Radical Candor: Communication at Work

Navigating the Nuances of Tone in Feedback 7 | 25 Jun 18, 2025

Ever tried giving someone feedback about their tone…without sounding like the tone police? This episode was sparked by a listener wrestling with just that—and let’s be real, it’s something we’ve all tripped over. Join Kim and Jason as they dive into the messy, nuanced world of tone: why it matters, how to talk about it without getting judgmental, and what to do when someone’s words are technically fine but their delivery leaves the room on edge. Using the CORE framework—Context, Observation, Result, and Expected next steps—they break down how to be specific about what happened, how it landed, and how to move forward without sounding accusatory or vague. Tune in to hear Kim and Jason unpack real-life examples, share the coaching that worked (and what didn’t), and explore how bias, culture, and identity play into how tone is received. Bonus: Kim gets personal about a recent experience that reminded her why kindness and courage matter—on and off the mic.

Get all of the show notes at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠RadicalCandor.com/podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Episode Links

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Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction

Kim and Jason introduce a listener’s question about addressing tone with CORE.

(00:02:51) When “Technically Fine” Still Feels Off

How misinterpretations and sensitivities around tone impact teams.

(00:03:54) Observing vs. Interpreting Tone

Avoiding misattributions by observing, not just interpreting.

(00:06:39) Shifting from “You Statements” to “I Statements”

Using reactions to provide grounded, less judgmental feedback.

(00:07:30) Using Impact to Shift Perspective

How describing the impact of tone keeps the conversation constructive.

(00:08:51) Coaching Through Goals, Not Emotions

A story about using feedback to overcome sounding arrogant.

(00:11:42) Reframing CORE to Match Your Audience

Using CORE to focus on tangible outcomes, not just feelings.

(00:13:57) What Not to Do: Avoiding Coded Language

The biased undertones certain words like "shrill" or "aggressive" carry.

(00:16:22) Be Specific: Volume, Pace, Tension

Being specific when giving feedback about tone delivery.

(00:18:00) Extending Grace

Giving the benefit of the doubt when something lands poorly.

(00:20:10) Praise When They Get It Right

The positive impact of giving feedback when tone lands well.

(00:22:03) Handling Tone in Public Meetings

When to react in real time and when it’s better to follow up privately.

(00:24:16) Breaking the False Harmony in the Room

A story about addressing passive-aggressive tension in a meeting.

(00:27:43) Private Inquiry or Public Repair

A story about how Google’s CEO gracefully handled a tone misstep.

(00:29:41) Radical Candor Tips

Practical tips on how to give feedback on tone.

(00:31:27) ICE Deportation & Bearing Witness

A story about a beloved community member deported by ICE.

(00:34:25) The Danger of Secret Cruelty

The dehumanization of silent suffering and concealed harm.

(00:37:05) This Isn’t a One-Off: It’s Systemic

Broader systemic issues and how routine cruelty has become normalized.

(00:39:49) There’s Still Hope: Do the Right Thing

The Radical Candor mission to care personally and challenge directly.

(00:41:16) Conclusion

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Becoming a Not-So-Secretly Candid Leader with Chloé van Bergen 7 | 24 Jun 11, 2025

Fun fact: this episode exists thanks to a few pints and a little Radical Candor in the wild. Our audio engineer Nick met today’s guest, Chloé van Bergen, VP of Operations at Secretly Group, at his brother’s stag do. One loud London pub and an honest conversation later—we knew we had to get her on the show. Join Kim and Amy for a candid conversation with Chloé about what it really takes to lead change inside a legacy-driven music company. She gets real about navigating unionization, confronting indifference, and learning—sometimes the hard way—that being “nice” isn’t the same as being kind. From UK-style politeness to Dutch directness, Chloé shares what worked (and what didn’t) when rolling out Radical Candor across continents. Spoiler: no sugarcoating here — just straight up kind and clear.

Get all of the show notes at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠RadicalCandor.com/podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Episode Links:

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Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction

Kim and Amy introduce Chloé van Bergen, VP of Operations at Secretly Group.

(00:01:04) From Stag Do to Podcast Guest

How a chance meeting at a UK pub led to Chloé joining the show.

(00:05:25) What Is Secretly Group?

The structure, history, and collaborative ethos of Secretly Group.

(00:09:05) Discovering Radical Candor

Being introduced to Radical Candor and the mindset shift it inspired.

(00:10:42) Struggling with Direct Feedback

Using Radical Candor to move past the fear of being too blunt.

(00:12:43) Giving Feedback Across Borders

Navigating cultural differences in feedback styles across countries.

(00:17:25) Practicing Vulnerability Through Action

Building confidence by starting to speak up, one moment at a time.

(00:20:07) Pandemic Leadership & Operational Overhaul

Navigating starting during COVID and legacy infrastructures.

(00:25:13) Rockstar vs. Superstar: Rethinking Growth

Learning not everyone wants to climb—some excel where they are.

(00:29:50) Unionization During COVID

How a union announcement led to a company-wide listening reset.

(00:34:57) Adapting to AI & Industry Shifts

Staying open by staying honest—even without having all the answers.

(00:36:28) Kind ≠ Nice: Facing Hard Truths

How kindness isn’t niceness—and can slow down change.

(00:39:33) Chloé’s Radical Candor Tip

Having the courage to say the thing, even if it feels uncomfortable.

(00:42:46) Conclusion

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What Real Inclusion Looks Like at Work When You’re LGBTQ+ 7 | 23 Jun 04, 2025

We’re celebrating Pride Month, and to kick us off, Amy and Brandi get real about the unfiltered, often uncomfortable truth of being LGBTQ+ in the workplace—where invisibility can feel safer than honesty, and “inclusion” doesn’t always include you. In this 'best of' episode, they unpack the messy layers of LGBTQ+ identity at work—from pronoun politics and people-pleasing to being “the only one” in the room. If you’ve ever felt unseen at work—or want to ensure your team doesn’t have to—this one’s for you. Showing up matters more than getting it perfect.

Get all of the show notes at ⁠⁠⁠⁠RadicalCandor.com/podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Episode Links:

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Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction

Kim and Amy introduce the episode focusing on coming out at work.

(00:01:42) Why Representation Matters

Statistics on workplace discrimination faced by LGBTQ+ employees.

(00:05:22) Pronouns, Labels & Personal Identity

The limiting nature of pronouns and labelling oneself.

(00:09:52) Living a Double Life

Dating secretly and the sense of being "othered" in mainstream culture.

(00:13:06) The Limited Supply

The isolation created by the absence of a visible queer community.

(00:17:37) The Spiritual Journey & Other Closets

How the act of coming out led to a deeper exploration of spirituality.

(00:19:37) The Cost of Hiding at Work

The emotional and psychological toll of being closeted in the workplace.

(00:21:04) Finally Coming Out at Work

The slow, iterative process of coming out and how Radical Candor helped.

(00:23:21) The Bisexual Experience at Work

The unique stigmas bisexuals face within and outside LGBTQ+ spaces.

(00:28:15) Words, Labels & Inner Homophobia

The complexity of identity labels and how internalized bias can shape them.

(00:32:37) The Power of Representation in Media

The importance of media characters who normalize LGBTQ+.

(00:36:26) Inclusion & the Privilege of Presentation

Soliciting inclusive feedback and how privilege shapes perceptions.

(00:40:21) Hair as Identity & Microaggressions

A painful but powerful story about being judged for appearances.

(00:43:40) Being the Only One in the Room

The exhaustion of being the sole representative of marginalized identities.

(00:46:30) Making Mistakes & Owning Them

The role of feedback and straight allies in creating inclusive spaces.

(00:49:43) What Allies Can Do

A story about support when encountering a homophobic comment.

(00:52:03) Setting Boundaries

The importance of respecting privacy and rejecting invasive curiosity

(00:54:29) Radical Candor Tips

Key takeaways on supporting LGBTQ+ colleagues

(00:58:12) Conclusion

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Leading Through Chaos With Stephanie Chung 7 | 22 May 28, 2025

Leadership sounds empowering—until you're navigating chaos, clunky systems, and a team giving you major side-eye. Amy and Kim talk with Stephanie Chung—trailblazing exec, leadership strategist, and accidental trust-builder—about the messy reality of stepping into high-stakes roles. Stephanie gets candid about what it’s really like to walk into a company mid-crisis, how to lead teams that don’t look, think, or operate like you, and why asking the right questions beats having all the answers. From decoding broken sales processes to building authentic relationships, her approach blends Radical Candor with radical curiosity. Her book Ally Leadership isn’t just a guide—it’s a wake-up call for anyone ready to lead with heart, backbone, and an open mind. If you’ve ever doubted your instincts or feared saying the wrong thing, this episode is your invitation to lead anyway—and lead better.

Get all of the show notes at ⁠⁠⁠RadicalCandor.com/podcast⁠⁠⁠.

Episode Links:

Transcript

Stephanie Chung and Associates, Inc. | LinkedIn

Stephanie Chung

The Radical Candor Guide to Leading Through Uncertainty

Ally Leadership: How to Lead People Who Are Not Like You

Connect:

Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction

Kim and Amy introduce leadership expert Stephanie Chung.

(00:01:31) Leading Through Change: Where to Start

The process of evaluating and addressing organizational challenges.

(00:05:43) Diagnosing Sales Challenges

How process inefficiencies—not people—often hinder sales teams.

(00:07:21) Building Trust as a New Leader

Strategies for establishing trust with new teams from day one.

(00:10:07) Transforming JetSuite: From Commodity to Luxury

Lessons from leading cultural and brand transformation.

(00:11:46) Feedback & Self-Awareness in Leadership

The importance of vulnerability and inviting radical feedback.

(00:17:50) Ally Leadership & Generational Diversity

Why curiosity is key to leading across generations and identities.

(00:24:20) Being an Underrepresented Leader

Navigating workplace bias and building allyship in leadership.

(00:30:11) Courageous Leadership & Using Your Voice

The importance of speaking up and building leadership muscle early.

(00:33:27) Neuroscience of Bias & Rewiring the Brain

How to overcome in-group bias through exposure and curiosity.

(00:38:13) Asking Questions to Build Trust

Using questions to uncover personal connections and build rapport.

(00:40:26) Listening to Understand, Not to Respond

Tactics for active, empathetic, and observant listening.

(00:43:07) Where to Find Stephanie

Leadership legacy, travel tips, and connecting with Stephanie.

(00:47:08) Conclusion

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The Evil Translator & The Fundamental Attribution Error (Best of) 7 | 21 May 21, 2025

On this Best of episode of the Radical Candor podcast, Kim, Jason and Amy discuss how the fundamental attribution error makes us more likely to use personality attributes to explain someone else’s behavior rather than considering our own behavior or situational factors that were probably the real cause of the behavior. This is where the “not about personality” part of Radical Candor comes into play. Plus, Jason shares a hilarious (and painfully relatable) story about the “evil little translator” in his head that used to turn even well-meaning feedback into: 🗣️ “You’re terrible. You’re completely incompetent. It’s a miracle you tied your shoes this morning.” Sound familiar? You’re not alone. Tune in, laugh, and maybe rethink the way you hear feedback.

Get all of the show notes at ⁠⁠RadicalCandor.com/podcast⁠⁠.

Episode Links:

Connect:

Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction

Amy, Kim, and Jason introduce the episode topic of the Fundamental Attribution Error.

(00:01:46) Humility Before Feedback

Why feedback opens the door to better understanding and solutions.

(00:04:50) The Empty Boat

A parable highlighting how misjudgments stem from our own triggers.

(00:07:59) Blame the System or the Person?

How systemic forces shape behavior more than we realize.

(00:09:05) Building Relationships to Overcome Bias

Whether relationships reduce our tendency to make assumptions.

(00:11:15) Reframing How We Give Feedback

How a simple language shift transforms conflict into connection.

(00:14:54) Feedback Without Personality Labels

How focusing on action makes feedback more impactful.

(00:16:12) The CORE (or CORN) Framework

Overview of a framework that makes feedback clear and actionable.

(00:18:33) Real-World Examples of CORE

An example of how CORE could have de-escalated a situation.

(00:22:24) CORE Keeps Feedback Focused

How CORE shifts feedback from past-focused to future-focused.

(00:27:01) Internal Critic and Self-Compassion

Unpacking how our harsh inner voice colors how we hear feedback.

(00:34:29) Managing Sensitive Team Members

How to support colleagues with self-doubt through clarity and care.

(00:36:12) From Furious to Curious

Alternatives to personality-based criticism to make feedback constructive.

(00:38:19) Radical Candor Tips

Practical, actionable tips for giving and receiving feedback with care.

(00:42:44) Conclusion

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Finding One More Molecule of Hope with Debbie Millman 7 | 20 May 14, 2025

Growth sounds beautiful—until you’re knee-deep in failure, self-doubt, and a garden full of dead plants. Amy gets real with Debbie Millman—design legend, branding expert, and accidental gardener—to unpack the not-so-glamorous side of creativity, leadership, and learning to suck at something new. Debbie shares how screwing up (repeatedly) can actually make you better at just about everything and why success can kill your spark, how confidence actually works (spoiler: it’s not magic), and what gardening taught her about patience, failure, and asking for help. Her new book Love Letter to a Garden isn’t just about flowers—it’s about finding hope in the mess and meaning in the mistakes. Oh, and her wife, Roxane Gay, included a killer tomato sauce recipe. If you’ve ever felt stuck, scared, or unsure where to begin, this is your reminder to grab a shovel and just plant something already.

Get all of the show notes at ⁠⁠RadicalCandor.com/podcast⁠⁠.

Episode Links:

Connect:

Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction

Amy introduces guest Debbie Millman, designer, author, and host of Design Matters.

(00:04:05) Starting Design Matters

How Debbie started the podcast to reconnect with creative purpose.

(00:07:17) From Maker to Manager

The tough transition from doing creative work to leading others.

(00:09:28) Communicating with Impact

Why how you show up matters as much as what you say.

(00:12:00) Feedback & Growth

Learning to receive criticism and evolve from it.

(00:16:48) Confidence Through Repetition

Why confidence comes after doing — not before.

(00:19:05) A Gardener’s Beginning

How one creative experiment led to Love Letter to a Garden.

(00:24:54) Learning to Ask for Help

A turning point in accepting guidance and sharing vulnerability.

(00:27:51) Hope Over Shame

Choosing to keep going — one molecule of hope at a time.

(00:31:20) Processing Emotions

The value of feeling your feelings, not rushing past them.

(00:34:40) Fulfillment in the Process

Why lasting joy is found in the act of creating, not accolades.

(00:38:06) Control & Chaos

Using design and gardening as ways to find agency.

(00:41:11) Harvesting and Sharing

Turning garden bounty into nourishment and love.

(00:42:55) Something to Plant

Debbie’s parting wisdom: plant something—and let go.

(00:45:54) Conclusion

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I'm the 'Cool' Boss and It's Not Working 7 | 19 May 07, 2025

Are you the cool boss that everyone loves, but no one respects? Join Kim and Jason as they address a pressing question from a production supervisor struggling with their team's lack of accountability. Learn the importance of sharing personal stories, soliciting feedback, and giving timely criticism, all while remembering that accountability is an act of kindness. If you're struggling with setting boundaries and holding people accountable, we've got your back.

Get all of the show notes at ⁠RadicalCandor.com/podcast⁠.

Episode Links:

Connect:

Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction

Kim and Jason introduce a listener’s question from a self-described “too nice” boss.

(00:01:23) The Difference Between Nice and Kind

The distinction between being "nice" and being "kind" in leadership.

(00:03:13) Holding People Accountable

How accountability is a core leadership skill, not an act of cruelty.

(00:06:33) The Cost of Avoiding Accountability

Why Leadership requires addressing difficult behaviors early.

(00:11:39) Two Kinds of Respect: Earned vs. Given

The two definitions of respect and how managers can earn it.

(00:14:45) Emotional Labor of Leadership

How management is giving more than you get—by design.

(00:19:16) Confusing Strictness with Respect

Challenging the misconception that punishment creates respect.

(00:23:45) Holding Yourself Accountable

Using vulnerability to open a dialogue and reset expectations.

(00:25:44) Share Your Radical Candor Story

Sharing personal stories to introduce a cultural reset.

(00:28:27) Create a Shared Culture and Vocabulary

Advice on resetting workplace culture and team alignment.

(00:32:26) Radical Candor Tips

Actionable steps for building a culture of Radical Candor.

(00:33:24) Conclusion

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Returning to the Office & Remembering Why We Left 7 | 18 Apr 30, 2025

From malfunctioning WiFi to epic commutes and offices mysteriously out of toilet paper, the “return to office” era is serving up workplace absurdity on a silver platter. Jason and Amy blow past the corporate spin and get Radically Candid about the “back to the office” push: why it’s often more about control than collaboration, how companies overlook basic human needs, and the ways these policies can quietly erode trust, productivity, and psychological safety. From generational gripes to the myth that face time means innovation, they call out the real reasons so many leaders want butts in seats—and why those reasons rarely hold up. Who’s actually benefiting from all this office hoopla? Because at Radical Candor, we believe real leadership means listening, adapting, and making work suck a whole lot less—even if it means challenging the status quo.

Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

Episode Links:

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Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction

Jason and Amy introduce the episode’s topic on return to office trends.

(00:01:28) The Radical Candor Remote Philosophy

Why the company is remote-first and the downsides of in-person work.

(00:06:41) Office Productivity & Innovation

Whether productivity and innovation improve when in office.

(00:10:27) Navigating Unwanted Change

Advice for employees facing unwanted return-to-office changes.

(00:16:13) Should You Stay or Should You Go?

Evaluating if you should start job hunting or try to adapt to the new reality.

(00:19:17) Burnout, Hybrid, and Hidden Costs

Research on burnout and the importance of workplace social connections.

(00:24:19) The Cost of Constant Interruptions

Challenges with distractions and productivity in office environments.

(00:30:22) Generational and Gender Gaps

Differences in RTO satisfaction in different demographics.

(00:32:07) Having Effective RTO Conversations

Advocating for your needs and establishing new office processes.

(00:35:29) Radical Candor Tips

Tips for employees and managers navigating return-to-office mandates.

(00:39:48) Conclusion

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The Cost of the Move-Fast-Break-Things Mentality 7 | 17 Apr 23, 2025

Move fast, break things, and hope no one notices? Not so fast. In this episode, Kim and Jason rip into the shiny promise of speed at all costs—and the very real damage it leaves behind. From slashing vital research to chasing clicks with outrage bait, they expose how a lack of debate, accountability, and thoughtful decision-making can spiral into chaos. This isn’t just about tech; it’s about what happens when leaders skip the hard conversations and dodge the consequences. Drawing from their own experiences, they make the case for cultures that value learning over ego, action over excuses, and why psychological safety isn’t just nice to have—it’s non-negotiable. It’s a no-BS look at what happens when no one’s allowed to say, “Hey, maybe let’s not.”

Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

Episode Links:

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Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction

Kim and Jason introduce the episode's topic of the "move fast and break things" philosophy.

(00:00:31) Mistakes, Innovation, and Safety

Why admitting errors is key to progress—even in high-stakes fields.

(00:02:44) Ebola Funding Fallout

A case study in reckless decisions and real-world impact.

(00:05:08) When Speed Isn’t the Answer

How context matters—from search engines to nuclear plants.

(00:08:10) Accountability & Power

The erosion of checks and balances in tech and government.

(00:10:30) Scale Changes the Stakes

Why today’s tech giants can’t play by startup rules.

(00:14:40) Metrics That Mislead

How measuring engagement drives harmful content.

(00:20:01) Debate Fuels Innovation

Why creating space for disagreement leads to better outcomes.

(00:23:43) Power, Politics, and Platforms

How tech companies avoid regulation and the need for public input

(00:28:52) Inside Content Moderation

Kim’s Google stories and the need for democratic input.

(00:36:46) Why Oversight Is So Hard

The difficulty of encouraging informed debate in organizations.

(00:41:37) Radical Candor Tips

Tips for moving fast without breaking what matters most.

(00:42:52) Conclusion

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From Bottlenecks to Buy-In: Overcoming Bureaucracy 7 | 16 Apr 16, 2025

Cut through workplace red tape—without burning bridges.

Ever feel like getting anything done at work means running a marathon through molasses? You’re not alone. In this episode, Amy and Jason go full throttle on the soul-sucking systems that slow teams down and wear people out. Sparked by a listener stuck in a tangle of outdated processes, they unpack how well-meaning rules morph into momentum killers—and what to do when speaking up feels like you’re just making it worse. With a blend of straight talk, lived experience, and a whole lot of Radical Candor, they offer a new playbook: lead with curiosity, advocate with clarity, and stop waiting for permission to fix what’s broken. This one’s for anyone who's tired of navigating systems built to say "no" when the work is begging for a "hell yes."

Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

Episode Links:

Connect:

Chapters:
(00:00:00) Introduction
Jason and Amy introduce a listener’s question about streamlining approval processes.
(00:01:36) When Process Becomes a Trust Killer
How approval bottlenecks erode trust and lead to burnout.
(00:02:46) Approvals That Make Sense
Differentiating between meaningful and meaningless approvals.
(00:06:10) The Inertia of Bureaucracy
Why process isn’t evil—but rarely gets reexamined when it should.
(00:07:50) Communicating Up Without Escalating
How to discuss change without putting managers on the defensive.
(00:13:22) What Problem Is the Process Solving?
A practical script for questioning approval thresholds constructively.
(00:15:45) Software Purchase Saga
A story about approvals that made no one’s life better.
(00:20:19) Getting Specific vs. Talking in Patterns
Why it’s better to present one example rather than broad frustration.
(00:26:01) Role Play: The Rental Car Scenario
How to challenge a flawed process without triggering a shutdown.
(00:34:38) Finding a Third Way
Creating solutions that meet both employee and organizational goals.
(00:37:45) Radical Candor Tips
Tips to help you navigate bureaucracy with clarity, care, and results.
(00:43:34) Conclusion

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How NDAs Protect Power Instead of People 7 | 15 Apr 09, 2025

When contracts hide misconduct, it’s not policy—it’s a cover-up.

What do NDAs, forced arbitration, and emotionally manipulating teenagers have in common? Sadly, more than you'd hope. Kim, Jason and Amy rip the lid off the corporate culture of hush-hush harm, legal gymnastics and why emotional manipulation is a feature—not a bug—in some marketing strategies. They dig into the story behind Careless People by Sara Wynn-Williams, the book someone definitely doesn’t want you to read, and expose how companies use contracts to silence the truth and protect power—not people. From creepy ad targeting to leaders who dodge accountability like it’s dodgeball, the crew gets real about why “just business” is a lazy excuse for bad behavior. Kim even owns up to the time she played the NDA game—and why she’ll never do it again. Because real leadership doesn’t mean covering your ass—it means doing the damn right thing, even when it costs you.

Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

Episode Links:

Chapters:
(00:00:00) Introduction
Kim, Jason, and Amy introduce the topic of NDAs and forced arbitration.
(00:02:11) Why Careless People Matters
The impact of NDAs and the importance of supporting the author.
(00:03:17) Understanding Forced Arbitration
A breakdown of arbitration and its role in silencing workplace harm.
(00:06:20) Emotional Targeting at Facebook
A disturbing passage about targeting vulnerable teens.
(00:09:43) Harm, Silence, and Scapegoats
The role of toxic cultures and fear play in keeping employees silent.
(00:17:40) The Measurement Problem
How profit-driven metrics ignore the human harm they cause.
(00:22:14) Loyalty vs Integrity
Balancing between professional loyalty and moral responsibility.
(00:26:29) Kim’s NDA Regret
A candid story of using an NDA to silence an employee.
(00:32:40) Building Better Systems
Strategies for leaders to design accountability into workplace culture.
(00:34:42) A Better Way Forward
Why transparency and early action are more effective than silence.
(00:38:02) Culture Is Design
How treating culture like a product helps fix systemic issues.
(00:39:49) Radical Candor Tips
Tips for eliminating NDAs, ending forced arbitration, and building trust
(00:41:30) Conclusion

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Surviving Assholes and Building Better Organizations with Bob Sutton 7 | 14 Apr 02, 2025

Being the boss isn’t about power trips—it’s about leaving your jerk card at the door.

Turns out, surviving the workplace often comes down to one simple rule: don’t be an asshole. Kim Scott and Amy Sandler sit down with Stanford’s Bob Sutton, author of The No Asshole Rule and The Friction Project, to talk about how real leadership means treating people like people, not just cogs in a machine. Bob gets straight to the point about why toxic behavior kills productivity, how organizational “friction” can be both helpful and harmful, and what it takes to build teams that fight fair and thrive together. They also tackle why efficient isn’t always effective, how to spot—and stop—assholes before they do lasting damage, and why the best bosses aren’t afraid to show up with both candor and care. As Kim puts it, sometimes it’s better to have a hole than an asshole. Whether you're leading a team or just trying to survive one, this conversation is your reminder that treating people with decency is never optional—and if you're stuck choosing between keeping an asshole or leaving a hole, always go with the hole.

Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

Episode Links:

Chapters:
(00:00:00) Introduction
Kim and Amy introduce Stanford Professor Emeritus Bob Sutton.
(00:01:35) The No Asshole Rule Origin Story
How Bob’s research into organizational decline led to a focus on workplace jerks.
(00:07:02) Layoffs Done Right (And Wrong)
Kim and Bob trade stories on compassionate vs. catastrophic layoffs.
(00:11:16) Good Friction vs. Bad Friction
The Friction Project and why not all efficiency is actually efficient
(00:16:23) Building Emotional Trust
How emotional trust grows and fuels creative partnerships.
(00:24:58) The Asshole Survival Guide: 4 Ways to Deal
Strategies for handling difficult people and navigating toxic environments.
(00:29:50) Certified vs. Clueless Assholes
Recognizing the moments when you might actually be the asshole.
(00:33:47) It Happens at the Listener’s Ear
How context shapes whether something feels candid or cruel.
(00:38:59) Decision-Making, Simplicity & Reversibility
Questions friction-fixers ask to decide when to slow down or speed up.
(00:46:15) Gossip as a Strategic Tool
The ways gossip can help you avoid toxic work environments.
(00:52:03) Fixing Friction at Stanford
Bob shares his current work helping Stanford reduce internal friction.
(00:55:54) Where to Find Bob Sutton
Where to find Bob and his books — plus a final note on long emails.
(00:56:50) Conclusion

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The Wild Courage to Get What You Want, With Jenny Wood 7 | 13 Mar 26, 2025

Stop playing it safe—embrace the bold, unexpected traits that actually get you ahead.

Success doesn’t come to those who wait—it comes to those who take it. For years, you’ve been told to be humble, play nice, and wait your turn. Jenny Wood says that’s exactly why so many talented people stay stuck. As a former Google executive turned author of Wild Courage: Go After What You Want and Get It, she’s here to expose the real traits that drive success—ones that might make you uncomfortable. Forget the polite career playbook, being selfish, obsessed, even a little manipulative (the right way) can actually be your biggest advantage. Jenny gets radically candid with Kim and Amy on why risk-taking beats waiting for permission, why saying “no” is a career superpower, and how to self-promote without sounding like a jerk. If you’re sick of playing it safe and watching others pass you by, this episode is your permission slip to take bigger swings and get what you want.

Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

Episode Links:

Chapters:
(00:00:00) Introduction
Kim and Amy welcome Jenny Wood, author of Wild Courage: Go After What You Want and Get It.
(00:1:02) The Nine Traits That Will Get You Ahead
Nine controversial traits that are actually career superpowers.
(00:4:26) The Subway Story That Changed Everything
Jenny shares a story on ignoring self-doubt and taking action.
(00:10:16) Calculated Risks vs. Playing It Safe
Why taking smart risks is essential for personal and professional success.
(00:13:04) The Google Factor: How It Shaped Wild Courage
How Google built confidence, encouraged risks, and sparked creativity.
(00:17:09) Owning Your Weird
Advice for staying authentic in workplaces that don’t naturally foster it.
(00:21:38) Identifying Your Power Assets
Identifying your power assets to make self-promotion feel natural.
(00:25:22) Managing Up, Higher, and Diagonally
A tactical guide to workplace influence through strategic senior connections.
(00:31:54) Overcoming Bias in the Workplace
Strategies to counter workplace biases in recognition and self-promotion.
(00:36:56) Why Saying No is a Superpower
How learning to say no without guilt protects your time and energy.
(00:42:40) Get in Front of the Right People
The importance of standing out and getting noticed by leadership.
(00:44:57) Pull It and Bullet It
The “Pull It and Bullet It” method for impactful, time-saving emails.
(00:48:05) Where to Find Jenny Wood
Where to get Wild Courage and find Jenny for keynotes and workshops.
(00:49:41) Conclusion

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How to TALK So People Actually Listen with Dr. Alison Wood Brooks 7 | 12 Mar 19, 2025

Ditch the awkwardness and start owning every conversation.

Talking to people shouldn’t feel like a struggle—but let’s be honest, it often does. Maybe you’re stuck in small talk hell, getting ignored in meetings, or watching conversations die mid-sentence. Why is this so hard? Amy sits down with Dr. Alison Wood Brooks, Harvard Business School professor and author of Talk: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves, to expose the hidden science behind great conversations—and why most of us are getting it wrong. They break down the TALK framework (Topics, Asking, Levity, and Kindness) and unpack the subtle mistakes that make people tune out, disengage, or just not like talking to you. Whether you want to command the room, sound sharper in meetings or just stop replaying every interaction in your head, Alison delivers straight-shooting, science-backed strategies to help you talk better, connect faster, and stress less.

Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

Episode Links:

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Chapters:
(00:00:00) Introduction
Amy Sandler welcomes Dr. Alison Wood Brooks, Harvard Business School professor and author of Talk: The Science of Conversation.
(00:01:44) The Power of Connection in Conversation
How small, personal connections can create deeper conversations.
(00:02:53) What Inspired Talk?
Dr. Wood Brooks shares how she became fascinated with conversation science.
(00:07:25) Giving Conversation Feedback
Why most people receive little feedback on their conversational skills.
(00:13:17) The Hidden Coordination Game
How small, unconscious decisions shape every conversation.
(00:18:54) The TALK Framework
Topics, Asking, Levity, and Kindness—the four keys to better conversations.
(00:20:24) Practicing Listening
Guided exercises and listening techniques from the Talk course.
(00:21:39) The Science Behind Mind-Wandering
Why we tune out during conversations and how to stay present.
(00:29:06) The Challenges of Group Conversations
Why group conversations are harder to manage than one-on-one talks.
(00:34:05) Digital vs. In-Person Talk
How virtual communication changes conversations.
(00:36:51) Designing Better Meetings
Strategies for leaders to create inclusive and effective meetings.
(00:39:37) Boomer Asking
The conversational habit that makes people disengage.
(00:44:28) Where to Find Dr. Wood Brooks
Dr. Wood Brooks shares where to find her work and book tour details.
(00:45:32) Conclusion

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When the PIP Feels Disingenuous: The Ethics of Managing Out 7 | 11 Mar 12, 2025

When a PIP feels like a setup, how do you handle it without compromising your integrity?

Trapped between an HR-driven process that feels like a sham and a direct report who’s not meeting expectations? That’s a management nightmare. When a boss hands you a struggling employee with the unspoken expectation that you’ll “manage them out,” how do you stay honest, maintain trust, and avoid turning into the workplace grim reaper? Kim, Jason, and Amy break down the emotional and ethical toll of Performance Improvement Plans (PIPs), how to navigate them without feeling like a pawn, and why Radical Candor is the only way through. This isn’t about sugarcoating or corporate theater—it’s about handling tough conversations with clarity, fairness, and a whole lot less BS.

Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

Episode Links:

Chapters:
(00:00:00) Introduction
Kim, Jason, and Amy introduce a listener’s question on handling a PIP with integrity.
(00:02:28) Leadership Failures
How bad management decisions created this unfair situation.
(00:06:15) Is This Process Disingenuous?
Struggling with feeling inauthentic when following HR's PIP process.
(00:09:19) The Emotional Toll of Performance Management
The frustrations of the process for both the manager and the direct report.
(00:13:51) Communicating Radical Candor During a PIP
Framing tough conversations without misleading employees.
(00:18:51) Why Informal PIPs Exist
The value of informal PIPs in ensuring fairness.
(00:22:17) Responding to Employee Pushback
Handling direct reports who challenge the PIP process.
(00:28:28) What Can a Manager Legally and Ethically Say?
Making difficult conversations feel more human and constructive.
(00:32:59) Radical Candor Tips
Lessons for managing performance issues with Radical Candor.
(00:36:05) Pushing Back to the Boss
Having a candid conversation about being put in this situation.
(00:37:25) Conclusion

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Scaling Smart: Leading Effectively When You Have 50+ Direct Reports 7 | 10 Mar 05, 2025

Too many direct reports and not enough time? Fix that without losing your sanity.

Drowning in direct reports and barely keeping your head above water? When you’re responsible for 30 to 50 people, the idea of meaningful one-on-ones is a joke—but so is pretending you can manage that many people without a meltdown. On this episode, Kim and Amy rip apart the myth that “just working harder” will fix the problem and get real about why traditional leadership approaches fail at scale. From no-nonsense strategies like idea teams (so you’re not drowning in suggestions), walking the floor like a pro, and knowing when to listen without turning into everyone’s personal complaint department, they share simple strategies to build trust and keep things running smoothly. Reality check: You cannot have deep, weekly 1:1s with 40+ people. But you can create a system where your team still feels seen and heard. Tune in to learn:

✔ How to set up an Ideas Team so great feedback doesn’t overwhelm you
✔ Why walking the floor is more powerful than endless meetings
✔ How to make the most of the few 1:1s you do have

Leadership doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing. Let’s do it smarter, not harder. Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

Episode Links:

Chapters:
(00:00:00) Introduction
Kim and Amy introduce a listener’s question on managing one-on-ones with large teams.
(00:01:27) The Limits of Scaling Relationships
The importance of creating an environment where employees feel heard.
(00:02:47) Using an Ideas Team
Why managers should set up an ideas team to filter and prioritize suggestions.
(00:06:15) Purpose of One-on-Ones
Creating structured feedback systems to improve efficiency and innovation.
(00:07:29) Small Fixes, Big Impact
How small operational changes can have a massive effect.
(00:11:47) Management by Walking Around
Observing employees, asking how they’re doing, and being present.
(00:14:15) Overcoming Employee Hesitancy
How to introduce walking around without making employees anxious.
(00:16:51) Small Talk & Active Listening
Tips for managers who struggle with casual check-ins.
(00:18:46) Structuring One-on-Ones for Large Teams
Avoiding emotional whiplash by spacing out conversations.
(00:22:46) Managers Shouldn’t Solve Everything
How to balance problem-solving with empowering employees.
(00:27:42) Listening Versus Fixing
The value of asking: "Do you want me to listen or help?"
(00:30:37) Practicing Active Listening
Amy leads an exercise on listening and discusses its impact.
(00:38:39) Scaling Management Structure
Giving high-performing employees leadership opportunities.
(00:39:47) Radical Candor Tips
Tips on fostering a culture of feedback with large teams.
(00:42:07) Conclusion

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From Change Agent to Change Enabler: Aman Kochar On Leadership & Growth 7 | 9 Feb 26, 2025

Avoiding tough conversations? Lean in, speak up, and make them count.

Ever find yourself avoiding a tough conversation at work because, well…it’s just easier? We get it. But what if leaning into discomfort could actually make things better—for you, your team, and your company? In this episode, Kim and Amy sit down with Amandeep (Aman) Kochar, CEO of Baker & Taylor, to talk about how he uses Radical Candor to break down barriers, build trust, and create a culture where feedback fuels growth instead of fear. Aman gets real about his own struggles—navigating leadership as an underrepresented executive, learning to lead with vulnerability, and shifting from pushing change to making space for it. From leading a 200-year-old company through transformation to rethinking power dynamics in leadership, he lays out why transparency matters, how to handle resistance without backing down, and why the best leaders don’t just give feedback—they ask for it. The bottom line? Real change starts with real conversations. Ready to ditch the fear and lead with candor? Let’s go. Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

Episode Links:

Connect:

Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction
Kim and Amy welcome guest Amandeep (Aman) Kochar, CEO of Baker & Taylor.
(00:00:58) The Meaning of a Name
Aman shares how his name reflects identity and leadership.
(00:07:23) Leading a 200-Year-Old Company
The challenges of driving change in a legacy organization.
(00:11:34) From Change Agent to Change Enabler
Gaining trust, embracing vulnerability, and leading with impact.
(00:18:27) Overcoming Resistance
Tackling workplace culture shifts and rebuilding trust.
(00:24:18) Creating Open Communication
Implementing town halls and fostering transparency.
(00:30:00) Empowering Employees
Strategies for shifting decision-making power to frontline employees.
(00:34:28) Rethinking Feedback
Turning feedback into a tool for growth, not fear.
(00:44:16) Repairing Relationships
Overcoming negative perceptions and fostering collaboration.
(00:47:15) Leadership & Self-Reflection
Unlearning cultural conditioning and using self awareness to grow.
(00:52:51) Filtering Feedback
Separating identity from work-related feedback to focus on growth.
(00:53:58) Radical Candor Tips
Lessons on trust, feedback, and fostering change.
(01:01:19) Conclusion

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Resetting Expectations With Resistant Direct Reports 7 | 8 Feb 19, 2025

Undermining, defiant and disengaged direct report—coach them or cut them loose?

Dealing with a direct report who questions everything, isolates their team, and actively undermines leadership? YIKES. That’s not just frustrating—it’s a full-blown leadership headache. When radical candor turns into outright defiance, how do you respond without losing your mind (or your team’s trust)? In this episode, Kim and Amy tackle the tricky reality of managing someone who refuses to engage, blames leadership for team turnover, and resists every attempt at coaching. From figuring out whether this is a communication breakdown or a serious performance issue, to deciding if a PIP is the right move, they walk through strategies to reset expectations, shut down toxicity, and lead with confidence. Because at the end of the day, if you’ve ever thought, I literally don’t know what to do with this person, keeping a toxic presence around does more damage than having a tough talk. Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

Episode Links:

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Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction
Kim and Amy introduce a manager’s challenge: a disengaged, undermining direct report.
(00:04:46) Generational Gap or Performance Problem?
Whether this is a workplace culture clash or a deeper issue.
(00:06:28) Red Flags: Undermining & Resistance
Signs of bad-faith questioning, team isolation, and leadership defiance.
(00:14:18) The Tough Feedback Conversation
Role-playing a direct, no-nonsense conversation to reset expectations.
(00:23:49) Handling Pushback & Defiance
When a direct report resists leadership—what’s your next move?
(00:26:38) PIP or Part Ways?
How to decide if coaching, a PIP, or letting them go is the right call.
(00:34:03) Emotions in Leadership
Handling a direct report who dismisses the emotional impact of their behavior.
(00:38:06) Accountability Without Micromanaging
Creating clear expectations and consequences without constant oversight.
(00:42:53) Next Steps: Coach, Challenge, or Cut Ties?
How to assess whether a direct report can grow—or if it’s time to move on.
(00:53:22) Radical Candor Tips
Balancing Caring Personally with Challenging Directly to lead effectively.
(00:55:43) Conclusion

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Temple Grandin On Why Clarity is the Key to Candor 7 | 7 Feb 12, 2025

Vague feedback is a fail—neurodivergent minds need clear, direct guidance to thrive.

Is vague feedback just bad management, or are we failing neurodivergent employees by not giving them what they actually need? Kim sits down with the legendary Dr. Temple Grandin to challenge common misconceptions about feedback and explore why clarity is key—especially for those who think and process the world differently. They break down the myth that all employees should “just know” how to adjust their behavior and highlight how direct, actionable guidance can be a game-changer. From a welding mishap that turned into a major learning moment to the unexpected impact of a blunt deodorant comment (yes, really), Temple shares firsthand experiences that prove why specific, actionable feedback is a game-changer and how neurodivergent thinkers bring immense value when given the right support. Spoiler: generic platitudes and abstract advice won’t cut it. The bottom line? Guesswork isn’t leadership. Be clear, be kind, and stop making people read between the lines.

Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

Episode Links:

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Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction
Amy and Kim introduce Dr. Temple Gradin, an autism activist, author, and expert on animal welfare and behavior.
(00:02:04) Giving Feedback to Neurodivergent Employees
Temple shares a story on how clear, direct feedback works best.
(00:08:32) The Concept of Project Loyalty
Prioritizing team needs and focusing on the bigger picture to get work done.
(00:13:51) How Visual Thinkers Process Information
Temple explains her way of thinking through mental imagery and memories.
(00:19:10) Three Types of Thinkers
The different cognitive styles and why diverse teams need all types.
(00:23:20) The Importance of Hands-On Learning
Why real-world exposure matters for education.
(00:30:57) Managing Autistic Employees
The importance of setting clear goals and specific expectations.
(00:35:13) Transforming the Livestock Industry
Gaining credibility and transforming animal welfare through writing and advocacy.
(00:38:57) Workplace Accommodations for Autistic Employees
Strategies for supporting autistic employees in the workplace.
(00:42:18) Improving Animal Welfare Standards
Temple’s five key metrics for humane treatment in the meat industry.
(00:49:34) Why Verbal and Visual Thinkers Must Collaborate
The importance of collaboration between different cognitive styles.
(00:51:10) Conclusion

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Russ Laraway’s “Gravity Assist” Approach to Career Conversations 7 | 6 Feb 05, 2025

Why most career conversations fail—and how to make them actually matter.

Are career conversations a game-changer, or just another corporate mirage? In part two of this two-part episode, Kim, Amy, and Russ Laraway cut through the fluff and expose why most career talks fail before they even start. Managers love to preach growth, but when it comes to actually helping their people build meaningful careers, too many fall flat. Russ brings the fire with his “gravity assist slingshot” method—forget the outdated career ladder, it’s time to propel people toward their real ambitions. Why do leaders dodge these conversations? Why does “career development” feel like an HR buzzword instead of a real priority? And what happens when you actually invest in your team’s future? No sugarcoating here—if you’re ready to stop playing it safe and start leading with impact, this episode is your wake-up call.

Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

Episode Links:

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Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction
Kim and Amy welcome back Russ Laraway to discuss career conversations.
(00:00:52) The Gravity Assist Slingshot
Russ’s framework for career growth and thinking beyond promotions.
(00:04:51) Why Managers Should Invest in Careers
How helping employees grow improves retention and engagement.
(00:09:35) The Three Career Conversations
A step-by-step guide to drive meaningful career development.
(00:14:20) Life Story Conversation
How past career pivots reveal deep-rooted motivations.
(00:20:52) Avoiding Pitfalls and Gotchas
Where leaders go wrong in the career development framework.
(00:25:25) Framing Career Conversations
Framing the life story conversation to build trust and respect boundaries.
(00:30:51) Finding True Career Vision
An outline of helping employees set bold, authentic goals.
(00:34:26) Supporting Unconventional Goals
How managers can turn unconventional career goals into actionable steps.
(00:43:43) Career Action Plan
Turning career aspirations into progress with a clear, strategic approach.
(00:46:27) Radical Candor Tips
Where managers should start in Russ’s career conversations framework.
(00:48:14) Conclusion

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Russ Laraway Shares Why “The Big 3” Are the Secret to Being a Successful Leader 7 | 5 Jan 29, 2025

Russ Laraway breaks down why your leadership isn’t working—and how to fix it.

Stuck in a cycle of vague goals, half-hearted feedback, and meaningless career talks? Let’s call it what it is—bad leadership. In part one of this two part episode, Kim, Amy, and Russ Laraway rip into the mistakes that are killing your team’s engagement and results. Russ brings the heat with his “Big Three” leadership essentials—direction, coaching, and career—and doesn’t hold back on why so many managers fail to deliver. Why are leaders so scared to prioritize? Why do career conversations feel like an empty HR theater? And why does feedback either go ignored or turn into a dreaded confrontation? If you’re ready to ditch the excuses, face the hard truths, and lead with real purpose and impact, this episode is your wake-up call. It’s time to step up, get clear, and transform the way you lead—before it’s too late.

Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

Episode Links:

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Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction
Kim and Amy introduce Russ Laraway and the "Big Three" of leadership.
(00:03:00) What Are the Big Three?
Russ explains the framework of direction, coaching, and career.
(00:07:24) The Flintstones House
Kim and Russ share stories about the unique office space of Candor Inc.
(00:10:31) Defining Direction in Leadership
The importance of clarity in expectations and ruthless prioritization.
(00:15:11) Long-Term Leadership Tools
How managers can collaboratively define purpose and vision.
(00:17:24) Crafting Team Goals and Priorities
Setting measurable goals and the role of weekly prioritization.
(00:26:12) Purpose and Vision Statements
Examples of vision statements and their impact on team alignment.
(00:31:43) Coaching for Engagement
Coaching elements that drive employee engagement.
(00:33:29) The Book and Specific Praise
Using praise to motivate teams and reinforce standards.
(00:38:59) Soliciting Feedback from Teams
The importance of creating a culture where feedback flows both ways.
(00:43:53) Leadership and Power Dynamics
Strategies to balance authority and empower team collaboration.
(00:45:25) Radical Candor Tips
Practical tips for applying direction, coaching, and career insights.
(00:47:29) Conclusion

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Middle Managers: Dinosaurs or Essential Glue? 7 | 4 Jan 22, 2025

What happens when you gut the glue holding your team together?

Is middle management really dead weight, or are we cutting off the wrong limb? In this episode, Amy and Jason take on the hype around “The Great Flattening” and call out the risks of gutting the layer that keeps organizations running smoothly. Sure, middle managers have their flaws—what role doesn’t? But eliminating them entirely isn’t the brilliant shortcut some leaders think it is. They dig into how this trend often creates chaos, undermines team engagement, and leaves critical gaps in communication and strategy. Spoiler: quick fixes and vague promises of efficiency don’t replace the value of solid leadership and strong relationships. With sharp insights and actionable advice, this conversation is a wake-up call for anyone buying into the flattening trend without a second thought. Skeptical? Maybe. But sometimes you need a little tough love to see what’s really at stake.

Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

Episode Links:

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Chapters:
(00:00:00) Introduction
Jason and Amy introduce the topic of eliminating middle management.
(00:02:17) The Great Flattening Explained
The trend of eliminating middle management roles in organizations.
(00:05:37) Blaming Middle Managers
Why middle managers are often seen as costly and ineffective.
(00:10:00) The Role of Middle Managers
The role middle managers play in strategy, coaching, and alignment.
(00:15:21) Risks of Flattening Organizations
The unintended consequences of cutting middle management.
(00:20:10) Case for Middle Management
Tips for demonstrating the value of middle managers to leadership.
(00:25:29) Redefining Middle Management
How organizations can reshape the role to meet modern demands.
(00:33:11) Radical Candor Tips
Practical tips for navigating The Great Flattening.
(00:35:07) Conclusion

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Ellen Pao On Breaking Tech’s Toxic Status Quo 7 | 3 Jan 15, 2025

Tech’s “meritocracy” is broken—Ellen Pao unpacks how to fix it.

Alright, let’s get real—tech’s so-called “meritocracy” is doing more harm than good, and it’s time to face it head-on. This week we’re bringing you an episode of the Radical Respect podcast. Kim and Wesley sit down with Ellen Pao, founder of Project Include, to dig into how the industry’s obsession with merit often masks deep-seated bias, exclusion, and outright harassment. Ellen doesn’t hold back as she breaks down why quick fixes (we see you, generic unconscious bias training) just don’t cut it, how unchecked bias erodes trust and psychological safety across teams, and the way Project Include is leading the charge with real strategies for change. From CEOs stepping up to own their role in DEI to addressing the messy realities of AI in the workplace, this conversation is all about building environments where everyone has a shot. Ellen’s story is packed with takeaways for anyone who’s struggled to balance compassion with calling out the tough stuff, and is ready to challenge the status quo and build workplaces where it’s better to have a hole than an asshole.

Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

Episode Links:

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Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction
Kim and Wesley introduce Ellen Pao, founder of Project Include.
(00:01:37) The Genesis of Project Include
How Project Include started and its impact on improving workplace inclusivity.
(00:05:25) Challenges of Virtual Workspaces
The increase in bias and harassment in virtual work environments.
(00:06:38) Meritocracy and the Tech Industry
The role of meritocracy in shaping tech’s culture and DEI challenges.
(00:09:24) Overcoming Resistance to DEI
Data-backed methods for fostering DEI support among skeptics.
(00:13:46) DEI as a Business Imperative
The importance of CEO involvement in creating and sustaining DEI initiatives.
(00:19:50) Balancing Morality and Market Pressure
How leaders can make ethical decisions that align with DEI principles.
(00:25:31) Governing AI in the Workplace
Key considerations for ethical and inclusive AI adoption in workplaces.
(00:28:33) Social Media’s Role in Amplifying Harm
The need for accountability in curbing online hate and misinformation.
(00:37:26) Impactful Investments in DEI-Focused Ventures
Stories of innovative ventures improving equity in healthcare and workplaces.
(00:41:27) Conclusion

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Heather McGowan On Rebuilding Connection and Collaboration 7 | 2 Jan 08, 2025

Ditch the drama and rebuild connection where it counts.

Feeling overwhelmed by workplace polarization, the loneliness epidemic, and the constant whirl of change? You’re not alone—and neither are your teams. On this episode of Radical Candor, Kim and Amy bring in Heather McGowan, future-of-work strategist, to dig into why we’re so divided and distracted at work—and what leaders can actually do about it. Heather gets real about the deeper roots of these challenges, from shifting demographics to technology’s relentless pace, and shares her signature brand of practical, no-nonsense advice for fostering respect, empathy, and collaboration. It’s not about ignoring differences or plastering on a quick fix—it’s about creating the kind of human connections that help teams thrive. Learn how to lead with intention, listen to what’s not being said, and ditch the divide in favor of working better together.

Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

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Chapters:
(00:00:00) Introduction
Kim and Amy introduce the episode’s focus on workplace polarization with guest Heather McGowan.
(00:02:12) Why We’re Divided
The societal and workplace factors fueling polarization.
(00:06:42) Balancing Rights and Income Inequality
The interplay between workplace equity and broader societal trends.
(00:09:02) Short-Term Thinking in Leadership
How short-term decisions undermine long-term organizational health.
(00:12:03) Intentional Conversations Across Divides
Practical tips for engaging with diverse perspectives meaningfully.
(00:16:21) Finding Common Ground at Work
Building relationships through shared experiences and lighthearted topics.
(00:22:12) Drawing Ethical Boundaries
Knowing when to disengage while maintaining openness elsewhere.
(00:26:32) The Future of Work and Learning
Why adaptability and continuous learning matter more than ever.
(00:33:46) Loneliness in the Workplace
Combating workplace isolation with intentional connection and empathy.
(00:41:27) Embracing Discomfort and Curiosity
Why great leaders lean into questions, not answers.
(00:45:53) Radical Candor Tips
Start conversations, focus on humanity, and take small steps to connect.
(00:49:10) Conclusion

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Best of: Unlock the Power of Rituals to Transform Your Work and Life 7 | 1 Jan 01, 2025

Everyday actions, when turned into rituals, can manage emotions and create a sense of meaning.

Amy Sandler is joined by Harvard Business School Professor Michael Norton to discuss his latest book, The Ritual Effect. Norton explores the significance of rituals in reducing stress and enhancing productivity, both at work and in personal life. He shares compelling research and personal anecdotes that illustrate how everyday actions, when turned into rituals, can manage emotions and create a sense of control and purpose. The conversation covers the practical application of rituals in business settings, their emotional significance, and how they can foster team cohesion and workplace wellness. Whether you're a skeptic or a believer in the power of rituals, this episode offers valuable insights into how structured routines can lead to greater emotional health and professional effectiveness.

Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

Episode Links:

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Chapters:
(00:00:00) Introduction
Amy Sandler introduces guest Michael Norton and his book The Ritual Effect.
(00:02:16) A Quick Ritual Exercise
A fun and engaging ritual exercise to explore emotional connections.
(00:04:18) From Skeptic to Advocate
Michael’s journey from being a ritual skeptic to writing The Ritual Effect.
(00:07:40) The Meaning of Rituals
How rituals naturally emerge to provide structure and meaning.
(00:10:04) Rituals vs. Habits
The emotional difference between habits and rituals.
(00:12:13) Rituals as Emotion Generators
The dual role of rituals in generating and managing emotions.
(00:15:05) The Power of Collective Rituals
How shared rituals strengthen bonds and create collective experiences.
(00:16:30) Rituals at Work
Examples of team rituals that foster bonding and purpose.
(00:20:46) Fostering Meaning in Teams
Balancing team pride and inclusivity when designing rituals to reflect shared values.
(00:23:38) Creating Work Rituals
Advice for leaders to cocreate rituals for new work teams.
(00:26:24) Adapting Rituals for Remote Work
How teams have developed virtual rituals to maintain connection online.
(00:29:05) Meaningful Rituals in the Workplace
The significance of rituals in the workplace for individuals and leaders.
(00:32:54) Evaluating the Benefits of Rituals
How rituals contribute positively to mental health and well-being.
(00:36:49) Leaders Supporting Organic Rituals
Tips for leaders to encourage authentic rituals without imposing corporate mandates.
(00:39:59) Aligning Rituals with Team Values
Using rituals to express and reinforce organizational values creatively and authentically.
(00:41:50) Discovering Your Rituals
Exploring the rituals in your life through Michael’s Ritual Quiz.
(00:45:21) Conclusion

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Best of: How to Communicate With Your Family During the Holidays 6 | 50 Dec 25, 2024

Practicing Radical Candor with your family members this holiday season.

Holiday communication with your family can be rife with stress. And while you love your family, let’s be frank, family togetherness during the holidays often goes sideways. So much so that it’s become a trope that’s spawned dozens of holiday movies. But you can survive it by practicing Radical Candor with your nearest and dearest this holiday season to avoid defaulting to Obnoxious Aggression, Manipulative Insincerity or Ruinous Empathy.

Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

Episode Links:

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Chapters:
(00:00:00) Introduction
Kim, Jason, and Amy introduce the topic of navigating difficult family dynamics during the holidays.
(00:02:53) Radical Candor and the Holidays
The struggle with practicing Radical Candor with families during the holidays.
(00:04:36) Generational and Cultural Differences
How cultural and generational gaps complicate family communication.
(00:07:12) Family Role Expectations and Childhood Patterns
Reverting to childhood behaviors and role expectations during family visits.
(00:9:18) Taking the Bait: Avoiding Escalation
Strategies for turning down conversational "volume" and avoiding conflict bait.
(00:20:20) Overreacting to Advice
How understanding intent can improve family dynamics.
(00:24:37) Why Gifts Sometimes Backfire
The alternate perspectives on gifts dependant on the giver or receiver.
(00:27:42) Gifts Gone Wrong
Personal anecdotes of gift-giving mishaps and lessons learned.
(00:33:33) The Strain of Gift Giving
How gift giving can be especially hard in strained family dynamics.
(00:35:59) Setting Boundaries with Family
Asserting personal boundaries when saying yes takes its toll.
(00:39:22) Gifting with Intent
Releasing the obligation of the perfect gift for the giver and receiver.
(00:43:51) Radical Candor at Family Gatherings
Guidance on when to lean into Radical Candor and when to let things slide.
(00:50:12) Appreciating Moments Together
The finite nature of time with loved ones and making the most of family gatherings.
(00:54:51) Radical Candor Tips
Tips on setting boundaries, practicing care, and avoiding unnecessary conflict.
(01:00:01) Conclusion

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How to Navigate the Messy Middle Between Ruinous Empathy & Obnoxious Aggression 6 | 49 Dec 18, 2024

How the CORE method can help you thrive in the messy middle.

Caught in the middle of a boss who’s all care but no action and a team lead who’s full steam ahead with no brakes? That’s a workplace tightrope no one wants to walk. Your ability to Care Personally and Challenge Directly can seriously be affected when communication falls apart on both ends of the spectrum, and it’s not just frustrating—it’s debilitating. How do you stay productive and keep your sanity when you’re managing up and down with people who either dodge conflict entirely or bulldoze through it? In this episode, Jason and Amy tackle the messy middle, breaking down how to use the CORE method (Context, Observation, Result, Expected Next Steps) to navigate these tricky situations. It’s not about pointing fingers or playing favorites—it’s about finding a way to ditch the drama and focus on what really matters: working better together.

Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

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Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction
Amy and Jason introduce a listener dilemma about a ruinously empathetic boss and an obnoxiously aggressive team lead.
(00:02:15) Defining Ruinous Empathy and Obnoxious Aggression
What it means to care without challenging and to challenge without caring.
(00:04:44) It’s the Boss’s Job: Accountability Matters
Why the manager has ultimate responsibility and how to provide feedback.
(00:07:53) Raising the Issue with Your Boss
How to approach a ruinously empathetic boss with care and directness.
(00:11:46) Involving Your Boss Effectively
How to engage your boss in resolving team tensions without blame or shame.
(00:17:55) Using the CORE Method
A step-by-step approach to delivering clear and constructive feedback.
(00:20:55) Role-Play: Navigating a Clean Escalation Conversation
How to handle a tough conversation between a team member and an aggressive lead.
(00:31:11) Building Common Ground
Tips for fostering mutual understanding and creating actionable steps.
(00:34:02) Radical Candor Tips
Key takeaways and practical tips for addressing conflict.
(00:36:35) Conclusion

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How to Care Personally When You Don’t Personally Care 6 | 48 Dec 11, 2024

Showing respect when you just don’t connect.

Ever feel like caring about a coworker is just...not in the cards? Same. Here’s the thing though – you don’t have to be besties to show respect and keep things productive. In this episode, Kim, Amy, and Jason tackle the tough question of how to Care Personally when someone’s driving you up the wall. With relatable stories (yes, even a deodorant conversation makes an appearance) and practical tips, they break down how to stay curious, address frustrations head-on, and avoid letting those "ugh" feelings spiral into toxicity. The key takeaway? Stop writing mental soap operas about your colleagues and start having real conversations. Awkward? Sure. Worth it? Absolutely. Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

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Chapters:
(00:00:00) Introduction
Kim, Jason and Amy introduce a listener’s question about caring personally for someone you don’t like.
(00:02:09) Radical Respect
How respect forms the core of caring personally, even when someone annoys you.
(00:03:48) Reframing Perspectives
Reframing narratives to foster empathy in difficult workplace interactions.
(00:05:05) Addressing Irritating Behaviors
Two stories from differing perspectives on personal irritations at work.
(00:08:17) Curiosity as a Bridge
The power of curiosity in understanding and seeing humanity in others.
(00:11:02) Unspoken Disagreements
How assumptions and unspoken disagreements corrode relationships.
(00:14:16) Repairing Relationships at Work
The journey from conflict to rebuilding a strained relationship with a peer.
(00:22:17) Different Work Styles
Respecting differing approaches to work and optimizing collaboration.
(00:24:14) The Role Self-Awareness
Self-awareness and transitioning from internal frustration to constructive dialogue.
(00:33:08) Indifference vs. Engagement at Work
The inefficiencies of emotional detachment from colleagues.
(00:34:29) Balancing Connection and Boundaries
Maintaining professional relationships while respecting personal boundaries.
(00:37:38) Radical Candor Tips
Key tips from the episode, including respect, curiosity, and addressing biases.
(00:40:24) Conclusion

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Introducing: The Radical Candor Podcast Dec 09, 2024

Tune in to the Radical Candor podcast to learn to love your job and kick ass at work without losing your humanity by practicing the principles of Radical Candor. Host and Lead Radical Candor Coach Amy Sandler leads discussions with Radical Candor Author and Co-founder Kim Scott and CEO and Co-founder Jason Rosoff about what it means to be Radically Candid, why it’s simple but not easy to Care Personally and Challenge Directly on the daily, and why it’s worth it.

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Money Talks: Why Salary Secrets Are Hurting Your Team 6 | 47 Dec 04, 2024

Uncovering the messy reality of salary secrecy.

Pay transparency—yikes, it’s one of those topics that makes everyone squirm, but avoiding it does more harm than good. Let’s be real: when salaries are shrouded in secrecy, it doesn’t just make things awkward—it allows inequity and mistrust to thrive. And here’s the kicker: people are already talking about pay, just in whispers instead of open, productive conversations. In this episode, Kim and Jason take a no-nonsense approach to tackling the discomfort. From real stories of pay gaps to the tangled emotions and messy realities behind compensation conversations, they discuss how a lack of transparency impacts trust and fairness, and share practical tips for making compensation more equitable. Whether you’re trying to influence change at your organization or navigate these conversations as an employee, this is your guide to addressing one of the workplace’s biggest taboos—without losing your humanity. Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

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Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction
Kim and Jason introduce the episode and the listener's question about pay transparency.
(00:03:09) Legality of Pay Discussions
The legal landscape of discussing salaries in the workplace.
(00:06:32) Real Stories of Pay Inequity
A personal experience of discovering and addressing pay gaps.
(00:10:18) Building a Compensation Philosophy
The importance of having a framework for determining salaries.
(00:12:09) Why Pay Disparities Happen
Examples of pay disparities in the workplace and the reasons behind them.
(00:16:09) Theory of Compensation
The process of setting a fair salary band based on market data.
(00:21:38) Efficiency of Salary Formulas
How setting a compensation framework saves time and prevents inequality.
(00:28:06) Transparency in Recruiting
The benefits of sharing salary ranges in job postings and clarifying compensation processes.
(00:33:13) Fixing Pay Disparities with Candor
Strategies to proactively identify and address inequities in compensation.
(00:42:12) Radical Candor Tips
Practical tips for creating transparent compensation systems.
(00:43:33) Conclusion

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Promotions Gone Wrong? Why False Promises Wreck Trust at Work 6 | 46 Nov 27, 2024

Missed promotions, broken promises, and the fallout that follows.

Promotions gone wrong? Yeah, it’s a thing. On this episode, Kim and former Twitter CEO Dick Costolo tackle a listener’s tale of missed opportunities, broken promises, and a management team that just can’t get it together. From the cringe-worthy red flags to the frustrating aftermath, they explore how leadership missteps can wreak havoc on trust and motivation. Tune in for sharp insights, practical advice, and a whole lot of “what NOT to do” when navigating messy workplace dynamics. If you’ve ever felt stuck in a system that doesn’t seem to work, this episode will help you find your way forward. Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

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Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction
Kim Scott introduces Dick Costolo, former Twitter CEO and stand-up comedian.
(00:01:45) The Promotion Predicament
A listener's dilemma about missing out on a promotion.
(00:05:00) Missteps by the First Manager
The mistakes of the listener's first manager, focusing on false promises.
(00:08:20) The Boss’s Boss Blunders
The dismissive and damaging responses from the listener's boss’s boss.
(00:09:36) Advice for Employees
Strategies for employees to clarify expectations with management.
(00:12:29) Addressing Subjectivity in Promotions
The challenge of fairness and transparency in dynamic organizations.
(00:14:54) Navigating Difficult Conversations
The value of candid, constructive dialogue over avoidance in leadership.
(00:18:20) A Call for Transparent Processes
How structured processes can prevent workplace dissatisfaction.
(00:20:30) Conclusion

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Oversharing at Work: When TMI Tanks Trust 6 | 45 Nov 20, 2024

The fine line between transparency and TMI.

Let’s get into it: oversharing at work — we’ve all done it, and we’ve all cringed after. But here’s the tea: when we spill sensitive info without thinking, we’re not just breaking trust, we’re tanking our ability to Care Personally and Challenge Directly. In this episode, Kim, Jason, and Amy dig into a listener's story about sharing too much too soon and just how quickly oversharing can derail trust and create chaos. They unpack why these missteps happen, how different company cultures play into it, and what it really takes to find that sweet spot between transparency and discretion. If you’ve ever found yourself in the awkward aftermath of an overshare, this one’s for you. Let’s learn how to slow down, think it through, and keep our Radical Candor intact! Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

Episode Links:

Use the GSD Wheel So No One Feels Sad, Bad or Left Out 4 | 2

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Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction
Amy, Kim and Jason introduce the episode around a listener’s question on oversharing at work.
(00:01:26) Listener's Question on Oversharing
A listener seeks advice on managing sensitive information more effectively.
(00:03:58) Communication and Cultural Assumptions
How organizational secrecy and biases affect information sharing.
(00:06:30) Pause and Reflect
The importance of pausing before sharing any potentially sensitive information.
(00:08:42) Organizational Communication Structure
Insights into structured vs. open communication styles and their impact.
(00:12:09) Developing Effective Information Channels
Strategies for ensuring efficient communication and reducing redundancy.
(00:17:12) Soliciting Feedback and Building Trust
Soliciting feedback from team leads after communication missteps.
(00:22:16) Framework for Information Sensitivity
The “Category” framework to clarify communication roles and boundaries.
(00:24:56) Initiative and Respecting Boundaries
The balance of taking initiative versus respecting organizational boundaries.
(00:28:55) Communication and Problem Preference
Being clear on workplace communication styles to tackle preferred challenges.
(00:33:43) Personalizing Communication Styles
Insights on managing communication impulsivity and biases.
(00:38:47) Radical Candor Tips
Checklist for managing sensitive information and improving communication.
(00:41:05) Conclusion

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Lessons from a Whistleblower: The Cost of Staying Silent with Susan Fowler Rigetti 6 | 44 Nov 13, 2024

Susan Rigetti on speaking up, keeping receipts, and why silence is never the answer.

We’re shaking up the workplace and diving deep into the raw reality of whistleblowing and the courage it takes to speak up with this special episode from the Radical Respect podcast. Kim, Wesley, and special guest Susan Rigetti, author of Whistleblower, break down the challenges of calling out toxic systems while being real with yourself. When harmful practices go unchecked, they don’t just derail careers—they damage the core of psychological safety that we all need to do our best work. So how do you find the strength to raise your voice when the stakes feel impossibly high? Susan shares her own powerful story of calling out the broken culture at Uber, laying out what happens when you decide you’ve had enough and choose to act. If you’ve ever struggled to raise your voice in the face of workplace dysfunction, learn why silence is never the answer and how respect and courage can transform even the most challenging environments. Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

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Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction
Amy introduces the Radical Respect podcast with Kim, Wesley and guest Susan Rigetti, author of Whistleblower.
(00:03:24) Whistleblower and Lessons from Uber
Susan discusses her book, Whistleblower, and her challenges at Uber.
(00:07:13) Advice to Younger Self
The hard lesson of recognizing when a system can’t be fixed from the inside.
(00:10:33) The Cost of Staying Silent
The psychological and financial struggles many face when they stay silent.
(00:14:25) Staying True to Your Values
How keeping a list of values helped navigate a toxic work culture.
(00:16:20) Writing Whistleblower
Addressing misconceptions and setting the record straight with Whistleblower.
(00:21:18) Understanding Systemic Barriers
The systemic barriers that individuals face in the workplace.
(00:23:55) Reporting to HR
Documenting and reporting issues to hold organizations accountable.
(00:26:20) Keeping the Receipts
Advice on documenting conversations and emails to protect oneself.
(00:29:07) Conclusion

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Talking to Flat Earthers: Managing Post-Election Tension at Work With Denise Hamilton 6 | 43 Nov 06, 2024

Brace yourself—this episode is all about navigating workplace tension with Radical Candor. Kim and Amy team up with Denise Hamilton, author of Indivisible: How to Forge Our Differences Into a Stronger Future, to tackle the complicated landscape of workplace polarization and the radical power of respect. Denise, known for her "irrational optimism," sheds light on how we can bridge deep divides, even when it feels impossible and that respect isn’t something earned through understanding—it’s the baseline that makes understanding possible. They explore why caring personally means building trust, even when opinions clash, and how we can create workplaces that honor both individual voices and collective purpose. With Denise’s wisdom and Kim’s Radical Candor principles, this episode digs into the tough conversations leaders often avoid but desperately need. If you’ve ever felt the strain of differing views at work, this conversation is for you—because staying connected is the only way forward. Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

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Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction
Kim and Amy introduce Denise Hamilton, author of Indivisible.
(00:03:32) Discussing Politics at Work
Insights into the discomfort around political conversations in professional settings.
(00:05:01) Contradictory Messages
The conflicting messages people face around authenticity at work.
(00:07:22) Building a Respectful Work Culture
How workplace culture influences political discussions.
(00:10:59) Personal and Workplace Boundaries
Balancing personal beliefs and professionalism at work.
(00:12:59) The Role of Respect in Understanding
Respect as the foundation for understanding others.
(00:16:42) Holding Space for Emotions Post-Election
The importance of allowing emotional expression at work after tense events.
(00:21:36) Leaders Counteracting Negativity
The role leaders play in intentionally fostering positivity.
(00:24:03) Common Ground in Heated Times
Finding common ground with people who hold different views.
(00:27:05) Approaching Sensitive Topics Mindfully
Denise shares her “four-question rubric” for starting difficult conversations.
(00:31:52) Navigating Information Curation
The pitfalls of curated news and incomplete information.
(00:35:43) Misinformation and a Leader’s Responsibility
How leaders should address misinformation in their organizations.
(00:39:23) Owning vs. Renting: Social Responsibility
Adopting a long-term, invested mindset for societal change.
(00:44:06) The Vision for a Relationship-Centered Future
Hope for a future rooted in personal connections and humanity.
(00:46:05) Conclusion

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How to Navigate a Nepo Baby Bully at Work 6 | 42 Oct 30, 2024

Handling workplace bullying when family dynamics are involved.

We need to talk about nepotism and workplace bullying, because WHEW, does it ever mess with our ability to Care Personally and Challenge Directly! Here's the real deal — when family ties eclipse talent, we're not just hurting individual careers. We're poisoning the well of psychological safety that teams need to thrive. How can you tell someone to "bring their whole self to work" when the rules aren't the same for everyone? KIm, Amy, and Jason explain why avoiding these conversations doesn't help anyone. Whether you're dealing with the CEO's daughter who's actually crushing it, or the founder's cousin who's... not so much, you've got to stay rooted in those two key principles: Care Personally AND Challenge Directly. Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

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Chapters:
(00:00:00) Introduction
Kim, Jason, and Amy introduce the episode’s topic on a listener’s question about workplace nepotism.
(00:02:52) Listener Question: Nepotistic Bully
A listener’s challenging situation involving a CEO's son who is bullying employees.
(00:03:48) Strategies for Workplace Bullying
Documenting incidents and preparing for a conversation with higher-ups.
(00:11:43) Building Solidarity and Seeking Support
Strategies for finding allies to support you and sharing experiences with others.
(00:15:44) Challenges of Confronting Nepotism
The difficulty of escalating issues involving family ties at work.
(00:19:25) Exit Strategies and Self-Protection
Knowing your exit options and protecting your well-being.
(00:31:17) Direct Conversations and Escalation
Preparing for a direct conversation with the bully and their higher-ups.
(00:38:52) The Role and Limitations of HR
When HR should be involved in addressing workplace bullying.
(00:49:06) Seeking External Legal Support
Guidance on consulting a lawyer for severe or unresolved bullying cases.
(00:52:43) Radical Candor Tips
Tips for handling bullying, documenting, building solidarity, and escalating issues.
(00:54:44) Conclusion

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Say What? How to Measure Feedback Responses 6 | 41 Oct 23, 2024

With feedback, how do you measure what matters?

Kim, Jason, and Amy dive into the art of measuring feedback, emphasizing that it's not just about what you say, but how it's heard. It's crucial to pay attention to how your feedback lands and be ready to adjust your approach, especially when you notice defensiveness or indifference. Tune in to explore practical strategies for handling emotional reactions while keeping your communication clear and compassionate. Learn how to stay present in tough conversations and create a space where open dialogue leads to growth and stronger relationships, both at work and in life. We'll also cover how to effectively solicit feedback and navigate defensiveness, ensuring that your interactions are not only productive but also supportive and understanding. Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

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Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction
Kim, Jason, and Amy introduce the episode’s focus on feedback gauging and emotional awareness.
(00:01:25) Gauging Feedback
The importance of understanding how feedback is received.
(00:05:30) Reactions to Feedback
The different reactions people may have to feedback and how to adapt.
(00:09:14) Staying Present in Emotional Conversations
Strategies for staying present when emotions rise during difficult conversations.
(00:15:59) Brushing Off Feedback
Situations where people brush off feedback and how to address it.
(00:26:21) Tailoring Feedback
How people with different sensitivities and personalities respond to feedback.
(00:34:47) Pushing Further on Challenge Directly
Gauging whether you should increase directness in feedback or focus on empathy.
(00:43:09) Role-Play: Defensive Feedback
A scenario to illustrate how to handle a defensive response in real time.
(00:50:59) Role-Play: Emotional Feedback
A scenario to illustrate how to handle an emotional response in real time.
(01:00:08) Radical Candor Tips
From checking in on feedback delivery to fostering a supportive environment.
(01:03:36) Conclusion

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Navigating Disagreements: How to Challenge Feedback Effectively 6 | 40 Oct 16, 2024

Effectively manage feedback you disagree with.

On this episode of the Radical Candor podcast, we tackle a challenge that's at the heart of Radical Candor: what to do when you receive feedback you don't agree with. It's a question we get all the time, and it's crucial because how we handle these moments can make or break our relationships at work. The team gets into the get into the nitty-gritty of how to respond to tough feedback and suggests specific phrases you can use to show you're listening, even if you're not fully on board. Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

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Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction
Jason and Amy introduce the live streaming episode about disagreeing with feedback.
(00:02:23) Listener Question: Disagreeing with Feedback
A listener's question about how to handle feedback they disagree with.
(00:03:42) The Pocket Veto: The Dangers of Silent Disagreement
The concept of a "pocket veto" and why it's harmful to silently disagree with feedback.
(00:05:27) Strategies to Handle Disagreement
Tips on how to approach feedback in the moment.
(00:11:02) How to Create Space for Disagreement
Inviting challenges during feedback conversations to foster honest communication.
(00:16:19) The “Listen, Challenge, Commit” Framework
The “Listen, Challenge, Commit” approach, which helps to handle feedback.
(00:19:10) Personal Experiences with Feedback
A personal story about learning to approach feedback with curiosity and humility.
(00:27:51) Following Up After Formal Feedback
How to approach follow-up conversations after receiving formal feedback.
(00:34:58) Psychological Safety and Radical Candor
A listener question on the link between psychological safety and Radical Candor.
(00:41:11) Creating a Culture of Learning with Radical Candor
Examples of workplace rituals that reinforce Radical Candor and continuous learning.
(00:45:29) Metaphors for Radical Candor
Using metaphors to understand Radical Candor in communication.
(00:49:17) The Radical Candor Quadrants
Whether people tend to fall more frequently into one of the Radical Candor quadrants.
(00:54:09) Radical Candor Tip
Tips on practicing Radical Candor, emphasizing listening, identifying, and committing to feedback.
(00:57:17) Conclusion

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Building Pockets of Excellence: Introducing Radical Candor to Your Team 6 | 39 Oct 09, 2024

In this episode of the Radical Candor Podcast, Jason and Amy discuss how to introduce radical candor to teams effectively. They emphasize the importance of starting small, creating pockets of excellence, and the role of accountability and praise in fostering a feedback culture. The conversation also covers effective communication strategies for implementing change, real-world examples of cultural shifts, and practical tips for individuals and teams looking to embrace radical candor. The episode concludes with an invitation to join the Radical Candor community for ongoing support and resources. Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

Episode Links:

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Chapters:
(00:00:00) Introduction
Jason and Amy introduce the topic of bringing Radical Candor into the workplace.
(00:00:27) Starting with Small Changes
Why starting with small steps is key to building a culture of Radical Candor.
(00:02:57) Pockets of Excellence
The concept of pockets of excellence and why they are crucial for cultural change.
(00:05:30) Highlighting Small Successes
The importance of highlighting successes rather than focusing on failures to drive cultural shifts.
(00:08:30) Avoiding Overwhelming Change
Effective communication about small wins to shift organizational perceptions and build optimism.
(00:10:49) Small Change Success Story
A story on how small experiments can create big organizational change.
(00:15:38) Making Feedback Visible and Accessible
Simple tools to share user feedback that can have a powerful impact on organizational culture.
(00:19:37) Effective Communication for Cultural Change
Communicating the rationale behind introducing Radical Candor to a broader team.
(00:24:07) Handling Executive Skepticism
Addressing skepticism from executives and making the case for Radical Candor.
(00:27:03) Building Momentum After Initial Success
Expanding Radical Candor across more teams after initial success.
(00:30:16) Individuals Practicing Radical Candor
Advice for individuals looking to start small and integrate Radical Candor into their work.
(00:33:09) Radical Candor Tips
Tips for developing a more radically candid culture individually and in organizations.
(00:34:56) Conclusion

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The Role of Vulnerability in Leadership with Jacob Morgan 6 | 38 Oct 02, 2024

Kim and Jacob Morgan, author of Leading with Vulnerability, discuss the power of vulnerability in leadership and its role in building trust and driving performance. They explore the common misconceptions about vulnerability, the balance between competence and connection, and how to navigate the fine line between strength and openness. Jacob shares stories of successful and failed leadership, emphasizing the importance of choosing the right moments to be vulnerable. The conversation also touches on how to foster psychological safety, deal with workplace bullies, and follow with vulnerability in challenging environments. Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

Episode Links:

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YouTube

Chapters:
(00:00:00) Introduction
Amy and Kim introduce guest Jacob Morgan, author of Leading with Vulnerability.
(00:00:38) Defining Vulnerability in Leadership
The concept of vulnerability in leadership and how it can be misinterpreted.
(00:03:45) Denial in Leadership
How denial impacts leadership and the challenges leaders face when addressing mistakes.
(00:06:48) Exploiting Vulnerability
An example of a leader who used an exployee’s vulnerability against them.
(00:10:41) Self-Compassion in Leadership
The need for self-compassion, particularly when vulnerability is exploited.
(00:12:46) Vulnerability in Uncertain Situations
A step-by-step approach to assessing when and how to display vulnerability at work.
(00:18:36) Knowing Who to Trust
How leaders and employees can discern when it’s appropriate to be vulnerable.
(00:21:11) Effective Leadership in Times of Crisis
A success story about Fleetwood Grobler’s leadership during a financial crisis at Sasol.
(00:25:28) Dealing with Workplace Bullies
The complexities of vulnerability when facing workplace bullying.
(00:33:03) Following with Vulnerability
Tips on how to assertively respond to challenging leaders while maintaining professionalism.
(00:37:18) Fundamental Attribution Error
The importance of not jumping to conclusions about people's intentions.
(00:43:22) Creating Psychological Safety
The balance between accountability and psychological safety.
(00:45:37) Conclusion

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Why Your Meetings Suck (And How to Fix Them): Insights from Dr. Steven Rogelberg 6 | 37 Sep 25, 2024

Explore the surprising science of meetings and how to make them suck less with Dr. Steven G. Rogelberg, a renowned organizational psychologist and author of The Surprising Science of Meetings, Glad We Met: The Art & Science of 1:1 Meetings, and more. Dr. Rogelberg discusses with Kim and Amy why meetings often feel unproductive and costly, covering common pitfalls and offering actionable strategies to enhance their effectiveness. The conversation spotlights the power of one-on-one meetings, emphasizing their unique role in fostering meaningful connections between managers and employees. Dr. Rogelberg shares insights on how to structure these meetings to maximize engagement, support, and productivity, making them a crucial tool for leadership and team success. Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.
Episode Links:

Connect:

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Chapters:
(00:00:00) Introduction
Kim and Amy introduce guest Dr. Steven Rogelberg, organizational psychologist and an expert on meetings.
(00:04:18) The Impact of Meetings
The surprising volume of meetings globally and the underestimated economic impact.
(00:07:03) Misconceptions and Optimizing Meeting Strategies
Misconceptions about meetings and advice on improving their effectiveness.
(00:10:36) Are Your Meeting Questions Valuable?
How to ensure that the meeting agenda questions are valuable.
(00:11:39) Using Radical Candor in Meetings
The idea of a Radical Candor framework with signals during meetings.
(00:13:32) Should Feedback Be Part of the Meeting?
Whether feedback should be solicited at the end of meetings.
(00:16:05) Speaking Up in Meetings
Advice on encouraging team members to speak up in meetings.
(00:20:03) The Importance of 1:1 Meetings
Research that highlights the desire for more 1:1 meetings.
(00:23:21) Relationship Building in 1:1s
The importance of building genuine relationships through consistent 1:1 meetings.
(00:28:42) How to Start 1:1 Meetings
Tips on starting 1:1 meetings, their appropriate cadence and setting the right tone.
(00:31:24) Locations and Structure for 1:1 Meetings
The best locations for 1:1 meetings and structuring the agenda for them.
(00:41:16) Preparing for Meetings with Your Manager
How employees should prepare for meetings with their managers.
(00:46:19) Conclusion

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How Ruinous Empathy Ruins Praise 6 | 36 Sep 18, 2024

Praise can be powerful, but when it’s vague, generic, or something you can say to a dog like "good job," it can backfire and do more harm than good. Kim, Jason, and Amy explore the nuances of Ruinous Empathy and praise, sharing real-life examples, like the infamous FEMA response during Hurricane Katrina, to illustrate the pitfalls of Ruinously Empathetic feedback. They discuss the importance of making praise specific and sincere so people know what was good and why, allowing them to repeat their success. Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

Episode Links:

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Chapters:
(00:00:00) Introduction
Kim, Jason, and Amy introduce the episode's focus on how praise can become ruinously empathetic.
(00:00:53) What Is Ruinous Empathy in Praise?
How praise can be ineffective when it's vague, insincere, or lacks specific feedback.
(00:02:19) Defining Praise vs. Criticism
What constitutes praise, how it differs from criticism and the dangers of insincere praise
(00:06:06) Effective Public Support and Praise
Guidance for leaders on how to support team members publicly after a mistake.
(00:11:51) Consequences of Praising Failure
Why offering praise after failure can be misleading and harmful.
(00:17:04) The Role of Specificity in Praise
The importance of specificity in making praise feel sincere and useful.
(00:22:11) Ruinous Empathy and Manipulative Insincerity
The nuances between ruinously empathetic praise and manipulatively insincere praise.
(00:33:07) Insincere Praise
Avoiding the common pitfalls of insincere praise in leadership and team management.
(00:36:53) Offering Effective Praise
Practical tips on how to offer specific and sincere praise that drives improvement.
(00:40:56) Radical Candor Tips
Tips for applying Radical Candor to praise, ensuring feedback is specific, sincere, and purposeful.
(00:42:18) Conclusion

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Inclusion in Meetings: Kieran Snyder On In-Person vs. Remote Dynamics 6 | 35 Sep 11, 2024

Kieran Snyder, founder of nerd processor and co-founder of Textio, joins the Radical Candor podcast to explore inclusivity in meetings, revealing data-driven insights from her research on in-person versus remote settings. Kieran discusses the dynamics of interruptions, idea credit-taking, and the impact of power and gender on participation. With over 1,100 hours of meeting data analyzed, she sheds light on the complexities of remote work, the significance of structured agendas, and the importance of leadership in fostering inclusive environments. The episode offers practical tips for leaders to enhance meeting engagement and navigate the evolving landscape of workplace communication. Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

Episode Links:

Connect:

YouTube

Chapters:
(00:00:00) Introduction
Amy and Kim introduce Kieran Snyder, founder of Nerd Processor, to discuss inclusivity in meetings.
(00:02:36) The Abrasive Trap
The abrasiveness trap and how high-performing women are more often criticized.
(00:07:27) Power Dynamics in Meetings
How power dynamics influence interruptions in meetings.
(00:14:27) In-Person vs. Remote Meetings: Research
Kieran’s study comparing remote and in-person meetings to measure inclusivity.
(00:18:02) Meeting Participation Rates
The changes in participation rates as meeting size increases.
(00:20:27) Gender Differences in Meeting Participation
The impact remote meetings have on women's participation rates.
(00:27:42) Idea Annexation vs. Spotlighting
The concept of idea annexation and the importance of idea spotlighting.
(00:32:22) Dynamics of “I Told You So”
Usage of “I told you so” in meetings and the demographic variations.
(00:36:52) Practical Tips for Inclusive Meetings
Tips on fostering inclusive meeting environments.
(00:43:14) Balancing Remote Work and Inclusivity
The trade-offs between diversity and ensuring inclusivity in meetings.
(00:47:53) Leadership in Meeting Inclusivity
The importance of leadership in setting inclusive meeting norms.
(00:51:10) How to Connect
Information on how to connect with Kieran Snyder.
(00:52:38) Conclusion

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Political Discussions at Work: Productive or Problematic? 6 | 34 Sep 04, 2024

How do you handle political conversations at work without crossing boundaries or alienating colleagues? The team dives into the complex and often uncomfortable topic of discussing politics at work, exploring the impact of these conversations on workplace dynamics, productivity, and personal relationships. Kim, Jason, and Amy share insights on navigating political discussions with respect, setting boundaries, and maintaining open dialogue without imposing beliefs on others. Drawing on personal anecdotes and thought-provoking statistics, the conversation provides practical tips for managers and employees alike on fostering an inclusive environment where diverse viewpoints can coexist without derailing professional harmony. Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

Episode Links:

Connect:

YouTube

Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction
Kim, Jason, and Amy introduce the episode’s focus on the impact of political discussions in the workplace.
(00:02:55) The Value of Being Challenged
The importance of being open to challenges to avoid turning beliefs into prejudices.
(00:07:00) Banning Political Speech: Is It Helpful?
The consequences of banning or discouraging political discussions at work.
(00:11:22) Managing Expression in the Workplace
The boundaries of expressing political beliefs without personalizing or offending.
(00:16:31) Building Bridges Over Boundaries
Building bridges between differing viewpoints, using curiosity and respect.
(00:21:49) The Challenge of Constant Election Cycles
How perpetual election cycles can deepen divisions and polarize discussions.
(00:23:20) Working Through Political Differences
Managing team members with conflicting political views and policies.
(00:27:09) The Dangers of Silence Around Sensitive Topics
Why avoiding discussions on polarizing subjects can lead to more significant conflicts.
(00:33:24) Setting Clear Boundaries on Political Expression
Whether companies should set proactive policies on political expression.
(00:36:13) Balancing Productivity and Political Discussions
Ways to address the potential productivity dip during heated political periods.
(00:39:51) When Humor Crosses the Line
A time when sharing a politically charged joke at work made a team member feel excluded.
(00:45:18) Radical Candor Tips
Practical tips for fostering respectful discourse and maintaining professional boundaries.
(00:48:18) Conclusion

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When Feedback Fails: Repairing Relationships After Feedback is Ignored 6 | 33 Aug 28, 2024

Feedback can be tough to give and at times even harder to receive. But what about when it’s ignored? Jason and Amy tackle a listener's challenging workplace scenario involving ignored feedback, toxic dynamics, and a strained relationship with their boss. Through role play, practical advice, and Radical Candor tips, they explore how to rebuild trust, address emotional wounds, and navigate difficult conversations when feedback isn't properly received. Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

Episode Links:

Connect:

YouTube

Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction
Jason and Amy introduce the episode and outline the listener's challenging feedback scenario.
(00:00:49) Listener's Story: Feedback Ignored
A listener's story about workplace toxicity and a strained relationship with their boss.
(00:02:26) Insights on Conflicting Perceptions
Thoughts on the listener's situation, drawing parallels with similar experiences.
(00:07:57) Role Play: The Listener and the Neglectful Boss
A role-play of the scenario, with Amy as the listener and Jason as the unresponsive boss.
(00:12:04) Analysis of the Role Play
Reflecting on the role play, discussing the emotional challenges and complexities of the situation.
(00:15:00) Strategies for Rebuilding the Relationship
Practical steps for the listener to rebuild trust and communication with their boss.
(00:17:31) The Value of Regular Check-Ins
The importance of scheduling regular one-on-ones to maintain alignment and trust.
(00:21:17) Managing Expectations: When to Ask for an Apology
The need for apologies versus focusing on practical solutions to improve the work relationship.
(00:23:19) Radical Candor Tips
Actionable tips on managing feedback, emotions, and when to consider leaving a job.
(00:25:56) Conclusion

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Creating a Community 6 | 32 Aug 21, 2024

Jason and Amy discuss the creation of Radical Candor's new online community designed to help people leaders stress less, build stronger relationships, and connect with peers and pros. Jason emphasizes the importance of community-based learning and he and Amy reflect on the challenges and rewards of building a space for continuous learning and personal growth. Join them as they discuss how aspiring and experienced managers alike can benefit from this exciting new venture. Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

Links:

YouTube

Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction
Jason and Amy introduce the episode, outlining a Radical Candor community Jason’s been working on.
(00:00:26) The Concept of Radical Candor Community
An overview of an upcoming Radical Candor online community.
(00:04:25) Project Management and Setting Goals
How the project started from two primary goals leading to the development of the community.
(00:06:13) Early Experiments and Surveys
The experiments and surveys conducted to gather data and test different ideas for the community.
(00:11:11) Key Learnings from the Experiments
How the idea of a community emerged as the most impactful way to teach Radical Candor.
(00:16:11) Community Tools and Platform
Choosing a platform for the community and the research process in selecting the right tools for the project.
(00:22:08) Tackling Unfamiliar Territory
Balancing familiar tasks with the challenge of learning new skills for community building.
(00:24:43) Collaboration and Team Communication
The importance of team collaboration and communication for the project.
(00:27:40) Soft Launch and Future Plans
The community’s soft launch and how listeners can get involved.
(00:31:05) Building Vulnerability in Community
The implicit need for vulnerability in an online community and the importance of creating a safe space.
(00:35:37) Radical Candor Tips
Tips for starting and managing new projects with an emphasis on experimentation and collaboration.
(00:38:37) Conclusion

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Remarkably Candid: Insights from Guy Kawasaki 6 | 31 Aug 14, 2024

Amy and Kim sit down with the remarkable Guy Kawasaki, Chief Evangelist at Canva and host of the Remarkable People podcast. The conversation delves into Guy's storied career, his insights on leadership, and his newest book, Think Remarkable: 9 Paths to Transform Your Life and Make a Difference. They explore the concept of being remarkable, the importance of saying yes, and the value of grit, growth, and grace in both personal and professional life. With humor and candor, Guy shares anecdotes from his journey, offering listeners valuable lessons on how to make a difference and lead a meaningful life. Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

Episode Links:

Connect:

YouTube

Chapters:
(00:00:00) Introduction
Kim and Amy introduce guest Guy Kawasaki, chief evangelist, author and host of the Remarkable People podcast.
(00:03:31) The Power of Saying Yes
Guy discusses his "default to yes" philosophy and its impact on his career.
(00:07:29) Defining Remarkable
Exploring what it means to be remarkable and how everyone can make a difference.
(00:12:29) Jane Goodall on Remarkable People
The serendipitous chain of events that led to Jane Goodall being the first podcast guest.
(00:16:42) The Importance of Environment in Growth
How the right environment is crucial for fostering a growth mindset.
(00:22:02) The Difference Between Passion and Interest
Challenging the definition of passion, and the idea that interests can evolve into passions.
(00:25:23) Get Interested in Your People
A personal story that illustrates the importance of sharing interests with others.
(00:31:40) Dealing with Stereotypes
Personal experience with racial stereotyping and advice on handling it with humor and grace.
(00:40:14) Connecting with People of Opposing Viewpoints
The approach of asking “how” instead of “why” to foster understanding in difficult conversations.
(00:44:48) Be Curious, Solve Problems, Do Good
Stacey Abrams' mantra and how it aligns with the themes in Guy’s book.
(00:47:34) Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
Advice on recognizing and overcoming imposter syndrome.
(00:57:02) The Art of Making Decisions Right
Focus on making decisions right, not just making the right decision.
(01:01:26) Lessons in Motivation
A story about mistaken identity and the unexpected sources of motivation.
(01:07:44) Conclusion

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Workplace Harassment: Tackling Toxicity at Work 6 | 30 Aug 07, 2024

Kim and Jason tackle a challenging listener question about dealing with severe workplace harassment. They explore the importance of managerial action, share insights on effective documentation, and provide practical advice for identifying supportive work environments during job searches. Personal anecdotes highlight the nuances between bias and bullying, and the hosts emphasize the critical need for creating and enforcing consequences for toxic behavior. Tune in to this episode of Radical Candor for actionable tips on fostering a respectful and safe workplace. Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

Episode Links:

Connect:

YouTube

Chapters:

Chapters:
(00:00:00) Introduction
Kim and Jason introduce the episode, featuring a listener's story of workplace harassment.
(00:02:30) Initial Reactions and Harassee’s Efforts
The severity of the harassment and acknowledgment of the proactive steps already taken.
(00:04:46) Analysis of Harassment
An outline of the harassing behavior and the question of why it was allowed to continue.
(00:07:02) The Role of Management
The importance of defining and creating consequences for bullying and harassment.
(00:09:45) The Impact of Workplace Bullying
The broader impact of unchecked bullying on team dynamics and company culture.
(00:15:48) Recognizing and Avoiding Toxic Workplaces
Tips on identifying supportive workplaces during job interviews.
(00:17:23) The Importance of a Code of Conduct
The value of a clear Code of Conduct in preventing and addressing workplace harassment.
(00:18:21) Past Experiences with Bullying
Personal anecdotes and differentiating between bias and bullying behavior.
(00:21:33) Radical Candor Checklist
Actionable tips for both employees and managers to handle and prevent workplace bullying.
(00:23:22) Conclusion

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Building Better Relationships: The FAQ Finale 6 | 29 Jul 31, 2024

In the finale of the Radical Candor FAQs series, together Kim, Jason, and Amy answer a new round of most frequently asked questions about Radical Candor. They explore how Radical Candor operates across different cultures and discuss strategies for managing defensiveness in feedback. Through personal anecdotes and practical advice, they illustrate how to apply Radical Candor both at work and at home. The episode also delves into the importance of building authentic relationships, increasing employee retention, and enhancing team productivity through clear and compassionate communication. Concluding with the handy Radical Candor checklist, this episode is packed with insights to help listeners become better leaders and communicators. Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

Episode Links:

Connect:

Chapters:
(00:00:00) Introduction
Kim, Jason and Amy introduce the episode's topic of Radical Candor FAQs.
(00:00:24) Radical Candor in Different Cultures
How Radical Candor varies across cultures and the importance of adjusting communication styles.
(00:07:22) Defensive Reactions to Feedback
Advice for dealing with defensive reactions when giving feedback.
(00:09:16) Three Stories of Defensive Reactions
Three personal stories illustrating different approaches to handling defensive reactions to feedback.
(00:13:32) Managing Emotions and Defensiveness
Managing one's own emotions and defensiveness when providing feedback.
(00:20:13) Addressing Power Dynamics
Power dynamics when dealing with physically or hierarchically intimidating individuals.
(00:29:20) Radical Candor at Home
Applying Radical Candor in personal relationships and its benefits at home
(00:36:34) Radical Candor as a Communication Model
Radical Candor being not just a feedback model but a comprehensive communication model.
(00:38:25) Building Collaborative Relationships
How Radical Candor fosters collaboration, improves relationships, and increases employee productivity.
(00:44:21) Radical Candor Tips
Summary of key tips from the episode for practicing Radical Candor.
(00:45:43) Conclusion

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Feedback In Multigenerational Workplaces & More FAQs 6 | 28 Jul 24, 2024

Jason shares his perspective on defining Radical Candor, addressing its misuse, and handling feedback in various work environments, including remote, hybrid, and multi-generational workplaces. The conversation covers effective communication strategies, building relationships, and maintaining accountability. Jason also discusses navigating toxic work environments and offers rapid-fire answers to common questions. Tune in for a thoughtful exploration of how to apply Radical Candor in different contexts to foster better relationships and clearer communication. Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

Episode Links:

Connect:

YouTube

Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction
Jason and Amy introduce the episode, in which Jason answers the same FAQs posed to Kim in the previous episode.
(00:01:08) Defining Radical Candor
Jason’s definition of Radical Candor and how it can differ based on personal interpretation.
(00:02:18) Misuse of Radical Candor
What to do when someone uses Radical Candor as an excuse to act like a jerk.
(00:06:53) Challenges in Remote and Hybrid Environments
The application of Radical Candor in remote and hybrid work settings.
(00:12:43) Building Relationships
Tips for building relationships, such as having regular one-on-one conversations outside of the usual work context.
(00:15:59) Multi-Generational Workplace Dynamics
Challenges and solutions for practicing Radical Candor in a multi-generational workplace.
(00:23:03) Accountability and Generational Differences
Clarifying expectations and appreciating different perspectives on work value.
(00:26:38) Being Radically Candid with Your Boss
Strategies for practicing Radical Candor with one's supervisor.
(00:29:51) Dealing with Toxic Work Cultures
Navigating and transforming toxic workplace environments using the principles of Radical Candor.
(00:36:03) Radical Candor Tips
A quick recap of key points from the episode in a lightning speed round.
(00:38:32) Conclusion

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Radical Candor is Not an Excuse to Act Like a Jerk 6 | 27 Jul 17, 2024

Kim and Amy answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Radical Candor in a fun and engaging quiz show format. They cover key topics such as handling people who misuse Radical Candor as an excuse to act like a jerk, the challenges and benefits of practicing Radical Candor in remote and hybrid work environments, and navigating generational differences in the workplace. They also provide actionable advice on being radically candid with your boss and dealing with toxic work cultures. Listen in for insightful discussions, practical advice, and a touch of humor as Kim and Amy share their experiences and answer your radically candid questions. Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

Connect:

YouTube

Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction
Kim and Amy introduce the episode, a Q&A style discussion to address frequently asked questions about Radical Candor.
(00:02:39) Misuse of Radical Candor
Handling situations where Radical Candor is used as an excuse for aggressive behavior.
(00:07:04) Impact of Intent and Observations
Distinguishing between good intentions and bad behavior and how to address observed impacts.
(00:10:47) Radical Candor in Remote Settings
The challenges and adaptations necessary for implementing Radical Candor in remote or hybrid work environments.
(00:15:21) Intentionality in Communication
The importance of intentional check-ins and maintaining open communication channels in virtual settings.
(00:20:51) Radical Candor Across Generations
Applying Radical Candor in multi-generational workplaces, focusing on mutual respect and understanding.
(00:25:36) Candid Conversations with Leadership
Approaching conversations with leaders in a candid manner, especially when resistant to feedback.
(00:32:33) Radical Candor Tips
A quick recap of key points from the episode in a lightning speed round.
(00:33:51) Conclusion

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Radical Candor “Asks” Jeff Wetzler: The Foundational Skill of Asking Questions 6 | 26 Jul 10, 2024

The fundamental skill of asking questions to solicit feedback and create a culture of Radical Candor. Kim sits down with Jeff Wetzler, author of "Ask: Tap Into the Hidden Wisdom of People Around You for Unexpected Breakthroughs in Leadership and Life." Recorded live, the conversation explores the fundamental skill of asking questions to solicit feedback and create a culture of Radical Candor. Jeff shares insights from his book, discussing the importance of tapping into the knowledge and perspectives of those around us. They delve into the five practices of “The Ask Approach" and reflect on audience questions, offering valuable takeaways for leaders and individuals alike. Tune in to learn how to transform your communication and leadership through the power of asking questions. Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

Episode Links:

Transcript
Jeff Wetzler: LinkedIn
Ask | Jeff Wetzler
Radical Candor Coffee Break: Exploring The Ask Approach YouTube

Connect:

YouTube

Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction
Amy introduces a conversation between Kim and Jeff Wetzler, founder of “The Ask Approach” and author of “Ask.”
(00:01:01) Jeff's Book "Ask"
Jeff explains the premise of his book and the importance of tapping into the hidden wisdom of those around us.
(00:02:50) The Desire to Read Minds
The common desire to read minds and how asking questions effectively achieves this.
(00:04:00) Misinterpretations and Feedback
The challenges of interpreting facial expressions and the importance of asking directly.
(00:05:08) Ruinous Empathy
The concept of ruinous empathy and the reasons people withhold valuable feedback.
(00:08:14) The Importance of Commitment Conversations
The need for clear commitment conversations in management and leadership.
(00:11:11) The Certainty Loop
The concept of the certainty loop, and how assumptions shape perceptions and limit curiosity.
(00:13:01) Expanding the Repertoire of Questions
The need for a variety of questions to uncover deeper insights and perspectives.
(00:14:30) Strategies for Quality Questions
Strategies for posing quality questions and highlights the importance of soliciting feedback.
(00:17:28) Inviting Critical Feedback
The importance of explicitly inviting critical feedback and how to respond to it constructively.
(00:19:22) Checking for Understanding
Better ways to check for understanding without sounding patronizing.
(00:23:04) Handling Emotional Responses
The value of curiosity in handling emotional responses and moving towards Radical Candor.
(00:25:32) Listening to Learn
The concept of listening to learn, focusing on content, emotion, and action.
(00:28:04) Choosing Curiosity
Curiosity as a choice and foundational step in the ASK approach, which focuses on learning from others.
(00:29:44) Making It Safe
Strategies to make it safe for others to share their thoughts and the role of psychological safety.
(00:33:40) Pose Quality Questions
Differentiating between clumsy and quality questions, and asking questions that seek to understand others genuinely.
(00:39:04) Listen to Learn
Listening effectively not just for content, but also the emotion and action in the words.
(00:40:37) Reflect and Reconnect
Reflecting on feedback and reconnecting with the person who provided it to ensure clarity and appreciation.
(00:43:32) Conclusion

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Radical Respect: The Jedi Mind Trick 6 | Bonus Jul 03, 2024

This week Radical Candor shares an episode of Radical Respect, where Kim and co-host Wesley Faulkner discuss the dreaded bloviating BSer with guest Tyler Chou, The Creators' Attorney.

Failing to call people on their BS breeds problematic overconfidence that can harm collaboration and team confidence, especially among team members who are systematically disadvantaged. In this episode, Kim and Wesley discuss bloviating BS with Hollywood attorney Tyler Chou, who shared her experience working under a boss with no entertainment experience but strong connections in the industry. Even though she was more knowledgeable, his BS made her feel gaslit and afraid to speak up.

Tyler Chou has been a Hollywood attorney for the last 15 years. Having worked in VP and SVP roles at companies like Disney, Skydance, BuzzFeed and Open Road Films. As well as large law firms. Tyler has been the lead attorney on 16 feature films including Saving Mr. Banks and Cinderella. She has some battle stories to share about how brutal it is to work as an Asian woman in a white, man dominated industry.

Now, Tyler is the Founder & CEO of Tyler Chou Law for Creators and her life’s mission is to protect creators. She’s deeply passionate about helping young creators with millions of subs grow their businesses to 6-7 figures and functions as a fractional COO and GC. She is a thought leader who discusses the intersection of Hollywood and digital media and believes YouTube is the new Hollywood.

A year ago Tyler started her own YouTube channel as a creative challenge and has been blown away by how quickly her channel has grown. Her channel focuses on creators, helping them build out their businesses.

Episode Links:

Transcript
Tyler Chou: The Creators' Attorney | YouTube
The Creator's Attorney | Linktree
Original Episode: Radical Respect S3 | Ep1 - The Jedi Mind Trick Website / YouTube

Connect:

YouTube

Chapters:

Chapters:
(00:00:00) Introduction
Kim and co-host Wesley introduce guest Tyler Chou, The Creators' Attorney.
(00:01:17) Creators' Attorney Explained
Tyler discusses her focus on YouTube creators and the legal challenges they face.
(00:02:10) Media Challenges and Solutions
The legal needs of creators and Tyler's personal journey to YouTube content creation.
(00:05:36) Workplace Dynamics and BS
Examination of 'bloviating BS', its impact on workplace dynamics, and systemic issues.
(00:08:27) Experiences with Bloviating BS
Personal experiences with bloviating BS in professional and personal life, reflecting on the challenges and impacts.
(00:13:51) Hollywood's Broken System
The systemic issues in Hollywood, including nepotism and gaslighting by bosses.
(00:17:35) Speaking Up and Taking Action
The difficulties and importance of speaking up against BS, especially for women and marginalized groups.
(00:24:00) Tyler's Hollywood Experience
Tyler elaborates on her challenging experiences in Hollywood, including job insecurity and gaslighting.
(00:26:36) Transition to the Creator Economy
Transition to the creator economy, the growth of the law firm, and the importance of protecting creators legally.
(00:31:07) Hiring and Work Culture
Tyler talks about her hiring philosophy and ensuring a positive work culture in her law firm.
(00:35:44) Explicit Agreements in the Workplace
The importance of making implicit agreements explicit in professional relationships and contracts.
(00:37:27) Contact Information
How listeners can reach Tyler for legal advice and support in the creator economy.
(00:38:58) Conclusion

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Breaking the 'Word Police' Myth: How Inclusive Language Builds Stronger Teams 6 | 25 Jun 26, 2024

Kim, Jason, and Amy discuss the importance of using inclusive language and the impact of non-inclusive language, often dismissed as being "too sensitive.” They explore the concept of "red words," terms that can shut down communication by triggering negative reactions, and emphasize that good communication is measured by its impact on the listener. They share personal anecdotes illustrating how specific words can cause offense and stress the importance of being mindful of the language used to foster an environment of mutual respect and understanding. The episode also delves into the resistance some people have to changing their language and how acknowledging and adapting to others' sensitivities can significantly improve communication and relationships. Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

Episode Links:

Connect:

YouTube

Chapters:

(00:0:33) The Impact of 'Red Words'
The concept of "red words," phrases that trigger negative reactions and shut down communication.
(00:04:32) The Effect of Words
How certain words can create different responses and understanding these reactions.
(00:07:19) Addressing Non-Inclusive Language in Emails
Non-inclusive language in emails and how it can be handled to avoid excluding team members.
(00:08:59) Handling Public Criticism and Correction
A story about receiving feedback on social media, and the importance of accepting corrections publicly.
(00:11:18) ROI of Inclusive Language
The ROI of changing language to be more inclusive.
(00:14:58) Overcoming Resistance and Acknowledging Bias
Why some people resist changing their language, and acknowledging and addressing biases.
(00:17:46) Current Relevance of Biased Language
Current issues with language in society, emphasizing the need to avoid perpetuating harmful behaviors.
(00:20:47) The Impact of Words on Relationships
The role of words in building respectful environments and how using the right language can enhance relationships.
(00:26:19) Apologizing for Language Mistakes
How to handle mistakes in language use, and the importance of being open to reminders and corrections.
(00:29:38) Issues with Traditional Titles
Why certain terms can be problematic due to their prescriptive and exclusionary nature.
(00:32:01) Radical Candor Tips
Practical tips for implementing Radical Candor, including owning mistakes and responding with curiosity to feedback.
(00:34:57) Conclusion

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Faster, Smarter Communication: Matt Abrahams Gets Radically Candid 6 | 24 Jun 19, 2024

On this episode of the Radical Candor podcast, Kim Scott interviews Matt Abrahams, a Stanford lecturer and author of "Think Faster, Talk Smarter." Matt explains how his book is geared toward everyone, from introverts to extroverts, and provides advice for handling impromptu speaking situations. They also address workplace dilemmas, such as navigating feedback in fast-paced environments and managing team dynamics where quick problem solvers are favored. The episode emphasizes the importance of clear, concise communication and the value of diverse thinking styles in enhancing team performance. Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

Episode Links:

Connect:

YouTube

Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction
Host Amy introduces the episode, a conversation between Kim Scott and Matt Abrahams, an expert in communication and lecturer at Stanford GSB
(00:00:59) Misunderstanding Radical Candor
Clarifying misunderstandings related to the books "Radical Candor" and "Think Faster, Talk Smarter."
(00:02:20) Addressing Workplace Dilemmas
Analysis of a listener-submitted workplace dilemma and strategies foreffective communication in fast-paced work environments.
(00:07:20) Strategies for Introverts in Meetings
Advice for introverts to contribute effectively in meetings, including listening actively and summarizing.
(00:09:48) Handling Spontaneous Speaking Situations
How to handle spontaneous speaking situations and turning challenging questions into opportunities.
(00:15:46) Addressing Unpreparedness and Difficult Questions
Strategies for admitting unpreparedness and effectively managing difficult questions.
(00:18:07) Next Level Feedback
Providing actionable feedback to help individuals develop executive presence.
(00:21:40) Managing Anxiety in Communication
Techniques to manage anxiety and handle situations when one blanks out during communication.
(00:28:30) Silence and Active Listening
Handling situations where the audience or colleagues are not actively listening.
(00:30:55) Addressing Bloviating BSers
How to deal with individuals who dominate conversations.
(00:38:17) Value of Improvisation in Communication
The benefits of improvisation classes for enhancing communication skills.
(00:40:27) Interrupting and Being Interrupted
Balancing the need to interrupt with maintaining respectful communication.
(00:44:31) Supporting Non-Native English Speakers
Advice for non-native English speakers to improve their communication.
(00:48:03) Conclusion

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The CORE of Radical Candor: A Deep Dive into Effective Feedback 6 | 23 Jun 12, 2024

Jason and Amy discuss the nuanced art of feedback using the CORE model—Context, Observation, Result, and nExt stEps, explaining how it can transform feedback into a powerful tool for growth and clarity. Whether it’s navigating simple day-to-day acknowledgments or tackling complex, emotionally charged feedback scenarios, they provide actionable strategies that can be immediately applied at work. This episode delves not only into the mechanics of CORE, but also how to implement it to foster a culture of open, productive dialogue and promote continuous development. Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

Episode Links:

Connect:

YouTube

Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction
Hosts Jason Rosoff and Amy Sandler introduce the episode’s focus on feedback, particularly exploring the CORE model.
(00:01:07) The CORE Model Explained
An outline of the CORE model, emphasizing its importance in structuring feedback and improving communication clarity.
(00:02:16) Preparing for Feedback Conversations
The value of thinking through feedback before conversations using the CORE model, and the need for flexibility in discussions.
(00:04:08) Examples of CORE in Practice - Praise
Examples of using the CORE model for giving praise, including a quarterly budget review meeting scenario.
(00:08:09) Examples of CORE in Practice - Criticism
How to use CORE for criticism, detailing potential challenges and how to stay supportive and collaborative.
(00:13:29) Checking for Alignment and Understanding
Checking for alignment and understanding during feedback conversations, ensuring both parties are on the same page.
(00:17:56) Real-World Example of Miscommunication
A personal experience of miscommunication with a peer manager and how using the CORE model would have improved it.
(00:22:12) Empathy and Collaboration in Feedback
The importance of empathy and understanding the other person's perspective before giving feedback, enhancing collaboration.
(00:25:44) Addressing Complex Feedback Scenarios
Handling complex feedback situations and the need for ongoing conversations and incremental next steps.
(00:29:10) Radical Candor Tips
A checklist of tips to implement Radical Candor, emphasizing the CORE model, checking for alignment, and encouraging collaboration
(00:31:21) Conclusion

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Beyond 'Sorry': How to Apologize and Mean It 6 | 22 Jun 05, 2024

Kim, Jason, and Amy dive into the complexities of apologies, focusing on the difference between genuine regret and false apologies. Through role-play and insightful analysis, they explore common pitfalls such as deflecting blame, making excuses, and failing to acknowledge the impact of one’s actions. They emphasize the importance of sincere apologies and provide actionable tips for making amends and fostering better communication in the workplace. Tune in to learn how to transform “I’m sorry” from hollow words into meaningful actions. Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

Episode Links:

Connect:

YouTube

Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction
Kim, Jason, and Amy introduce the episode on the importance of knowing how to apologize and explore false apologies.
(00:01:21) Role Play: "Sorry, Not Sorry" Sam vs. Patient Pam
A role play exercise to highlight common false apologies.
(00:04:28) Breakdown of False Apologies
The hosts analyze the role play, explaining why statements like "I'm an asshole" and "I was just kidding" are problematic.
(00:11:13) The Power of Humor and Apology
The role of humor in apologies, the impact of power dynamics, and why humor should never "kick down."
(00:13:13) The Narcissist's Prayer
Introduction to the Narcissist's Prayer, a pattern of defensive behavior.
(00:14:52) Structuring a Genuine Apology
Analysis of what constitutes a meaningful and effective apology, and insights on making amends and acknowledging mistakes.
(00:19:39) The Five A's of Apologizing
The five A's of a sincere apology based on Maimonides' principles.
(00:28:38) Apology as an Ongoing Process
The need for ongoing change after an apology and the challenges of altering long-standing habits.
(00:30:16) A Powerful Example of Apology
A poignant example of a sincere apology from a troll to Lindy West, highlighting the components of a good apology.
(00:33:06) Radical Candor Tips
Tips for a thoughtful apology process, emphasizing the importance of sincerity and accountability.
(00:34:54) Conclusion

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Digital Overwhelm: Navigating App Overload at Work 6 | 21 May 29, 2024

Unpack the complexities of digital communication in the workplace with Jason and Amy on this episode of the Radical Candor Podcast. They dissect the overwhelming world of app overload, highlighting how the excessive use of communication tools diminishes productivity and increases stress. Listen as they provide historical insights, discuss the enduring necessity of email, and offer actionable strategies for setting effective communication norms to streamline workflows and enhance team dynamics. Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

Episode Links:

Connect:

YouTube

Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction
Jason Rosoff and Amy Sandler introduce the episode and the topic of app overload at work.
(00:02:16) The History of Email and Communication Tools
The history of email, its evolution since the 1980s, and how it has influenced workplace communication.
(00:05:01) The Shift in Administrative Roles
How the rise of email reduced the need for administrative assistants and changed project and work management practices.
(00:07:21) The Rise of Chat Tools
From early chat tools like Skype and AOL Messenger to modern tools like Slack, and their role in workplace communication.
(00:09:55) Integrating Tools at Radical Candor
How Radical Candor integrates various communication tools and the norms established to manage them effectively.
(0013:12) The Importance of Setting Communication Norms
Establishing clear norms for email and Slack use to ensure effective and less stressful communication.
(00:15:14) Personal Preferences vs. Team Norms
Balancing individual communication preferences with team-wide norms and the importance of having clear guidelines.
(00:18:18) Establishing Clear Guidelines
Advice for teams to establish clear communication guidelines and norms to reduce app overload.
(00:30:21) Managing Notifications
The importance of managing and turning off notifications to maintain focus and productivity during work hours.
(00:35:11) Handling External Communication
Strategies for managing communication with clients and external partners while maintaining internal communication norms.
(00:38:29) Radical Candor Tips
Practical tips to start applying Radical Candor in managing communication tools and reducing app overload.
(00:41:21) Conclusion

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Two Managers, One Team: Making Co-Management Work 6 | 20 May 22, 2024

Kim, Jason, and Amy address a listener's question about the challenges of implementing Radical Candor within a co-managed team. They dive into how differing management styles can impact team dynamics and explore strategies for aligning co-managers to foster a cohesive and productive environment. The discussion includes a role-play session illustrating potential conflicts and resolutions, providing listeners with practical advice on maintaining effective communication and respect between managers with contrasting approaches. Tune in to learn how to navigate the complexities of co-management while upholding the core principles of Radical Candor. Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

Episode Links:

Connect:

YouTube

Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction
Hosts Kim Scott, Amy Sandler and Jason Rosoff outline a listener’s question about implementing Radical Candor in a co-managed team.
(00:02:02) Understanding the Listener's Challenge
The complexities of co-managing a team with different management styles and the potential issues that arise when only one manager practices Radical Candor.
(00:05:40) Co-Management and Radical Candor
The implications of having differing management approaches and the importance of clear reporting lines.
(00:10:18) Role Play - Addressing the Issue
Jason and Kim role-play a conversation between two co-managers to model how to address the issue of differing management styles.
(00:18:47) Debriefing the Role Play
Hosts discuss the role play, highlighting key moments and strategies for effectively managing co-manager dynamics and ensuring a unified approach.
(00:22:40) Order of Operations for Radical Candor
The Radical Candor order of operations: soliciting feedback, giving praise, and offering criticism, and the importance of humility and mutual respect.
(00:25:34) Feedback Debt and Team Norms
The concept of feedback debt and the importance of establishing clear team norms, particularly in co-managed environments.
(00:33:44) Radical Candor Tips
Radical Candor tips for co-managers to follow to improve their collaborative management approach.
(00:35:31) Conclusion

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What Should I be When I Grow Up? Cutting Through Career-Decision Chaos 6 | 19 May 15, 2024

Join Kim Scott and Amy Sandler to delve deep into the concept of choice overload, a common trap for many facing career decisions. They explain how choice overload affects our ability to make satisfying career choices. Plus, they offer practical advice for anyone struggling to make career decisions, emphasizing the importance of balancing ambition with personal happiness and the need to adapt as one's career evolves. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who feels stuck at a career crossroads or overwhelmed by the multitude of paths available. Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

Episode links:

Radical Candor S3 Ep 9: The Problem With Passion
You Don't Have To Be Passionate About Your Job | Radical Candor

Connect:

YouTube

Chapters:
(00:00:00) Introduction
Hosts Kim Scott and Amy Sandler introduce the episode's theme of career choice overload
(00:01:11) The Burden of Abundant Choices
Personal experiences of having too many choices, illustrated by the story of "Balaam's Ass."
(00:03:18) Maximizers vs. Satisficers
Different decision-making styles: maximizers who seek the best possible outcome and satisficers who settle for good enough.
(00:10:16) Balancing Personal and Professional Life
Finding a balance between career aspirations and personal happiness, focusing on enjoying the process rather than fixating on specific outcomes.
(00:15:17) The Role of Advice in Career Decisions
The influence of career advice and the sometimes unhelpful stereotypes and expectations.
(00:17:51) The Importance of Prioritizing Desires and Interests
Identifying and pursuing one's passions and how they drive career choices and the importance of taking small steps and exploring various interests
(00:24:50) Practical Approaches to Career Choices
Hosts engage in exercises to envision different life scenarios based on varying career and personal goals.
(00:37:55) Philosophies of Wealth and Happiness
Comparing desire and income, and how they contribute to a sense of wealth and contentment.
(00:44:55) Radical Candor Tips
Key lessons from the episode with actionable tips on overcoming decision paralysis in careers.
(00:45:46) Conclusion

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Don't Let a Bad Boss Derail You: A Guide to Thriving 6 | 18 May 08, 2024

Understand and navigate the murky waters of toxic management.
Hosts Kim Scott, Jason Rosoff, and Amy Sandler delve into the detrimental impact abusive bosses can have on career trajectories. The hosts explore how such leadership styles can suppress assertiveness and hinder professional progression, especially contrasting the experiences of those in superstar and rockstar modes. With insights from the latest studies and rich personal narratives, this episode equips listeners with the tools to understand and navigate the murky waters of toxic management, aiming to empower individuals to protect and advance their careers despite challenging leadership.
Episode Links:

Episode show notes and resources
Psychological Abuse & Destructive Leadership
Leaving CNN Was How Brooke Baldwin Found Her Voice
Do You Want to be a Great Leader? Embrace Neurodiversity
Why You Should Embrace A Speak-Truth-To-Power Culture
Here’s How Speak-Truth-To-Power Meetings Can Make Your Workplace More Equitable
S4 Ep.1 Rock Star Mode Versus Superstar Mode Website / YouTube
S4 Ep.14 Quiet Quitting Speaks Loudly About Bad Bosses Website / YouTube
Radical Respect: How to Work Together Better

Connect:

Chapters:
(00:00:00) Introduction
Hosts Kim Scott, Jason Rosoff, and Amy Sandler introduce the episode’s topic of the impact of bad...

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Listen, Challenge, Commit 6 | 17 May 01, 2024

Strategies for managers to communicate distinguishing feedback that is up for discussion versus directives that need to be followed.
Kim and Jason answer a listener question addressing a critical aspect of leadership: how to ensure that feedback leads to actionable results. They dissect the listener's dilemma about differentiating between feedback that should be considered and feedback that must be implemented. Through a detailed discussion, the hosts provide invaluable advice on maintaining a balance between directive feedback and encouraging open, constructive dissent within teams. Listen as they share techniques for overcoming resistance to feedback, setting performance standards, and building a culture of commitment and collaboration.
Episode Links:

PMWorld 360 article about Andrew Grove and his “Listen, Challenge, Commit” philosophy

Connect:

Get all the resources and show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast
Chapters:
(00:00:00) Introduction
Hosts Kim Scott and Jason Rosoff introduce the episode and outline a listener's question on how to ensure feedback is implemented, not just considered.
(00:02:01) Discussing Feedback Acceptance
Strategies for managers to communicate distinguishing feedback that is up for discussion versus directives that need to be followed.
(00:04:08) Encouraging Disagreement
Handling resistance to feedback and strategies for managers to foster an environment where feedback is given and also constructively challenged.
(00:06:35) Listen, Challenge, Commit
The commitment phase of the feedback process, and the importance of committing to a path forward after feedback and disagreement.
(00:11:26) Subjective Feedback and Data-Driven Decisions
Challenges of subjective feedback and the importance of using data to support feedback and decisions when possible.
(00:13:55) Addressing Feedback Resistance
Methods to address and overcome resistance to feedback with focus on recognizing good ideas, even if they deviate from the manager's initial thoughts.
(00:16:39) Handling Personal Feedback
Kim shares a personal anecdote to illustrate how perceived aggression can impact feedback reception, and addressing such issues directly.
(00:26:22) Radical Candor Tips
Actionable tips for implementing radical candor in leadership, emphasizing listening, challenging directly, and committing to a course of action.
(00:27:46) Conclusion

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The Power of Rituals at Work 6 | 16 Apr 24, 2024

Everyday actions, when turned into rituals, can manage emotions and create a sense of control and purpose.
For Stress Awareness Month, here's another Bonus episode where Harvard Business School Professor Michael Norton joins Amy Sandler to discuss his latest book, "The Ritual Effect."
Norton explores the significance of rituals in reducing stress and enhancing productivity, both at work and in personal life. He shares compelling research and personal anecdotes that illustrate how everyday actions, when turned into rituals, can manage emotions and create a sense of control and purpose. The conversation covers the practical application of rituals in business settings, their emotional significance, and how they can foster team cohesion and workplace wellness.
Whether you're a skeptic or a believer in the power of rituals, this episode offers valuable insights into how structured routines can lead to greater emotional health and professional effectiveness.
Episode Links:

Michael Norton: Website
Norton’s Books
Harvard Business School Profile: Website
Norton’s paper on humblebragging: Humblebragging: A Distinct and Ineffective Self-Presentation Strategy
Norton’s paper on matchmaking: Matchmaking Promotes Happiness
Norton’s ritual quiz: What Are Your Rituals?

Connect:

Get all the resources and show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast
Chapters:
(00:00:00) Introduction
Amy Sandler introduces guest Michael Norton and his book "The Ritual Effect”
(00:02:05) The Importance of Rituals
An anecdote about knocking on wood introduces the relevance of rituals in different contexts and how rituals naturally form and help in stress management.
(00:09:46) Habit vs. Ritual
The difference between habits and rituals, highlighting the emotional connections that define rituals
(00:11:56) Rituals and Emotion Management
The emotional impact of rituals, termed as "emo-diversity," and how rituals help manage a wide spectrum of emotions.
(00:14:48) Collective Rituals and Emotional Bonds
Communal aspects of rituals, their historical and cultural...

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Best Of: Ally Love on Radical Candor and Real Success 6 | 15 Apr 17, 2024

Ally Love discusses the transformative power of Radical Candor in her career and personal life.
In this Best Of Radical Candor, we revisit one of our most popular episodes. Kim, Jason, and Amy chat with Ally Love, TODAY Show contributor, renowned Peloton instructor, and founder of Love Squad. They delve into Ally's integration of the Radical Candor framework into both her professional and personal life, exploring how it has bolstered her confidence and leadership skills. Listeners will gain valuable insights on maintaining wellness amidst a demanding career, the power of morning affirmations, and the impact of honest communication on relationships. This episode not only shares Ally's transformative journey but also provides practical advice for anyone looking to enhance their life through authenticity and mindful leadership. With a number of great episodes to choose from, check out our vast back catalog of episodes.
Connect:

Get all the resources and show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast
Chapters:
(00:00:00) Introduction
We introduce and guest Ally Love, founder of lifestyle brand Love Squad and Peloton instructor
(00:04:13) The Personal Happiness Recipe
Personal routines that contribute to happiness and well-being, highlighting the importance of staying centered and mindful.
(00:10:15) The Power of Morning Anchors
Ally’s morning routine of setting an emotional anchor, emphasizing the value of choosing how to feel and react to daily challenges.
(00:15:26) Career Journey and Challenges
Overcoming early career challenges and how personal setbacks have shaped Ally’s professional journey and leadership style.
(00:21:02) Implementing Radical Candor in Leadership
How Radical Candor shaped Ally’s leadership style at Love Squad and Peloton, focusing on understanding individual needs and communication styles
(00:25:52) The Impact of Leadership and Choreography in Team Dynamics
Similarities between leadership and choreography and how to curate effective team dynamics and maintain curiosity about team members' evolving goals.
(00:29:21) The Essence of Being a Boss
Ally’s definition of being a 'boss' in life and work, using her platform to foster positivity and standards.
(00:33:39) Radical Candor in Personal Life
Personal stories illustrating the application of ‘Radical Candor’ in marriage and professional interactions, underscoring its effectiveness in building trust and clarity.
(00:40:04) Radical Candor and Habit Building
Advice on using Radical Candor as a guide for building habits and healthy practices in daily life.
(00:44:06) Origins and Growth of Love Squad
The founding of Love Squad, from its beginning as a...

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Think Fast, Talk Smart 6 | Bonus Apr 10, 2024

The Radical Candor episode of the Think Fast, Talk Smart podcast, hosted by our friend Matt Abrahms, is up for the Webby award for Best Individual Podcast Episode in the Business category. We’re dropping it in this week so you can listen and we’re asking you to please vote for it at fastersmarter.io/webby. Voting is open until April 18th — let’s get that Webby! Vote and share it on social media to encourage others to do the same!
Have questions about Radical Candor? Let's talk >>
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Succession Problems (Who Wants to Be a Manager?) 6 | 14 Apr 03, 2024

We’ve talked about knowing whether or not being a manager is right for you and manager burnout, but what if no one wants to be a manager at all? Kim, Jason, and Amy discuss the challenges and motivations for becoming a manager. They explore the survey results that show a lack of interest in people management, the reasons behind it, the role of middle managers, and the emotional labor involved in being a manager.
Radical Candor Podcast Checklist

Define the role. Teach people what the job of management is and provide the training and resources to help them succeed.
Create a buddy or mentorship program so people interested in people management can experience some of the positive aspects of building relationships, guiding teams to achieve results and helping people take steps in the direction of their dreams.
If you want to explore the manager dilemma further, listen to S5, Ep.25: Should I be a manager? And S6. Ep.2: Managers are Burned Out, Too.

Get all the resources and show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast
Chapters
[00:00] Introduction
[00:38] Survey Results and TikTok Videos
[06:04] Motivations for Becoming a Manager
[10:11] The Role of Middle Managers
[12:21] The Challenges of Middle Managers
[21:19] Redefining the Role of Managers
[25:26] The Importance of Defining the Role
[28:06] The Value of Player Coaches
[29:41] Motivations for Becoming a Manager
[36:42] Inspiring Moments in Management
[43:14] The Radical Candor Checklist
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Are Conferences & Retreats Worth It? The Radical Recap 6 | 13 Mar 27, 2024

Kim is fresh back from SXSW where she was hosting a live episode of her other podcast Radical Respect — you may notice some bonus episodes of it in your feed — and officially launching her forthcoming book Radical Respect, available for pre-order everywhere books are sold. The team also discusses mentorship, the benefits and drawbacks of conferences and retreats, and they each paint a picture of their ideal Radical Candor getaway. Amy reflects on her 2013 SXSW experience, including an all-night hunt for Grumpy Cat.
Get all the notes and resources at RadicalCandor.com/podcast
Chapters
[00:00] SXSW Radical Respect podcast, and conference experiences.
[04:15] Radical Respect and Conference Experiences.
[10:31] Radical Candor and its Impact.
[16:40] Structuring a retreat for Radical Candor.
[21:21] Retreat format and what fills people up.
[23:37] Retreat planning for leaders with a focus on Radical Candor.
[28:45] Mentorship and finding mentors for career success.
[33:09] Mentorship dynamics and the importance of listening.
[35:08] Empathy, mentorship, and helping others in the workplace.
[37:22] Mentorship and networking in the industry.
[39:34] Mentorship and informal learning opportunities.
[42:18] Radical Respect in the Workplace.
[45:04] Mentorship, boondoggles, and effective communication.
Watch Kim and Wesley's live SXSW talk: Radical Respect: How To Work Together Better | SXSW 2024
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Disrupting Bias In Management 6 | 12 Mar 20, 2024

Kim, Jason, and Amy discuss a listener's question about how to confront and disrupt bias in management at work for women working in male-dominated fields. Jason and Kim role-play a scenario where a manager is clearly biased and explain how to disrupt bias in the moment. They also discuss documenting incidents and when it's time to go to HR.
Get all the show notes and resources at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.
Chapters
00:00 Confronting Bias at Work
08:26 Recognizing Bias and Growth Mindset
13:33 Going to HR or Addressing Bias Directly
19:09 Managing Up and Coaching Up
23:39 Role Play: Addressing Bias with Manager
28:15 Reflecting on the Role Play
34:59 Double Standards and Prejudice
37:11 Being Tough in the Workplace
39:03 Dealing with Biased Perceptions
41:40 Coaching Managers
43:26 Building Relationships with Managers
46:02 Addressing Bias and Prejudice
48:57 Creating Cultures of Open Communication
52:41 Building Solidarity and Documenting Incidents
54:49 Tips and Closing Remarks
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AI at Work 6 | 11 Mar 13, 2024

Amy and Jason engage in a thought-provoking conversation about the impact of AI at work in the realm of Radical Candor. They delve into the evolution of AI, its impressive and limiting aspects, and the challenges of its adoption. They also highlight the importance of interpersonal skills and domain expertise in the age of AI, and how it can be a game-changer in conflict resolution and communication. Jason showcases the Radical Candor Knowledge Bot and Practice Partner as prime examples of AI applications in the field.
Get all of the show notes and resources at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and AI Identity
02:26 The Evolution of AI and the Role of Large Language Models
05:25 The Impressive and Limiting Aspects of AI
08:56 The Relevance of AI and the Challenges of Adoption
12:01 The Importance of Interpersonal Skills and Domain Expertise
25:16 The Role of AI in Clarity and Conflict Resolution
29:16 The Radical Candor Knowledge Bot and Practice Partner
34:56 The KnowledgeBot and Self-Assessment
36:20 Using AI for Therapy and Existential Questions
39:35 The Practice Partner for Radical Candor
45:26 AI in the C-Suite and Business Value
48:09 The Shift of Roles and Talent Management
52:45 AI Making Leaders Smarter and Faster
58:05 AI's Impact on Writing and Journalism
01:06:19 Ethical Considerations and Responsible AI
01:08:10 Tips for Getting Started with AI
01:10:20 Tips for Learning AI
01:10:32 Finding Interesting AI Applications
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Radical Collaboration With Vijaya Kaza 6 | 10 Mar 07, 2024

Collaboration is probably the most used buzzword in the corporate world, yet it is often misunderstood. Vijaya Kaza, Chief Security Officer & Head of Engineering for Trust and Safety at Airbnb, joins Kim for a Radically Candid Conversation about Radical Collaboration.
Get all of the resources and show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast
An impact and results-driven C-level technology and business executive with experience leading engineering, product management, design, information security and operations, Vijaya Kaza was recently named as one of The Female Quotient and Deloitte’s Top 30 Women in Cyber for 2023.
Chapters
Collaboration and Radical Candor in Leadership. (00:00)
Collaboration, disagreement, and feedback in the workplace. (07:38)
Collaboration and communication in the workplace. (16:55)
Collaboration types and their impact on workplace culture. (20:58)
Fostering collaboration and debate in teams. (31:31)
Effective collaboration and disagreement in the workplace. (37:58)
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Radical Respect — Indivisible Mar 05, 2024

This bonus episode is from the Radical Respect podcast with Kim Scott and Wesley Faulkner based on Kim's forthcoming book, Radical Respect: How to Work Together Better. On this episode, Kim and Wesley talk to workplace culture expert Denise Hamilton about her new book, Indivisible: How to Forge Our Differences into a Stronger Future. Denise reads passages from her book, prompting some real conversations. Are you trying to figure out how to prepare for this election year mentally? Denise's new book will help you!
Plus catch Kim and Wesley Live at SXSW on March 8th!
Denise Hamilton is the founder and CEO of WatchHerWork, a digital learning platform for professional women, and All Hands Group, a workplace culture consultancy. As an in-demand speaker and facilitator, she has consulted for and presented to dozens of Fortune 500 companies, including GE, Apple, IBM, Shell, BP, and Meta. Her thought leadership has been featured in Harvard Business Review, Morning Joe, FOX, Bloomberg, s+b, and Newsweek and she is a regular contributor to MIT Sloan Management Review. watchherwork.com
Chapters
Workplace culture and diversity with author Denise Hamilton. (0:00)
Racial disparities in maternal mortality rate in the US. (01:22)
Gender disparities in medical research and treatment. (05:07)
Race, power dynamics in healthcare, and personal experiences. (08:07)
Race, empathy, and personal responsibility. (14:11)
Racism and compassion in society. (21:44)
Police brutality, language, and solidarity. (26:29)
Police power and accountability. (32:29)
The impact of capitalism and personal responsibility on mental health. (39:52)
Political polarization and the importance of empathy. (46:36)
Watch the video of this episode >>
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Etiquette at Work 6 | 9 Feb 28, 2024

Sixty percent of employers will reportedly send employees to “office etiquette” training in 2024. Whether it’s folks returning to the office after years of working remotely, or recent college grads without office experience — apparently people don’t know how to act around one another anymore. The team discusses the impact of decreased human interactions and the need to establish office behavior norms. Kim, Brandi and Jason also emphasize the importance of open communication and creating explicit norms, especially in hybrid and remote work environments. And if you work in person, don't touch other people's keyboards or drop Dorito crumbs onto their desks.
Get all the show notes and resources at RadicalCandor.com/podcast
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
05:08 Challenges of Returning to the Office
10:27 Creating Norms for Office Spaces
14:54 The Challenge of Remote Work
19:30 Setting Norms for Hybrid Teams
32:21 Addressing Time Zone Challenges
39:18 The Goal of Radical Candor: Connecting Through Conversation
40:21 Bottoms Up Norm Setting vs Top Down Rulemaking
41:21 Inefficiency as a Path to Efficiency
43:31 Radical Candor Checklist
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The Case for Common Human Decency 6 | 8 Feb 21, 2024

Common human decency is something everyone deserves, but not everyone gets. Especially at work. Kim and Amy discuss a case study Kim learned about during a recent visit to Harvard Business School. In this case, the co-founders of CloudFlare considered the implications of five employees' resignations over the prior three months and whether or not the resignations were symptomatic of bigger issues with CloudFlare's culture and management processes. The HBS alums then put on their case study hats as they explore the recent attention CloudFlare has received for its poor handling of layoffs after Brittany Pietsch filmed her own layoff and it subsequently went viral on TikTok. Get all of the show notes and resources at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.
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Episode Summary
The effectiveness of case studies in business education. 00:00
Business case analysis and decision-making. 04:31
Work culture and management practices in a tech startup. 09:58
Workplace layoffs and accountability. 18:14
Workplace layoffs and performance evaluations. 24:04
Layoffs, performance management, and HR practices. 30:19
Firing employees and accountability in the workplace. 38:38
Leadership mistakes and feedback. 45:13
Effective feedback and criticism in the workplace. 52:50

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Don't Criticize Your Employees In Public 6 | 7 Feb 14, 2024

You've heard us say often that it's important to praise your employees in public (if they're comfortable with it) but to always give criticism in private. While there is almost always something for others to learn from an individual's mistake, criticizing or shaming them in public has been shown to make the person more likely to hide mistakes in the future, hurting them and the company. So how can we separate and honor our concern for the individual with the needs of the team? Get all the show notes and resources at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.
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What Does Managing Out Mean? 6 | 6 Feb 07, 2024

For a podcast about communication at work, we sometimes use corporate jargon that doesn't always make sense—even to us. We disagree about corporate speak and what it means. Case in point, managing out. What does managing out mean? How do you know if you're being managed out? There’s definitely some misalignment on what “managing people out” means versus what it’s supposed to mean — maybe we need a new word. According to the business dictionary Jargonism, The definition of Managing Someone Out is, “The practice of giving an employee undesirable tasks, so that the employee leaves a company voluntarily.” It means something else to Kim, and Brandi thinks "managing out" is a term rife with manipulative insincerity. Listen to the conversation then let us know what you think about managing out!
Get all the resources and show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast
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Trust and Inspire With Stephen M.R. Covey 6 | 5 Jan 31, 2024

Learn how the shift from command and control to a culture focused on collaboration. Stephen M.R. Covey joins us for our first Radically Candid Conversation of 2024 to discuss how trust-and-inspire leadership leads to happier teams, improved retention, increased productivity, and improved company culture because telling people what to do doesn't work.
Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

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Loud Laborers: All Talk, No Action 6 | 4 Jan 24, 2024

Loud laborers talk big about their projects at work while accomplishing very little. Join us to explore the characteristics of these self-proclaimed workplace heroes, as they often gravitate toward tasks that boost visibility rather than genuine productivity. Discover the impact of "loud laborers" on team dynamics and how to navigate this common workplace scenario. Don't miss out on this insightful discussion shedding light on the not-so-quiet world of office chatter!
Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast

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Elevating Introverts at Work 6 | 3 Jan 17, 2024

Hey there you introvert in an extrovert culture — we see you! Extroverts are often overrepresented on management teams and many leaders are unsure how to coach, give feedback to, and advocate for a thoughtful introverted employee in a culture where multi-tasking extroverts are rewarded. On this episode of the Radical Candor podcast, Kim, Jason and Amy answer a listener's question about how to communicate the unseen efforts and accomplishments of introverted employees to senior management.
View all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast

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Managers are Burned Out, too 6 | 2 Jan 10, 2024

Managers are burned out AF. A boss’s job is to guide a team to achieve results. However, in the current landscape of constant disruptions, this job is feeling impossible for some managers. What’s more, disengaged managers lead to disengaged teams. Is all hope lost? Kim, Amy and Jason weigh in.
Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast

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Storytelling at Work 6 | 1 Jan 03, 2024

What makes a good story and why do leaders need to know? Kim and Amy discuss storytelling at work, how our brains are wired for stories and why Kim focuses so much on stories in Radical Candor.
Get all the show notes and resources at RadicalCandor.com/podcast

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Surviving Holiday Communication With Your Family 5 | 30 Dec 20, 2023

Holiday communication with your family can be rife with stress. But you can survive it by practicing Radical Candor with your nearest and dearest. this holiday season to avoid defaulting to Obnoxious Aggression, Manipulative Insincerity or Ruinous Empathy.
Get all of the show notes and resources at RadicalCandor.com/podcast

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A 'Hot Potato' Management Dilemma 5 | 29 Dec 13, 2023

The team explores a year-end management dilemma — how to fairly evaluate a hot potato employee who's been bounced from team to team and manager to manager. They also reveal why everyone needs an "I love me" folder.
Get the complete show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast

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Identify the Elephant 5 | 28 Dec 06, 2023

Learn how to identify the elephant in the room when a direct report's performance isn't meeting expectations. Kim and Jason roleplay how to be kind and clear when delivering feedback to someone who'd rather not hear it. While it can be tempting to default to Ruinous Empathy, the team explains why it's important to double down on the challenge directly axis of Radical Candor instead.
Read the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast

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Toxic Positivity at Work 5 | 27 Nov 30, 2023

Can a “nice” workplace culture be as toxic as an abusive one? This past summer, our content intern Katie Bartlett (hi Katie!) wrote a piece about the workplace culture trend toward “niceness” investigating whether or not prioritizing “nice” feedback that’s full of vague platitudes over specific and sincere feedback that could make people uncomfortable is harmful. Is toxic positivity Ruinous Empathy or Manipulative Insincerity? Perhaps it's both.
Read the show notes RadicalCandor.com/podcast

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Managerial Musings With Dick Costolo 5 | 26 Nov 22, 2023

Management expert and former Twitter CEO Dick Costolo joins Kim for Managerial Musings. Kim and Dick answer listener questions, read between the lines and offer advice for your trickiest workplace problems.
Get the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast

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Is Being a Manager Right for Me? 5 | 25 Nov 15, 2023

Should you become a manager? For folks who thrive on building a team and guiding others to achieve results, becoming a manager may be a dream come true. On the other hand, management could be a nightmare for high-performing individual contributors who are experts in their fields but have a low frustration tolerance for herding cats. How do you know if management is right for you? Kim and Jason discuss their paths to management.
Get the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast

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Making Masterclass — Radically Candid Conversations 5 | 24 Nov 08, 2023

The group talks about the making of MasterClass, strategies for managing cross-functional teams and how to get everyone home in time for dinner. Kim, Jason and Amy welcome two very special guests, Ezra Rose and Davis Carter. Ezra and Davis were integral in the production of the Radical Candor Sessions by MasterClass.
Get the show notes at RadicalCandpr.com/podcast

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We Have Some Feedback About Feedforward 5 | 23 Nov 01, 2023

Feedback vs. feedforward — both of these words are well-intentioned euphemisms that tend toward either Ruinous Empathy or Manipulative Insincerity. On this episode of the Radical Candor podcast, Kim, Jason and Amy discuss the trend of prioritizing future-focused feedforward over backward-looking feedback. Kim has strong opinions on the words "feedforward" and "feedback." Tune in to find out why one word makes Kim want to put her hands over her ears and the other makes her want to throw up in her mouth.
Get all the show notes and resources at radicalcandor.com/podcast

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Leading With Compassion 5 | 22 Oct 25, 2023

In times of trauma, it’s all about care personally. This is not the moment to challenge directly. Or to make policy pronouncements, especially if that’s not your job. On this episode of the Radical Candor podcast, Kim, Jason and Amy discuss leading with compassion amid the chaos and catastrophe in Israel and Gaza.
See the show notes at radicalcandor.com/podcast

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Ally Love is In the House for Radically Candid Conversations 5 | 21 Oct 12, 2023

Peloton and TODAY show contributor Ally LoveI is here! If you're the boss, it all starts with you. For better or worse, a boss establishes the tone and sets the standard for everything that follows. On this episode of the Radical Candor podcast, Ally Love shares how Radical Candor can help you boss up and increase your confidence at work, the best #RadyCandy she got from her husband, a few of her favorite things and so much more! You're def gonna want to download and favorite this one.
Get all the resources and show notes at radicalcandor.com/podcast

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What is Mobbing at Work? 5 | Bonus Oct 04, 2023

October is National Bullying Prevention Month! On this episode of the Radical Candor podcast, we're dropping a bonus episode from Kim's Just Work podcast featuring a conversation about mobbing, a form of group bullying. Mobbing involves a group of people working together directly or indirectly to remove the targeted individual. Mobbing is rooted in groupthink and group aggression with underlying elements of fear, competition, and envy. Unlike bullying, mobbing is not hierarchical. The target is usually labeled the troublemaker and is isolated within the organization.
Get all the show notes and resources at radicalcandor.com/podcast

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What's Up With Performance Improvement Plans? 5 | 20 Sep 27, 2023

Amy and Kim talk about performance improvement plans (PIPs). When used correctly, performance improvement plans can be valuable if there is a commitment to help the employee improve. However, they are often weaponized by frustrated managers who want to get rid of an employee who is struggling. Listen to find out how to tell the difference.
Get all the show notes and resources at radicalcandor.com/podcast

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Giving Feedback About Nervous Laughter — Funny (Not Funny) 5 | 19 Sep 21, 2023

Amy and Jason answer a listener's question about how to give feedback about nervous laughter. As you may have noticed, we like to laugh on this podcast when we think something is funny. But, did you know that a lot of laughter doesn’t have anything to do with hilarity? In fact, in the absence of an underlying medical condition, laughing is often a stress response — a way for people to regulate their emotions and avoid being overcome with anxiety.
Find all the resources and show notes for this episode at radicalcandor.com/podcast

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Amy Edmondson On the Science of Failing Well — Radically Candid Conversations 5 | 18 Sep 05, 2023

Kim and Amy welcome Amy C. Edmondson, the Novartis professor of leadership and management at the Harvard Business School and author of several books, including The Fearless Organization: Creating Psychological Safety in the Workplace for Learning, Innovation, and Growth and Right Kind of Wrong: The Science of Failing Well — available now! From managers seeking to inspire their reports to parents wanting to model a healthy failure mindset for their kids, this book will revolutionize how we think about failure.
Get all the show notes and resources at RadicalCandor.com/podcast

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Coming Out at Work 5 | 17 Aug 31, 2023

Kim, Amy and Brandi discuss coming out at work and Amy and Brandi share their stories. In response to an unprecedented spike in discriminatory legislation, The Human Rights Campaign recently declared a state of emergency for LGBTQ+ people in the U.S. Visibility matters — we want folks who might be struggling to know that we see you. That you deserve to be here. And to thrive!
Read all of the show notes and episode resources at RadicalCandor.com/podcast

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Appreciation (That's What The Money's For!) 5 | 16 Aug 15, 2023

Kim, Amy and Jason discuss Praise, Recognition, Appreciation and Gratitude. Kim also takes on the role of Don Draper to act out a scene from Mad Men's beloved episode "The Suitcase." Listen to learn why — in most cases — "that's what the money is for" is not sufficient recognition or appreciation. (A deep dive into Peggy and Don's complicated relationship is a whole other glass of whiskey not covered in this episode — but if you haven't watched "The Suitcase," it's a must-see. Listen to our bonus episode about the writers and actors strikes.)
Read the show notes and find the bonus episode at RadicalCandor.com/podcast

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Creating Consequences for Bullies 5 | Bonus Aug 02, 2023

Bullying at work is real. We're dropping a bonus episode from Kim's Just Work podcast featuring a conversation about bullying at work, in Hollywood and within our greater society with co-host Wesley Faulkner and guest Eric Deggans. When someone is bullying you, the person’s goal is to harm you. Telling the person you are being harmed is just going to result in more bad behavior. Ignoring bullies doesn’t work, either. The only way to stop bullying is to create negative consequences for the people doing the bullying.
Read the show notes >>

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The Feedback Sandwich (Kiss Me, Kick Me, Kiss Me) 5 | 15 Jul 27, 2023

Kim, Amy and Jason discuss feedback sandwiches. These are not the tasty sandwiches beloved by Joey Tribbiani on Friends. While these sandwiches look delicious on the outside, inside they’re stuffed with something you can’t quite identify. But, the sandwich maker hopes the two pieces of artisan bread that hold the mystery meat together will make you accept what’s inside without too many questions. This false promise of emotional novocaine is better known as the feedback sandwich. Here's why you should avoid the feedback sandwich, which Jason calls "the beautiful lie."

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Don't Be Suspicious ... Get Curious 5 | 14 Jul 12, 2023

Do you trust your employees? Kim and Jason reach into the Radical Candor digital mailbag to answer a question about what to do when an employee starts calling in sick on the regular. Kim and Jason roleplay the situation to get to the bottom of why someone might be pulling a disappearing act.
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Feedback vs. Nitpicking (If It's Yellow Let it Mellow) 5 | 13 Jun 28, 2023

Kim, Jason and Amy discuss the difference between feedback and nitpicking. Kim says, "There is one rule of thumb that applies to criticism in general but is especially good advice when you’re really busy and nerves are frayed. It’s best summed up by advice a friend’s godfather gave her at her wedding. 'If it’s brown flush it down. If it’s yellow let it mellow.' She got married on an island with a poor septic system, and this was a sign by all the toilets. But as her godfather said, 'These are words to live by. If there’s a big stinking problem talk about it before it fouls your relationship. But if it’s a small thing, let it go.'"
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The #1 Skill Leaders Need to Succeed — Radically Candid Conversations with Muriel Wilkins 5 | 12 Jun 14, 2023

What's the most important leadership skill? Kim and Amy welcome C-suite advisor and executive coach Muriel Wilkins to the first Radically Candid Conversation episode of 2023. Kim and Muriel discuss how keeping it real at work can go wrong, what employees want from their leaders today, and the difference between performance and behavior.
Muriel Wilkins is a C-suite advisor and executive coach with a nearly 20-year track record of helping senior leaders and teams take their effectiveness to the next level. She is the host of the Harvard Business Review podcast, Coaching Real Leaders and the co-author of Own the Room: Discover Your Signature Voice to Master Your Leadership Presence.
Fun fact — Kim, Amy and Muriel all attended Harvard Business School at the same time but did not know each other. Read the show notes >>

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Stuck In a Ruinous Empathy Rut 5 | 11 May 31, 2023

The team delves into a mash-up of Ruinous Empathy and Manipulative Insincerity. Ruinous Empathy—being “nice” but ultimately unhelpful and unkind—is rampant among new managers, including this new manager who wrote to us asking for advice about how to break out of a Ruinous Empathy rut. This new boss also veers into Manipulative Insincerity when they become too tired to care or argue anymore. This person dreamed of being a boss and now realizes it’s nothing like they imagined. Kim and Jason role-play how this new manager could approach a Radically Candid conversation with a direct report. View the show notes >>

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How to Make Work Less Like Junior High (A Tale of 2 Jasons) 5 | 10 May 17, 2023

Clean escalation dictates managers not allow people to talk about one another to them behind each other’s backs and not engage in office gossip. Kim, Amy and Jason discuss how to make work less like junior high by implementing something Fred Kofman's clean escalation.
The opposite of clean escalation is Manipulative Insincerity — talking about people instead of talking to them. When you triangulate, you end up creating politics. Each side becomes suspicious that you’re talking behind their back (which you are). The two begin to distrust each other and a toxic relationship develops.
Read the show notes >>

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The 'Oops, Just Kidding' Job Offer 5 | 9 May 03, 2023

Kim, Jason and Amy discuss another upsetting trend in the workplace — the “oops, just kidding!” job offer. The team emphasizes the importance of remembering that the people you are hiring are real human beings with loved ones, bills and responsibilities. You’re not trying them on like a pair of shoes you can discard later if they’re not the right fit. It’s important to get hiring right and Radical Candor has a 5-step strategy to set you up for success.
Go to the show notes >>

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The Fundamental Attribution Error 5 | 8 Apr 19, 2023

Kim, Jason and Amy discuss how the fundamental attribution error makes us more likely to use personality attributes to explain someone else’s behavior rather than considering our own behavior or situational factors that were probably the real cause of the behavior. This is where the "not about personality" part of Radical Candor comes into play. Plus, Jason introduces us to the little evil translator inside his head that makes him hear feedback as: "You're terrible. You're completely incompetent. There's no possible way you're going to succeed. It's a miracle that you managed to tie your own shoes to the office this morning." Same? Listen and nod along.
Read the show notes >>

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Fears for Tears 5 | 7 Apr 05, 2023

If you’re the boss, you’re kind of an emotional shock absorber for your team. You’ve got to be able to deal with other people’s emotions. When we communicate, we communicate on an emotional plane and a rational plane at the same time. If you as the boss dismiss all emotional signals as unprofessional you’re not going to communicate very well.
Showing compassion is real work, and, like all real work, it is rewarding and also taxing. In general, we undervalue the emotional labor of being the boss. But this emotional labor is not just part of the job; it’s the key to being a good boss. On this episode of the Radical Candor podcast Kim, Jason and Amy discuss emotional labor through the lens of a scenario sent to us by one of our listeners looking for guidance on how to avoid being a ShamWow for everyone on their team.
Read the show notes >>

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'Radical Candor' Rescued From an Abandoned Apartment 5 | 6 Mar 22, 2023

Kim, Jason and Amy dig into the virtual career advice mailbag and answer questions from Radical Candor listeners and readers. What happens when people think you're too young to lead? How can you stop paying the a**hole tax? How can you be more present at work when everything is stressful all of the time? Listen to find out!
Go to the show notes >>

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Quiet Hiring—Opportunity or Dumpster Fire? 5 | 5 Mar 08, 2023

Quiet Hiring, Turnover Contagion and Layoff Survivor Guilt can lead to a culture of fear. Kim, Jason, Amy and Brandi discuss how when people are working out of fear, they start to avoid taking risks. They learn less, they grow less, they innovate less, and they become less than they could be.
The way you treat people when times are tough determines whether you’ll get their best effort, a perfunctory effort, or an effort to sabotage you. When you treat people like cogs in a machine, you’ll get no more than you demand, and you create an incentive to break the machine.
See the show notes >>
Radical Candor Podcast Checklist

If you suddenly find yourself experiencing Quiet Hiring, talk to your manager about how you can leverage your new responsibilities toward your professional development goals. It’s also appropriate to ask how you’ll be compensated for doing additional work.
When you do have information that affects your team, commit to delivering it as soon as possible in a way that’s kind and clear. Allow the people who are left behind to ask questions and provide answers if you have them. If you don’t know the answer, it’s OK to admit that you don’t know, but be clear that you will deliver relevant news as soon as you have it.
If you’re a manager, have intentional Career Conversations with each person on your team. Let them know that you’re doing this in good faith and not to use it against them. Based on these conversations try to redistribute the work.

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The Emotional Toll of Being Laid Off 5 | 4 Feb 22, 2023

Have you experienced a layoff? Jason hosts this episode of the Radical Candor podcast and interviews Amy, Kim and Brandi about layoffs. The team discusses layoffs from a few different perspectives — the most important one is the impact on people who are being laid off. The emotional and financial toll of being laid off is real. Amy says, "Looking back on it, it was a huge transformational time that set my life up in a way that I really wanted. But it felt like absolute sh*t in the process."
See the show notes >>

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Absentee Management vs. Quiet Firing — What’s the Difference? 5 | 3 Feb 08, 2023

Kim, Jason and Amy discuss absentee management and quiet firing. While these two things can feel the same to the person experiencing them, the thing that makes them different is the intention behind the behavior. Quiet firing happens when managers allow employees to have toxic experiences at work as a way to get them to quit. On the other hand, a more pervasive problem is well-intentioned bosses who practice absentee management. They’re that ghost boss who is rarely seen or heard from by their direct reports. What can you do if you work in this kind of environment? Listen to the episode to learn more.
Radical Candor Podcast Checklist

Don’t hire people and never talk to them again. Being a hands-off manager is different than being an absentee manager. All managers should be having regular 1:1 meetings with their direct reports, actively soliciting feedback and having regular Career Conversations.
Don’t be a jerk. Quiet firing is gaslighting at its worst and junior high behavior at its best. It’s is no way to build a business or a solid team and will most certainly come back to bite you (seriously, people, watch Office Space!) If you need to let someone go for whatever reason, you can do so with Radical Candor.
If you are struggling with an absentee manager, a good way to engage them is by requesting a 1:1 meeting with your boss and sharing a challenge you are having and asking for their input, and letting them know when you will additional support from them. And setting some time on the calendar with them as a follow-up!
Before you throw your bike helmet against the wall and "rage quit," don't forget to "rage apply" for that job you really want.

Questions? Email us at podcast@radicalcandor.com

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Are You 'Helping' or Micromanaging? 5 | 2 Jan 25, 2023

A classic example of a micromanaging helicopter boss is Bill from the 1999 movie Office Space, the bad boss who spawned thousands of memes. He roams around the cubicle farm monitoring everyone’s activity and stops by to scold workers for minor mistakes like forgetting to put the cover sheet on their TPS reports.
On this episode of the Radical Candor podcast, Kim, Jason and Amy discuss how to tell if the "helpful" guidance you're giving your team is actually veering off into micromanaging. If you want to be a kick-ass boss instead of having team members who want to kick your ass, this episode is a must-listen!
Read the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/Podcast.

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What's Your Radical Candor Story? 5 | 1 Jan 10, 2023

Welcome to season 5 of the Radical Candor podcast! On this episode, we have a montage of Radical Candor, Manipulative Insincerity and Obnoxious Aggression stories from our coaches and core team. Chances are you can relate to one or more of these stories. If you have a story to share, send it to us at podcast@radicalcandor.com.

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Radical Candor Wipeouts Reimagined 4 | 17 Nov 30, 2022

Ready for some roleplaying? On this episode of the Radical Candor podcast, Kim, Jason and Amy address how to respond to some specific scenarios with Radically Candid feedback that’s kind, clear, specific and sincere. If you truly want to get different results, you’re going to have to change your behavior. We know it’s hard, so we’re going to talk you through it.

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What Do Managers of Managers Do? (The Crank Call From Kim) 4 | 16 Nov 01, 2022

Does anyone actually want to be a manager of managers? And if so, what do these people actually do? On this episode of the Radical Candor podcast Kim, Jason and Amy discuss strategies for being an effective manager of managers. If you're managing people who manage other people, then you're managing managers. Whereas if you're managing individual contributors, you're managing a team. The most significant difference when you become a manager of managers is that now you have to become a thought partner, not just on the functional expertise and the business that they're running or the product that they're building, but you also have to be a thought partner to them on how they're managing their team.

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What Do Managers (of Small Teams) Do Anyways? 4 | 15 Oct 12, 2022

What do bosses do anyways? On this episode of the Radical Candor podcast, we're starting a new series to answer that question! Is it a manager’s job to go to meetings? Send emails? Tell people what to do? Are they supposed to work alongside their teams and carry part of the workload, or dream up strategies and expect other people to implement them? At the end of the day, a boss’s job is to guide a team to achieve results. However, depending on the size of your team, that process could look very different. Today we’re going to talk about managers of small teams and we’re going to define “small” as a team of 10 people or less. Listen to learn three key things every manager of small teams needs to know.

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Quiet Quitting Speaks Loudly About Bad Bosses 4 | 14 Sep 21, 2022

Kim, Jason and Amy discuss the clear message quiet quitting is loudly sending to bad bosses and managers of managers. We know that relationships don’t scale, but culture does. This means that while you can’t have a close relationship with every person who reports to the people who report to you, practicing Radical Candor with the people you manage can impact how they interact with the people they manage and so on. On the other hand, if toxic stew is flowing from the top and being passed down from executives to managers of managers to individual contributors it should come as no surprise that people in this type of environment are disengaged at work. So, how do you fix it? Listen to find out!

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Create a Culture of Learning Where it's Safe to Fail—Get Sh*t Done Step 7 ~ 4 | 13 Sep 07, 2022

Once your idea has been implemented, you probably think you're done with this whole Get Sh*t Done Wheel thing — but there’s one more step, Learn. On this episode of the Radical Candor Podcast, Kim, Jason and Amy talk about how creating a culture of learning can make it safe for people to fail, help mitigate future mistakes and ensure everyone knows how to repeat success. Sounds simple, right? Not so fast. There are two things that can get in the way of learning. Listen to find out what they are!

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Implement Your Brilliant Idea—Get Sh*t Done Step 6 ~ 4 | 12 Aug 24, 2022

Once everyone is on board with your great idea, it’s time for action, which brings us to step 6 of the Get Shit Done Wheel. On this episode of the Radical Candor Podcast, Kim, Jason and Amy discuss the good, the bad and the ugly as it relates to the implementation of that decision you’ve just persuaded everyone to get behind. Listen to learn how to toggle between leading and implementing personally. You can't abandon the first for the second. You have to integrate the two.

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Persuade Uncle Scrammy—Get Sh*t Done Step 5 ~ 4 | 11 Aug 03, 2022

Once a decision is made, you’ve got to get people on board, which brings us to step 5 of the Get Sh*t Done Wheel — Persuade.
While getting others to accept your idea might feel like a foregone conclusion, persuasion isn’t easy, and it’s important to get it right. What’s more, persuasion at this stage of the GSD Wheel can feel unnecessary and make the decider resentful of people on the team who aren’t fully in agreement.
Kim, Jason and Amy discuss why expecting others to implement a decision without being persuaded that it’s the right thing to do is a recipe for terrible results and why it's vital to persuade people (like your friend's Uncle Scrammy) that you've done your homework.

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Push Decisions Into the Facts—Get Shit Done Step 4 ~ 4 | 10 Jul 13, 2022

Kim, Jason and Amy discuss how to make a decision after you've listened, clarified and debated your idea. Step 4 of the Get Shit Done Wheel, decide, is all about pushing the decisions into the facts. The Radical Candor Podcast team outlines 4 steps to follow when making decisions once you have shoved all ego — especially your own — out of the way. They also talk about the pitfalls of unconscious bias, the perils of skipping steps 1-3 and how to avoid garbage can decision-making.

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How to Be a Thought Partner Instead of a Micro or Absentee Manager 4 | 9 Jun 30, 2022

Amy and Jason discuss managers who have low, almost non-existent involvement in their team’s work, aka absentee managers; those with extremely (maybe excruciatingly) close involvement, aka micromanagers; and thought partners — the ones who empower, enable and encourage their teams to do the best work of their lives. While a lot of us have tendencies to act in absentee or micromanager mode, it’s hard for us to want to look at ourselves that way. Listen to this episode if you want to understand how to be a true thought partner.

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Debate (Don't Squish) Ideas—Get Shit Done Step 3 ~ 4 | 8 Jun 16, 2022

We discuss the steps to follow for a successful debating process. If you skip the debate phase, you’ll make worse decisions, you’ll be unable to persuade everyone who needs to implement, and you’ll ultimately slow down or grind to a halt. Kim, Jason, Amy and producer Brandi discuss a time when a debate went awry and what they should have done instead.

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Kim Scott & Russ Laraway—Radically Candid Conversations 4 | 7 May 19, 2022

We're welcoming back to the podcast Russ Laraway, author of the book When They Win, You Win: Being a Great Manager is Simpler Than You Think, coming out on June 7, 2022. You can pre-order it now! You likely know Russ best as the OG co-host with Kim of season one of the Radical Candor Podcast.

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Leverage Staff Meetings to Help Clarify Ideas—Get Sh*t Done Step 2 (Part 2) ~ 4 | 6 May 05, 2022

It's time for part two of how to clarify your thinking for yourself and others as part of the Get Sh*t Done Wheel (listen to part one). On this episode of the Radical Candor podcast, Kim, Jason and Amy discuss how to use staff meetings and think time as ways to clarify your ideas.
Radical Candor Podcast Episode At a Glance
An effective staff meeting has three goals: it reviews how things have gone the previous week, allows people to share important updates, and forces the team to clarify the most important decisions and debates for the coming week.
That’s it. It shouldn’t be the place to have debates or make decisions. Your job is to establish a consistent agenda, insist that people stick to it, and corral people who go on for too long or who go off on tangents.
Here’s the agenda that Kim has found to be most effective:
Learn: review key metrics (20 minutes)
Listen: put updates in a shared document (15 minutes)
Clarify: identify key decisions & debates (30 minutes)
In Radical Candor, Kim writes: “In addition to all your regularly planned meetings, people want to talk to you about this or that; urgent matters will arise that you must deal with. When are you supposed to find time to clarify your own thinking, or to help the people who work for you clarify theirs?”
“My advice is that you schedule in some ‘Think Time’ [on your calendar], and hold that think time sacred. Let people know that they cannot ever schedule over it. Get really, seriously angry if they try. Encourage everyone on your team to do the same.”
Radical Candor Podcast Checklist

Avoid the fundamental attribution error by focusing on specifics, not attributes. Instead of saying (or thinking) “What an idiot,” be very clear about what went wrong. Try the CORE model — Context, Observation, Result, nExt stEps. Focus on helping the person fix the problem by providing specifics they can act on, rather than criticizing personality traits that they can’t alter.
A well-run meeting can save you time by alerting you to problems, sharing updates efficiently, and getting you all on the same page about what the week’s shared priorities are. Remember, timeboxing is your friend. Take 20 minutes to learn, 15 minutes to listen and 30 minutes to clarify.
Schedule Think Time away from your desk. Think Time is a mix of focused thinking and mind-wandering that allows for the kind of problem-solving, creativity and innovative mindset needed to tackle those difficult problems. Try taking a walk and removing distractions.

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Clarify Your Thinking—Get Sh*t Done Step 2 ~ 4 | 5 Apr 22, 2022

Once you have created a culture of listening, the next step in the Radical Candor Get Sh*t Done Wheel is to push yourself and your direct reports to understand and convey thoughts and ideas more clearly. Trying to solve a problem that hasn’t been clearly defined is not likely to result in a good solution; debating a half-baked idea is likely to discourage it. On this episode of the Radical Candor podcast, Kim, Jason and Amy discuss the two most important things to do when clarifying an idea.

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Create a Culture of Listening—Get Stuff Done Step 1 ~ 4 | 4 Apr 07, 2022

Communication and career tips abound in this series! Our next several episodes of the Radical Candor podcast are going to be shorter explorations of the nuts-and-bolts details about each step of the Get Shit Done Wheel. First up is listening. Kim, Jason and Amy discuss how to create a culture of listening because if you can get your team members to listen to one another, they’ll fix things that you as the boss didn’t even know were broken.

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Skill and Will—Steep Growth Trajectory & Poor Performance 4 | 3 Mar 16, 2022

Kim, Jason and Amy discuss one of the most perplexing management dilemmas you might experience: when a person who ought to be taking on more and more responsibility and performing better every day is instead doing the opposite. This person is doing excellent work on a steep growth trajectory — maybe they even want to be your boss someday — and you’ve put in charge of the most important work or assigned them to solve your most difficult problems because they’re just that good. So why are they flailing instead of flying? We’ve seen this happen for five different reasons. Plus, organizations we're supporting for humanitarian relief in Ukraine.

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How to Get Sh*t Done Like a Boss 4 | 2 Feb 25, 2022

As we continue into 2022, or more accurately what feels like the third year of 2020, the mere idea of trying to get stuff done at work likely feels overwhelming. We've got you. On this episode of the Radical Candor Podcast, Kim, Jason and Amy talk about the Get Sh*t Done Wheel, a step-by-step process that can help make getting things accomplished much easier. The GSD Wheel has 7 steps: Listen, Clarify, Debate, Decide, Persuade, Execute and Learn. When run effectively, the GSD Wheel will enable your team to achieve more collectively than anyone could ever dream of achieving individually.

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The "Um" Story 4 | Mini Feb 10, 2022

Radical Candor happens at the intersection Care Personally and Challenge Directly. On this mini-episode of the Radical Candor podcast, Kim tells the "Um Story," which outlines exactly what we mean when we say Care Personally and Challenge Directly. Kim explains why the feedback she received from her boss was so effective and led to even more success.

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Rock Star vs. Superstar Mode 4 | 1 Jan 28, 2022

Building a team is hard. But as we’re seeing now during the Great Resignation, failure to spend time building and investing in a team can have disastrous consequences. In order to be successful, this means developing people on both steep and gradual growth trajectories, or as we like to say at Radical Candor, people in both rockstar mode and superstar mode. On this episode of the Radical Candor podcast, Kim, Jason and Amy discuss how to balance growth and stability by developing people who are in both superstar and rock star modes.

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The Bob Story, a Tale of Ruinous Empathy 4 | Mini Jan 10, 2022

Ruinous Empathy is what happens when you want to spare someone’s short-term feelings, so you don’t tell them something they need to know. You Care Personally, but fail to Challenge Directly. It’s praise that isn’t specific enough to help the person understand what was good, or criticism that is sugar-coated and unclear. Or simply silence. Ruinous Empathy may feel nice or safe, but is ultimately unhelpful and even damaging. This is a feedback fail. In this Radical Candor podcast mini-episode, Kim talks about the biggest feedback fail of her career.

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How to Choose A Radically Candid Boss 3 | 12 Dec 14, 2021

If you're in the market for a new job and you are lucky enough to have multiple offers, or you’re in a position where you can afford to wait for the right opportunity, you don’t have to pay the asshole tax. On this episode of the Radical Candor podcast, Kim, Jason and Amy talk about how to suss out whether your potential new boss is going to help you move toward the direction of your dreams or get in your way. Listen now to learn how to find a Radically Candid boss.

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How to Get Feedback 3 | Mini Nov 29, 2021

There is an order of operations to practicing the principles of Radical Candor. The first thing to do is to ask for criticism, especially if you’re the boss. But how can you do this in a way that's not awkward? On the latest mini-episode of the Radical Candor Podcast, Kim explains how to solicit feedback with a simple four-step process.

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Retain Your Team During the Great Resignation 3 | 11 Nov 15, 2021

You’ve likely heard about the Great Resignation — perhaps you’re even one of the millions of people who’ve bid their jobs farewell over the past few months. On this episode of the Radical Candor podcast, Kim, Jason and Amy talk about how bad bosses, lack of transparency and poor communication are leading to a mass exodus of mid-level workers. How can you retain your team? Listen to find out how a series of small adjustments can help!

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How to Give Feedback 4 | Mini Nov 01, 2021

There are a few things we suggest for folks looking to give Radically Candid Feedback, our HIP and CORE framework. Kim breaks it down on our latest mini-episode of the Radical Candor podcast. Here’s a way to think about how to be more kind and clear with criticism and more specific and sincere with praise. Radical Candor is HIP: Humble, Helpful, Immediate, In person (or on video), Private criticism / Public praise and Not about Personality. Radically Candid praise and criticism both include caring and a challenge. In order to make sure your praise tells the other person what was good and shows them what to do more of and your criticism shows them what to do less of, use the CORE method. C — Context (Cite the specific situation), O — Observation (Describe what was said or done), R — Result (What is the most meaningful consequence to you and to them?) E — nExt stEps (What are the expected next steps?). Read the show notes >>

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How to Encourage Feedback Between Others 3 | 10 Oct 18, 2021

It’s a lot easier to lead by example than it is to change other people’s behavior. If you want to encourage feedback between the people on your team or at your organization, you’re going to have to create an environment where people feel safe and encouraged to give real feedback. On this episode of the Radical Candor podcast, Kim, Jason and Amy talk about how to encourage feedback between others so you can keep this whole Radical Candor thing going after you've read the book, listened to a keynote or taken a workshop.
Read the show notes >>
Show the Radical Candor store >>

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Eliminate the Phrase 'Don't Take It Personally' from Your Vocabulary 3 | Mini Sep 23, 2021

When giving feedback, you should expect emotion. Even when you don’t personalize, it’s personal. That’s why you should eliminate the phrase, “Don’t take it personally” from your vocabulary. In this Radical Candor podcast mini-episode, Kim explains why It’s futile to say in response to emotion, “Don’t take it personally!” Part of your job as a boss (and as a human being) is to deal with emotional responses, not to dismiss them or pretend they’re not there or avoid them. View the show notes >>

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How to Practice Radical Candor With Your Boss 3 | 9 Sep 08, 2021

We get a lot of questions about how folks can practice Radical Candor with their bosses as many people are reluctant to give feedback to their managers. It's true that it can be really daunting, and a little risky, to practice Radical Candor with your boss, but it’s such an important skill. If you can share feedback with your boss, you’ll have a much stronger working relationship, enjoy your work more, and be able to do better work together. So, how do you do it? On this episode of the Radical Candor podcast Kim, Jason and Amy discuss clearing the cruft and the art of upwards feedback. View the show notes >>

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The Problem With Passion 3 | 8 Aug 09, 2021

On this episode of the Radical Candor podcast, Amy and Jason discuss what Kim refers to in Radical Candor as “the problem with passion.” You’ve likely heard some form of the phrase, “do what you love and you’ll never work a day in your life.” But, should your job and your passion be the same thing? What’s more, is it a manager’s responsibility to ensure each person who reports to them is passionate about their position? Listen to find out! Read the show notes >>

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Development Versus Management—The Measurement Problem 3 | 7 Jul 08, 2021

Most everyone has had a boss who failed at performance development⁠—helping people on their team grow and move forward in their careers. The way you think about developing the skills of the people in your organization and how you think about performance management must be aligned. It is a manager’s job to both help each person on their team develop and grow in their career, and also to transparently assessing the performance of each person, commonly called performance management. On this episode of the Radical Candor podcast, Kim, Amy and Jason talk about why you can’t have effective performance reviews if you’re not also practicing performance development. Read the show notes >>

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It's Not Mean, It's Clear 3 | Mini Jun 08, 2021

According to research from Gallup, less than 15% of managers feel confident that the feedback they provide to employees is effective and only 26% of employees say the feedback they receive from their managers is helpful. Sound familiar? If you're forgetting the helpful part of Radical Candor, your feedback is probably falling flat. On the second mini-episode of the Radical Candor podcast, Kim explains why Radical Candor is helpful and talks about the helpful feedback she got from a complete stranger that gave her words to live by: It's not mean, it's clear. Read the show notes >>

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Practicing Radical Candor In Remote Workplaces 3 | 6 May 31, 2021

With more teams working remotely over the past year than ever before, we've received a few questions from folks about how to practice Radical Candor in remote workplaces. On this episode of the Radical Candor podcast, Kim, Jason and Amy talk about how to give feedback to remote employees, what works for the remote Radical Candor team and why it's important to allow your workers time to grieve and heal from the trauma of the past 18 months. Read the show notes >>

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What is Radical Candor? Radical Candor 6-Minute Crash Course 3 | Mini May 13, 2021

Welcome to the Radical Candor podcast's first mini-episode. We'll be posting these bite-sized 5-10 minute mini Radical Candor podcast episodes between regular episodes. These quick hits will feature Kim Scott, Radical Candor author and co-founder, giving actionable tips that allow you to put specific parts of Radical Candor into action immediately. In this first mini-episode, Kim breaks down the principles of Radical Candor in six minutes. Radical Candor is Caring Personally while Challenging Directly. At its core, Radical Candor is guidance and feedback that’s both kind and clear, specific and sincere.

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Let's Talk About Bullying In Remote Workplaces 3 | 5 Apr 28, 2021

The Workplace Bullying Institute describes workplace bullying as: “Repeated mistreatment of an employee by one or more employees; abusive conduct that is: threatening, humiliating, or intimidating, work sabotage, or verbal abuse.” In its 2021 survey, the WBI noted that 43% of remote employees reported being bullied at work with 50% of that bullying taking place in meetings. On this episode of the Radical Candor podcast, Kim, Amy and Jason talk about combatting bullying in remote work environments. See the show notes >>

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Gauge the Feedback You're Giving & Getting 3 | 4 Apr 05, 2021

Do you ever wonder how the feedback you give others is landing? How about your reaction to the feedback you're receiving? This giving-and-getting feedback stuff can be tricky. On this episode of the Radical Candor podcast, Amy and Jason talk about how to gauge feedback. In other words, how does the feedback that you give land for the other person? One of the things that we'd like to say is that Radical Candor is measured, not at the speaker's mouth, but at the listener's ear. And, this applies to the feedback you give as well as the feedback you get. Read the show notes >>

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Bias, Prejudice & Bullying at Workplace 3 | 3 Mar 09, 2021

On this episode of the Radical Candor podcast, we're bringing back our Radically Candid Conversations series. Amy talks to Kim Scott about her new book Just Work: Get Sh*t Done, Fast & Fair , and her new company Just Work that she's launching with Trier Bryant. Kim and Trier break down how to recognize, address and eliminate bias, prejudice and bullying in the workplace to create more just working environments. Buy the book, learn about the company and listen to the podcast to learn why just work environments aren't just the right thing to do, they're also good for business. Read the show notes, order the book and download the transcript >>

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Context Matters — Share Your Radical Candor Stories 3 | 2 Feb 25, 2021

On this week's episode of the Radical Candor podcast, Amy and Jason discuss why it's so important to share your stories with your team. Show some vulnerability. Your personal stories will explain, better than any management theory, what you really mean and show why you really mean it. That’s why Kim tells all those personal stories in Radical Candor. Your stories will mean a lot more to your team than other people’s stories do because they mean something to you. So, what makes a good story, and what's appropriate to share? Amy and Jason break it down. See the transcript and show notes: https://www.radicalcandor.com/podcast/share-your-radical-candor-stories/

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Are You a Quiet or Loud Listener? Listening Lessons from Apple 3 | 1 Feb 10, 2021

Kim writes in Radical Candor that Apple CEO Tim Cook is a master of silence, a quiet listener. She describes Steve Jobs as a loud listener. What's the difference between quiet and loud listening? On the first episode of the Radical Candor podcast season 3, Kim, Jason and Amy debate the merits of both loud and quiet listening Kim experienced firsthand while working with Steve Jobs and Tim Cook at Apple. Is quiet listening creepy? Is loud listening aggressive? Listen to the Radical Candor podcast to find out! Read the show notes for actionable Radical Candor tips and more information about quiet and loud listening: https://www.radicalcandor.com/podcast/quiet-or-loud-listener

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Navigating Emotional Reactions at Work 2 | 16 Dec 14, 2020

Whether you’re the one getting emotional or you’re giving someone feedback and they react with unexpected emotion, it’s important to recognize that while you can’t control or manage other people’s emotions, you can manage your emotional reactions at work. On the final episode of season 2 of the Radical Candor podcast, Kim, Amy and Jason talk about how to navigate emotional reactions at work. The worst thing you can do is ignore emotional reactions. Emotions like anger, sadness and fear are part of the human condition, and people shouldn’t have to leave their humanity at home when they come to work.
We’re offering Radical Candor podcast listeners 10% off our self-paced e-course and workplace comedy series, The Feedback Loop, starring Kim Scott and David Alan Grier. Go to radicalcandor.com/services and enter the promo code FEEDBACK at checkout.

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What's In It for Me? Weighing Your Peer-to-Peer Feedback Options 2 | 15 Nov 16, 2020

How can you get your employees more engaged at work if they're not invested in the company long term, and is it your obligation to be Radically Candid with a peer at work who you know is lying? On this episode of the Radical Candor podcast, Amy and Jason answer listener questions, discuss their stints working in food service (their experiences involve mayonnaise and organized crime) and muse whether or not people can be more like Clay Christensen. See the show notes: www.radicalcandor.com/podcast/peer-to-peer-feedback/

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Manipulative Insincerity, Talking ABOUT People Instead of TO Them 2 | 14 Oct 20, 2020

Manipulative Insincerity is what happens when you neither Care Personally nor Challenge Directly. It’s praise that is non-specific and insincere, or criticism that is neither clear nor kind. It’s the kind of backstabbing, political, passive aggressive behavior that might be fun to tell stories about but makes for a toxic workplace, ruining relationships and ruining work.

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Intersection of Technology & Human Relations: Radically Candid Conversations 2 |13 Oct 06, 2020

Our podcast series, “Radically Candid Conversations,” features experts and guests who help us learn, reflect and put our insights into action. This episode of the Radical Candor podcast features Debora Spar, a Harvard Business School professor and former Barnard College president. Kim talks to Debora about her new book Work Mate Marry Love: How Machines Shape Our Human Destiny. Kim and Debora discuss the intersections of technology and human relationships.

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Relationships, Not Power, Drive You Forward 2 | 12 Aug 27, 2020

Kim and Jason answer listener questions and share their experiences about being a boss who's younger than their direct reports and having their wings clipped by an absentee manager who isn't invested in their success. They also agree that chair-throwing management styles aren't an effective way to get things done (as Kim learned when she threw her bike helmet at a window when dealing with a bad boss at a former job).

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Building for Everyone: Radically Candid Conversations 2 | 11 Aug 19, 2020

Our podcast series, “Radically Candid Conversations,” features experts and guests who will help us learn, reflect and put our insights into action. This episode features Annie Jean-Baptiste, head of product inclusion at Google and author of Building For Everyone: Expand Your Market With Design Practices From Google's Product Inclusion Team. Kim and Annie discuss how to build inclusive products, teams and experiences.

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You Can't Talk to Me That Way 2 | 10 Aug 06, 2020

If someone has approached you and said, "In the spirit of Radical Candor ..." and then proceeded to act like a total jerk, you've experienced how some people use Radical Candor to justify being their worst selves. This behavior is not Radical Candor; it's what we call Obnoxious Aggression. Kim, Jason and Amy agree that nobody should have to pay the asshole tax or work for a seagull swoop-and-poop boss. They also explain why Radical Candor is actually compassionate candor versus a license to act like a jerk.

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Meet Like A Boss — The 411 On 1:1s 2 | 9 Jul 30, 2020

If you're a boss, 1:1 meetings with your direct reports are a must-do. The purpose of a 1:1 meeting is to listen and clarify — to understand what direction each person working for you wants to head in, and what is blocking them. These meetings are your single best opportunity to listen, really listen, to the people on your team to make sure you understand their perspective on what’s working and what’s not working. On this episode of the Radical Candor podcast, Kim, Amy and Jason share tips about how to have effective 1:1s, even when you can't be together in person, and Kim sings a few notes from the Hall and Oats song "One On One."

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The Go-To Question 2 | 8 Jul 23, 2020

Being the boss doesn’t mean you automatically get respect from people, but the authority does have an automatic impact on what people will say to you. Unfortunately, people are primed to mistrust you based on all the preconceived notions against bosses. As the boss, you’ll tend to get more flattery than critical feedback that can help you learn and grow. Kim, Jason and Amy talk about how bosses can get real talk from employees by asking a go-to question.

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Proactive Forbearance 2 | 7 Jul 16, 2020

Kim, Jason and Amy discuss how doing less can lead to more success. Kim recommends creating a proactive forbearance list where you list all of the things you're not going to do. Instead of feeling guilty about not doing the things on your list, celebrate them. This allows you to focus on the things you actually need to get done now. In addition, Jason explains the spoon theory and Amy talks Radical Dandor.

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Digging In to Toxic Stew 2 | 6 Jul 08, 2020

Radical Candor readers regularly reach out to us for advice about how to Care Personally and Challenge Directly. On this episode, Amy and Jason shed some light on how to give upwards feedback, how to give feedback to direct reports without making them develop a fear of coffee, how introverts can manage expectations about impromptu feedback, and how to Care Personally about someone you have nothing in common with.

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Using Radical Candor to Improve DEI Conversations 2 | 5 Jun 26, 2020

Our new podcast series, “Radically Candid Conversations,” features experts and guests who will help us learn, reflect, and put our insights into action. Our second episode features Tiffani Lee, a partner at the law firm Holland & Knight, who recently wrote in an article about addressing racial injustice for Law360: "Our response to the grave injustice of this moment must be informed by Radical Candor." In this discussion, Kim and Tiffani explore how practicing Radical Candor can be a helpful framing when addressing systemic racism; why it’s so important to have the difficult conversations so many of us were trained not to have in the workplace; the importance of metrics and storytelling in creating a diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace; and what we all can learn, whatever industry we’re in, from lawyers and law firms working to create more just workplaces.

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Radically Candid Conversations: Anti-Racism 2 | 4 Jun 15, 2020

Our first discussion with Kim Scott and Dr. A. Breeze Harper, Ph.D., a diversity and inclusion strategist, antiracism scholar and facilitator, explores how to practice Radical Candor when addressing systemic racism; the historical origins and research-based understanding of white, racialized consciousness; what it means to be antiracist and how to practice anti-racism, and how we can be antiracist leaders, parents and citizens.

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Unhappy Cats In a Pond: Challenging Directly During a Crisis 2 | 3 May 20, 2020

In its most basic form, Radical Candor is a framework to facilitate communication that is kind, clear, specific and sincere. It’s about being able to Care Personally and Challenge Directly at the same time. While this kind of communication is always important for building trust and maintaining relationships, it’s even more important during a crisis when anxieties are heightened and everything is uncertain. Kim, Jason and Amy unpack how to Challenge Directly during a crisis without losing your humanity. Go to www.radicalcandor.com/podcast/challenging-during-a-crisis for comprehensive show notes.

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Zoom Roulette & Other Ways to Check In With Remote Teams 2 | 2 May 06, 2020

Even though we're physically distant at work, that doesn't mean we can't cultivate caring and candid relationships with peers, managers and direct reports. On this episode of the Radical Candor podcast, Kim, Jason and Amy talk about how to effectively check in with teams of all sizes while working remotely.

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Leading With Kindness & Clarity During a Crisis 2 | 1 Apr 22, 2020

Radical Candor author and co-founder Kim Scott talks with Kelly Leonard, executive director of insights and applied improvisation at Second City Works and author of the book, Yes, And: Lessons from The Second City, talk about how an improv mindset coupled with practicing Radical Candor can help managers lead remote teams with kindness and clarity during times of uncertainty. This special discussion is moderated by Radical Candor CEO Jason Rosoff.

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Can I Give Feedback to Peers? Should I? | 23 Jun 06, 2017

The purpose of feedback is to help people find more success, so it’s CRAZY to think it’s only the manager’s job to give feedback. It’s everyone’s job! In this episode, Kim and Russ share stories and advice for giving feedback to your peers… and avoiding the pitfalls.

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It’s About Humans, Not Resources | 22 May 30, 2017

Do you ever get so caught up in achieving results at work that you forget that the people around you are real people? Even the most empathetic of us can make this mistake. This episode, Kim and Russ are joined by guest Al Guido, President of the San Francisco 49ers, to share stories and advice for putting the human back in human resources.

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More Time Hiring = Less Time Firing | 21 May 23, 2017

Building a great team is critical for bosses, but how do you bring on the right people? Interviewing and hiring is so hard to do — in this episode, Kim and Russ share some of their mistakes, what they’ve learned, and advice for a better hiring process.

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Help! My Boss is an Absentee Manager | 20 May 16, 2017

Absentee managers may not be as frustrating as micromanagers, but they’re even more common and can have a negative impact on your career. Kim and Russ share stories of absentee managers, talk about whether to just make do with this type of boss, and give their tips for what to do when you find yourself with an absentee manager.

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Being a Boss Isn’t for Everyone… Including Some Bosses | 19 May 09, 2017

How do you know if management is right for you? Maybe you’re thinking about becoming a boss, or you’re already a boss but aren’t sure you want to be. Kim and Russ are joined by guest Hunter Walk, Partner at Homebrew, to share stories and advice for making this decision.

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We Couldn't Decide on a Title for This Episode | 18 May 02, 2017

Decisions are critical to keeping your team moving forward, but a lot of people struggle to make them. Kim and Russ share advice to help you make sure that perfect doesn’t become the enemy of good.

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Promotion Schmomotion | 17 Apr 25, 2017

Everyone loves promotions, right? Well…not so fast. Kim and Russ talk about how promotions might be hurting you and your team and suggest some other ways to think about recognizing high performers.

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Take Feedback Like a Boss | 16 Apr 18, 2017

Feedback helps you grow, right? So why is it so hard to take? Kim and Russ share their tips and techniques for what to do after you get feedback.

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What's Your Body Language Telling Me? | 15 Apr 11, 2017

We keep saying that in person feedback is best...why is that? Body language! You can learn a lot from someone else's body language, and you can also use your own body language to communicate. Join Kim, Russ, and guest Amy Chang of Accompany to learn how body language can help you out at work.

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Guide for New Managers | 14 Apr 04, 2017

Maybe you're a first-time manager at a new company. Maybe you've been promoted within your current company. Either way, you probably have a lot of questions about how to work best with your team and get the best results. Rest assured, Kim and Russ are here to help.

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Help! My Boss is a Micromanager | 13 Mar 28, 2017

If you’ve ever had a micromanager boss, you know how frustrating and demotivating it is to be micromanaged. You feel powerless — what can you do? Kim and Russ have some advice for these situations.

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Make Meetings Less Awful | 12 Mar 21, 2017

Meetings can be an extremely frustrating part of work. But they don't have to be! Listen to this episode with guest Claire Johnson of Stripe to discover a meeting opportunity you may be missing, learn how to combat the worst meeting habit, and get some tips you can use to start improving your meetings this week.

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Creating a Culture of Radical Candor | 11 Mar 14, 2017

By now you're familiar with the ideas behind Radical Candor -- Care Personally and Challenge Directly. How can you take these ideas and make organizational change? In this episode, Kim and Russ talk about how to create a culture of Radical Candor in your own workplace.

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Staying Connected with Remote Teams | 10 Mar 07, 2017

When your team or boss doesn't work in the same location you do, communicating and building a strong relationship are much harder! Kim and Russ share stories of their challenges and successes and give advice for staying connected with remote teams.

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Showing Appreciation Makes Work More Fun | 9 Feb 28, 2017

In honor of Employee Appreciation Day, this Friday, March 3rd, Russ and Kim talk about cultivating a sense of appreciation within your team. They explain why many bosses aren’t great at this and share some tips for showing appreciation this week!

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How to Give Feedback to Your Boss | 8 Feb 21, 2017

Being able to give your boss feedback is one of the key ways not to hate the boss you have! But this can be extremely daunting and sometimes risky…how do you do it so that you’ll be heard and not shut down?

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How to Get Feedback from Your Boss | 7 Feb 14, 2017

Feedback is critical for success, so what happens if you aren’t getting the feedback you need? It can feel hard to ask for feedback, especially from your boss, but Russ and Kim have some advice! This episode is all about how to get feedback from your boss.

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Telling People What to Do Doesn't Work | 6 Feb 07, 2017

One of the most common mistakes bosses make is thinking their job is to tell people what to do. But that doesn’t work! So how can you get people moving in the same direction and achieving results collaboratively? Listen to this week’s episode for tips from Russ and Kim about how NOT to tell people what to do.

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Career Conversations | 5 Jan 31, 2017

As a manager, your job is to help your people grow. But have you ever asked yourself, “Grow into what?” This week, Russ and Kim talk about a technique for getting to know the people on your team, understanding the things that motivate them, learning about their dreams, and helping them make tangible progress towards those dreams.

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Ruinous Empathy and Criticism | 4 Jan 24, 2017

Giving criticism isn't usually something that people look forward to, but it needs to be done! If you don't give criticism when it's needed, you end up hurting people you care about by being "too nice." Kim and Russ both share stories about learning this the hard way, and some tips to help you avoid Ruinous Empathy.

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Ruinous Empathy and Praise | 3 Jan 17, 2017

Have you ever received praise that made it feel like you were just getting a pat on the head? Or have you ever given someone praise because you wanted them to like you? This episode is for you! This week on the Radical Candor podcast: Ruinous Empathy and praise, with special guest, Dick Costolo!

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Radically Candid Criticism | 2 Jan 10, 2017

Radical Candor Episode 2 is here! In this week’s episode, Russ and Kim talk about Radically Candid criticism. What is it and why does it work? They share stories about times they screwed up and then received Radically Candid criticism. Russ and Kim also give concrete tips for offering Radically Candid criticism in your own workplace.

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What is Radical Candor? | 1 Jan 02, 2017

Our first podcast episode is available now! This week Kim and Russ introduce the ideas behind Radical Candor, tell how they learned these lessons the hard way, and share practical tips for better relationships at work.

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