Truth, Lies, and Work is an award-winning psychology podcast brought to you by the HubSpot Podcast Network. It’s presented by Chartered Occupational Psychologist Leanne Elliott and business owner Al Elliott, offering insights and expert advice on creating amazing workplace cultures.

Dark Empaths in the Workplace

Leanne discusses a fascinating article from BBC Science Focus on "dark empaths"—individuals with dark personality traits like narcissism and psychopathy combined with above-average empathy. In the workplace, this blend can lead to manipulation masked as understanding. Leanne explores how leaders can foster accountability and transparency to minimize these challenges.

Link: Dark Empaths – BBC Science Focus

How to Mend a Broken Work Relationship

Al dives into an insightful Harvard Business Review article by Susan David. From learning to focus on shared goals to small gestures of goodwill, discover practical tips for mending workplace rifts.

Link: HBR Podcast: Repairing Work Relationships

The Great Homeworking Experiment

Leanne examines the pros and cons of remote work, highlighting research by Gail Kinman and Christine Grant. While remote work boosts productivity and inclusivity, it also presents challenges like overwork and mental health strain. The takeaway? Tailored hybrid models might be the future of work.

This week, we hear from Amy McKeown, a workplace health expert who’s challenging the status quo. Amy believes the term "wellbeing" is on its way out, arguing for clearer language and strategies focused on health and mental health. She also sheds light on how the industry is undergoing a massive correction.

Learn more about Amy’s upcoming course, "Do Workplace Health Right," featuring workplace culture luminaries like Peter Cheese and Dr. Clayre Fernandez.

Find out more about the course here.

This week, Leanne answers three listener questions:

1. Overwhelmed EA: An Executive Assistant struggling to juggle additional responsibilities outside their role.
2. Salary Disparities: A manager grappling with knowledge of unequal pay after an accidental spreadsheet reveal.
3. Anonymous Suggestion Box Shenanigans: A business owner balancing humorous feedback with serious workplace improvements.

General Support with Mental Health and Well-being

If you have been affected by any of the themes in this episode, or are currently struggling with your mental health, the following resources may be useful.

Mind website: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/

If you are feeling in distress or despair, including feelings of suicide, please do consider calling the Samaritans for free on 116 123 (UK) or email jo@samaritans.org (Rest of World)

Connect with Al and Leanne

Join the Conversation on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/truthlieswork/

Connect with Al on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisisalelliott/

Connect with Leanne on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meetleanne

Email: Hello@truthliesandwork.com

Book a Call with Al & Leanne: https://oblonghq.com/book/