124. Google’s WFH mistake, Toxic bosses & the psychology behind Pumpkin Spice Latte..? - This Week in Work 3rd September 2024

Truth, Lies and Work

Welcome back to another episode of the Truth, Lies & Work, the award-winning psychology podcast brought to you by the HubSpot Podcast Network.

We’re kicking off September with our full lineup—two episodes a week from now until Christmas! If you’re new here, Tuesdays are all about informal discussions where we round up the latest in the world of work, dive into a mystery segment, and tackle your burning questions in our world-famous Weekly Workplace Surgery.

Segment 1: News Roundup

This week’s news roundup features some intriguing stories:

• The Psychology Behind the Pumpkin Spice Latte Craze: Leanne discusses an article by Nick Hobson in INC. that explores the "Fresh Start Effect," explaining why this seasonal favorite resonates so strongly with people. Read the full article.

• Eric Schmidt on Work-from-Home Culture: Al highlights comments from Google’s former CEO, Eric Schmidt, who criticized the company’s hybrid work model, suggesting it’s one reason Google has lost its edge in AI to startups. Read more on Fortune.

• Stress and Heart Health in High-Stress Jobs: Leanne shares a new study from the University of Quebec that reveals office workers with high-stress jobs are 97% more likely to develop atrial fibrillation, a condition that can lead to strokes. Read the full research.

Segment 2: Fresh Voices

Introducing our new segment for September—Fresh Voices—where we spotlight emerging thought leaders and innovators. This week, we feature Rob Kalwarowsky, who recently delivered a TEDx Talk titled "How to Handle a Bad Boss." Rob shares his deeply personal story of dealing with a passive-aggressive boss and the toll it took on his mental health. We discuss three key takeaways from his talk:

1. The Impact of Toxic Leadership on Mental Health: Toxic leadership isn’t just an HR issue—it’s a health crisis.
2. The Subtlety of Toxic Bosses: Many destructive leaders aren’t overtly abusive but still create a toxic environment.
3. Practical Strategies for Handling Bad Bosses: Rob offers actionable advice for dealing with various types of toxic bosses.

Watch Rob Kalwarowsky’s full TEDx Talk.

More About Rob and Services

Connect with Rob on LinkedIn

Segment 3: Weekly Workplace Surgery

In this week’s "World Famous Weekly Workplace Surgery," we tackle listener questions on workplace dilemmas:

• Encouraging Initiative in Your Team: A business owner asks how to get their team to take more initiative instead of relying on them for every decision.
• Politely Declining Extra Tasks: A listener struggles with saying no to extra tasks without appearing unhelpful.
• Socializing with Your Boss Outside of Work: Another listener wonders whether it’s a good idea to hang out with their boss outside of work and how to manage the potential risks of blurring professional boundaries.

Support with Mental Health and Well-being

If you’ve been affected by any of the themes in this episode or are struggling with your mental health, the following resources may be helpful:

• UK: Mind offers mental health support and information. If you are in distress or despair, including thoughts of suicide, call Samaritans for free on 116 123 or email [e-mail].
• US: Contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) or text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained crisis counselor.
• Rest of the World: Visit Befrienders Worldwide to find a helpline in your country.

Connect with Truth, Lies & Work

• YouTube: Truth, Lies & Work YouTube Channel
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• LinkedIn: Truth, Lies & Work LinkedIn
• Connect with Al Elliott: LinkedIn
• Connect with Leanne Elliott: LinkedIn
• Email: Reach out at [e-mail].
• Book a Meeting: Schedule a meeting with Al & Leanne here.