time and sanity. If you've ever felt pressured to be available 24/7, struggled to advocate for yourself, or wondered how to lead well in a broken culture, this conversation is for you.   Episode Highlights: 0:00 - Introduction 0:53 - Meet Mita! 2:25 - Favorite genre of music 3:07 - Management, flexibility and being a role model 5:30 - The start of Mita's career and how her parent's culture informed it 12:06 - The ‘F' word (family) 17:09 - The “white rabbit” 21:16 - “Managing up” with a ‘white rabbit' 27:07 - Getting over the fear of ‘managing up' 30:13 - Urgency exhaustion and guarding your true priorities 33:59 - Advice to service-based, or faith-based professionals 38:12 - Where you can get Mita's book   CONNECT WITH JAHMAAL   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jahmaalmarshall/ Website: https://listenthenspeak.com/ If you're ready to get measured results for both personally and professionally, schedule an appointment with Jahmaal BUY ME A Coffee - with this link: https://buymeacoffee.com/listenthenspeak?new=1   Interested in learning more about Mita Mallick? Website https://www.mitamallick.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mita-mallick-2b165822/ Book: https://www.amazon.com/Devil-Emails-Midnight-Leaders-Bosses/dp/1394316488 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

About this episode  Bad bosses aren't just a workplace problem—they're a leadership pattern that can spread, normalize, and quietly erode culture. In this episode of The Future of Work® Podcast, host Daniel Lamadrid talks with Mita Mallick, a bestselling author and seasoned marketing and HR executive, about her book The Devil Emails at Midnight: What Good Leaders Can Learn from Bad Bosses. Together, they explore why bad boss behavior happens, how marketplace pressure and personal “earthquakes” shape leadership, and why hustle culture can reward the very behaviors that burn teams out. The conversation gets practical: how to give feedback when psychological safety exists, how leaders can run a weekly self-awareness check, why gratitude builds trust and retention, and how boundaries protect top talent—especially as work evolves with AI, hybrid models, and rising uncertainty. 

How Pressure Turns Good Leaders Into Bad Bosses Most leaders don't fail because they lack skill or good intentions. They fail because pressure changes how they show up. In this episode, executive coach Sabina Nawaz explains why pressure, not power, is the real force that corrupts leadership. Drawing from her work with senior leaders at Microsoft and Fortune 500 companies, Sabina breaks down how well-meaning managers slip into micromanaging, rescuing, and control—and how those habits quietly damage trust, performance, and culture. You'll learn: Why pressure triggers the worst leadership behaviors The “sole provider” trap many leaders fall into without realizing it Why promotions are one of the riskiest moments in a leadership career How to lead yourself first so pressure doesn't lead for you If you want to stay effective, human, and trusted as a leader—especially under pressure—this conversation is a must-listen. Learn more from Sabina Nawaz here: https://sabinanawaz.com/ https://growthroughpressure.substack.com/ Subscribe for more powerful leadership conversations! Sponsors: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Cadre of Men⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Farrow Skin Care⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Salty Sailor Coffee Company⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Leader Connect⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Qualified Leadership Series⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ____ Get all of Jon Rennie's bestselling leadership books for 15% off the regular price today! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠HERE⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Dan continues his Make It a Great One in 2026 kick-off by interviewing author and advocate Mita Mallick to explore the real impact that leadership has on mental health, identity, and workplace well-being. Drawing from her bestselling books Reimagine Inclusion and The Devil Emails at Midnight, Mita shares personal stories of toxic leadership, bullying, grief, and growth, while challenging leaders to confront their own behaviors with honesty and compassion. Together, Dr. Dan and Mita unpack why bad bosses aren't born but made—and how self-awareness, empathy, and accountability can transform workplaces into environments where people feel seen, valued, and empowered to do their best work.  This episode invites listeners to reflect on the profound effect leaders have on mental health and well-being – and the importance of self-care, reflection, and emotional intelligence in all aspects of our lives. For more information visit www.mitamallick.com and follow @mita_mallick13 on Instagram. Please listen, follow, rate, and review Make It a Great One on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Follow @drdanpeters on social media. Visit www.drdanpeters.com and send your questions or guest pitches to podcast@drdanpeters.com. We have this moment, this day, and this life—let's make it a great one. – Dr. Dan Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, host Sayan sits down with Derrick Van Mell to unpack a truth most people feel but rarely name: leadership can shape your nervous system as much as your workload. Derrick explains how unclear direction, neglect, and careless comments can quietly erode confidence and safety at work. This episode is for anyone dealing with a difficult manager, recovering from workplace stress, or stepping into leadership themselves. You'll learn how ethical, competent leadership reduces harm, why shared management language matters, and what employees can do to protect themselves without escalating conflict. About the Guest: Derrick Van Mell is the founder and principal of the Center for Management Terms and Practices, a standards body for general management. He's also the author of Atoms and Orchestras and shares frameworks like The Index, the Milwaukee Model, and the Pledge of Managerial Power. Key Takeaways: Bad bosses often cause “invisible injury” through neglect, unclear direction, and public disrespect. Not all harm is intentional, many managers were never taught ethical use of authority. Strong leadership means putting people first, not ego, control, or winning arguments. If a boss is fundamentally decent, use calm courage: ask clarifying questions about tone and intent. “Parental mind” works upward too: recognize what your manager does well to shift behavior safely. Management is not for everyone, rewards are delayed and abstract, so self-awareness matters. How to Connect With the Guest: Website: https://theindex.net/  Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PM - Send me a message on PodMatch DM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avik Disclaimer: This video is for educational and informational purposes only. The views expressed are the personal opinions of the guest and do not reflect the views of the host or Healthy Mind By Avik™️. We do not intend to harm, defame, or discredit any person, organization, brand, product, country, or profession mentioned. All third-party media used remain the property of their respective owners and are used under fair use for informational purposes. By watching, you acknowledge and accept this disclaimer. Healthy Mind By Avik™️ is a global platform redefining mental health as a necessity, not a luxury. Born during the pandemic, it's become a sanctuary for healing, growth, and mindful living. Hosted by Avik Chakraborty, storyteller, survivor, and wellness advocate. With over 6000+ episodes and 200K+ global listeners, we unite voices, break stigma, and build a world where every story matters.

In an ideal world, every manager would be a mentor, motivator, and model of leadership. But for too many professionals, the reality is far messier. If you've ever had to deal with bad bosses—the micromanagers, the emotionally unavailable, or the toxic cheerleaders—you know the profound toll it takes on your mental health and career trajectory.In this deep-dive discussion, we sit down with Mita Mallick, best-selling author of The Devil Emails at Midnight, to unpack the pervasive problem of bad management. Mita shares her personal journey through 13 different types of awful leadership, revealing why these figures are tolerated, how they are made (not born), and the concrete strategies you need to manage up or know when it's time to craft your exit plan. Plus, learn the surprising bad boss behavior that flies under the radar but can be the most detrimental to your team. Ready to reclaim control of your work life? Keep listening.Check out the full series of “Career Sessions, Career Lessons” podcasts here or visit pathwise.io/podcast/. A full written transcript of this episode is also available at https://pathwise.io/podcasts/mita-mallick/.Become a PathWise member today! Join at https://pathwise.io/join-now/

If you've ever thought, “I'm not a leader, I just have 47 people depending on me and zero time to pee” — this one's for you. In this episode, we're pulling back the curtain on what really gets in the way of women leading at work, at home, and in our own lives. Spoiler: it's not your title, your org chart, or your calendar. It's the invisible beliefs, the perfectionism, the “I'll just do it myself,” and the “if I say no everything will fall apart” stories running in the background. Executive coach, author, and Harvard Business Review podcast host Muriel Wilkins joins Nicole to unpack the seven hidden leadership blockers that quietly cap our potential — especially for women who've been praised their whole lives for doing it all, doing it perfectly, and never dropping a ball. Together, they dig into how to actually lead yourself first, rewrite old scripts like “I can't make a mistake” and “I don't belong here,” and create a version of leadership that doesn't require burnout, over-functioning, or pretending to be someone you're not. Because leadership isn't just about managing people. It's about managing you — your beliefs, your boundaries, and your response when things go sideways. We explore: Why leadership isn't a title, it's how you show up in every area of your life The 7 hidden leadership blockers that keep high-achieving women stuck and exhausted How “I need to be involved” and “I can't say no” destroy your capacity and your team's growth The quiet cost of perfectionism and the belief “I can't make a mistake” The difference between being a leader and actually leading (yes, there's a big one) Why real confidence isn't knowing you'll get it right — it's trusting you can handle whatever happens Because at the end of the day, leadership isn't about having all the answers — it's about having the inner steadiness to face whatever comes next without abandoning yourself in the process. Thank you to our sponsors! Get 20% off your first order at curehydration.com/WOMANSWORK with code WOMANSWORK — and if you get a post-purchase survey, mention you heard about Cure here to help support the show!  Sex is a skill. Beducated is where you learn it. Visit https://beducate.me/pd2550-womanswork and use code womanswork for 50% off the annual pass. Connect with Muriel: Website: https://murielwilkins.com/ Book: https://www.murielwilkins.com/books Podcast: https://www.murielwilkins.com/podcast-coaching-real-leaders   Related Podcast Episodes: From Small Business to Big Impact: Leadership, Confidence, & Community at the Goldman Sachs 10K What Good Leaders Can Learn from Bad Bosses with Mita Mallick | 351 How To Build An Emotionally Intelligent Team with Dr. Vanessa Druskat | 328 Share the Love: If you found this episode insightful, please share it with a friend, tag us on social media, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform!

Welcome to today's ICYMI, where we kick off the week with a quick game-changing tip from one of our guests that you might have missed. Have you been debating whether to quit your job or stick it out? In this uncertain job market and economic volatility, it's hard to know what to do, so we're throwing it back to this helpful advice from Emily The Recruiter, plus her insights on how to handle back-to-office mandates if you've been working remote.Emily Durham—aka Emily the Recruiter—is a career coach, content creator, and host of the Clock In Podcast. With millions of views across TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, Emily is known for her no-BS advice on how to land your dream job and deal with workplace dynamics like a boss.Listen to the full episode with Emily The Recruiter here.Tune in every Monday for an expert dose of life advice in under 10 minutes.Check out our first episode with Emily here.Follow Emily on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.  Sign up for our monthly adulting newsletter:teachmehowtoadult.ca/newsletter Follow us on the ‘gram:@teachmehowtoadultmedia@gillian.bernerFollow on TikTok: @teachmehowtoadultSubscribe on YouTube

Have you ever had a boss who taught you exactly how not to lead? In this episode of The Art of Badassery podcast, host Jenn Cassetta sits down with Mita Mallick, author of The Devil Emails at Midnight: What Good Leaders Can Learn from Bad Bosses. Mita shares how she turned countless rejections into a bestselling book and became a leading voice in diversity and inclusion. Together, Jenn and Mita unpack lessons from difficult bosses, the role of grief in leadership, and practical strategies to navigate tough workplace dynamics. Mita reminds us that true leadership is built on community, storytelling, and the courage to be vulnerable.Connect with Mita Mallick:Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mita-mallick-2b165822/Website - https://www.mitamallick.com/Book - The Devil Emails at Midnight: What Good Leaders Can Learn From Bad Bosses

Episode #130. In this episode, I'm joined by Mita Mallick, Wall Street Journal bestselling author of Reimagine Inclusion and The Devil Emails at Midnight: What Good Leaders Can Learn from Bad Bosses. Mita shares her winding path from marketing executive to full-time writer and changemaker, and the lessons she's learned about leadership, inclusion, and the courage to leave what no longer fits. We talk about bad bosses, burnout, and the quiet ways our own habits can mirror the behavior we once resented. Mita reminds us that growth starts with awareness—and that leadership isn't about perfection, it's about presence. If you've ever felt stuck under poor leadership or wondered how to lead differently, this conversation will challenge you to look inward and act with intention. Connect with Mita Mallick: Website LinkedIn Instagram

In this engaging conversation, Lori Adams-Brown interviews Mita Mallick about her book "The Devil Emails at Midnight: What Good Leaders Can Learn from Bad Bosses." Mita shares personal stories and insights on leadership, workplace culture, and the impact of bad bosses on mental health. The discussion covers the importance of self-awareness, setting boundaries, and the role of personal relationships in professional settings. The genesis of Mita's book started with a personal experience of her mother's home being flooded. Mita found an old notebook with stories about bad bosses, which inspired her book. Fear-driven workplaces may achieve short-term results but harm long-term culture. Mita shares a 'water test' to identify toxic workplaces during interviews. Setting boundaries is crucial for respect and inclusion in the workplace. Personal relationships can complicate professional decisions, especially in leadership roles. Mita emphasizes the importance of self-care for effective leadership. The conversation highlights the normalization of toxic behavior in workplaces. Mita advises doing reference checks on potential employers. The book encourages readers to learn from bad bosses to become better leaders. My special guest is Mita Mallick Mallick is a highly sought-after speaker who has advised Fortune 500 companies and start-ups alike. She is a LinkedIn Top Voice and was named to the Thinkers 50 Radar List. She's a contributor to Harvard Business Review, Fast Company, Adweek, and Entrepreneur. Mallick has been featured in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, Time Magazine, Forbes, Axios, Essence, Cosmopolitan Magazine and Business Insider. Mallick holds a B.A. from Barnard College, Columbia University and an M.B.A. from Duke University's Fuqua School of Business. Learning from Bad Bosses The Devil Emails at Midnight Leadership Lessons from Mita Mallick Navigating Toxic Workplaces Setting Boundaries for Success The Impact of Bad Bosses Self-Care in Leadership Identifying Toxic Workplaces The Role of Personal Relationships in Leadership Transforming Workplace Culture Key topics: leadership, workplace culture, bad bosses, mental health, self-awareness "The Devil Emails at Midnight" "Fear kills culture in the longterm" "Set boundaries for respect" "Personal relationships complicate decisions" "Self-care is key to leadership" "Normalize toxic behavior in workplaces" "Do reference checks on employers" "Learn from bad bosses" "Water test for toxic workplaces" "Respect is a basic need" 00:00:01 Introduction and Book Overview 00:00:29 Inspiration Behind the Book 00:01:27 Fear-Driven Workplaces 00:02:27 Impact of Bad Bosses 00:04:10 Setting Boundaries 00:07:30 Personal Relationships in Leadership 00:11:39 Self-Care and Leadership 00:18:54 Cultural and Personal Background 00:25:20 Advice for Navigating Workplace Dynamics 00:30:51 Conclusion and How to Connect with Mita Connect with us: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Linkedin YouTube Substack FaceBook Instagram Threads Patreon (for exclusive episodes just for Difference Makers) Bluesky TikTok Subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who might need to hear it. Your support helps the community grow and keeps these important conversations going. If you need professional help, such as therapy: https://www.betterhelp.com/difference If you are looking for your next opportunity, sign up for Lori's Masterclass on Master the Career Pivot: https://www.loriadamsbrown.com/careerpivot Difference Makers who are podcast listeners get 10% offf with the code: DIFFERENT Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Most people don't set out to be “bad bosses.” But good intentions aren't enough when your habits unintentionally create frustration, fear, or disengagement.Thankfully, today's guest helps us see what's really happening beneath the surface. Mita Mallick is a Wall Street Journal and USA Today Best-Selling author. She's on a mission to fix what's broken in our workplaces. She's a corporate change-maker with a track record of transforming businesses and has had an extensive career as a marketing and human resources executive.In this episode, we explore what makes a bad boss (and how to avoid becoming one). Mita reveals common behaviors that erode trust, how to give feedback that empowers instead of intimidates, and why inclusive leadership is the foundation of a healthy culture. You'll learn small, everyday actions that rebuild connection, create safety, and turn self-awareness into your most powerful leadership tool.In the extended members-only conversation, Mita opens up about the “Nap Boss,” “Tony Soprano,” and “Sheriff” archetypes—real examples of toxic leadership behaviors that managers can learn from. She also shares practical ways to respond to bullying or bias at work, including how to use the “Five Ds” framework to intervene and support colleagues safely and effectively.Get FREE mini-episode guides with the big idea from the week's episode delivered to your inbox when you subscribe to my weekly email.Join the conversation now!Conversation Topics (00:00) Introduction: What makes a “bad boss”?(00:51) Meet Mita Mallick and her leadership journey(02:40) The myths we believe about being a good boss(05:12) Why well-intentioned leaders can still be toxic(08:43) Understanding inclusion as a leadership skill(12:25) How to recognize your own blind spots(17:18) Building trust and psychological safety(21:36) Giving feedback with care and clarity(25:49) The small habits that make a big difference(29:10) Keep up with Mita(31:46) [Extended Episode Only] The Nap, Tony, and Sheriff bosses' workplace impact(36:18) [Extended Episode Only] How to intervene: The Five Ds model

In this episode, we uncover seven types of bad bosses that can derail your growth, crush motivation, and create toxic workplaces. Learn how to spot them early—and how to protect your career and confidence before it's too late! ---------- JOIN THE AOS ACADEMY – top-tier, high-impact online courses designed to catalyze your success and satisfaction in life – learn more at https://aos.academy Join host Steve Wohlenhaus on the ANATOMY OF SUCCESS podcast and dig deep into what actions you can take to find success in health, work, and relationships. Expect transparent candor and challenges that require action, all to help you define success on your own terms. CONNECT ON SOCIAL LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-wohlenhaus/ Instagram: @stevewohlenhaus / https://www.instagram.com/stevewohlenhaus/ Facebook: stevewohlenhaus / https://www.facebook.com/stevewohlenhaus TikTok: @stevewohlenhaus / https://www.tiktok.com/@stevewohlenhaus More about Steve: https://weatherology.com/steve/ Steve's real-time audio weather company: https://weatherology.com/ Catch the latest episodes or binge the podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or Amazon.

Join Chad Hyams and Bob Stewart as they explore workplace dynamics with Mita Mallick, author of "The Devil Emails at Midnight: What Good Leaders Can Learn From Bad Bosses." Mita shares insights from her book, discussing archetypes of bad bosses, the importance of inclusion, and lessons from personal experiences as both a leader and subordinate. Dive into strategies for offering valuable feedback, managing remote teams, and fostering an environment where employees feel valued. Discover how self-awareness and clear communication can transform workplace culture and leadership effectiveness. Connect with Mita at https://www.mitamallick.com/ ---------- Connect with the hosts: •    Ben Kinney: https://www.BenKinney.com/ •    Bob Stewart: https://www.linkedin.com/in/activebob •    Chad Hyams: https://ChadHyams.com/ •    Book one of our co-hosts for your next event: https://WinMakeGive.com/speakers/ More ways to connect: •    Join our Facebook group at www.facebook.com/groups/winmakegive •     Sign up for our weekly newsletter: https://WinMakeGive.com/sign-up •     Explore the Win Make Give Podcast Network: https://WinMakeGive.com/ Part of the Win Make Give Podcast Network

After a brief hiatus, GLoP is back anad well, not much has changed: John can't remember the month, Rob's in Los Angeles for reasons unknown, and Jonah is courageously trying to keep the conversation somewhere near coherence. The trio tackle vital topics like bad bosses (biblical and otherwise), forgotten '70s variety shows, why The Blues Brothers is accidentally beautiful, and how nostalgia has officially gone off the rails. Somewhere along the way, there's circumcision talk, theological tangents, and at least three references no one under fifty will understand. In short: classic GLoP — smart, ridiculous, and slightly embarrassed of itself.

After a brief hiatus, GLoP is back and, well, not much has changed: John can't remember the month, Rob's in Los Angeles for reasons unknown, and Jonah is courageously trying to keep the conversation somewhere near coherence. The trio tackle vital topics like bad bosses (biblical and otherwise), forgotten '70s variety shows, why The Blues […]

We've all had them — the micromanagers, the credit stealers, the screamers, the ones who treat “reply all at midnight” like a leadership strategy. Bad bosses are everywhere, but here's the kicker: leadership is learned. Which means we can unlearn the toxic part and redefine how we lead. In this episode, we sit down with Mita Mallick — Wall Street Journal and USA Today bestselling author of The Devil Emails at Midnight: What Good Leaders Can Learn From Bad Bosses, LinkedIn Top Voice, corporate changemaker, and fierce advocate for fixing broken workplaces. Together, we unpack why bad bosses are made (not born), how to spot when you're slipping into toxic habits yourself, and what it takes to build the kind of leadership people actually want to follow. We get into: The real reasons people become bad bosses (hint: stress, modeling, and unhealed personal stuff) Why micromanagement, fear, and time-hoarding are leadership red flags How inclusion, credit-sharing, and genuine presence boost retention more than hoodies and free apps ever will Practical ways to “manage up” when your boss is… less than inspiring How to stop being that boss and start modeling the kind of leader you'd want to work for Because nobody wants to be the horror story told at happy hour 10 years from now. Let's do better. Connect with Mita: Book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1394316488 LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mita-mallick-2b165822   Related Podcast Episodes Leading From The Inside Out with Dana Maor | 278 Grown-Up Goals: The 5 Pillars Of Being A Healthy Adult with Michelle Chalfant | 317 How To Build An Emotionally Intelligent Team with Dr. Vanessa Druskat | 328 Share the Love: If you found this episode insightful, please share it with a friend, tag us on social media, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform!

Every worker has a bad boss story—but why are they so common? In this two-part series, Rodney Evans and Sam Spurlin dig into the archetypes of dysfunctional leaders and the systems that keep them in power. Because bad bosses aren't accidents—they're often a predictable response to organizational pressures. In Part 2, they take on the Ghost—the slippery, conflict-avoiding boss who's always hard to find when decisions need to be made—and the Self-Promoter, the credit-stealing leader who thrives on claiming other people's work as their own. From the frustration of canceled one-on-ones to the demoralization of stolen ideas, Rodney and Sam unpack why these archetypes persist, what drives their behavior, and how you can protect yourself (and your team) without burning out. -------------------------------- Ready to change your organization? Let's talk. Get our newsletter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Sign up here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Follow us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ -------------------------------- Mentioned references: Part 1 of Bad Boss conversation "Sam and Wilbur": DF Miniseries Ep. 6 check in round "antiwork subreddit" 00:00 Intro + Check-In: What is the phrase going on your tombstone? 03:37 Recap of part 1 04:46 Bad Boss 4: The Ghost 08:24 Dealing with The Ghost 10:52 Bad Boss 5: The Self-Promoter 11:49 Source of the credit-stealing behaviors 15:24 Dealing with The Self-Promoter 21:08 What all bad bosses have in common 23:26 Self-preservation is always a valid strategy 25:56 Wrap up: leave us a review and send us your bad boss stories! Sound engineering and design by Taylor Marvin of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Coupe Studios⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Mita Mallick talks about her book The Devil Emails at Midnight.” Mita is a Wall St. Journal and USA Today bestselling author, a contributor to Harvard Business Review, and an authority on inclusive leadership and workplace culture. Listen as she examines what good leaders can learn from bad bosses. Host, Kevin Craine Do you want to be a guest? https://Everyday-MBA.com/guest Do you want to advertise on the show? https://Everyday-MBA.com/advertise

Career expert Mita Mallick shares how to deal with bad managers, and how to become a good oneSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brandon sits down with Mita Mallick, author of The Devil Emails at Midnight, to examine how well-intentioned managers slip into bad-boss behaviors and what leaders can do to course-correct. They discuss stress and personal crises as root causes, the outsized impact managers have on employee mental health, why one-on-ones are a retention tool, and how to prevent cultures of constant urgency. You'll also hear practical tips for avoiding micromanagement, honoring names, reducing meeting bloat, and inviting real coaching from your team. Key Timestamps 00:00 — Welcome, show purpose, and sponsor message 01:00 — Why “bad bosses” are made by circumstances, not born 03:00 — Three common triggers: market shocks, trickle-down behavior, personal “earthquakes” 06:30 — Managers' influence on employee mental health 07:50 — Time signals care: one-on-ones as a retention tool 11:30 — Freeing the calendar: canceling meetings, async options, delegating attendance 13:30 — Inclusion in practice: the importance of saying names correctly 16:00 — Spotting disengagement and checking in with care 18:10 — Addressing the “napper”: direct conversations and recommitment 21:00 — Accountability for disengagement and leadership courage 22:15 — Escaping micromanagement: show what “done” looks like 25:10 — If everything is urgent, nothing is: reducing fire-drill culture 27:30 — The overly kind yet incompetent boss vs toxic positivity 30:30 — Gossip erodes trust and confidentiality 33:00 — Rethinking loyalty and stopping talent hoarding 35:00 — AI, time savings, and doubling down on human leadership 36:30 — Weekly reflection, reading the room, and asking for coaching 38:30 — Where to find Mita and her book A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws In Brandon's own words: “The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders.” About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more [https://www.xeniumhr.com/] Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/lawsbrandon] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/lawsbrandon] About [https://xeniumhr.com/about-xenium/meet-the-team/brandon-laws] Connect with Xenium HR: Website [https://xeniumhr.com/] LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/xenium-hr] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/XeniumHR] Twitter [https://twitter.com/XeniumHR] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/xeniumhr] YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/user/XeniumHR

In this candid and insightful conversation, host Andy Storch welcomes back Mita Mallick to explore what effective leaders can learn from the worst bosses they've encountered. Drawing from her new book, The Devil Emails at Midnight: What Good Leaders Can Learn from Bad Bosses, Mita shares her personal journey, the archetypes of bad bosses, and practical strategies for both surviving toxic leadership and breaking negative cycles as a leader.Subscribe to our weekly updates and monthly talent development newsletter here. Order Own Your Brand, Own Your Career on AmazonApply to Join us in the Talent Development Think Tank Community!This episode is sponsored by LearnIt, which is offering a FREE trial of their TeamPass membership for you and up to 20 team members of your team. Check it out here.This episode is also sponsored by Mento which offers a unique 80/20 mix of coaching and mentorship so that your people can increase performance and success. Connect with Andy here: Website | LinkedInConnect with Mita: LinkedIn: Mita MallickTop 5 Key Notes:1.Bad Bosses Aren't Born, They're MadeMita emphasizes that most bad bosses don't set out to be that way—often they're shaped by their own experiences, circumstances, or lack of self-awareness. Many toxic behaviors are responses to external or personal stress, not innate malice.2.Recognizing Archetypes of Bad LeadershipMita's book introduces 13 archetypes of bad bosses, including Medusa (the bully), the Chopper (micromanager), the Napper (disengaged boss), and Tony Soprano (talent hoarder). These archetypes help us recognize and address negative behaviors in leadership.3.Impact of Exclusion and Toxic WorkplacesDrawing from her personal journey, Mita highlights the profound impact that exclusion and toxic bosses can have on employee wellbeing, engagement, and confidence. Her own experiences with bullies followed her from childhood schoolyards into the workplace, fueling her passion for building inclusive cultures.4.Advice for Employees Facing Toxic LeadershipMita suggests practical steps for employees: document toxic behavior, develop an exit strategy (even if it's internal), network discreetly, and focus on activities outside work that rebuild confidence. She stresses that individuals alone cannot fix toxic workplaces or change others' behavior—they have to prioritize their own well-being.5.Role of HR and Talent Professionals in Addressing ToxicityThe conversation offers guidance for HR and talent leaders: document issues, influence decision-makers with facts, and recognize when to recommend coaching—or, when necessary, help leaders move on. Using curiosity, vulnerability, and honest feedback can guide leaders toward positive change, but some situations may require more decisive...

Building Better Employee Experiences Through Leadership  Shep interviews Mita Mallick, marketing and culture change expert and bestselling author. She talks about her book The Devil Emails at Midnight and the impact of internal workplace culture on employees and customers.  This episode of Amazing Business Radio with Shep Hyken answers the following questions and more:    What impact does internal workplace culture have on the external customer experience?  How can leaders set healthier communication boundaries with their employees?  How can companies create an inclusive culture that values both employees and customers equally?  What are some negative leadership behaviors that can affect employee engagement and customer service?  Why is it important for leaders to address problematic employee behavior immediately?  Top Takeaways:    Employees are sometimes the 'forgotten customers' in a business. Just as companies focus on serving their external customers, it is important to also care for internal customers, your team members.   When employees feel valued and respected, they are more likely to treat customers in the same way. The quality of service on the outside is often a reflection of how employees are treated within the organization.  The worst behaviors in any workplace become part of its culture if they are allowed to continue. Whether it's disrespect or disengagement, what leaders and team members let slide becomes the norm.   Leaders should consider whether their personal habits force their team members to sacrifice their personal time. Work doesn't need to spill into all hours of the day and night. For example, when employees feel pressured to respond to emails outside of their work hours, it can cause burnout and stress. Even a simple message like "no need to respond right away" can help set healthy boundaries.  When things change, you have to be willing to revise your goals. Have an honest conversation with your team to find out if they have all the tools and resources that they need to achieve a goal. If not, find out if you can help them or if it is time to set more realistic goals.   Admitting when you are struggling shows strength, not weakness. If someone is dealing with personal struggles, being open about it helps others understand and can make the workplace more supportive.  Bad bosses can teach as much, if not more, than great bosses. Watching what doesn't work and feeling the impact of negative behaviors can inspire people to do the opposite.   Great leaders regularly examine their own behavior. It's easy to spot toxic bosses in others, but it is harder to recognize those traits in yourself. Leaders should take the time to ask themselves, "Am I making it harder for someone to succeed here?"   Plus, Mita shares memorable stories of bad bosses she's encountered (including herself) and the lessons from those experiences. Tune in! Quote:   "The biggest complaint in any relationship, whether at home or work, is a lack of time for each other. If you're not making time for your team, you really need to ask yourself why you're leading them."    About:    Mita Mallick is an inclusive marketing expert and cultural change agent known for transforming organizations. She's the bestselling author of Reimagine Inclusion and , The Devil Emails at Midnight: What Good Leaders Can Learn From Bad Bosses.  Shep Hyken is a customer service and experience expert, New York Times bestselling author, award-winning keynote speaker, and host of Amazing Business Radio.    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You've probably had a bad boss, but you might not realize how easy it is to become one. Leadership experts Jamie Woolf and Christopher Bell unpack “power blindness” — how authority can warp your perspective — and share smart, practical ways to break the cycle of toxic bosses for good. After the talk, Modupe shares one more exercise to help you become a better boss.Interested in learning more about upcoming TED events? Follow these links:TEDNext: ted.com/futureyouTEDAI Vienna: ted.com/ai-viennaTEDAI San Francisco: ted.com/ai-sf Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The WorkWell Podcast™, Jen Fisher speaks with Mita Mallick, leadership expert and author of "The Devil Emails at Midnight: What Good Leaders Can Learn from Bad Bosses." Mita shares powerful stories from her own experiences with toxic leadership and reveals how she learned to recognize—and address—her own bad boss behaviors.Episode Highlights:The origin story behind the provocative title and how a flooded childhood home led to discovering a "burn book" of bad bosses13 types of toxic bosses including "The Sheriff" who refused to learn her name and renamed her "Mohammed," and "Medusa" who ruled through fear and public humiliationThe three moments when bad boss behavior emerges: external marketplace stress, absorbing behaviors from your own bad boss, and personal life catastrophesWhy bad bosses aren't born, they're made and how grief, trauma, and unprocessed emotions show up in leadershipThe midnight email phenomenon and why normalizing around-the-clock work expectations is unsustainable and counterproductiveHow fear-based leadership drives short-term results but destroys long-term productivity through turnover, disengagement, and organizational damageThe shame and power dynamics that keep people trapped in toxic workplace relationshipsSelf-reflection strategies for recognizing your own bad boss behaviors including career journaling and asking for coaching (not feedback)The importance of vulnerability in leadership and creating psychological safety for teams to discuss grief, personal struggles, and workplace challengesQuotable Moments:"Names were given to us by someone who had big hopes and dreams for us. Let that sit in. That's who someone named you. And so think about the promise of what your life is to be. And someone can't respect you by saying your name correctly." - Mita Mallick"Your culture becomes defined by the worst behavior you tolerate." - Mita MallickResources:Book: Order "The Devil Emails at Midnight: What Good Leaders Can Learn from Bad Bosses" by Mita MallickAvailable at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and local independent bookstores

Every worker has a bad boss story—but why are they so common? In this two-parter, Rodney Evans and Sam Spurlin dig into the archetypes of dysfunctional leaders and the systems that keep them in power. Because bad bosses aren't accidents—they're often a predictable response to organizational pressures. In Part 1, they take on the Micromanager, the Rager, and the Martyr. From obsessive control and volcanic tempers to bosses who never log off, these archetypes reveal the deeper fears and systemic incentives driving destructive behavior. Along the way, Rodney and Sam share strategies for surviving each type, plus insights for executives who may be unknowingly creating the conditions for bad bosses to thrive. -------------------------------- Ready to change your organization? Let's talk: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.theready.com/working-together⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get our newsletter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Sign up here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Follow us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ -------------------------------- Mentioned references: Paris Geller as the boss, The Gilmore Girls Yzme, The Emperor's New Groove 00:00 Intro + Check-In: Who's your favorite bad boss from TV or movies? 02:38 The Pattern: Bad bosses are the product of the system that promoted them 04:30 Bad Boss 1: The Micromanager 06:52 Micromanagers stamp out innovation and emergent ideas 10:11 The source of micromanagement behavior 11:25 Dealing with The Micromanager 14:17 Bad Boss 2: The Rager 15:50 Rage is used to mask vulnerability 19:04 Dealing with The Rager 22:13 The source of ragers and the orgs that enable them 25:27 Bad Boss 3: The Martyr 30:24 Dealing with The Martyr 32:33 Being the boss to The Martyr 34:19 Time of The Martyr is ending 36:05 Wrap up: More bad bosses next time! Sound engineering and design by Taylor Marvin of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Coupe Studios⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Have you ever had a boss who left you walking on eggshells, never sure what mood they'd bring into the office? Maybe they humiliated people in meetings, lashed out without warning, or drained you so much that you came home with nothing left for yourself. A bully boss can affect far more than your workday. In this episode, I'm talking with Mita Mallick, speaker, workplace strategist, coach, and bestselling author. She's sharing stories from her own career and what she's learned about surviving toxic leaders - from executives who throw shoes to managers who use “toxic positivity” as a weapon. Mita also offers strategies for spotting warning signs in an interview, building an exit plan that protects your career, and regaining your confidence once you've left. We also explore the patterns that keep people stuck in unhealthy workplaces: how old experiences can shape what we tolerate, why many of us think we can “outwork” a bad boss, and what it really takes to reclaim your well-being. Episode Breakdown: 00:00 How Toxic Jobs Affect Your Life 00:43 Meet Mita Mallick: Speaker, Strategist, and Author 01:22 Surviving Abuse from a Bully Boss 07:16 Workplace Trauma and Mental Health 18:02 How to Spot Red Flags in Job Interviews 28:34 Types of Toxic Bosses and Their Behaviors 38:25 Exit Strategies and Rebuilding Confidence If you'd like more support beyond this conversation, you're welcome to schedule a free consultation with me or a member of my team. We can help you make thoughtful career decisions, strengthen boundaries, and protect your mental health at work. I also encourage you to check out Mita's new book, The Devil Emails at Midnight: What Good Leaders Can Learn from Bad Bosses. You can connect with her directly on LinkedIn and Instagram to keep learning from her insights on leadership and workplace culture. And of course, you can always stay connected with me on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube, where I share weekly tips and encouragement. I'd love to hear your thoughts - your questions and feedback always help shape future episodes. Let's talk! I also want to extend a big thank-you to Headway for sponsoring this episode. Headway helps me keep growing, even on the busiest days, by making it possible to learn from the world's top books in just minutes. I use it every day. I truly love it, and I think you will too. Save 25% when you go to ⁠⁠makeheadway.com/lhs⁠⁠ and use the promo code LHS. Let's keep learning and growing together.

What if the “panic habits” leaders default to are the very things burning out their best people? In this Partnering Leadership episode, Mita Mallick—author of The Devil Emails at Midnight—joins Mahan to unpack practical ways senior leaders can replace performative urgency with clear operating rules that people can trust. You will hear why bad bosses are made, not born, and how pressure from markets, role models, and personal crises can turn ordinary leaders into micromanagers.Mita gets specific about power dynamics. A 4:30 a.m. email from the CEO trains teams to jump, even when the intent is “no rush.” She explains how to set explicit after-hours rules and model them yourself. The goal is to stop the 4 a.m. back-and-forth and restore predictable rhythms for high-stakes work.Calendars signal culture. Mita argues for a deliberate meeting cleanse, real breaks, and protected one-on-ones. You will hear why “we are not AI agents,” why canceling a meeting can be the kindest move you make this week, and how simple touch points create loyalty.Leaders also get a playbook for honest feedback. Mita shares how to create safety, why alumni calls six to twelve months after someone leaves yield the most actionable insight, and how a short journaling habit helps you see patterns in your own behavior before they damage trust.Finally, Mita challenges a core assumption: most work is not life or death. Treating it that way creates burnout. She closes with a frank read on the broken employee–employer contract and a likely shift toward more consultant-style work, which makes clarity, expectations, and operating rules even more important for CEOs and boards.Actionable TakeawaysYou will learn how to set a clear after-hours rule that stops the 4 a.m. reply spiral, including what “urgent” actually means in your context.Hear how to replace micromanagement with outcomes and guardrails when life outside work feels out of control.You will learn why your calendar is your culture, and how a simple meeting cleanse reveals time for deep work and real one-on-ones.Hear how to protect one-on-ones without turning them into therapy. Mita shares a practical cadence and a simple check-in script that builds connection.You will learn a low-cost feedback system: invite coaching, thank in the moment, follow up with changes, and never hunt “who said what.”Hear how to get clearer truth with alumni calls six to twelve months after exit interviews, when the emotion is gone and facts are usable.You will learn to write simple hybrid rules that reduce proximity bias and make global teams feel fair and seen.Hear how to reset leader expectations about urgency and burnout, starting with this line: “Most of our work is not life or death.”You will learn why culture becomes the worst behavior you tolerate and how to intervene when disengagement starts to spiral.Hear how to prepare for a future with looser roles and project-based deployment, and why clarity and operating rules will be your retention edge.Connect with Mita MallickMita Mallick LinkedIn The Devil Emails at Midnight: What Good Leaders Can Learn from Bad Bosses Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: Mahan Tavakoli Website Mahan Tavakoli on LinkedIn Partnering Leadership Website

You've probably had a bad boss, but you might not realize how easy it is to become one. Leadership experts Jamie Woolf and Christopher Bell unpack “power blindness” — how authority can warp your perspective — and share smart, practical ways to break the cycle of toxic bosses for good.For a chance to give your own TED Talk, fill out the Idea Search Application: ted.com/ideasearch.Interested in learning more about upcoming TED events? Follow these links:TEDNext: ted.com/futureyouTEDSports: ted.com/sportsTEDAI Vienna: ted.com/ai-vienna Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.