Truth, Lies and Work

Latest Episodes:

143. How a ‘bad manager’ got 100m views on social media Nov 07, 2024

Show notes

Welcome to another episode of Truth, Lies & Work, the award-winning psychology podcast brought to you by the HubSpot Podcast Network. Join your hosts Leanne Elliott, business psychologist, and Al Elliott, business owner, as they explore the nuances of workplace culture and generational differences in today's work environment.

In this week’s episode, we explore leadership through humor with Kate Waterfall Hill, the creator of the viral TikTok character, Linda the Bad Manager.

With over 100 million views and 200,000 followers, Linda hilariously illustrates the common pitfalls of management while raising awareness about poor leadership practices.

Kate shares her journey from a marketing prodigy to a leadership consultant and author of the upcoming book How to Lead, launching on November 12, 2024.

Key Talking Points:

Inspiration Behind Linda: How Kate’s personal experiences in management shaped her comedic portrayal of Linda.
Cultural Resonance: The reasons why audiences relate to Linda and recognize her traits in real-life managers.
Lessons in Leadership: Insights on common management mistakes and the importance of coaching for effective leadership.
Empowering Communication: The impact of modern communication tools on workplace dynamics and employee empowerment.
Upcoming Book Insights: What readers can expect from How to Lead, releasing on November 12, 2024, with the ebook available now.

Links and Resources:

Learn more about Kate: Waterfall Hill
Follow Kate on TikTok: @katewaterfallhill
Pre-order Kate's book How to Lead: Book Information (ebook available now)

Support with Mental Health and Well-being

If any of the topics in this episode have affected you, or if you need mental health support, please reach out to one of the following resources:

UK: Mind offers mental health support and information. For those in distress, call Samaritans at 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org.
US: Contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK or text HOME to 741741 to connect with a crisis counselor.
Rest of the World: Visit Befrienders Worldwide to find a helpline in your country.

Connect with Truth, Lies & Work

YouTube: Truth, Lies & Work YouTube Channel
TikTok: Truth, Lies & Work TikTok
Instagram: Truth, Lies & Work Instagram
LinkedIn: Truth, Lies & Work LinkedIn
Connect with Al Elliott: LinkedIn
Connect with Leanne Elliott: LinkedIn
Email: Reach out at hello@truthliesandwork.com
Book a Meeting: Schedule a meeting with Al & Leanne here.

142. LinkedIn’s Personal Touch, Gen-Z’s Job Exodus, and the Psychology of Facial Expressions. PLUS! Eman Ismail’s Hot Take on Email Marketing Nov 05, 2024

Show notes

Welcome to another episode of Truth, Lies & Work, the award-winning psychology podcast on the HubSpot Podcast Network. Join hosts Leanne Elliott, chartered psychologist, and Al Elliott, business owner, as they break down the latest news and insights in the workplace, sharing practical advice to help you lead and work more effectively.

In this week’s episode, we delve into the changing face of LinkedIn, the alarming trend of Gen-Z and Millennials planning to leave their jobs, and the psychology behind our facial expressions, followed by a Hot Take from email marketing expert Eman Ismail, who shares insights into the importance of personalised communication in today’s digital landscape. And as always, we round things out with the Workplace Surgery, where Leanne tackles listener questions on managing difficult work dynamics, modern benefits packages, and navigating political conversations at work.

Segment 1: News Roundup

LinkedIn’s Shift from Professionalism to Personalisation

We explore how LinkedIn has evolved from a polished professional platform to a space filled with personal updates, and the implications of this shift. We discuss a recent example involving Brewdog co-founder James Watt, whose engagement announcement received mixed reactions, raising questions about appropriate content for the platform.

Gen Z and Millennials Are Ready to Move On

Recent research from Oak Engage reveals that nearly 60% of Gen Z and over 50% of Millennials are planning to leave their jobs within the year. We analyze the findings and discuss what leaders can do to bridge the generational divide and keep these younger workers engaged and motivated.

The Psychology of Facial Expressions at Work

We discuss a new study from the University of Essex that shows how our facial expressions can influence our mood, and what this means for workplace dynamics. We reflect on how awareness of our expressions can impact team morale and communication.

Segment 2: Hot Take with Eman Ismail

Eman Ismail joins us to share her thoughts on the shift from general email blasts to personalized, targeted communication strategies. She explains why understanding your audience is crucial for effective marketing and how businesses can leverage AI to enhance their email marketing efforts.

Segment 3: Workplace Surgery

Navigating Deception in the Workplace

A listener asks for advice on whether to speak up about their manager’s misrepresentation of a project’s status to the CEO, which could have serious consequences for the business.

Reevaluating Employee Benefits Packages

Another listener seeks guidance on modernizing their benefits package to meet the expectations of younger employees without creating a divide among staff.

Managing Political Discussions in a Diverse Workplace

An HR manager expresses frustration over younger employees’ preoccupation with U.S. politics and wonders how to handle political conversations in the workplace.

Support with Mental Health and Well-being

If any of the topics in this episode have affected you, or if you need mental health support, please reach out to one of the following resources:

UK: Mind offers mental health support and information. For those in distress, call Samaritans at 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org.
US: Contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK or text HOME to 741741 to connect with a crisis counselor.
Rest of the World: Visit Befrienders Worldwide to find a helpline in your country.

Connect with Truth, Lies & Work

YouTube: Truth, Lies & Work YouTube Channel
TikTok: Truth, Lies & Work TikTok
Instagram: Truth, Lies & Work Instagram
LinkedIn: Truth, Lies & Work LinkedIn
Connect with Al Elliott: LinkedIn
Connect with Leanne Elliott: LinkedIn
Email: Reach out at hello@truthliesandwork.com
Book a Meeting: Schedule a meeting with Al & Leanne here.

141. Gen-X's brutal honesty about work (and Gen-Z secretly agrees) Oct 31, 2024

Show notes

Welcome to another episode of Truth, Lies & Work, the award-winning psychology podcast brought to you by the HubSpot Podcast Network. Join your hosts Leanne Elliott, chartered psychologist, and Al Elliott, business owner, as they explore the nuances of workplace culture and generational differences in today's work environment.

In this episode, we look at into the contrasting approaches of Generation X and Generation Z towards work, featuring insights from two guests who are deeply entrenched in the professional services sector. Annabelle Murphy, a Gen Z accountant from MAP, shares her experiences in a predominantly young workplace, while Jeremy Cline, a Gen X lawyer turned career coach, discusses his journey in a multi-generational environment.

Key Topics Discussed:

Career Paths and Entry into Professions

Annabelle and Jeremy describe their unique journeys into their respective fields, highlighting the different routes taken by each generation.

Meaning and Purpose in Work

We explore how each generation perceives meaning and purpose in their jobs, with surprising revelations about their shared values.

Diversity and Inclusion

Annabelle and Jeremy provide candid insights into how diversity and inclusion have evolved over the years and the impact on workplace culture.

Work-Life Balance and Mental Health

The conversation turns to the challenges of maintaining a healthy work-life balance, with both guests discussing their experiences with burnout and mental health.

Advice for Generation Alpha

As the newest generation prepares to enter the workforce, our guests share valuable advice for those who will soon navigate their careers.

Connect with Our Guests:

Annabelle Murphy – LinkedIn Profile
Jeremy Cline – Change Work Life

Support with Mental Health and Well-being

If any of the topics in this episode have affected you, or if you need mental health support, please reach out to one of the following resources:

UK: Mind offers mental health support and information. For those in distress, call Samaritans at 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org.
US: Contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK or text HOME to 741741 to connect with a crisis counselor.
Rest of the World: Visit Befrienders Worldwide to find a helpline in your country.

Connect with Truth, Lies & Work

YouTube: Truth, Lies & Work YouTube Channel
TikTok: Truth, Lies & Work TikTok
Instagram: Truth, Lies & Work Instagram
LinkedIn: Truth, Lies & Work LinkedIn
Connect with Al Elliott: LinkedIn
Connect with Leanne Elliott: LinkedIn
Email: Reach out at hello@truthliesandwork.com
Book a Meeting: Schedule a meeting with Al & Leanne here.

140. BBC Email Blunder, Amazon’s Culture Crisis, and the Battle for BooHoo. PLUS! Will Giangrande's Hot Take on Gen-Z Oct 29, 2024

Show notes

In this week’s episode, we dive into shocking workplace blunders, corporate culture clashes, and leadership drama in the retail industry, followed by a Hot Take from Gen-Z thought leader Will Giangrande, who shares insights into what Gen-Z brings to today’s workplaces. And, as always, we round things out with the Workplace Surgery, where Leanne tackles listener questions on mental health policies, personality testing, and navigating tricky family dynamics at work.

Segment 1: News Roundup

Accidental Emails and Office Drama

BBC Radio 5 Live presenter Tony Livesey accidentally sent an email critiquing his co-host’s performance—to the co-host herself. We discuss why such slip-ups can be damaging and how they reveal the importance of professionalism and civility in the workplace. Read more

Amazon Employees’ Public Criticisms of Workplace Culture

A former Amazon employee went viral on LinkedIn with her account of how the company’s culture has changed for the worse. We explore the implications of such public critiques and why even loyal employees are becoming vocal about their dissatisfaction. Read more

The Battle for Boohoo: Mike Ashley vs. Mahmud Kamani

A showdown is brewing between retail tycoon Mike Ashley and Boohoo co-founder Mahmud Kamani over control of Boohoo. We break down the high-stakes power moves and the impact this could have on Boohoo’s employees and future. Read more

Segment 2: Hot Take with Will Giangrande

Gen-Z workplace advocate Will Giangrande joins us to discuss how inexperience can be an asset. Drawing from his work as a Certified Facilitator and his podcast 19 Year Old Shrink, Will argues that Gen-Z’s fresh perspectives and willingness to question the status quo are reshaping traditional workplaces. He explains why companies that embrace Gen-Z's curiosity and innovative thinking stand to benefit.

Follow Will on LinkedIn
Listen to 19 Year Old Shrink Podcast

Segment 3: Workplace Surgery

Handling Mental Health Leave Requests as an HR Manager

A listener questions how to balance compassion for mental health with ensuring productivity, particularly when mental health leave requests seem to follow challenging performance discussions.

When Personality Testing in Hiring Backfires

A small company implementing personality assessments in hiring finds that candidates are being turned off.

Family Dynamics in a Family-Run Company

An executive assistant feels caught in family drama between a CEO and his family members.

Support with Mental Health and Well-being

If any of the topics in this episode have affected you, or if you need mental health support, please reach out to one of the following resources:

UK: Mind offers mental health support and information. For those in distress, call Samaritans at 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org.
US: Contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK or text HOME to 741741 to connect with a crisis counselor.
Rest of the World: Visit Befrienders Worldwide to find a helpline in your country.

Connect with Truth, Lies & Work

YouTube: Truth, Lies & Work YouTube Channel
TikTok: Truth, Lies & Work TikTok
Instagram: Truth, Lies & Work Instagram
LinkedIn: Truth, Lies & Work LinkedIn
Connect with Al Elliott: LinkedIn
Connect with Leanne Elliott: LinkedIn
Email: Reach out at hello@truthliesandwork.com
Book a Meeting: Schedule a meeting with Al & Leanne here.

139. Why we're still lonely at work, with Dr. Connie Hadley Oct 24, 2024

Show notes

Welcome to Truth, Lies & Work, the award-winning psychology podcast brought to you by the HubSpot Podcast Network. In this episode, hosts Leanne Elliott and Al Elliott sit down with Dr. Connie Hadley, organizational psychologist and researcher, to discuss a critical issue facing today’s workforce - loneliness in the hybrid workplace.

Contrary to popular belief, Dr. Hadley’s latest research shows that hybrid work may not be the leading cause of loneliness at work. Instead, the episode highlights the true drivers of workplace loneliness and offers practical strategies for leaders to foster stronger connections within their teams.

Key Topics Discussed:

Misconceptions About Hybrid Work and Loneliness

Dr. Hadley challenges the widely held belief that hybrid or remote work automatically leads to feelings of isolation. Instead, she explains how company culture, leadership practices, and organizational support systems play a much bigger role in determining whether employees feel connected or lonely.

The Role of Leadership and Culture

One of the major takeaways is how leaders can create environments that minimize loneliness, regardless of the work setting. Dr. Hadley discusses the importance of leadership engagement and the value of fostering a high-trust culture to ensure employees feel seen, heard, and valued.

Practical Solutions for Combatting Loneliness

The episode is packed with actionable tips for managers and HR professionals to implement within their own organizations. Dr. Hadley shares her research-backed strategies, including social opportunities like virtual team lunches and casual conversations during meetings, to help strengthen team bonds even when working remotely.

Measuring Loneliness in the Workplace

Dr. Hadley has also created a Self-Assessment Tool that employees and companies can use to measure workplace loneliness. By identifying feelings of isolation early, organizations can take proactive steps to enhance the social well-being of their teams.

Featured Resources:

HBR Cover Story on Workplace Loneliness: Read Dr. Hadley’s insightful article on why loneliness persists in today’s workplaces and what can be done about it: We’re Still Lonely at Work
Free Self-Assessment Tool: Curious about how lonely you are at work? Take the free assessment to find out and see how your company can help: Loneliness Self-Assessment Tool
Scientific Report on Loneliness: For those wanting a deeper dive into the research, check out Dr. Hadley’s full scientific report here: Workplace Loneliness Report

Connect with Dr. Connie Hadley:

LinkedIn: Connie Hadley
Website: Institute for Life at Work

Support with Mental Health and Well-being

If any of the topics in this episode have affected you, or if you need mental health support, please reach out to one of the following resources:

UK: Mind offers mental health support and information. For those in distress, call Samaritans at 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org.
US: Contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK or text HOME to 741741 to connect with a crisis counselor.
Rest of the World: Visit Befrienders Worldwide to find a helpline in your country.

Connect with Truth, Lies & Work

YouTube: Truth, Lies & Work YouTube Channel
TikTok: Truth, Lies & Work TikTok
Instagram: Truth, Lies & Work Instagram
LinkedIn: Truth, Lies & Work LinkedIn
Connect with Al Elliott: LinkedIn
Connect with Leanne Elliott: LinkedIn
Email: Reach out at hello@truthliesandwork.com
Book a Meeting: Schedule a meeting with Al & Leanne here.

138. October theory explained, finding purpose, and EY's latest scandal. PLUS! Dr Audrey Tang's Hot Take on burnout - This Week in Work, 22nd October 2024 Oct 22, 2024

Show notes

Welcome back to Truth, Lies & Work, the award-winning psychology podcast brought to you by the HubSpot Podcast Network. Join your hosts Leanne Elliott, chartered psychologist, and Al Elliott, business owner, as they bring you the latest workplace trends, news, and insights, along with practical advice to improve work culture, well-being, and leadership in your business.

In this week’s episode, we dive into three thought-provoking articles, react to the latest corporate scandals, and feature a Hot Take from a special guest, Dr. Audrey Tang, on the flaws of individual-based burnout solutions.

Segment 1: News Roundup

October Theory – The New Year Reset in Autumn

Leanne introduces us to the concept of October Theory, a trend gaining traction on social media where influencers are treating October as a reset month for setting new goals. The October Theory

Finding Purpose After Burnout – Lessons from Suneel Gupta

Al highlights an article from CNBC featuring Suneel Gupta, who sold his wellness company for $20 million but still felt burnt out and unhappy. Gupta shares tips on finding purpose at work. Full article: 8 Practices for Finding Purpose

EY’s Cheating Scandal – Multitasking Gone Wrong

Leanne brings up a recent scandal involving EY (Ernst & Young), where employees were fired for streaming multiple training sessions simultaneously, violating the company’s ethical guidelines. Full article: The Times Coverage

Segment 2: Hot Take with Dr. Audrey Tang

We welcome back Dr. Audrey Tang, Chartered Psychologist, TEDx speaker, and award-winning author, to share her hot take on burnout. Dr. Tang argues that individual burnout solutions, like stress management workshops, are only half the battle. Real change comes from fixing the systemic issues within the workplace. She advocates for a psychosocial safety approach, similar to physical health and safety practices, where the focus is on preventing the root causes of burnout, rather than treating symptoms.

Workplace Surgery:

Is it Wrong to Automate Your Job?

A listener shares their dilemma about a co-worker who automated their tasks without informing management, leading to praise for efficiency. Should the listener report this to HR?

Introverts vs. Forced Social Events

Another listener writes in about their discomfort with mandatory team-building activities, as an introvert.

Staying Visible While Working Remotely

We help a listener struggling with feeling invisible in their company after choosing to work remotely.

Connect with Dr Audrey

Website

Previous Interview on Truth, Lies and Work

Support with Mental Health and Well-being

If any of the topics in this episode have affected you, or if you need mental health support, please reach out to one of the following resources:

UK: Mind offers mental health support and information. For those in distress, call Samaritans at 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org.
US: Contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK or text HOME to 741741 to connect with a crisis counselor.
Rest of the World: Visit Befrienders Worldwide to find a helpline in your country.

Connect with Truth, Lies & Work

YouTube: Truth, Lies & Work YouTube Channel
TikTok: Truth, Lies & Work TikTok
Instagram: Truth, Lies & Work Instagram
LinkedIn: Truth, Lies & Work LinkedIn
Connect with Al Elliott: LinkedIn
Connect with Leanne Elliott: LinkedIn
Email: Reach out at hello@truthliesandwork.com
Book a Meeting: Schedule a meeting with Al & Leanne here.

137. How to have difficult conversations at work, with HR Experts Kathleen Troyer and Liz Bronson Oct 17, 2024

Show notes

Welcome to Truth, Lies & Work, the award-winning psychology podcast brought to you by the HubSpot Podcast Network. Join hosts Leanne Elliott, chartered psychologist, and Al Elliott, business owner, as they help you simplify the science of work.

In today’s episode, we’re tackling one of the most challenging aspects of workplace dynamics - having difficult conversations. We’re joined by two outstanding experts in the world of people and culture, Kathleen Troyer and Liz Bronson, co-hosts of the Real Job Talk podcast.

Together, they share practical advice on how to handle conflict, polarizing topics, and tough discussions at work.

Meet Our Guests:

Kathleen Troyer is the CEO and Lead Consultant at Jigsaw Solutions Inc., where she specializes in leadership development and business strategy. Known for helping leaders engage in uncomfortable but necessary conversations, Kat shares her insights on creating psychologically safe workplaces.
Liz Bronson, a Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR), has dedicated her career to fostering inclusive and supportive company cultures. Her experience spans companies like Barclays Global Investors, VMware, and ThriveCart.

Key Discussion Points:

The Impact of External Events on Workplace Dynamics

Kat and Liz discuss how global events like political upheavals, economic instability, and distressing news have forever altered how we interact in the workplace.

How to Defuse Tension and Maintain a Positive Culture

In today’s polarized world, workplace conflict is inevitable. Our guests explore how leaders can guide difficult conversations, focusing on empathy, transparency, and respect.

Bringing Your Whole Self to Work

Kat and Liz debate whether this is truly feasible in today's diverse workplaces and discuss the importance of creating inclusive environments where everyone feels they belong, regardless of differing opinions.

Aligning Company Values with Employee Behavior

Kat and Liz stress the importance of living company values, not just displaying them on a wall.

When to Have the Uncomfortable Conversation

Our guests provide practical advice on how to approach difficult conversations when tensions rise in the workplace.

Resources Mentioned:

Check out the Real Job Talk podcast: Real Job Talk
Connect with Kathleen Troyer on LinkedIn: Kathleen Troyer
Connect with Liz Bronson on LinkedIn: Liz Bronson

Support with Mental Health and Well-being

If any of the topics in this episode have affected you, or if you need mental health support, please reach out to one of the following resources:

UK: Mind offers mental health support and information. For those in distress, call Samaritans at 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org.
US: Contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK or text HOME to 741741 to connect with a crisis counselor.
Rest of the World: Visit Befrienders Worldwide to find a helpline in your country.

Connect with Truth, Lies & Work

YouTube: Truth, Lies & Work YouTube Channel
TikTok: Truth, Lies & Work TikTok
Instagram: Truth, Lies & Work Instagram
LinkedIn: Truth, Lies & Work LinkedIn
Connect with Al Elliott: LinkedIn
Connect with Leanne Elliott: LinkedIn
Email: Reach out at hello@truthliesandwork.com.
Book a Meeting: Schedule a meeting with Al & Leanne here.

136. WordPress drama and the CEO big birthday crisis, PLUS Oliver Yonchev's Hot Take on A.I. - This Week in Work, 15th October 2024 Oct 15, 2024

Show notes

Welcome back to Truth, Lies & Work, the award-winning psychology podcast brought to you by the HubSpot Podcast Network. Join hosts Leanne Elliott, chartered psychologist, and Al Elliott, business owner, as they explore the latest trends, news, and workplace insights that are shaping the future of work.

In this week's episode, we tackle a range of stories from leadership struggles to the ongoing debates about remote work. Plus, we have an exciting new Hot Take segment featuring Oliver Yonchev, an entrepreneur and former CEO of Flight Story, the global marketing group founded with Steven Bartlett. Oliver shares his bold predictions about the future of AI and how it will shape the way we work.

Segment 1: News Roundup

Milestone Birthdays and CEO Performance

Leanne dives into a study called The Big Birthday Crisis, which explores how CEOs nearing milestone birthdays, like 49 or 59, see a significant dip in company performance.

WordPress vs. WP Engine Drama

Al breaks down the recent feud between Matt Mullenweg, the founder of WordPress, and WP Engine.

Remote Work vs. In-Office Connection

Leanne covers a new study from Cornell University that challenges the idea that people form stronger bonds in person versus over video calls.

Segment 2: Hot Take with Oliver Yonchev

This week’s Hot Take comes from Oliver Yonchev, former CEO of Flight Story. Oliver’s bold prediction? He believes that AI will be able to do most of what humans do—and do it better—within two years. He discusses how advancements in AI, driven by Moore’s Law, are accelerating at an unprecedented rate, and what this means for the future of work.

Connect with Oliver on LinkedIn

Listen to Oliver's Podcast Memes and Machines

Listen to Oliver's full interview on Truth, Lies and Work

Ep38: Oliver Yonchev and The Art of Possible: Creating a Culture of Success at Flight Story

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/oliver-yonchev_2269/

Segment 3: Workplace Surgery

Leanne answers listener questions, offering practical advice on the following:

Question 1: Proving the ROI of Well-being Initiatives

A listener with a consulting firm struggles to quantify the value of mental health and well-being programs in their company. Leanne shares tips on how to measure their financial impact and demonstrate ROI to skeptical finance teams.

Question 2: Understanding Employee Engagement vs. Satisfaction

A product manager asks about the difference between employee satisfaction and engagement, and Leanne breaks down why keeping employees happy is not the same as keeping them engaged—and why it matters.

Question 3: Balancing Client Demands and Employee Well-being

A small business owner faces the challenge of keeping up with demanding clients while managing their team’s burnout. Leanne offers strategies for maintaining client satisfaction without sacrificing employee well-being.

Resources Mentioned:

Well-being: Productivity and Happiness at Work by Sheena Johnson, Ivan Johnson and Carey Cooper

Secret password/Easter egg = Bobi Bean

Support with Mental Health and Well-being

If any of the topics in this episode have affected you, or if you need mental health support, please reach out to one of the following resources:

UK: Mind offers mental health support and information. For those in distress, call Samaritans at 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org.
US: Contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK or text HOME to 741741 to connect with a crisis counselor.
Rest of the World: Visit Befrienders Worldwide to find a helpline in your country.

Connect with Truth, Lies & Work

YouTube: Truth, Lies & Work YouTube Channel
TikTok: Truth, Lies & Work TikTok
Instagram: Truth, Lies & Work Instagram
LinkedIn: Truth, Lies & Work LinkedIn
Connect with Al Elliott: LinkedIn
Connect with Leanne Elliott: LinkedIn
Email: Reach out at hello@truthliesandwork.com.
Book a Meeting: Schedule a meeting with Al & Leanne here.

135. How to Get a Job in Tech: Insider Advice from Industry Veterans John White and Nick Korte Oct 10, 2024

Show notes

In today’s episode, we’re giving you a crash course in technology careers. Whether you’re looking to break into the industry, considering a career change, or simply curious about the tech world, this episode is packed with invaluable insights.

We’re joined by John White and Nick Korte, co-hosts of the Nerd Journey podcast, who share their decades of combined experience in various tech roles. They discuss what it really takes to build a successful career in the tech sector.

Key Topics Covered:

The Wide Range of Tech Roles
Getting Started in Tech
The Importance of Tinkering and Curiosity
The Reality of Tech Interviews
Salary Insights and Career Progression
Navigating Tech Company Culture
Staying Relevant in a Rapidly Evolving Field
Personal Stories

Resources Mentioned by John and Nick

Episodes on the Principal Engineer Role: For a list of discussions on the principal engineer role and its significance in the industry, visit Principal Engineer Episodes.
Max Kanat-Alexander (3 Episodes):
Part 1: Embracing the Open Source Spirit
Part 2: Succession Planning and Delegation Skills
Part 3: Scope Creep and Focusing on Essential Work
Ethan Banks: Discussion on doing work uniquely suited to your skills – Ethan Banks Episode.
Erik Gross's Tech Academy: Insights on coding bootcamps and leveraging valuable knowledge – Erik Gross Episode.
Kenneth Ellington and His Cyber Academy:
Part 1: Introduction to Cybersecurity
Part 2: Nurturing Cybersecurity Talent Development
VMware Explore 2024 Presentation: John’s talk on technical career progression, including slides and video – Uncovering the Patterns of Technical Career Progression.

Connect with John White & Nick Korte

Nerd Journey Podcast: nerd-journey.com
Email: nerdjourneypodcast@gmail.com
LinkedIn – Nick Korte: Nick Korte
LinkedIn – John White: John White

Support with Mental Health and Well-being

If any of the topics in this episode have affected you, or if you need mental health support, please reach out to one of the following resources:

UK: Mind offers mental health support and information. For those in distress, call Samaritans at 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org.
US: Contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK or text HOME to 741741 to connect with a crisis counselor.
Rest of the World: Visit Befrienders Worldwide to find a helpline in your country.

Connect with Truth, Lies & Work

YouTube: Truth, Lies & Work YouTube Channel
TikTok: Truth, Lies & Work TikTok
Instagram: Truth, Lies & Work Instagram
LinkedIn: Truth, Lies & Work LinkedIn
Connect with Al Elliott: LinkedIn
Connect with Leanne Elliott: LinkedIn
Email: Reach out at hello@truthliesandwork.com.
Book a Meeting: Schedule a meeting with Al & Leanne here.

134. Do childless bosses lack empathy? PLUS Gen-Z salary demands and Sonia Thompson’s Hot Take on Inclusion Oct 08, 2024

Show notes

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

If you love hearing how organisations, big and small, have built amazing workplace cultures, then our Thursday episodes are for you. But today, it’s all about the Weekly News Roundup, Hot Takes, and of course, the famous Workplace Surgery, where we answer your burning workplace questions.

Segment 1: News Roundup

Salary Transparency and Gen Z Talent

Leanne dives into a major shift: salary transparency is becoming crucial for attracting Gen Z talent. A new survey reveals that 85% of Gen Z workers are less likely to apply for a job if the salary isn’t listed. Read the full article.

Childless Bosses: Lacking Empathy?

Al discusses controversial new research that questions whether childless bosses lack empathy. Read more.

EDITOR'S NOTE: On publication of the episode, the author of the article, Soulaima Gourani, contacted us and asked us to clarify the article "raised a question for discussion but didn't conclude that moms or dads are better leaders.".

We believe our discussion reacted to the content of the article and the arguments presented by several sources that suggested leaders lack empathy if they are child-free. The author asked the question: Does Parenthood Make Better Bosses? Or reaction presented our arguments as to why we think 'no'.

We do not, however, want anyone featured in an episode of Truth, Lies and Work to feel misrepresented or unfairly treated. We invited the author on to the show to set the record straight and/or to provide a written statement for inclusion in the show notes. Both invitations have, to date, been declined.

Cynicism's Impact on Leadership

Leanne explores a new study on cynicism and its detrimental effect on leadership. Read more.

Segment 2: Hot Takes

This week’s Hot Take comes from Sonia Thompson, inclusive marketing consultant and host of the Inclusion and Marketing Podcast. Sonia’s bold insight? Stop expecting people to assimilate. Brands and employers need to embrace diversity by acknowledging differences and creating environments where everyone feels they belong—without having to change who they are. Sonia shares her thoughts on why inclusion is more than just a buzzword; it's a necessity for the future of work and marketing.

Segment 3: Weekly Workplace Surgery

Leanne answers listener questions:

Defining Company Values in a Growing Team

A founder is feeling the pressure to define core values for a growing team ahead of an all-hands retreat. ce.

Fear of Change in Family Business Succession

A business owner is worried that handing over control to his daughter and her partner will lead to drastic changes in the company’s traditional values.

Fostering Culture in a Remote Team

A CEO of a global marketplace is struggling to maintain a cohesive company culture with a remote team spread across four continents.

Podcast: https://inclusionandmarketing.com/author/soniaethompson/

Support with Mental Health and Well-being

If any of the topics in this episode have affected you, or if you need mental health support, please reach out to one of the following resources:

UK: Mind offers mental health support and information. For those in distress, call Samaritans at 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org.
US: Contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK or text HOME to 741741 to connect with a crisis counselor.
Rest of the World: Visit Befrienders Worldwide to find a helpline in your country.

Connect with Truth, Lies & Work

YouTube: Truth, Lies & Work YouTube Channel
TikTok: Truth, Lies & Work TikTok
Instagram: Truth, Lies & Work Instagram
LinkedIn: Truth, Lies & Work LinkedIn
Connect with Al Elliott: LinkedIn
Connect with Leanne Elliott: LinkedIn
Email: Reach out at hello@truthliesandwork.com.
Book a Meeting: Schedule a meeting with Al & Leanne here.

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