My Crazy Office

A Change in Tone — Please Listen Feb 11, 2025

In this episode of My Crazy Office, Kathi and Katherine want to hear from YOU.

Political events don’t always affect business, but with this new administration, many federal agencies and the companies that deal with them are in flux.

Loss of funding, elimination of jobs, banning of DEI, potential tariffs on imported goods, and plans for mass deportation all combine to create an air of turbulence and uncertainty that affects many of our clients and could impact you.

What does your Crazy Office look like now?
Do you need help handling stress?
Are you in danger of losing your job?
Is the uncertainty of these times making it difficult to plan ahead?
Do you feel frozen professionally?

Please listen to this podcast, and if you have questions for Kathi and Katherine, send them to info@ksquaredenterprises.com

Turn Your Bad Job Into a “B” Job Jan 29, 2025

In this My Crazy Office podcast, Kathi and Katherine talk about how to turn a bad job into a “B” job. They start with a question from someone who hates their job and feels an urgency to quit but realizes that it will take time to prepare for the thing they really want to do. Kathi and Katherine discuss how this person (and you) can create a plan so that a bad job can become a “B” job that allows you to move forward.

Afraid To Hold Your Staff Accountable? Jan 15, 2025

It can be scary to confront staff if you fear that they may get angry and quit. In this episode of My Crazy Office, Kathi and Katherine discuss the importance of holding your staff accountable for their behavior. They start with a question from someone who manages many frontline staff but never confronts any of them because of the fear that they will quit. Now this lack of holding staff accountable is getting the manager in trouble.

Passed Over for a Promotion Again? Jan 08, 2025

In this episode of My Crazy Office, Kathi and Katherine examine a serious problem – what do you do if you are passed over for a promotion more than once? They start with a question from someone who’s a top performer at their job but keeps getting passed over for promotions to upper management. Kathi and Katherine offer tactics for breaking out of this cycle, and moving your career forward.

Do You Resent Your Boss? Dec 17, 2024

Resentment is a tricky emotion. It can consume you, making it difficult to do (or enjoy) your job.

In this My Crazy Office podcast, Kathi and Katherine discuss this hot topic. They ask the question, “Do you resent your boss?” If so, how do you manage that resentment? Kathi and Katherine start with a question from an individual who works for a horrible manager, but wants to know how to get beyond the anger that comes up towards this person.

How Much Should You Invest In a Bad Hire? Dec 11, 2024

In this My Crazy Office podcast, Kathi and Katherine explore an important question for anyone in management: How much should you invest in a bad hire? They start with a question from a manager who hired a very likeable person who lacks the skills needed for the job. This manager has invested time and money trying to upgrade the new hire’s skills, but it’s not working. Do you wonder how much to invest in someone who isn’t able to do the job? Listen here.

Are You a Manager Who Is Afraid of Upsetting Your Staff? Dec 04, 2024

It’s really hard to manage effectively if you are afraid of upsetting your staff. On this My Crazy Office podcast, Kathi and Katherine discuss this challenge for some managers. They start with a question from someone who is new to management but realizes she must give certain members of her staff some tough feedback. This manager is afraid that honest feedback will result in people getting mad at her.

Is Your Co-Worker a Suck Up? Nov 13, 2024

On this My Crazy Office podcast, Kathi and Katherine address a familiar challenge to many individuals at work: What do you do if your co-worker is a suck-up? By “suck up” they mean someone who constantly does and says things to flatter and impress the boss. Kathi and Katherine start with a question from someone who recently got promoted, only to discover that her new co-worker spends most of his time sucking up to the manager that they both report to.

Does Your Boss Play Favorites? And You’re Not One of Them? Nov 06, 2024

On this My Crazy Office podcast, Kathi and Katherine discuss how to handle a boss who plays favorites – especially if you’re not one of them. They start with a question from someone who is noticing that her new boss has a group of favorite employees, and wonders whether not being one of the favorites could hurt her career.

Is Your Boss Afraid You Will Outshine Them? Oct 22, 2024

Most bosses want you to do your job well, but some bosses may view your personal success as their loss. In this My Crazy Office podcast, Kathi and Katherine examine a delicate situation: What can you do if your boss is afraid that you will outshine them? They start with a question from someone whose recent recognition for outstanding performance resulted in the boss becoming distant and uncooperative. Kathi and Katherine discuss how to detect if your boss fears being diminished by your success and what you can do about it.

How Do I Fire a Long-time Employee? Oct 15, 2024

In this My Crazy Office podcast, Kathi and Katherine discuss a subject that many people in leadership positions must address: How do you fire a long-time employee? They start with a question from someone who was recently hired as the senior director of a large department and realizes there is a key employee who must be let go. Kathi and Katherine discuss how to navigate this kind of delicate situation carefully and professionally.

Can I Turn Down a Promotion? Oct 08, 2024

In this episode of My Crazy Office, Kathi and Katherine address an interesting question: Is it okay to turn down a promotion? They start with a question from someone who has been offered a promotion but doesn’t want the management headache that comes with it. Kathi and Katherine consider the pros and cons to saying “No,” and what your options might be if you have to say “Yes.”

My Psycho Boss Oct 01, 2024

On this My Crazy Office podcast, Kathi and Katherine address a hot topic: How to handle a psycho boss. They start with a question from someone who recently took a new job that is both challenging and rewarding. The new boss started out supportive and encouraging, but recently revealed another side – hypercritical, erratic and abusive. Kathi and Katherine offer ideas about how to navigate this kind of very challenging situation.

Are You Snapping at People Because You Are Overwhlemed at Work? Sep 24, 2024

In this My Crazy Office podcast, Kathi and Katherine investigate what you can do if you are lashing out at people because you are overwhelmed at work. They start with a question from someone who works as an office manager for a not-for-profit where the responsibilities are overwhelming, and this person finds themselves snapping at anyone who makes a request. Are you snappy at work? Listen to this podcast.

Promotion negotiation — Do you know how to do it? Sep 18, 2024

Do you know how to negotiate a promotion? In this My Crazy Office episode, Kathi and Katherine discuss what it takes to do just that. They start with a question from someone who wants to get promoted but has been told by her boss to wait for another year so that he can offer a better promotion with higher pay. This individual would like to propose a compromise that would result in a smaller promotion in the near future. Kathi and Katherine talk about the pros and cons of this approach.

Could Getting Fired Be The Best Thing That Ever Happens to You? Sep 11, 2024

On this My Crazy Office episode, Kathi and Katherine explore whether getting fired could possibly be the best thing that ever happens to you. They start with a question from someone who was suddenly terminated from her job without warning. She now finds herself with two job offers, and wonders if getting fired could be a good thing.

Two Job Offers — Which One Do I Take? Aug 27, 2024

On this My Crazy Office podcast, Kathi and Katherine explore how to choose the best job when it’s a choice between two companies. They start with a question from someone who has been looking for a new job and now must decide between two offers; the positions are the same, but the companies are very different. One company is high profile, high pay, and high stress. The other is more laid back, but the employees seem happier. Kathi and Katherine talk about how to weigh and measure your options.

I Should Have Known Better Aug 14, 2024

On this My Crazy Podcast, Kathi and Katherine discuss those situations at work where someone tries to warn you about someone or something beforehand, and you ignore the warning. They start with a question from an individual who just got fired by a boss that his colleague told him would be a nightmare to work for. This person now regrets not heeding the warning, and wonders how to avoid making the same mistake in the future.

Ghosted by Your Manager? Aug 06, 2024

On this My Crazy Office episode, Kathi and Katherine examine a challenging situation — being ghosted by your manager. They start with a question from someone whose boss insists on scheduling regular bi-weekly meetings only to never show up for them. This manager also doesn’t respond to emails or texts and does not see their ghosting behavior as a problem. Join Kathi and Katherine as they consider your professional options when the boss ghosts you.

Is It Time To Make a Radical Change? Jul 24, 2024

On this My Crazy Office podcast, Kathi and Katherine discuss a crucial question that some of you may be asking yourselves: Is it time to make a radical career change? We start with a question from someone who has been in a boring-but-secure job for 15 years. A recent lay-off is making this person consider whether it’s time to go back to school to pursue a degree in something that they’ve always wanted to do.

Attacked By a Toxic Client? Jul 10, 2024

On this My Crazy Office podcast, Kathi and Katherine address a challenging situation: What do you do if you are attacked by a toxic client? They start with a question from someone who has experienced just that — being aggressively attacked by a client during a meeting. Kathi and Katherine talk about how to recover from this kind of difficult situation and how to manage the client going forward.

Is Your Department Moving in a Direction that You Don’t Like? Jun 26, 2024

On this episode of My Crazy Office, Kathi and Katherine discuss what you can do if your department (or company) is moving in a direction that you don’t like. They start with a question from someone who disagrees with their department’s decision to do things differently based on customer feedback. Kathi and Katherine talk about what your options are in these kinds of situations.

Anxious Mother-To-Be Jun 19, 2024

On this My Crazy Office Podcast, Kathi and Katherine talk about balancing maternity leave with career growth. They start with a question from someone who is pregnant, but also wants to take on a large new client. Kathi and Katherine discuss how to look at these kinds of situations that require incorporating a major life change (motherhood) with career ambitions.

Is Your Self-Talk Holding You Back? Jun 05, 2024

On this My Crazy Office podcast, Kathi and Katherine address an important question: Is your self-talk holding you back? Self-talk is the running dialogue in your head. Negative self-talk involves your deepest doubts and fears. Kathi and Katherine start with a question from someone who knows it’s time to move their career forward, but keeps procrastinating instead of taking action and wonders why.
Is your self-talk holding you back? Listen to this podcast.

Do You Have an Advocate at Work? May 22, 2024

On this My Crazy Office podcast, Kathi and Katherine talk about the importance of having an advocate at work. An advocate is someone who wants to see you succeed and who provides opportunities for advancement. Other terms for this important relationship are sponsor and mentor. Kathi and Katherine start with a question from an employee who was considering leaving her job, but recently noticed that her boss’s boss is giving her special projects.

Are Supervisory Shoulds Hurting You as a Manager? May 15, 2024

On this episode of My Crazy Office, Kathi and Katherine go over Ten Supervisory Shoulds that many managers hold about how their staff should behave. Supervisory Shoulds are beliefs that prevent managers from supervising their staff effectively. Do you believe you should only have to say something once? Do you assume your employees should know how to prioritize their work? Listen to this My Crazy Office podcast.

I Hate My Absentee Boss May 08, 2024

On this My Crazy Office episode Kathi and Katherine talk about a very difficult kind of person to work for – The absentee boss. They start with a question from someone who’s been working for a manager who is never around. When he does come to work, he criticizes her every move. Kathi and Katherine discuss how to manage these situations, and what your options are with an absentee boss.

Are You Working with a Super Spreader? Apr 30, 2024

On this My Crazy Office podcast, Kathi and Katherine address the issue of people who come to work sick and spread their sickness to others. They start with a question from someone whose co-worker came to work with a cough and fever, and proceeded to infect others with that illness. We’ll talk about what your options are if you have a coworker who insists on being a super spreader.

Social Media in the Office Apr 23, 2024

On this My Crazy Office episode, Kathi and Katherine talk about a tricky topic — social media in the workplace. They start with a question from someone whose coworker plays TikTok videos all day long, and the distracting sound and sight of those videos make it hard for this person to concentrate and do her job. During the second part of the podcast, Kathi and Katherine look at the same situation from the TikTok player’s point of view. Why can’t social media be used as a tool for de-stressing at work?

Pets in the Office? Apr 09, 2024

On this My Crazy Office podcast, Kathi and Katherine talk about a hot topic – pets in the office. They start with a question from someone who is interviewing for a job that seems like a great fit, but learns that pets are part of the office environment. Kathi and Katherine discuss the pluses and minuses of pet-friendly work environments.

Introverts Who Struggle With An Extroverted Workplace Apr 03, 2024

On this My Crazy Office podcast, Kathi and Katherine talk about introverts, and the challenges they face in the workplace. They start with a question from an introvert who must attend long meetings and worries that appearing checked out after a meeting could be interpreted as rude by his extroverted colleagues. Kathi and Katherine clarify some of the internal challenges of introverts and offer tips for handling delicate situations.

Didn’t Get That Promotion? Now What? Mar 26, 2024

On this My Crazy Office episode, Kathi and Katherine discuss what you should do if you don’t get the promotion that you ask for. They start with a question from someone who applies for a promotion, meets the benchmarks, but doesn’t get promoted. Kathi and Katherine investigate when it’s worth it to hang in there and try again, or when it may be time to find a better opportunity.

Keeping Secrets During Re-Structuring? Mar 20, 2024

On this My Crazy Office podcast, Kathi and Katherine address a provocative topic — How do you keep secrets when your company is re-structuring? They start with a question from someone who is on the executive team of a company that is re-organizing.
This person feels increasingly uncomfortable holding the knowledge of who will stay and who will go. Kathi and Katherine discuss how to hold that information in confidence and prepare for the eventual fallout.

Is Delegating Difficult for You? Mar 13, 2024

On this epidsode of My Crazy Office podcast, Kathi and Katherine talk about a skill that all managers need to develop, but few managers feel comfortable doing — delegating. They start with a question from a manager who wants to be promoted but knows that it won’t happen without learning to delegate. Kathi and Katherine discuss why delegating is so difficult and what you can do to get better at it.

Is There a Troublemaker at Your Company? Is It You? Feb 21, 2024

On this episode of My Crazy Office, Kathi and Katherine address a certain kind of role at work – the role of rebel or scapegoat. Rebels (or scapegoats) are those individuals who view themselves as the truthtellers at work. They are willing to challenge the status quo and fight for what they think is right. Unfortunately, they can be labeled by others as troublemakers and get blamed when things go wrong. We’ll start with a question from someone who seems to be alienating coworkers without knowing it and go on to address scapegoats at work

Waiting For a Promotion That Never Comes? Feb 14, 2024

On this episode of My Crazy Office, Kathi and Katherine discuss what you should do if you are promised a promotion, and it never comes. They start with a question from someone who has been waiting for a promotion for two years, but circumstances keep arising that stop it from happening. Kathi and Katherine talk about what you can do if a promised promotion feels out of reach.

Stay In Your Job While You Start Something New Feb 07, 2024

On this episode of My Crazy Office, Kathi and Katherine talk about the value of staying in your job while you start something else. They start with a question from someone who has a comfortable but uninspiring job. She has a great business idea, but can’t afford to leave her job. Kathi and Katherine discuss how it’s possible to stay in your current job and launch your next career move.

Afraid That You Might Hire The Wrong Person? Jan 31, 2024

On this episode of My Crazy Office, Kathi and Katherine discuss a topic that is important to every manager: How do you know you are hiring the right person? They start with a question from someone who needs to hire an assistant director but has a history of hiring the wrong person in the past. Kathi and Katherine talk about different ways that you can protect yourself from making a bad choice when you hire.

Do You Hate Networking? Jan 24, 2024

On this episode of My Crazy Office, Kathi and Katherine talk about a topic that many people hate: networking. They start with a question from someone who loves their job, but knows that in order to get promoted they need to network. Kathi and Katherine talk about all the ways to network, and how to move through networking resistant.

Does Your Physical Appearance Stop You From Changing Jobs? Jan 17, 2024

On this episode of My Crazy Office, Kathi and Katherine address a delicate topic: Does your physical appearance hold you back from changing jobs? They start with a question from someone who knows it’s time to leave their job but hesitates to take action because they feel physically unattractive. Kathi and Katherine consider what you can do if your physical appearance prevents you from going after a better job.

Is Your Personal Life Making It Hard to Focus at Work? Jan 10, 2024

On this episode of My Crazy Office, Kathi and Katherine address a problem that everyone faces at one time or another, what do you do when your personal life makes it hard to focus at work? We’ll start with a question from someone who just got promoted into a great new job, but also has to deal with several personal problems — making it hard to focus. We’ll discuss how to stay focused at work and deal with personal challenges at the same time.

Is Your Anger Backfiring with Your Staff? Jan 02, 2024

On this episode of My Crazy Office, Kathi and Katherine ask an important question of anyone who manages people: Is you anger backfiring with your staff? They start with a question from someone whose angry reactions to under-performing employees are hurting their reputation at work. Kathi and Katherine discuss what managers can do instead of getting angry when employees under-perform.

Should You Give Your Boss a Holiday Gift? Dec 13, 2023

On this third and final podcast of the My Crazy Office Holiday Series, Kathi and Katherine address a question that many people ponder during this time of year: Should you give your boss a holiday gift? They start with a question from someone whose boss gives lavish gifts to every member of his staff. Is it appropriate to give the boss a gift in return? If so, what should it be?

Do I Have to Go to My Company’s Holiday Party? Dec 06, 2023

On this second podcast of MCO Holiday Series, Kathi and Katherine answer a question that many people ask this time of year: Do I have to go to my company holiday party? They start with a question from someone who is up for a promotion and wonders whether she needs to attend her company’s “large, formal, boring Christmas party.” Kathi and Katherine discuss why these events may be important and how to navigate them.

Are You Tired of Being the Hardest Worker at Your Company? Nov 29, 2023

Today, on the first podcast of the My Crazy Office Holiday Series, Kathi and Katherine address a common problem for certain employees during this time of year — Being the hardest worker at the company, while everyone else takes time off. Kathi and Katherine start with a question from someone who is exhausted from over-working, but feels compelled to cover for others. They offer tips for anyone who suffers from the Hero Syndrome at work.

Have You Outgrown the Work You Know How To Do? Nov 08, 2023

On this episode of My Crazy Office, Kathi and Katherine examine a common phenomenon that few people talk about: What do you do if you’ve outgrown the work that you know how to do? They start with a question from someone who is a skilled salesperson, but no longer finds sales interesting. Kathi and Katherine go on to discuss what you can do if you realize that what you are good at is no longer what you want to do.

Are You Doing Your Boss’ Job? Nov 01, 2023

On this episode of My Crazy Office, Kathi and Katherine address a tricky topic: What if you are doing your boss’s job? They start with a question from someone who finds themselves doing their boss’s job – even though it’s clear that the boss is incompetent, and people are quitting because of it. Kathi and Katherine discuss different ways of handling this kind of delicate situation.

What Are You Missing by Not Being at the Office? Oct 25, 2023

On this episode of My Crazy Office, Kathi and Katherine discuss what you may be missing by not being in the office. They start with a question from someone who works remotely and enjoys it, but also suspects that she’s missing out on important conversations and projects. Kathi and Katherine consider why it might be important to show up at the office on a regular basis.

Is Your Boss a Gossip? Oct 11, 2023

On this episode of My Crazy Office, Kathi and Katherine address a tricky topic: What do you do if your boss is a gossip? They start with a question from someone whose new boss is friendly but a little too familiar. This boss shares personal information about everyone in the office and asks probing question about the employee’s personal life. Kathi and Katherine discuss how to set boundaries with a gossip-seeking boss.

Have You Been Unfairly Labeled at Work? Oct 03, 2023

On this My Crazy Office podcast, Kathi and Katherine talk about what you should do if you’ve been unfairly labeled at work. They start with a question from someone whose boss keeps saying she needs to “up her game,” and work harder — even though her colleagues describe her as the hardest working member of the team. Kathi and Katherine describe other ways that people can be labeled at work, and what you can do to address it.

Are You Too Busy Managing Down to Manage Up? Sep 27, 2023

On this episode of My Crazy Office, Kathi and Katherine explore a common management challenge — What if you are so busy managing down that you don’t have time to manage up? Kathi and Katherine start with a question from a manager who spends so much time helping her staff complete their work that she misses opportunities to be seen by the people who could promote her and her department.

Are You Dealing with a Sacred Cow? Sep 12, 2023

On this My Crazy Office podcast, Kathi and Katherine talk about a very challenging kind of boss —
The Sacred Cow. They start with a question from someone whose company CEO recently hired a close friend into the COO position. This individual seems friendly, but lacks the experience and skills to do the job. Kathi and Katherine discuss how to work with this kind of boss and keep your sanity.

When Is Enough, Enough? A Manager’s Guide to Firing Sep 06, 2023

On this episode of My Crazy Office, Kathi and Katherine address a tough question that many managers grapple with: When is enough enough? When is it time to fire someone? They start with a question from a manager who has an employee who keeps missing days of work due to personal issues. Kathi and Katherine discuss how to determine whether it’s time to let someone go, and what you need to do to prepare.

Have You Inherited a Team with Bad Morale? Aug 16, 2023

On this, My Crazy Office podcast, Kathi and Katherine talk about a very important topic: staff morale. They start with a question from a new manager who discovers that the people she’s been hired to manage are suffering from very low morale. Kathi and Katherine discuss what a manager can do to turn the low morale of their staff around.

Do You Feel Deserving of a Better Job? Aug 09, 2023

On this, My Crazy Office podcast, Kathi and Katherine explore one of the biggest hidden reasons why people don’t apply for new jobs — not feeling deserving. They start with a question from an individual who knows it’s time to leave, has updated their resume and LinkedIn profile, but can’t seem to actually apply for new positions. Kathi and Katherine discuss how to manage the fear that may hold you back from actively engaging in a job hunt, and steps you can take to feel deserving of a better job.

Freezing Up at Meetings? Aug 02, 2023

On this, My Crazy Office Podcast, Kathi and Katherine discuss a very real challenge for some people at work — Freezing at meetings. They start with a question from someone who’s recently been promoted to a managerial position and finds himself freezing at important meetings where he should be making a positive impression. Kathi and Katherine discuss field-tested techniques for “unfreezing” at important meetings so that your ideas, opinions, and achievements can be heard.

How To Get Noticed By Your Boss’s Boss Jul 25, 2023

Figuring out how to get noticed by the people above your boss can be challenging — especially if you sense that your boss isn’t sharing your successes. On this episode of My Crazy Office, Kathi and Katherine discuss how to get noticed by your boss’s boss. They start with a question from someone who made the mistake of going over her boss’ head to get a meeting with the boss’s boss. Kathi and Katherine describe specific things you can do to avoid making that kind of mistake and still get the visibility that you desire.

Is Someone You Manage After Your Job? Jul 18, 2023

On this My Crazy Office podcast, Kathi and Katherine discuss what to do if you suspect that someone you manage is after your job. They start with a question from a manager who fears that one of their direct reports is trying to take their job. During the second part of the podcast, Kathi and Katherine consider the same topic from the employee’s perspective: What if you want to be your boss’s equal?

Taking Over Another Manager’s Team? Jul 12, 2023

Today on My Crazy Office, Kathi and Katherine discuss the challenge of taking over another manager’s team. They start with a question from someone who has been asked to take over another manager’s department and worries that the staff will resist her management style. Kathi and Katherine go on to consider how you can assess and re-train a team of employees that you inherit from someone else.

When Your New Employer Is Laying People Off Jun 21, 2023

On this episode of My Crazy Office, Kathi and Katherine discuss what you should do if get a new job in a company that may be in trouble. They start with a question from someone who’s leaving a toxic company for a great opportunity but discovers that the new company is laying people off. During the second part of the podcast, Kathi and Katherine consider what managers can do if they are hiring new staff while firing others.

Is Your Protector Leaving the Company? Jun 14, 2023

On this episode of My Crazy Office, Kathi and Katherine talk about the importance of being on the “right team” at work, and how that can change when your boss/protector/mentor leaves. They start with a question from someone who suddenly finds themselves on the wrong team because their boss is leaving the company. Kathi and Katherine discuss what you should do if your team becomes vulnerable because your protector is leaving.

Lack the Confidence to Leave Your Job? Jun 07, 2023

On this episode of My Crazy Office, Kathi and Katherine talk about the challenge of leaving a job when your confidence is low, and you’re feeling emotionally battered. They start with a question from someone who wants to leave a toxic work situation but doesn’t feel good enough about themselves to look for a new job. Kathi and Katherine discuss tactics for moving forward even if you don’t feel worthy.

Afraid to Go on Vacation? May 24, 2023

On this episode of My Crazy Office, Kathi and Katherine consider what you can do if you’re afraid to go on vacation. They start with a question from someone who knows they need a break, but fears coming back to a bigger workload and more problems. Kathi and Katherine discuss the importance of taking a vacation and when you know it’s time.

Remote Working — Are You Double Dipping? May 16, 2023

On this episode of My Crazy Office, Kathi and Katherine explore a hot topic — How working remotely enables certain employees to work two jobs at the same time. They start with a question from a business owner who suspects that two of his employees might be double dipping. Kathi and Katherine also consider under what circumstances working a side job may be acceptable.

Changing Jobs for a Better Culture May 10, 2023

Sometimes a job you once enjoyed becomes a job you can’t stand. Often, it’s because the company’s culture changes. On this episode of My Crazy Office, Kathi and Katherine interview someone who successfully changed jobs, moving from a toxic culture to a culture where she is able to thrive. Ready to leave your job for a better culture? Listen here.

Afraid to Speak Up at Work? May 02, 2023

On this episode of My Crazy Office, Kathi and Katherine talk about an important skill in the workplace — the ability to speak up. They start with a question from someone who recently got promoted to a more visible position but finds it difficult to speak up at meetings or on client calls. Kathi and Katherine consider what stops people from speaking up, and offer tips to develop this crucial skill.

Career Change, Can I Do It? Apr 19, 2023

Changing careers or going into a new industry can be daunting. In this episode of My Crazy Office, Kathi and Katherine discuss what it takes to move from one industry to another. They start with a question from someone who is in a secure, well-paying job but feels very bored. Kathi and Katherine explore what it takes to move to a new, more creative industry while keeping your current job. Eager to change industries but not sure how to do it? Listen here.

Should I Stay or Should I Go? Apr 11, 2023

On this episode of My Crazy Office podcast, Kathi and Katherine consider whether it’s smart to stay at a company after you realize it supports people who behave badly. They begin with a question from someone who recently got hired by a senior partner at a high-profile company. Although this top executive aggressively recruited them to join his team, he’s criticized and devalued their work ever since bringing them on board. In this kind of situation, should you stay or should you go?

Are You Known as a Gossip at Work? Apr 05, 2023

In this episode of My Crazy Office, Kathi, and Katherine address a topic that every workplace grapples with — GOSSIP. They start with a question from someone who recently realized that her boss views her as a gossip, and wonders whether that label might hurt her career. Kathi and Katherine go on to describe the best remedy for gossip at work — The No Gossip Diet.

Working for an Indecisive Boss Mar 29, 2023

On this episode of My Crazy Office, Kathi and Katherine talk about how to work for an indecisive boss. They start with a question from someone who works at a small company where the owner keeps changing direction depending on the last person she spoke with. Kathi and Katherine go on to discuss how to “manage up” when your boss can’t make up their mind.

How Do I Negotiate a Higher Salary? Mar 22, 2023

On this episode of My Crazy Office, Kathi and Katherine talk about a very important topic: how to negotiate a higher salary. They start with a question from someone who has recently received a job offer but the salary is too low. Kathi and Katherine talk about the key ingredients to successful salary negotiation.

Afraid of Losing Your Best Employee? Mar 15, 2023

On this episode of My Crazy Office, Kathi, and Katherine talk about what it takes to manage (and keep) your best employees. They start with a question from a manager who has a super-competent employee and fears losing this person. During the second part of the podcast, they address the “star” employee directly — how does a stellar employee determine the next career steps?

Being blamed for your boss’ mistakes? Mar 08, 2023

In this episode of My Crazy Office, Kathi and Katherine address a tricky topic: Being blamed for your boss’ mistakes. They start with a question from someone who just received a really bad review and wonders whether she’s being blamed for her boss’ incompetence. Kathi and Katherine consider what you can do if you think you may be taking the fall for your boss’ mistakes.

Ever Been Accused of Not Reading the Room? Mar 01, 2023

On this episode of My Crazy Office, Kathi and Katherine talk about an essential interpersonal skill called “reading the room.” Reading the room is the ability to read the subtle nonverbal messages that other people convey through body language telling you how your message is being received. Kathi and Katherine start with a question from someone who failed to read the room during a sales presentation and lost the sale. Then they offer tips and tricks for building this skill.

Need To Leave Your Job But Can’t? Feb 15, 2023

On this episode of My Crazy Office podcast, Kathi and Katherine discuss a common phenomenon: why some people who know they need to leave their jobs can’t. They start with a question from someone who works in a horrible situation, but can’t take steps to find a better job. Kathi and Katherine consider what prevents individuals from leaving bad situations, and how those same people can coax themselves forward.

Working with a Sacred Cow Feb 08, 2023

On this episode of My Crazy Office, Kathi and Katherine discuss how to handle a very challenging kind of employee — the Sacred Cow. They start with a question from someone who recently began working at a corporate research company. He needs the assistance of a long-time employee to do his job, but that person doesn’t want to help him. During the second part of the podcast, Kathi and Katherine consider what it’s like to manage a sacred cow employee — especially when you know they will never be fired.

Chronically late Feb 01, 2023

Are you managing someone who is chronically late? Are you chronically late yourself? On this My Crazy Office podcast, Kathi and Katherine discuss the difficult subject of chronic lateness. Some of the best employees suffer from this affliction. Listen to Kathi and Katherine as they address one manager’s struggle with a chronically late office manager, then offer tips to those individuals who are always late at work.

How to Take the High Road When Someone Triggers You Jan 25, 2023

Today on My Crazy Office Podcast, Kathi and Katherine talk about the importance of taking the high road when irritating people say things that make you want to fight back. Taking the high road involves communicating in a way that moves things forward instead of getting stuck in a power struggle.
Kathi and Katherine start with a question from someone who is excelling at his new job but gets derailed every time a certain coworker makes disparaging remarks. Listen to how you can take the high road rather than taking the bait.

What To Do If a Recruiter Contacts You Jan 11, 2023

On this episode of My Crazy Office, Kathi and Katherin discuss what you should do if a recruiter contacts you. This is something that a lot of people find perplexing. Kathi and Katherine start with a question from someone who really likes their current position and isn’t sure what to do when a recruiter contacts them regarding a dream job.

Taking Bold Steps To Jump-Start Your Career Jan 04, 2023

Is your career stagnant? Are you feeling stuck or uninspired? On this episode of My Crazy Office, Kathi and Katherine ask a New Year’s question: What can you do to better yourself at work? “Bettering yourself” means committing to professional (and personal) growth in the new year.

Too Afraid To Leave Your Job? Dec 14, 2022

Sometimes, you know it’s time to go, but leaving seems too scary. On this My Crazy Office podcast, Kathi and Katherin explore what happens when you know you’ve been at a job too long, but you’re afraid to actually leave. Kathi and Katherine also consider what managers can do if they know that certain employees should move on but seem reluctant to go.

Burnout — Could This Be You? Dec 07, 2022

Burnout — It happens to the best of us. On this episode of My Crazy Office, Kathi and Katherine explore the topic of burnout; how to spot it, how to treat it, and how to manage someone who has it. What do you do if you feel so depleted that going to work fills you with a sense of dread? How do you manage a top performer who suddenly seems burnt out at work? Listen here.

Rebels at Work — How To Survive When Your Protector Leaves Nov 29, 2022

Are you a rebel at work? Do you manage a rebel? In this episode of My Crazy Office podcast, Kathi and Katherine discuss the strengths and weaknesses of rebel employees. First, they offer advice to a rebel whose protective boss is leaving the company. During the second part of the podcast, Kathi and Katherine give tips to managers about teaching their rebels how to mend fences. Listen and learn!

Are You Generating Jealousy at Work? Nov 16, 2022

Jealous feelings crop up at work all the time. If you receive praise, get promoted, or find yourself in the spotlight, your colleagues are likely to feel jealous. Similarly, if someone you work with gets promoted, receives praise, or gains favor with the boss, you may feel jealous as well. In this episode of My Crazy Office, Kathi and Katherine discuss how to manage jealousy at work.

Is Working Remotely Hurting You? Nov 09, 2022

On this episode of My Crazy Office, Kathi and Katherine discuss the possibility that working remotely could be hurting your career. They start with a question from someone who works remotely but used to go into the office for monthly visits. Now that the company won’t pay for monthly trips, this person feels disconnected from others at work. During the second part of the podcast, Kathi and Katherine consider the manager’s perspective: What if you suspect that your onsite employees have access to more opportunities?

Are Layoffs Coming Your Way? Nov 02, 2022

On this My Crazy Office podcast, Kathi and Katherine talk about the uncomfortable-but-important topic of layoffs. They start with a question from someone who suspects that they may be laid off soon. During the second part of the podcast, Kathi and Katherine address managers who may face the difficult decision of who to lay off.

Remote Working — Challenges and Benefits Oct 26, 2022

Do you love remote working? Or do you yearn for time in the office? In this My Crazy Office podcast, Kathi and Katherine examine the pluses and minuses of remote working. They start with a question from someone who has a new remote job and misses the camaraderie of office life. During the second part of the podcast, Kathi and Katherine consider those people who prefer remote working and have to go back to the office.

When the Boss Gets Jealous of You Oct 19, 2022

On this My Crazy Office podcast, Kathi and Katherin cover a topic rarely discussed at work: What do you do if your boss is jealous of you? They start with a question from someone whose boss is not happy when a certain large client prefers the employee’s presentation over the boss’. During the second part of the podcast, Kathi and Katherine consider what bosses can do if they manage employees who outshine them.

Dealing with Over-Talkers Oct 11, 2022

Are you an over-talker? Do you manage someone who talks too much? Over-talking can be a real obstacle to moving your career forward. It can compromise your reputation and cause people to avoid you, personally and professionally. In this podcast, Kathi and Katherine examine the problem of over-talking at work and offer concrete tips for how to deal with it.

The Importance of Leaving a Job Well Oct 04, 2022

Kathi and Katherine discuss the importance of leaving a job well — even if it’s a job you don’t like.
They share a story from someone who was able to leave a job (and a company) he hated on good terms, and ultimately experienced very positive results.

Why Can’t I Find a Good Boss? Sep 27, 2022

Sometimes it seems like a good boss is impossible to find. On this My Crazy Office podcast, Kathi and Katherine examine why it’s so difficult to find skilled bosses, what it means to manage up, and how to make working for a bad boss better.

What’s Stopping You From Leaving Your Job? Sep 20, 2022

Sometimes you know it’s time to leave a job but something holds you back from taking action. In this My Crazy Office podcast, Kathi and Katherine explore the reasons why some people say they want to leave, but can’t take actions to go.

What To Do When Someone Lies to You at Work Sep 14, 2022

Do you suspect that someone you manage is lying to you? In this episode of My Crazy Office, Kathi and Katherine discuss how to handle it when someone you supervise lies to you. It may be a junior co-worker or a member of your staff. What do you do when you know they are not telling the truth?

Have To Go Back To The Office? Sep 06, 2022

On this week’s My Crazy Office podcast, Kathi and Katherine talk about returning to work; specifically returning to the office after working remotely. Join them as they consider the pros and cons of commuting as well as whether some people might prefer finding a remote job instead of returning to the office.

Which Job Should I Take? Aug 17, 2022

In this episode of My Crazy Office, Kathi and Katherine talk about job hunting, and how to decide which job to take. They start with a question from someone who has to choose between a job that has no work/life balance, but is at a high-status company, versus a job that encourages work/life balance but is at a less prestigious company.

Managing an Argumentative Employee Aug 10, 2022

Kathi and Katherine discuss how to manage an argumentative employee. Are you trying to manage someone who challenges your every move? In this podcast, we’ll examine what happens when a member of your “support staff” questions or corrects everything you want to do. During the second half, we consider the employee’s perspective — What if you challenge your boss because he or she seems insecure or indecisive?

Is Your Boss Leaving? Aug 03, 2022

What do you do if your current boss leaves for another job? It’s not always clear. In this My Crazy Office podcast, Kathi and Katherine discuss how to adjust when your boss leaves and a new boss appears. First, they consider a situation where the employee has a great boss and that person takes a new position. Then Kathi and Katherine discuss what it means when a boss you can’t stand moves on.

Afraid to Manage Your Staff Because You Know Too Much? Jul 20, 2022

Sometimes, the more you know about your staff’s personal lives, the harder it is to hold them accountable. In this podcast, Kathi and Katherine discuss how challenging it can be to hold employees responsible for their work product, when you know too much about their challenges outside of work.

The Politics of a Promotion Jun 22, 2022

Receiving a promotion can be exciting, but once you move into the new position, you may find out that much of the job involves navigating the politics. Join Kathi and Katherine as they discuss how to manage the political aspects of moving into an executive position.

Afraid To Leave Your Job? Jun 15, 2022

Is fear stopping you from leaving your job? For some people, leaving a job is easy to talk about but not so easy to do. Even if you know it’s time to leave, fear may get in the way. Kathi and Katherine explore the challenge of leaving a job and discuss tactics for managing the fears that come with making this kind of change.

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