Workplace Weirdness™

Are Your Actions Reflecting Your LinkedIn Brand? | Workplace Weirdness S2E17

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 09:00:00 -0000

In this episode of Workplace Weirdness™, Maya talks to former journalist turned marketing consultant, Nicole Ramirez to talk about what’s really going on in the current workforce. From parental leave bias and return-to-office whiplash to burnout that nobody wants to admit out loud.

Nicole gets into why dads still get side-eyed for taking leave, how RTO can feel like a corporate plot twist, what burnout actually looks like inside a team (hint: it’s not just being tired), and how to build a personal brand that doesn’t read like a boring white paper—or an oversharing diary.

They also dig into the Beyoncé boss controversy, ice-cold layoffs, workplace loyalty (is it real?), and why your reputation matters more than your resume.

If you’re thinking about career growth, boundaries, leadership, remote work, or just trying to survive modern work culture with your sanity intact—this episode’s got you covered.

In this episode:

· Why LinkedIn remains a top platform for reaching decision-makers

· Common misconceptions about personal branding and why most posts read like either “white paper” or a “diary entry”

· How Nicole transformed a Forbes layoff into a successful personal brand and business

· Why return-to-office mandates can feel like a bait-and-switch

· What leaders should consider before attributing burnout to a lack of motivation

· Why equal parental leave policies matter for both mothers and fathers

· How to handle a manager who pressures you to shorten your parental leave

· The consequences when a brand’s public image diverges from its internal ethics

· Why your reputation is critical when you, yourself are the brand

· How to establish work boundaries proactively before the job starts defining them for you

Resources and Links:

Nicole Ramirez

· Website: nrdigitalconsulting.com

· LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/nicolerayeramirez

Maya Kadar Kovalsky

· LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/mayakadar

Workplace Weirdness

· Email: info@workplace-weirdness.com

· Website: workplace-weirdness.com

· Instagram: @workplaceweirdpod

Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is intended for entertainment purposes only and should not be construed as professional, legal, or workplace-specific advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified professionals for their individual situations .

The Truth About AI and Career Survival in the Zero Body Fat Era | Workplace Weirdness S2E16

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 11:31:00 -0000

In this episode of Workplace Weirdness, Maya Kadar Kovalsky sits down with Laura Close, Co-founder of AI workforce data platform, Included, to unpack how AI is changing hiring, career strategy, and what it really means to stay ready for what’s next. They also dig into what work looks like when middle management is shrinking, promotions keep going to external hires, and employees are stuck navigating misleading job descriptions and ethical pressure from leadership. Laura shares her blunt take on the modern labor market, why the employer loyalty contract is dead, and why more workers need to think strategically about leaving rather than waiting around for a company to suddenly do right by them. The conversation also explores how senior leaders can position themselves in an AI-driven job market, what to do when your role turns out to be completely different from what was promised, and how to handle workplace situations that cross an ethical line. This episode is a brutally honest look at promotions, workplace power, AI, and career survival when the rules of work are changing fast.

In this episode: [00:00:10] Introduction to Workplace Weirdness: Host Maya Kawalski introduces the show's focus on office drama and "weird" situations.

[00:00:45] Guest Introduction: Maya introduces Laura Close, an entrepreneur, executive advisor, and co-founder of the AI platform Included.

[00:01:25] The Origin of Included: Laura explains how she used AI to solve "precision data questions" and eliminate reporting bottlenecks for HR leaders.

[00:02:15] The "Zero Body Fat" Era: Laura describes the current labor market as a lean, athletic, and agile era where candidates must be self-reliant.

[00:02:40] Extended Job Search Timelines: Laura notes that senior leader searches have shifted from 4 months in 2015 to roughly 12 to 18 months today.

[00:03:15] Marketing Yourself Now: Advice on revamping resumes to focus on "owning and building systems" rather than general leadership or "soft" metrics.

[00:04:45] AI Literacy and Certifications: A discussion on why no one is "AI native" yet and how to select certifications based on brand recognition and price.

[00:08:50] The Weirdest Workplace Moment: Laura shares a story about a manager who loved pranking others but failed to acknowledge her own birthday, highlighting the "taker" vs. "giver" dynamic.

[00:11:00] The Week in Work: Shrinking Middle Management: Analysis of companies cutting middle managers in favor of AI and efficiency, and advice for those affected to consider starting their own businesses.

[00:14:40] Question 1: The External Hire Loop: A listener asks what to do when their company promotes external candidates over qualified internal ones. Laura’s blunt advice: "You have to leave the company".

[00:18:15] Question 2: The "Strategic" Admin Job: A listener is stuck doing admin work despite a high-level job title. Laura suggests networking with peers and using tools like Codex to automate tasks and build a new skillset.

[00:22:35] Question 3: Ethical Dilemmas in Sales: A listener is asked to lie to clients to hit targets. Laura advises never compromising ethics and suggests using diplomacy rather than internal reporting channels, which she views as "fragile".

[00:26:30] Final Thoughts and Contact Info: Laura shares her website (closecohen.com) and Maya wraps up the episode

Resources and Links:

Laura Close

· Website: closecohen.com

· LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/closelaura/

Maya Kadar Kovalsky

· LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mayakadar/

Workplace Weirdness

· Email: info@workplace-weirdness.com

· Website: workplace-weirdness.com

· Instagram: @workplaceweirdpod

April Fool’s Special: Turning the Tables on Maya With Guest HOST Dorie Clark

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 09:00:00 -0000

This is a special one-of-a-kind Turn the Tables episode of Workplace Weirdness.

For the first time, Maya Kadar Kovalsky is in the hot seat. And stepping in as the guest host is Marketing Strategist and TOP 50 Business Thinker In The World, Dorie Clark.

Maya opens up about her own weird workplace moments and lets us know the person behind the mic, how she thinks about work culture, and what shaped the voice of Workplace Weirdness. Maya also answers listeners' questions about everything from the reality behind “unlimited PTO” to the awkward rise of AI-assisted interviews. Dorie adds her unique perspective on leadership, career, and friendship.

This episode flips the format and goes deeper than usual. For the first time, you get a closer look at Maya, her background, leadership style, and personal take on workplace culture.

In this episode:

Dorie Clark hosts, and Maya takes the hot seat
Why unlimited PTO sounds great, but doesn’t always work
How to manage the stress of an AI-assisted interview
What to do when you’re accused of leaking confidential company info
How to handle awkward workplace situations when a holiday gift goes wrong
The time when Maya was mentioned negatively in a Glassdoor post.

Chapters:

[00:00:00] – Introduction: Dorie Clark introduces the special April Fools episode where she takes over as host, putting the usual host, Maya, in the "hot seat".
[00:01:25] – Quickfire Warm-up: Dorie leads Maya through a series of rapid-fire questions covering personal preferences, such as being a morning person versus a night owl and interests in K-dramas versus romance.
[00:02:40] – Management Style Questions: The warm-up shifts to workplace preferences, including the use of "talking sticks" in meetings and whether performance reviews should be conducted via emojis.

[00:03:15] – Maya’s Weirdest Moment: Maya shares a story about a technical failure where she realized an hour into an interview that she had forgotten to press the record button.
[00:05:15] – The "Champagne Incident": Maya discusses a "youthful mistake" where she sent champagne to employees during COVID-19, which resulted in an employee getting visibly intoxicated on camera during a mandatory training session.
[00:11:58] – The Alumni Sweatshirt: Maya describes a tradition she invented—giving "alumnus" sweatshirts to departing employees, though they were withheld if the person left under "unsavory circumstances".

[00:07:05] – The Unlimited PTO Trap: A listener asks for advice after receiving a warning email from HR for taking time off to care for a sick parent, despite the company's "unlimited PTO" policy.
[00:13:37] – AI Over-reliance in Interviews: A job applicant worries about an upcoming in-person interview after relying heavily on AI to assist with nerves during the initial remote screening.
[00:19:40] – The Confidential Leak Accusation: An employee seeks advice on how to defend themselves after being unfairly suspected of leaking internal documents simply because they were the only one not on vacation.

[00:16:55] – Overheard Moments: Maya reflects on the sting of discovering a mean Glassdoor post about herself and how she eventually learned to let go of the non-useful feedback.
[00:22:10] – The Counter-Offer Regret: Maya shares a story about a time she disagreed with a management decision to give a pay raise to an inadequate employee who had threatened to resign.
[00:24:50] – Sign-off and Credits: Dorie and Maya wrap up the show with a "virtual cheers," and Maya provides the final production credits.

Resources and Links:

Dorie Clark

· Website: https://dorieclark.com/

· LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/doriec/

Maya Kadar Kovalsky

· LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mayakadar/

Workplace Weirdness

· Email: info@workplace-weirdness.com

· Website: workplace-weirdness.com

· Instagram: @workplaceweirdpod

Why Leaders Ignore HR and How to Disrupt It | Former HR Director for The BBC Lucy Adams

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 09:00:00 -0000

In this episode of Workplace Weirdness, Maya sits down with Lucy Adams, former Head of HR at the BBC and CEO of Disruptive HR, to unpack why so much of modern HR still feels stuck in compliance, process, and risk management instead of influence, credibility, and real business impact.

Lucy shares what she learned from leading HR at The BBC, one of the world’s most scrutinized institutions, why annual performance reviews have had their day, how employers are gaming salary transparency, and what employees should actually do when they are stalled on promotions, hit with surprise HR meetings, or dealing with a boss who keeps taking credit for their work.

In this episode:

[00:00:00] Intro to Workplace Weirdness + Lucy Adams introduction
[00:01:00] Lucy Adams on her BBC roots and what it was really like leading HR there
[00:03:00] Lucy’s third book and why HR leaders often struggle to be heard
[00:05:00] Why Lucy launched Disruptive HR and where traditional HR goes wrong
[00:07:00] The HR practice Lucy thinks should disappear: annual performance reviews
[00:08:00] Lucy’s weirdest workplace moment begins
[00:09:00] Traveling to dangerous reporting zones and hostile-environment training at the BBC
[00:10:00] The terrifying mock gunman scenario and what it revealed about HR’s reputation
[00:11:00] “Week in Work”: salary transparency laws and employers gaming pay ranges
[00:12:00] Why vague salary ranges damage trust and candidate experience
[00:13:00] BBC salary transparency: publishing top leaders’ exact pay
[00:14:00] The downside of pay transparency and why Lucy still thinks it was worth it
[00:15:00] Listener question: “I’ve been promised a promotion for years. What now?”
[00:16:00] Lucy’s advice on asking for clarity without sounding threatening
[00:17:00] Why managers need to feel there’s some jeopardy if they keep stalling
[00:18:00] Maya’s take on visibility, ambition, and making your goals known
[00:19:00] Listener question: surprise HR meeting with no explanation
[00:20:00] How to respond to vague HR invites without spiraling
[00:21:00] Why HR should give context before scheduling scary-sounding check-ins
[00:22:00] Listener question: my boss keeps taking credit for my work
[00:23:00] Lucy on why escalating too fast can backfire
[00:24:00] Start with the direct conversation before going to HR or leadership
[00:25:00] Closing thoughts, Lucy’s resources, and final wrap-up
[00:26:00] End credits and subscribe reminder

Resources and Links:

Lucy Adams

· Website: https://disruptivehr.com/

Maya Kadar Kovalsky

· LinkedIn: Maya Kadar Kovalsky

Workplace Weirdness

· Email: info@workplace-weirdness.com

· Website: workplace-weirdness.com

· Instagram: @workplaceweirdpod

Before LinkedIn Took Over, Monster.com Ruled: Kat Kibben on Hiring Chaos | Workplace Weirdness

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 09:00:00 -0000

In this episode of Workplace Weirdness, Maya sits down with recruiting expert, writer, and speaker Kat Kibben to unpack the strange (and often frustrating) realities of modern hiring.

Kat brings over 15 years of experience, starting at Monster.com. They are known for helping teams write inclusive job postings and rethink how hiring actually works. A longtime voice in human-centered hiring, Kat shares why the language we use in job postings can make or break a candidate’s chances, and what companies get wrong more often than they realize.

In this episode:

The hidden reasons your job applications get ghosted
How biased job posting language quietly filters out talent
The real story behind internal roles that never get posted
What happens when candidates change their names to get interviews
Lessons from Kat’s unconventional career, including remote work from a van

Resources and Links:

Katrina Kibben

· Website: http://katrinakibben.com/

· LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katrinakibben/

Maya Kovalsky

· LinkedIn: Maya Kadar Kovalsky

Workplace Weirdness

· Email: info@workplace-weirdness.com

· Website: workplace-weirdness.com

· Instagram: @workplaceweirdpod

''Get Over Your Fear of Conflict!" w Audacity Broker Dethra Giles | Workplace Weirdness

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 09:00:00 -0000

In this episode of Workplace Weirdness, Maya Kadar Kovalsky is joined by Dethra Giles, a leadership strategist, Audacity Broker, and creator of the DARE Model for conflict resolution. Learn why so many leaders avoid conflict and how you can tackle workplace drama, navigate office politics, and confront uncomfortable situations head-on. From handling office saboteurs and gossip to embracing the audacity needed to lead, Dethra shares strategies that will help you navigate the toughest office dynamics. If you’ve ever felt undermined or struggled with conflict avoidance, this episode is for you!

We discuss:

Why conflict avoidance is costing you time, money, and credibility
The audacity required to handle tough conversations
How to manage office drama and gossip without losing your leadership role
Real-world strategies for embracing conflict and leading with courage

Resources and Links

Dethra Giles

Website - https://www.dethragiles.org/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dethragiles

Maya Kadar Kovalsky

Website - ⁠https://www.mayakadar.com/⁠
LinkedIn - ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/mayakadar/⁠

Workplace Weirdness

Email: ⁠info@workplace-weirdness.com⁠
SpeakPipe - ⁠http://speakpipe.com/workplaceweirdness⁠
Website - ⁠http://workplace-weirdness.com⁠
Instagram - ⁠https://www.instagram.com/workplaceweirdpod/⁠

This is an honest, practical and sometimes weird conversation about navigating work without losing your integrity or yourself.

Why Women Are Still Paying the Price at Work | Workplace Weirdness S2 EP11

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 09:00:00 -0000

In this episode of Workplace Weirdness, Maya Kadar Kovalsky is joined by Randi Braun, CEO of Something Major and author of Something Major: The New Playbook for Women at Work, for a candid conversation about power, parenthood, and inequity at work. From salary parity and exploitative hiring practices to emotionally manipulative managers and the motherhood penalty, this episode tackles the real situations women face every day, and what to do when your workplace fails you. We discuss: • Why working moms hold themselves to stricter professionalism • The difference between guilt and fear of other people’s opinions (FOPO) • How companies exploit free labor during recruitment • How “flexibility” and “feedback” are often used as control • The hidden cost of salary inequity and being accidentally CC’d on the truth This is an honest, practical and sometimes weird conversation about navigating work without losing your integrity or yourself. Resources and Links Randi Braun ➤ Website - https://www.somethingmajorcoaching.com/ ➤ LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/randi-braun-312a5423 Maya Kadar Kovalsky ➤ Website - ⁠https://www.mayakadar.com/⁠ ➤ LinkedIn - ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/mayakadar/⁠ Workplace Weirdness ➤ Email: ⁠info@workplace-weirdness.com⁠ ➤ SpeakPipe - ⁠http://speakpipe.com/workplaceweirdness⁠ ➤ Website - ⁠http://workplace-weirdness.com⁠ ➤ Instagram - ⁠https://www.instagram.com/workplaceweirdpod/⁠ Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is intended for entertainment purposes only and should not be construed as professional, legal, or workplace-specific advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified professionals for their individual situations.

Who Actually Gets Ahead? Workplace Bias with Vernā Myers, Netflix’s First VP of Inclusion Strategy | Workplace Weirdness S2 EP10

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 09:00:00 -0000

Is work actually merit-based, or do our systems just tell us they are?

In this episode of Workplace Weirdness, Maya Kadar Kovalsky sits down with Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion expert and thought leader Vernā Myers to unpack bias, inclusion, equity, and why conversations about difference have become so stigmatized at work.

From the myth of merit-based workplaces to how difference actually fuels innovation, Vernā shares insights from decades of experience, including her time as Netflix’s first VP of Inclusion Strategy. They also tackle real listener questions about appearance-based bias, career risk, and when recommending a friend at work goes wrong.

This is a thoughtful, honest conversation about fear, fairness, and what it really takes to build workplaces where people can thrive.

Resources and Links

Vernā Myers

Website - https://vernamyers.com/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/vernamyers/

Maya Kadar Kovalsky

Website - ⁠https://www.mayakadar.com/⁠

LinkedIn - ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/mayakadar/⁠

Workplace Weirdness

Email: ⁠info@workplace-weirdness.com⁠

SpeakPipe - ⁠http://speakpipe.com/workplaceweirdness⁠

Website - ⁠http://workplace-weirdness.com⁠

Instagram - ⁠https://www.instagram.com/workplaceweirdpod/⁠

The New Year Reset: Delete Your HR Tech and Start Over with William Tincup | Workplace Weirdness S2 E9

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 09:54:00 -0000

What happens when someone actually tells the truth about Human Resources, recruiting, and HR tech?

In this episode of Workplace Weirdness, Maya Kadar Kovalsky sits down with HR industry truth-teller William Tincup for an honest, open and unfiltered conversation about feedback, broken HR systems, AI hype, onboarding failures, and why most HR tech is solving last year’s problems.

William shares why he once told a founder to delete their entire product, why positive feedback is overrated, and why HR leaders don’t care how your tech works- only whether it works.

We cover:

Why unsolicited feedback is often useless
The real problem with HR tech and AI
What onboarding should actually feel like
Why skills now expire faster than milk
How leaders should think about talent, growth, and discomfort

If you work in HR, lead people, sell HR tech, or just enjoy uncomfortable workplace truths- this one’s for you.

Subscribe for more conversations about the weird, wonderful, and wildly human side of work.

In This Episode:

[00:00] Introduction to William Tincup
[01:08] Unpopular Opinions in HR Tech
[03:29] The Reality of Workforce Planning
[14:28] Listener Question #1: Transactional Office Friends
[17:24] Listener Question #2: Feeling Left Behind
[20:40] Cringeworthy Question: Onboarding Woes
[24:18] Conclusion and Farewell

William Tincup

Website - https://wrkdefined.com/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/williamtincup
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/williamtincup/reels/?hl=en

Maya Kadar Kovalsky

Website - ⁠⁠https://www.mayakadar.com/⁠⁠
LinkedIn - ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/mayakadar/⁠⁠

Workplace Weirdness

Email: ⁠⁠info@workplace-weirdness.com⁠⁠
SpeakPipe - ⁠⁠http://speakpipe.com/workplaceweirdness⁠⁠
Website - ⁠⁠http://workplace-weirdness.com⁠⁠
Instagram - ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/workplaceweirdpod/⁠⁠

Why Ace Hardware Should’ve Failed (But Doesn’t) with Kane Calamari | Workplace Weirdness S2 E8

Wed, 24 Dec 2025 08:00:00 -0000

If your workplace runs on “vibes” and surprise criticism in Q4… congrats, you’ve unlocked the bad timeline.

In this episode of Workplace Weirdness, Kane Calamari breaks down what real leadership, employee engagement, and HR strategy look like inside Ace Hardware, a company he says “should be failing,” and yet keeps winning.

We cover retail culture, co-op business models, leadership development, succession planning, retention strategy, and how to build trust with ongoing feedback instead of annual blindsides. Kane also shares how AI tools are already changing frontline work and why human leadership still matters most when cultures collide, teams merge, and communication breaks down (looking at you, Slack screenshots).

Hit the like, share and subscribe buttons for more conversations about workplace culture, HR leadership, management, career growth, and the weird stuff that makes you say: “there’s no way this happened at work.” But it did.

In This Episode

[00:00] A Special Connection at a Hardware Store
[01:13] Introduction to Kane Calamari
[02:13] Ace Hardware's Unique Business Model
[05:05] The Role of CHRO at Ace Hardware
[06:07] Lessons Learned in Leadership
[09:10] Weirdest Workplace Moment: The Drunk Futurist Incident
[13:06] Week in Work: AI's Impact on Retail Jobs
[17:07] Listener Question #1: Performance Review Blindsides
[19:53] Listener Question #2: Company Culture Fusion
[23:06] Cringeworthy Question: Slack Message Mishap
[27:10] Closing Remarks and Holiday Wishes

Resources and Links

Kane Calamari

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kane-calamari-53268014
Website - https://newsroom.acehardware.com/kane-calamari/

Maya Kadar Kovalsky

Website - https://www.mayakadar.com/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mayakadar/

Workplace Weirdness

Email: info@workplace-weirdness.com
SpeakPipe - http://speakpipe.com/workplaceweirdness
Website - http://workplace-weirdness.com
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/workplaceweirdpod/

AI, Holiday Party Fails, & the Future of Work: Are You Ready? with Jacob Morgan | Workplace Weirdness S2 E7

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 10:09:00 -0000

Do office holiday parties still have a place in today’s workplace? And what happens when AI is put in charge of planning your office festivities? Spoiler alert: things can get a little chaotic! We’ll dive into the dos and don’ts of office holiday parties, including the biggest mistakes employees make (hint: drinking too much and kissing colleagues are just the beginning).

In this hilarious and insightful episode of Workplace Weirdness, we explore the intersection of AI, holiday parties, and the evolving workplace culture. We sit down with Jacob Morgan, a futurist, leadership expert, and author, to discuss how AI is reshaping office dynamics and what that means for both employees and employers.

We also talk about AI’s impact on the future of work and how employees and leaders should navigate this tech-driven evolution. From AI-generated tasks to employee well-being, we explore the balance between automation and authentic connections in the workplace. Is AI a threat to company culture, or is it the future of employee productivity?

This episode will help you remain future-ready as we head into the new year, whether you’re navigating the challenges of flexible work arrangements, AI technology, or workplace culture shifts.

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode of Workplace Weirdness! Also, share it with your coworkers who might need a good laugh and some insights into the world of office oddities.

In This Episode: [0:00] Introduction to Jacob Morgan: Futurist and Author

[01:22] Understanding the Role of a Futurist

[02:52] AI and the Future of Work

[07:11] The Debate on Remote Work

[09:50] The Coffee Incident: A Career Turning Point

[12:05] Advice from CEOs: Taking Initiative

[13:03] Weekly Workplace Trends: Holiday Party Don'ts

[14:57] Listener Question #1: ADHD Accommodations

[20:37] Listener Question #2: Email Overload

[23:42] Cringeworthy Question: Religion at Office Parties

[25:52] Conclusion and Farewell
Resources and Links

Jacob Morgan

Books - https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B00703V3WO

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobmorgan8

Website - https://thefutureorganization.com/about/

Maya Kadar Kovalsky

Website - https://www.mayakadar.com/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mayakadar/

Workplace Weirdness

Email: info@workplace-weirdness.com
SpeakPipe - http://speakpipe.com/workplaceweirdness
Website - http://workplace-weirdness.com
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/workplaceweirdpod/

The Biggest Mistake Companies Make in Hiring with Lou Adler

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Still using outdated hiring methods? In this episode of Workplace Weirdness, we’ve got Lou Adler, the man behind Performance-Based Hiring, here to tell you why your traditional hiring process is not working for long term success. Lou’s been helping big names like AIG, LinkedIn, and McKinsey recruit top talent for decades, but he focuses on what candidates will actually do, not just their skills and experience.

Forget the old-school “ideal candidate” fantasy; Lou’s performance-based approach is changing the game. Lou’s method leads to better retention, higher performance, and lower turnover rates (which we can all agree is a win-win).

Oh, and don’t think you can just throw AI at the problem; human judgment is still key to hiring success. So if you want to get the best talent and build a killer team culture, Lou's got the secret.

Subscribe to our channel for more of this and learn how to hire smarter, not harder!

In This Episode:

[00:00] Meet Digital Lou
[01:17] Introduction to Lou Adler
[02:33] The Importance of Performance-Based Hiring
[06:04] The Role of AI in Hiring
[13:25] Week in Work: Audacious Hiring Practices
[17:39] Listener Question #1: When Wisdom Gets Mocked
[21:42] Listener Question #2: The Nonprofit Rollercoaster
[24:43] Cringeworthy Question: Facebook Faux Pas
[27:27] Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Mentioned

Book: Hire With Your Head: Using Performance-Based Hiring to Build Outstanding Diverse Teams by Lou Adler - https://www.amazon.com/Hire-Your-Head-Performance-Based-Outstanding/dp/111980888X
https://www.amazon.com/Essential-Guide-Hiring-Getting-Hired/dp/0988957418

Lou Adler

Website - ⁠⁠https://www.louadlergroup.com/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/louadler

Maya Kadar Kovalsky

Website - ⁠⁠https://www.mayakadar.com/⁠⁠
LinkedIn - ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/mayakadar/⁠⁠

Workplace Weirdness

Email: ⁠⁠info@workplace-weirdness.com⁠⁠
SpeakPipe - ⁠⁠http://speakpipe.com/workplaceweirdness⁠⁠
Website - ⁠⁠http://workplace-weirdness.com⁠⁠
Instagram - ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/workplaceweirdpod/⁠⁠

What Pokémon Go Teaches Us About Leadership with David Hanrahan

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 09:33:00 -0000

Remote work just got a lot weirder. In this episode of Workplace Weirdness, we dive into a real-life story that reveals just how far remote workers are willing to go to keep up appearances while pulling off this remote work scam. You won’t believe the lengths some employees are going to: working two full-time jobs without anyone knowing! But it’s not just about the scam. We’re also joined by David Hanrahan, SVP of People Success at SolarWinds, who shares his insights on remote work culture, hybrid teams, and how to build a strong company culture that can prevent remote work fraud. David has over 20 years of leadership experience from top companies like Niantic, Electronic Arts, Twitter, Universal Pictures, Zendesk, and Eventbrite, and he shares his experiences shaping company culture, the challenges of leading in a hybrid workforce, and how organizations can foster employee trust, collaboration, and transparency as the workplace evolves. From remote work issues to building high-performing teams, leadership development, and employee engagement, this episode covers everything you need to know about the current state of work and the crazy ways people are trying to take advantage of it. Learn how to tackle challenges in the remote work environment, work-life balance struggles, and ways to foster a healthy workplace culture. Hit subscribe to get more stories about remote work, leadership challenges, and the weirdness that goes on behind closed office doors. In This Episode [00:00] The Suspicious Remote Worker [01:44] Introduction to David Hanrahan [02:51] Pokemon Go and Company Culture [06:17] Building a Winning Culture at SolarWinds [10:32] Week in Work: In-Person Interview Comeback [16:03] Listener Question #1: Remote Work Challenges [20:06] Listener Question #2: Salary and Equity Issues [24:07] Cringeworthy Question: Break Room Ritual [27:57] Conclusion and Final Thoughts David Hanrahan LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidhanrahan Maya Kadar Kovalsky Website - ⁠⁠https://www.mayakadar.com/⁠⁠ LinkedIn - ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/mayakadar/⁠⁠ Workplace Weirdness Email: ⁠⁠info@workplace-weirdness.com⁠⁠ SpeakPipe - ⁠⁠http://speakpipe.com/workplaceweirdness⁠⁠ Website - ⁠⁠http://workplace-weirdness.com⁠⁠ Instagram - ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/workplaceweirdpod/⁠⁠ Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is intended for entertainment purposes only and should not be construed as professional, legal, or workplace-specific advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified professionals for their individual situations.

Emotional Intelligence Secrets to Accelerate Your Career with Claude Silver

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 10:27:00 -0000

How can you foster a work environment that is productive through effective leadership and emotional intelligence?

Leading with authenticity, building teams that collaborate and thrive, and creating a workplace where everyone can flourish is crucial in a successful business. In this episode, we explore the power of emotional intelligence in leadership and the transformative impact of vulnerability on building strong, authentic workplace cultures.

Claude Silver, the Global Chief Heart Officer at VaynerX and author of Be Yourself at Work, shares her insights on how emotional optimism, bravery, and efficiency can shape the future of leadership and team success. She dives into the importance of acknowledging and regulating emotions at work, showing how self-awareness and emotional resilience can lead to empowered leadership. Through genuine, empathetic leadership, you can foster a workplace environment that is both productive and compassionate, encouraging individuals to bring their whole selves to work.

As we discuss the challenges of balancing emotional expression with professional responsibility, Claude shares how to embrace vulnerability without compromising effectiveness and why emotional intelligence is the key to better leadership, stronger team collaboration, and creating a healthy work culture.

Don't forget to subscribe for more insightful conversations on leadership, career growth, and the most unexpected moments in office life!

In This Episode:

[00:00] Unexpected “Sick” Call
[01:22] Introducing Claude Silver
[02:35] Emotional Optimism, Bravery, and Efficiency
[08:08] The Role of Chief Heart Officer
[10:46] Identifying Superstars and Avoiding Politics
[16:13] Weirdest Workplace Moment
[16:53] Week in Work: The Modern Way of Navigating Overwhelm?
[20:52] Listener Question #1: Feeling Overlooked at Work
[24:53] Listener Question #2: Emotional Breakdown at Work
[29:13] Cringeworthy Question: Dealing with Inappropriate Behavior
[33:27] Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Mentioned

Book: Be Yourself at Work: The Groundbreaking Power of Showing Up, Standing Out, and Leading from the Heart - https://www.amazon.com/Be-Yourself-Work-Groundbreaking-Standing/dp/0063392437

Claude Silver

Website - ⁠⁠https://www.claudesilver.com/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/casilver
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/claudesilver/?hl=en

Maya Kadar Kovalsky

Website - ⁠⁠https://www.mayakadar.com/⁠⁠
LinkedIn - ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/mayakadar/⁠⁠

Workplace Weirdness

Email: ⁠⁠info@workplace-weirdness.com⁠⁠
SpeakPipe - ⁠⁠http://speakpipe.com/workplaceweirdness⁠⁠
Website - ⁠⁠http://workplace-weirdness.com⁠⁠
Instagram - ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/workplaceweirdpod/⁠⁠

Work Anxiety? Fight it With Gratitude With Chester Elton

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 08:30:00 -0000

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of workplace anxiety, recognition, and the impact of gratitude in leadership. Ever had the infamous Sunday scaries or struggled to manage a toxic boss? If so, this episode will resonate with you. We’ll discuss how mental health plays a crucial role in the workplace, especially when it comes to leadership and company culture. We’ll also tackle the challenges that come with workplace burnout, the overwhelming pressure to be “always on,” and how certain employees thrive in chaotic environments. Along the way, we'll explore the importance of gratitude practices to combat workplace stress and boost employee morale, and how creating a positive work culture can lead to better team dynamics and productivity. We’re joined by Chester Elton, bestselling author of The Gratitude Habit and Anxiety at Work. Chester shares valuable insights on mental health in the workplace, resilience, and how recognition and gratitude can transform a workplace from toxic to thriving. We also chat about his experiences in the corporate world, managing stress, and how showing kindness at work isn’t a sign of weakness but of strong leadership. Subscribe and hit the bell for more tips on workplace culture, employee engagement, and creating a supportive work environment! In This Episode:

[00:00] Introduction to Chester Elton
[03:35] The Power of Gratitude Journals
[05:34] Kindness in Unexpected Places
[07:44] The Importance of Gratitude in Leadership
[11:55] Weirdest Workplace Moments
[15:13] Week in Work: Meta vs. ChatGPT
[18:03] Generosity and Gratitude in the Workplace
[19:11] Listener Question #1: Thriving in Office Chaos
[25:30] Listener Question #2: Tokenism in DEI Initiatives
[29:59] Cringeworthy Question: Borrowing Money from Coworkers
[33:34] Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Resources & Links

Mentioned

Book: The Gratitude Habit - https://www.amazon.com/Gratitude-Habit-90-Day-Journal-Grateful/dp/B0CKWTZL9C
Book: Anxiety at Work - https://www.amazon.com/Anxiety-Work-Strategies-Resilience-Uncertainty/dp/0063046156

Chester Elton

Website - ⁠⁠https://chesterelton.com/
LinkedIn - ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/chestereltonInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/chester.elton/

Maya Kadar Kovalsky

Website - ⁠⁠https://www.mayakadar.com/⁠⁠
LinkedIn - ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/mayakadar/⁠⁠

Workplace Weirdness

Email: ⁠⁠info@workplace-weirdness.com⁠⁠
SpeakPipe - ⁠⁠http://speakpipe.com/workplaceweirdness⁠⁠
Website - ⁠⁠http://workplace-weirdness.com⁠⁠
Instagram - ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/workplaceweirdpod/⁠⁠

How Bad Bosses Can Shape Great Leaders With Mita Mallick

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Let’s take a deep dive into the most chaotic part of office life: bad bosses. What do you do when your boss is the definition of toxic leadership? Do you run, or do you stick it out and learn from them?

In this Workplace Weirdness episode, we’ll explore how toxic bosses can make or break your career, and how understanding their behavior can help you develop better leadership skills. We’ll discuss how bad bosses affect the workplace culture, create HR nightmares, and leave employees struggling with stress, confusion, and low morale. We also share how you can take control of the situation and grow into the kind of leader who turns chaos into opportunity.

We’re joined by Mita Mallick, author of The Devil Emails at Midnight, who’s lived through some of the worst boss experiences imaginable. From glass offices to tantrums that made you jump out of your seat, Mita shares how these bad bosses actually helped shape her career. We’ll explore how toxic work environments can get worse, how vulnerability in leadership can make you a stronger boss, and what we can all learn from the worst leadership styles.

If you’ve been there, survived that, or just want to know what NOT to do as a leader, this episode is your guide to turning even the worst work situations into growth moments.

Make sure to subscribe and hit the bell for more episodes covering everything from workplace chaos to leadership lessons and more!

In This Episode:

[00:00] The Nightmare Boss Experience
[01:55] Introducing Mita Mallick
[02:58] Exploring Bad Boss Archetypes
[04:30] Personal Reflections on Bad Bosses
[05:26] The Impact of Personal Life on Leadership
[07:33] Toxic Positivity in the Workplace
[09:29] Weirdest Workplace Moments
[13:30] Week In Work: Interview Tips to Spot Bad Bosses
[16:03] The Importance of Culture Chats in Hiring
[17:09] Listener Question #1: Watching TV at Work
[23:28] Listener Question #2: Dealing with a Bad Boss
[27:37] Cringeworthy Question: Oversharing Boss
[31:34] Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Mita Mallick

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mita-mallick-2b165822
Website - ⁠https://www.mitamallick.com/

Maya Kadar Kovalsky

Website - ⁠https://www.mayakadar.com/⁠
LinkedIn - ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/mayakadar/⁠

Workplace Weirdness

Email: ⁠info@workplace-weirdness.com⁠
SpeakPipe - ⁠http://speakpipe.com/workplaceweirdness⁠
Website - ⁠http://workplace-weirdness.com⁠
Instagram - ⁠https://www.instagram.com/workplaceweirdpod/⁠

What Happens When Dating and Work Collide? With Lian Zucker

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 09:26:00 -0000

Welcome to Season 2 of Workplace Weirdness! In this episode, we share funny stories about workplace crushes, dating disasters, and cringe-worthy encounters that will make you cringe (and laugh) out loud.

Have you ever had a crush on a colleague or found yourself in an unexpected workplace romance? You might relate to this episode! We share experiences on workplace crushes, dating a coworker, and the awkward moments that happen when romantic relationships mix with professional life. We’ll talk about the dos and don’ts of dating at work, how to keep things professional while managing a relationship with a coworker, and how HR should step in when things get complicated. We also discuss workplace dating policies, the hidden dangers of dating at work, and what happens when that office crush turns into a full-blown romance.

We’re joined by Lian Zucker, co-founder and CEO of Loop, who shares her take on navigating romantic relationships at work, setting boundaries, how to keep things professional when workplace dynamics start to get complicated, and how sometimes, things just don’t go as planned.

So if you're looking for guidance on how to date at work without crossing any lines, or just want to hear some crazy stories about dating coworkers, you’ll love this one.

Don’t forget to subscribe for more stories about office culture, workplace etiquette, and the weirdest HR moments.

In This Episode:

[00:00] Introducing Lian Zucker and Loop
[02:51] The story behind Loop's inspiration
[05:04] How Loop works
[07:27] Building a company with family
[09:03] Navigating workplace culture
[10:35] Weirdest workplace moments
[12:57] The week in work: Coldplay gate
[19:26] Listener question #1: Setting boundaries with colleagues
[24:26] Listener question #2: Struggles of a new manager
[29:05] Cringeworthy question: Awkward office flirtations
[32:41] Conclusion and guest farewell

Notable Quotes

[06:19] “Dating is less of a volume problem than you think, and much more so a problem of trust. When you get a warm introduction from someone you know or from someone in your community, you're much more likely to feel that trust.” — Lian Zucker

[07:34] “My joke is often that the best thing I've done for the company is to convince my brother to build it with me.” — Lian Zucker

[11:58] “Humans are so much more than checklists, and friends and matchmakers can really help you kind of overcome.” — Lian Zucker

[14:12] “Infidelity is inexcusable. I think it's been equally disheartening to kind of see the schadenfreude involved a lot of public shaming, and ultimately their families were wrecked.” — Lian Zucker

[16:35] “Historically, meeting in the workplace was very, very common. It can be a really great place to meet someone.” — Lian Zucker

Lian Zucker

LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/in/lianzucker/
Loop - https://www.loopmein.me/

Maya Kadar Kovalsky

Website - https://www.mayakadar.com/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mayakadar/

Workplace Weirdness

Email: info@workplace-weirdness.com
SpeakPipe - http://speakpipe.com/workplaceweirdness
Website - http://workplace-weirdness.com
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/workplaceweirdpod/

WD-40 Wisdom: Bravery, Blunders & Breakthroughs

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 09:42:00 -0000

In this episode of Workplace Weirdness, host Maya Kadar Kovalsky chats with Garry Ridge, former CEO of WD-40, about leadership, learning from failure, and why “dumbassery” might just be the secret ingredient to great leadership. Gary explains how embracing vulnerability, admitting you don’t have all the answers, and messing up a few times along the way can actually make you a stronger leader.

Gary opens up about his time at WD-40, the iconic blue-and-yellow can that’s been fixing squeaky hinges and rusting parts for decades. He explains how building a culture of learning and being okay with failure helped the company thrive. They also tackle listener questions about navigating awkward workplace situations, like surviving a gratitude circle after layoffs, handling the micromanagement label, and escaping an unexpected weekend shift at a trampoline park.

Tune in, you might just look at leadership a little differently after this one.

Key Takeaways

Embracing mistakes and vulnerability can unlock authentic leadership.
Great leaders don’t just manage, they coach and support their team through change.
Recognizing the power of asking “I don’t know” can create a more open, collaborative work environment.
Transparency and humility are key to gaining trust after tough situations like layoffs.
In leadership, authenticity outweighs trying to look like you have all the answers.
Setting clear boundaries, even with a boss, is essential for maintaining professional integrity.

In This Episode
- [00:00] What is WD-40?

[01:01] Meet Garry Ridge
[02:59] Why “Dumbassery” Is a Leadership Superpower
[07:25] Coach vs. Manager: What’s the Difference?
[09:18] Turning Mistakes into Learning Moments at WD-40
[16:01] Weirdest Workplace Moments
[19:01] Week in Work: Why Fear-Based Leadership Backfires
[26:01] Listener Question #1: Navigating Gratitude Circles After Layoffs
[33:12] Listener Question #2: Micromanagement Feedback and How to Handle It
[39:01] Cringeworthy Question: How to Decline an Unwanted Social Invitation
[44:27] Wrap-Up and Final Thoughts

Notable Quotes

[03:26] “ Admitting you're wrong and saying you don’t know is actually a superpower.” — Garry Ridge
[06:14] “ Success in business is not you being the smartest person in the room. It's you being in a room bringing out the smarts of everybody else. And once you expose yourself and display vulnerability, everybody else relaxes and suddenly you get an enormous amount of brain strength that comes out in the room.” — Garry Ridge
[20:27 “ If leaders think that building a fear-based culture where people want to escape from their workplace instead of escape to it, they have a wake up call coming for them.” — Garry Ridge
[34:17] “When your team calls you a micromanager, that’s feedback, not a defense.” — Garry Ridge

Garry Ridge

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/garryridge
The Learning Moment - https://thelearningmoment.net/

Maya Kadar Kovalsky

Website - https://www.mayakadar.com/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mayakadar/

Workplace Weirdness

Email: info@workplace-weirdness.com
SpeakPipe - http://speakpipe.com/workplaceweirdness
Website - http://workplace-weirdness.com
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/workplaceweirdpod/
Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is intended for entertainment purposes only and should not be construed as professional, legal, or workplace-specific advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified professionals for their individual situations.

Spotify, SoulCycle & the Science of Strong Cultures with Meredith Haberfeld

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 08:00:00 -0000

What does neuroscience have to do with leadership? How do you pivot from frog dissections to Fortune 500 boardrooms? And what do you do when your boss says you’re "great behind closed doors"... and not in a good way?

In this episode of Workplace Weirdness, host Maya Kadar Kovalsky is joined by the ever-dynamic Meredith Haberfeld, CEO of ThinkHuman and longtime advisor to companies like Spotify, SoulCycle, and Goldman Sachs. Meredith takes us on her wild journey from whitewater rafting guide to one of the most trusted names in executive coaching. And yes, there are weird workplace moments aplenty.

Together, they unpack everything from awkward culture faux pas and executive presence mishaps to burned-out CEOs, dueling project management systems, and what to do when you accidentally "like" your boss’s shirtless Instagram post from 2017. (Spoiler: Don’t panic.)

Key Takeaways

Why executive presence is less about posture and more about connection
How to lead teams through major change even when it's messy
What to do when your role changes... but no one told you first
Creative solutions to cross-functional dysfunction
Why emotional intelligence and business strategy must go hand-in-hand
How to handle embarrassing social media moments with humor and grace

In This Episode

[00:00] Introduction to Meredith Haberfeld
[04:19] Developing Executive Presence
[10:35] ThinkHuman: Finding the Right Fit
[13:18] Weirdest Workplace Moments: Boss calls her a "banger behind closed doors"
[16:13] The Week in Work: CEO Exodus
[23:01] Listener Question #1: Dueling Project Management Systems
[30:22] Listener Question #2: Outsourced Team Challenges
[36:50] Cringeworthy Question: Accidentally Liked My Boss’ Old Swim Selfie!
[40:35] Closing Remarks and Credits

Notable Quotes

[06:01] - “ I can take things on that I feel totally not equipped to do, and if I just relentlessly go for it, I eventually will be able to do it.” - Meredith Haberfeld
[09:11] - “ Sometimes women more than men might struggle with how to modulate their persona into a presence that can be taken seriously.” - Maya Kadar Kovalsky
[13:36] - “ In the startup world, for anybody who works in it, you end up with more in places you don't belong in a good way, 'cause you're like, all right, well we're a small team trying to build something, and here I am.” - Meredith Haberfeld
[19:41] - “ I really think leading is an incredible privilege. So if somebody is called to that and feels inspired toward that, hold it with the level of care that it deserves.” - Meredith Haberfeld
[27:52] - “ I think that the idea of purely digital written communication in a virtual or hybrid environment is just a fail.” - Meredith Haberfeld

Resources and Links

Meredith Haberfeld

Website - https://www.meredithhaberfeld.com/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/meredith-haberfeld-she-her-29aa7a5
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thinkhumankind/
ThinkHuman Website - https://think-human.com/

Maya Kadar Kovalsky

Website - https://www.mayakadar.com/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mayakadar/

Workplace Weirdness

Email: info@workplace-weirdness.com
SpeakPipe - http://speakpipe.com/workplaceweirdness
Website - http://workplace-weirdness.com
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/workplaceweirdpod/

Unbossed and Unbothered: Ex-Chief Creative Gets Real

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 08:48:00 -0000

Ever wondered what happens when you trade agency ownership for creative leadership?

In this episode of Workplace Weirdness, host Maya Kadar Kovalsky sits down with Paul McDowall, brand architect, former agency owner & co-founder of ClarkMcDowall, to discuss his unconventional career journey from Liverpool to New York and his transition into leadership at Vault49.

Paul shares insights from decades in branding, touching on the challenges of staying culturally relevant without losing brand identity. He opens up about the personal and professional growth that comes from letting go of ego, embracing new roles, and learning from failure.

They also explore how to navigate tricky workplace dynamics, including handling conflicting feedback from leadership, weighing the pros and cons of moving into consulting, and recovering gracefully from Zoom call blunders.

Tune in to hear reflections on leadership, resilience, and the joy of embracing the weirdness in the workplace!

Key Takeaways

You don’t have to lead to lead: A creative life can thrive without the title.
Ego can be a culture killer; humility and humanity build stronger teams.
Your brand’s future is written in its past... Go back to the DNA.
Flexibility and authenticity are driving today’s shift toward small consultancies.
If you’re stuck between bosses, don’t pick sides: document, clarify, and protect yourself.

In This Episode:

[00:00] Introduction to Paul McDowall
[02:18] Paul’s journey in the creative world
[06:00] Lessons from running a business
[09:10] The transition from boss to peer
[13:29] Paul’s weirdest workplace moment
[17:29] Week in Work: Un-bossing yourself
[20:32] Freelancer vs. consultant lifestyle
[21:09] Flexibility and challenges of small agencies
[21:36] Massive shifts in the industry
[23:34] Navigating conflicting bosses
[23:45] Creating supportive workplaces in education
[25:14 ] Listener Question #1: Stuck between feuding bosses
[30:31] Listener Question #2: Consulting as a career pivot
[36:09] Cringeworthy Question: Job hunting caught on Zoom
[39:24] Final thoughts and farewell

Notable Quotes

[03:02] “You can leave Liverpool, but Liverpool never leaves you.” — Paul McDowall

[06:24] “Fear is the biggest thing that holds us back.” — Paul McDowall

[07:17] “ Define your authentic self, your own tone of voice. That takes away a lot of the pressure.” — Paul McDowall

[08:40] “Ego silos us and it destroys culture.” — Paul McDowall

[11:43] “Gut instinct is there for a reason. It's why we think with our stomachs.” — Paul McDowall

[12:06] “For a brand to survive, you need to survive in culture.” — Paul McDowall

[18:05] “ For many managers who wanna un-boss themselves, letting go of management responsibilities can also be a little bit psychologically challenging.” — Maya Kadar Kovalsky

[31:47] “The hardest question in life is ‘what do I want?’”— Paul McDowall

[41:16] “The world doesn't need another asshole. So don't be one.” — Paul McDowall

Resources & Links

Paul McDowall

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-mcdowall-00b0b11
clarkmcdowall - http://www.clarkmcdowall.com
Vault 49 - https://www.vault49.com/

Maya Kadar Kovalsky

Website - https://www.mayakadar.com/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mayakadar/

Workplace Weirdness

Email: info@workplace-weirdness.com
SpeakPipe - http://speakpipe.com/workplaceweirdness
Website - http://workplace-weirdness.com
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/workplaceweirdpod/

Mentioned

WSJC Article: Can You 'Unboss' Yourself Without Ruining Your Career?

Art of Great Meetings, AI Anxiety and Antisocial Animals at Work

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 09:22:00 -0000

Meetings often get a bad rap, but did you know they can actually be the cornerstone of a positive workplace culture? In this episode of Workplace Weirdness, host Maya Kadar Kovalsky is joined by Hannah Dubin, founder of The Group Forward and a powerhouse facilitator with a background in camp leadership, corporate consulting, and culture design. Together, they explore what it really takes to lead humans—awkward moments, messy emotions, and all.

Hannah shares how her early work in summer camps shaped her facilitation style and why she believes your meetings reflect your workplace culture more than anything else. Hannah and Maya touch on topics like design thinking, power dynamics, and the importance of emotional intelligence in group settings. They also discuss the role of AI in the workplace and how to foster a culture of experimentation without fueling anxiety.

Key Takeaways

How design thinking helps build smarter solutions—with real human input.

AI adoption isn’t just about tech—it’s reshaping workplace power and pace.
Pitching yourself after a layoff? Package your value. Show, don’t tell.
How to deal with negative workshop feedback (and how to not take it personally).
When pets and professionalism clash—and what your dog’s behavior says about your judgment.

In This Episode:

[00:00] Introduction to Hannah Dubin
[04:10] Getting into facilitation and early inspiration
[07:15] Designing meetings for humans
[08:56] AI’s role in facilitation and experimentation
[10:33] Weirdest workplace moment
[13:47] Power literacy in the workplace
[14:54] Week in Work: AI reshaping the workplace
[26:08] Listener question #1: Edtech career pivot
[32:35] Listener question #2: Handling negative training feedback
[36:55] Cringeworthy question: pet-friendly office mishap
[41:12] Closing thoughts

Notable Quotes

[05:50] “You don’t change the world by telling people what to do. You change the world by asking, “Do you want to explore this question with me, and what do we want?" — Hannah

[07:30] "Your meetings are your culture. Period." — Hannah

[08:22] "How do I want the humans to feel before, during, and after the experience? You might have plowed through and crushed it on goal one, but if everybody feels like crap, then was that worth it?." —Hannah

[18:02] "I’ll tell you the truth. I feel like there is fear around AI, and anything we can do to dissipate that fear, I think, is positive. On the other hand, the fear comes from this end-of-the-world scenario where we think robots are taking over." — Hannah

[24:06] “'I love the idea of teams working together to build something, and I see work as a shared culture toward a positive goal.” — Hannah

[36:27] “You make yourself vulnerable when you stand in front of a room of people, and you’re just going to get better with more practice.” — Maya

Hannah Dubin

The Group Forward - https://www.thegroupforward.com/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannah-feldberg-dubin

Maya Kadar Kovalsky

Website - https://www.mayakadar.com/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mayakadar/

Workplace Weirdness

Email: info@workplace-weirdness.com
SpeakPipe - http://speakpipe.com/workplaceweirdness
Website - http://workplace-weirdness.com
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/workplaceweirdpod/

Mentioned

Forbes Article on AI Reshaping the Workplace - https://www.forbes.com/sites/solrashidi/2025/05/31/ai-is-reshaping-the-work-faster-than-companies-can-upskill/

Pushups, Poaching, & Professional Pivots

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 09:24:00 -0000

Ever wondered what it’s really like to run a gym beyond the sweaty workouts and Instagram selfies? In this episode of Workplace Weirdness, host Maya Kadar Kovalsky sits down with Matt Pack, founder of Primal Fit Miami and a fitness pro with 25 years under his belt, to get the unfiltered scoop on fitness entrepreneurship.

Matt shares the wild ride of starting his own gym, from jumping off the college basketball court into exercise science, to facing the scary leap of launching a business. They talk about why building friendships with clients is key, how word-of-mouth can make or break you, and the art of hiring coaches who not only know their stuff but fit the vibe. Plus, Matt weighs in on whether work-life balance in fitness is a myth or a must, and how to find your emotional “why” to keep going.

If you’re dreaming of a career in fitness, thinking about starting your own business or just want to survive the weirdest parts of work life, this episode is packed with real talk and tough lessons you don’t want to miss.

Key Takeaways

How setbacks (like a double knee injury) can become launchpads for reinvention.
The importance of hiring for personality first, skill second in people-focused businesses.
Why trainers are performers—and how knowing a client’s name can make or break retention.
The real cost of scaling too fast—and what Matt would do differently.
How to deal with trainers who poach clients—and the limits of non-competes.
Tips for instructors handling inappropriate client comments while protecting their income.
Why your “why” needs to make you cry—and how that emotional connection drives fitness success.

In This Episode:

[00:00] Introduction to Matt Pack
[03:28] Taking the leap to entrepreneurship
[04:42] Building relationships & gym culture
[07:23] Leadership challenges in gyms
[09:33] Lessons from early mistakes
[11:17] The dangers of overexpansion
[14:43] Weirdest workplace moment: Hygiene email
[19:36] A week in work: Work-life balance in fitness
[23:25] Finding your emotional “why”
[26:03] Listener Question #1: Networking for new instructors
[32:30] Listener Question #2: Client poaching by trainers
[38:43] Cringeworthy Question: Inappropriate client comments
[43:24] Closing thoughts & episode wrap-up

Notable Quotes

[22:40] "Consistency is everything. Consistency over perfection. And that's really what we're after with people." — Matt Pack

[23:19] "Most people need a why that is going to make them cry. And if it doesn't make you cry, you need to think of another why." — Matt Pack

[07:48] "I always try to hire personality first, and then I make them a good coach second." — Matt Pack

[10:37] "Sometimes bad things lead to really good things." — Matt Pack

[43:13] "All money is not good money. Some money's not worth it, right?" — Matt Pack

Resources and Links

Matt Pack

Primal Fit Miami - https://www.primalfit360miami.com/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-pack-077ab9123
Books by Matt Pack on Amazon - https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BSS6QQXD

Maya Kadar Kovalsky

Website - https://www.mayakadar.com/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mayakadar/

Workplace Weirdness

Email: info@workplace-weirdness.com
SpeakPipe - http://speakpipe.com/workplaceweirdness
Website - http://workplace-weirdness.com
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/workplaceweirdpod/

Tesla Termination & Time Zone Etiquette

Wed, 28 May 2025 08:00:00 -0000

What happens when you get fired by Elon Musk? For Billy Samoa, it wasn’t the end… It was the beginning.

In this episode of Workplace Weirdness, host Maya Kadar Kovalsky chats with Billy Samoa Saleebey, founder and CEO of Podify, a media company that powers podcast production and promotion. Together, they explore how even the most jaw-dropping workplace experiences can become the spark for reinvention. Billy shares the story of how his career took a sharp turn when he was let go as Tesla’s global head of training—only to find that losing a job doesn’t mean losing yourself.

Packed with humor, heart, and hard-won wisdom, this episode is a reminder that even the weirdest work moments can spark major growth—if you’re willing to lean into the discomfort.

Key Takeaways

Being laid off doesn’t have to define you; it can be a launchpad for new opportunities.
Embracing “rookie smarts” and creative approaches to training can catapult your career.
Feedback is a gift—creating a culture of open feedback strengthens team performance.
Empathy is key when juggling global teams and time zones.
When giving feedback, focus on what you want to contribute rather than what you’re missing.
Trust your gut in interviews. If something feels off, it probably is.

In This Episode:

[00:00] Introduction to Billy Samoa Saleebey
[02:22] Billy's career journey
[06:07] Lessons from early career mistakes
[09:22] The power of feedback
[11:14] Billy’s weirdest workplace moment
[21:39] Listener Question #1
[29:17] Listener Question #2
[36:29] Cringeworthy Question
[43:57] Final thoughts and takeaways

Notable Quotes

[00:04:37] "So many people take it personally when you're laid off... when in all reality, there are a lot of factors that go into how that decision is made." — Billy

[00:05:44] "I believe in radical transparency across life. I just think that the more you are open in general, good things happen." — Billy

[00:08:18] "I didn't try to follow a particular script. I let the experience lead the path." — Billy

[00:10:32] "Feedback is a gift. It helps you refine what you're doing, make you better at what you do, tells you what you're doing right." — Billy

Resources and Links

Mentioned Books

Rookie Smarts: Why Learning Beats Knowing in the New Game of Work by Liz Wiseman - https://www.amazon.com/Rookie-Smarts-Learning-Beats-Knowing/dp/006232263X
Your Brain at Work: Strategies for Overcoming Distraction, Regaining Focus, and Working Smarter All Day Long by David Rock - https://www.amazon.com/Your-Brain-Work-Strategies-Distraction/dp/0061771295
Audacious: How Humans Win in an AI Marketing World by Mark Schaefer - https://www.amazon.com/Audacious-How-Humans-Marketing-World/dp/B0DSHRN3PC
The Gift of Fear: And Other Survival Signals That Protect Us from Violence by Gavin de Becker - https://www.amazon.com/Gift-Fear-Survival-Signals-Violence/dp/0440226198

Billy Samoa Saleebey

Podify Website - https://podify.com/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/billysamoa
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/billysamoa/?hl=en
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/BillySamoaSaleebey/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/BillySamoa

Maya Kadar Kovalsky

Website - https://www.mayakadar.com/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mayakadar/

Workplace Weirdness

Email: info@workplace-weirdness.com
SpeakPipe - http://speakpipe.com/workplaceweirdness
Website - http://workplace-weirdness.com
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/workplaceweirdpod/

Breakup Bosses, Big Pivots and the Bro Code

Wed, 14 May 2025 09:19:00 -0000

In this episode of Workplace Weirdness, host Maya Kadar Kovalsky sits down with Neil Sharma, co-founder of SolarKal, to explore his fascinating career journey. Neil's story is one of bold transitions—from crunching numbers at Bank of America to rocking out at MTV, and finally making an impact in clean tech. His path proves that pursuing diverse interests can lead to a truly fulfilling career.

They dive into listener questions on making career pivots, including transitioning from finance to event planning, navigating an unexpected job offer at a startup, and managing the awkward situation of working with a former online date.

This episode unpacks the weird and wonderful aspects of workplace dynamics—showing that adaptability and a positive attitude can help you thrive through unexpected challenges.

Key Takeaways

Finding joy, purpose, and fulfillment in your work is essential for long-term happiness.
Pursue your passion thoughtfully: start small, build on your existing skills, and carefully consider financial realities before making significant changes.
Leverage your professional value to negotiate a role that aligns with your personal goals, transforming potential challenges into career opportunities.
Adopt a mature and professional attitude, maintaining a courteous and respectful demeanor in the workplace.

In This Episode:

[00:00] Introduction to Neil Sharma
[02:33] Navigating Career Changes
[08:12] Finding Fulfillment in Solar
[12:21] Lessons from Early Career Mistakes
[15:31] Weirdest Workplace Moments
[24:52] Week in Work: Tesla Protests and Corporate Responsibility
[32:59] Listener Question #1: Balancing Passion and Financial Stability
[37:33] Listener Question #2: Navigating Career Transitions
[43:09] Workplace Weirdness: When Your Ex Becomes Your Boss
[46:01] Conclusion and Farewell

Notable Quotes

[00:09:34] “ At the end of the day, every second of what I do is meaningful.” — Neil

[00:11:36] " In my 20’s, I was a banker chasing money. In my 30’s, I was chasing fun. When I crossed into the 40+’s, I’m proud of myself, I was chasing meaning. We all have these life chapters and different stages." — Neil

[00:38:48] "You're going to change, and so your career is probably going to have to change with you." — Neil

[00:23:54] “ If you're doing what you love, the good stuff happens.” — Neil

Resources and Links

Neil Sharma

SolarKal Website - https://www.solarkal.com/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/neil-sharma-045117

Maya Kadar Kovalsky

Website - https://www.mayakadar.com/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mayakadar/

Workplace Weirdness

Email - info@workplace-weirdness.com
SpeakPipe http://speakpipe.com/workplaceweirdness
Website - http://workplace-weirdness.com
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/workplaceweirdpod/

Southwest Layoffs, JetBlue Origins, and Pregnant Work Travel

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 09:26:00 -0000

In this episode of Workplace Weirdness, host Maya Kadar Kovalsky interviews culture-building expert Ann Rhoades, President of Peopleink and Former VP for the people department of Southwest Airlines. With experiences spanning JetBlue, Southwest Airlines, and DoubleTree Hotels, Ann has cultivated values-based corporate ecosystems, emphasizing the integral symmetry between employee and customer satisfaction.

They discuss Ann's journey from finance to pioneering people-centric corporate cultures, share hilarious and insightful workplace anecdotes including a memorable encounter with a boa constrictor, and answer listener questions about tricky travel scenarios and awkward moments in the office.

From Bloody Mary mishaps to the challenges of managing friends, this episode is packed with practical advice and entertaining stories about the quirks of office life.

Key Takeaways

The importance of grounding organizational culture in clearly defined values and systematic approaches
Why hiring based on behaviors indicative of set values—such as integrity and fun—a company can sustain a thriving, consistent culture that resonates with both employees and customers alike
The strength of a resilient corporate culture that embraces learning from atypical experiences
The necessity of clear communication, empathy, and sometimes firm boundaries—particularly when it comes to safety and respect in professional environments
How maintaining a positive, values-driven approach can transform challenges into opportunities for growth and camaraderie

In This Episode:

[00:00] Introducing Ann Rhoades
[04:20] Building a Values-Based Culture
[08:17] The Importance of Fun in the Workplace
[14:28] Weirdest Workplace Moments
[18:27] Southwest Airlines Layoffs
[23:18] Listener Question #1: Pregnant Employee's Flight Dilemma
[27:46] Listener Question #2: Balancing Friendship and Leadership
[32:35] Workplace Weirdness: Navigating Cultural Differences in the Workplace
[38:24] Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Notable Quotes

[00:04:20] “ I learned that you have to be systematic on culture, and it starts with defining who you wanna be.” — Ann

[00:06:23] " It's critical that we hire people that represent our values and the behaviors we want because every single interaction with people, we're gonna see that." — Ann

[00:38:48] " Don't ever work anywhere where you don't have fun.'" — Ann

[00:39:20] “ There are lots of opportunities out there, regardless of what you hear about job cuts right now. There are lots of opportunities for great players. I'm telling you, it doesn't matter. The environment doesn't matter. It matters who you are and what you represent and how you, um, live life happily every day.” — Ann

Ann Rhoades

Maya Kadar Kovalsky

Workplace Weirdness

Resources and Links

Ann Rhoades

Maya Kadar Kovalsky

Workplace Weirdness

Ghost Posts, Start-up Takeover Glitches and Desk-Perchers

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 10:33:00 -0000

In this episode of Workplace Weirdness, host Maya Kadar Kovalsky dives into the peculiarities of office life with guest Menaka Chang, a Fractional Chief People Officer. From an ex-employee treating the office like a personal lounge to navigating bureaucratic slowdowns in startups, they discuss the nuances of building high-performance cultures. They delve into the transition challenges when startups get acquired and how to maintain a performance-driven yet people-first culture. Tune in for insights on maintaining a people-first culture while still being performance-driven!

Key Takeaways

The significance of blending various life and career experiences to enhance leadership and team dynamics in rapidly growing companies
The pivotal role of positive corporate culture in fostering robust employee engagement
Why people-first cultures may conflict with performance-driven environments
The challenges of adapting to a slower, more bureaucratic workplace environment following a corporate acquisition
The importance of adaptability, communication, and humor in the workplace

In This Episode

00:00 - Introduction and Welcome

01:09 - Meet Menaka Chang

08:36 - High Performers and Interview Techniques

14:01 - Weirdest Workplace Moment

16:33 - Week in Work: Ghost Job Listings

25:37 - Listener Question #1: Job Offers

27:52 - Listener Question #2: Startup Slowdowns

36:39 - Workplace Weirdness: Desk Perchers

40:09 - Conclusion and Farewell

Notable Quotes

[09:28] "The zone of genius is when people really find that they are doing work and they almost feel like no time has passed, where you feel like you're in a flow state and you're doing great work." - Menaka Chang

[12:37] " The best companies are performance driven because they are people-first. They treat employees well, they set clear expectations, they reward great work. People perform at their best when those things are happening." - Menaka Chang

[26:16] " You should never feel pressured to sign a contract within an hour. That's a huge red flag. It sounds like a scare tactic or disorganized hiring process." - Menaka Chang

Resources and Links

Menaka Chang

LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/menaka-chang

Maya Kadar Kovalsky

Website https://www.mayakadar.com/
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/mayakadar/

Workplace Weirdness

Email: info@workplace-weirdness.com
SpeakPipe http://speakpipe.com/workplaceweirdness
Website https://workplace-weirdness.com/
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/workplaceweirdpod/

Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is intended for entertainment purposes only and should not be construed as professional, legal, or workplace-specific advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified professionals for their individual situations.

Meta Layoff Shame, Fake Recruiters and Dodgy Handoffs

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 09:46:00 -0000

In this episode of Workplace Weirdness, host Maya Kadar Kovalsky sits down with Adam Alpert, serial entrepreneur and founder of Pangea—a global talent marketplace shaking up the way companies hire contract and fractional workers. Adam’s career reads like a startup thriller, packed with wild twists, from pandemic-era "hacker houses" to the awkward nightmare of firing a co-founder while still sharing the same roof. His stories blur the lines between work and life in ways that are equal parts hilarious and brutally honest.

They dive into the drama behind Meta’s recent layoffs—what really happened, and what it says about corporate culture today. Listener confessions take center stage, too, with tales of workplace sabotage, printing disasters, and the kind of office mishaps that make you cringe just hearing about them. Adam also shares hard-won lessons from building a startup during COVID, including what happens when your co-founders are also your roommates (spoiler: boundaries tend to go out the window).

And if that’s not enough, there’s the story of a CEO who secretly tested employee loyalty and the accidental budget leak that left an entire team scrambling. Whether you’re curious about the future of remote work, navigating messy professional relationships, or just love a good workplace horror story, this episode has it all. Tune in—it’s about to get weird.

Key Takeaways

How Pangea's fractional work model is transforming hiring (think "human cloud" for talent).
The importance of clear boundaries when working (and living) with co-founders.
Why vulnerability and shared experiences (like New Year's Eve fondue) strengthen teams.
Navigating the fallout from public "low performer" labels in layoffs.
Strategies for handling workplace manipulation and ethical dilemmas.

In This Episode:

[00:00] Introduction to Adam Alpert
[08:57] Building Pangaea during the pandemic
[11:22] Navigating co-founder dynamics
[16:07] Weirdest workplace moments
[20:11] Meta's layoff controversy
[23:49] The reality of job security in tech
[26:44] Listener question: Is my boss replacing me?
[33:52] Listener question: Recruiter call setup
[39:21] Listener question: Printer mistake
[43:46] Final thoughts and outro

Notable Quotes

[00:14:33] "Imagine you're living with the person that you're firing. Oftentimes founders push off that hard decision because it's an awkward conversation. Imagine having that conversation and then seeing that person the next night, the next day, and every single day after that for 180 days." — Adam Alpert

[00:17:28] "Spending New Year's together in our home, which was our office, just together, is a thing that most people don't experience in their lives. It was one of the happiest moments of navigating that experience together, and it felt like we had figured out how to live together, work together, and also just be friends together." — Adam Alpert

[00:23:37] "When I was in charge of hiring at my old company, if Google let go of people, I was like, great, because we need a data scientist. Small and medium-sized businesses are excited to have anybody who used to work at a big corporation." — Maya Kowalski

[00:25:31] “Don't take anything for granted. The company's priorities can change, and you could be out of a job tomorrow." — Adam Alpert

Resources and Links

Adam Alpert

Maya Kadar Kovalsky

Workplace Weirdness

Navigating Creepy Boss Dads and Coasting Co-Workers

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 08:00:00 -0000

Some workplace problems have clear solutions, while others leave you wondering, Is this really happening? Imagine working for a small, family-owned business where the boss makes wildly inappropriate comments and hovers over female employees—while his wife, who runs HR, conveniently looks the other way. Do you speak up? Walk away? Just try to survive the workday?

In this episode of Workplace Weirdness, host Maya Kadar Kovalsky teams up with executive coach and HR expert Peter Vincent to unravel office chaos—from toxic family businesses and resignations gone wrong to holiday disasters that will make you cringe. With 30+ years of experience, Peter shares real-world advice for handling the moments that leave you speechless. Let’s dive in!

Key Takeaways

How to handle inappropriate behavior in family-run businesses
What to do when a coworker quits and leaves you with their mess
The impact of generational shifts and the COVID-19 pandemic on workplace culture
Rookie mistakes in workplace communication—especially emails that can’t be unsent
The emotional toll of making tough decisions, like firing someone
How parental leave policies are evolving in the corporate world
The power of clear communication and trust in the workplace
Strategies for handling awkward social mishaps—like breaking something meaningful to your boss
Why sentimental items carry more than just monetary value
The right way to apologize (especially when kids are involved)

In This Episode:

[00:00:00] Introduction to Peter Vincent
[00:05:58] Weird workplace moment
[00:08:35] The week in work: Netflix's changing parental leave policy
[00:16:57] Listener Question #1: Family business issues
[00:25:24] Listener Question #2: Handling soon-to-be ex-coworker
[00:30:25] Bonus Question: Non-existent emergency leave?
[00:35:46] Workplace Weirdness: The holiday party disaster
[00:40:33] Closing thoughts

Notable Quotes

[00:02:24] "The biggest change in HR? The idea that you would hire and work with employees you’ve never met in person. A decade ago, that was unthinkable. Now, it’s the norm." — Peter
[00:05:02] "I accidentally sent an email about laying someone off to that person. I heard a groan from two offices down. That was a career moment I’ll never forget." —Peter
[00:20:40] "The reason I suggest trying at least internally through HR or whoever to bring it to his attention is I've often seen where when I've gone to a boss and said, 'Hey, one of your employees complained,' the reaction you often get is, 'Why didn't they ever talk to me about it?'" — Peter
[00:28:26] "You can be friendly with coworkers, but that doesn’t always mean they’re your friends. A true friend wouldn’t leave you in the lurch on an important project" — Peter
[00:30:50] " Kids will be kids, but depending on the age of this little one, could they possibly write an apology letter? Or if not an apology letter, maybe record a little video, a video message that Uh, I'm very sorry. I broke your ornaments to send to the boss." — Maya

Resources and Links

Peter Vincent

Maya Kadar Kovalsky

Workplace Weirdness

Mentioned

Steering Honesty as a Policy + Awkward Flattery No-Nos

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 14:47:31 -0000

In this episode of Workplace Weirdness, host Maya Kadar Kovalsky sits down with Karen Borchert, founder and CEO of Alpaca, an edtech company dedicated to supporting educators. They dive into the often-overlooked challenges teachers face—especially when it comes to engagement and recognition. Karen shares how Alpaca started with simple care packages and evolved into offering pulse surveys to help schools better understand and support their teachers.

But it’s not all serious—Karen lightens the conversation with a hilarious office story involving an unexpected possum visitor.

Maya and Karen also tackle some tough listener questions. One employee shares their frustration after feeling a lack of compassion from their manager following a car accident, sparking a discussion on the role of empathy in leadership. Another listener, a male employee, opens up about his discomfort with appearance-related compliments from a senior male colleague, leading to an important conversation about professionalism and setting workplace boundaries.

Through it all, Maya and Karen offer practical advice on fostering a workplace culture built on communication, respect, and genuine support. Let’s dive in!

Key Takeaways

Unique challenges faced by teachers in the workplace
Importance of employee engagement and recognition in education
Development of care packages for teachers to support their needs
Use of pulse surveys to gauge teacher sentiment and well-being
Differences in workplace dynamics between schools and other sectors
The concept of "audacious autonomy" in employee development
Role of managers in fostering open communication and understanding
Addressing burnout and the need for compassion in leadership
Significance of recognizing and rewarding educators' contributions
Advantages of entrepreneurship in the Midwest and nurturing local talent
Use of structured frameworks for discussing workplace issues (e.g., Situation-Behavior-Impact model)

In This Episode:

[00:00] Introduction to Karen Borchert
[09:37] Karen's weird workplace moment
[12:20] Week in Work: Entrepreneurs in the Midwest
[22:20] Listener question on honesty in the workplace
[29:24] Listener question on compassion
[37:59] Workplace weirdness: Cringeworthy compliments
[46:19] Conclusion and thanks

Notable Quotes

“I just love the fact that you're basically embracing the idea of if you're brave enough to try, we're brave enough to give you that support to allow you to try.” — Maya

“People always ask us, ‘Where are you finding all these software engineers in the Midwest?’ And we were like, ‘We grow them.’” — Karen

“People quit their managers, not their jobs.” — Karen

“Learning should be seamless and there should be no barriers to it.” — Karen

“Honesty is the best policy. Full stop. The end. On both sides of the equation having a conversation about work, and how you’re doing with work, is a good idea.” — Karen

"It’s okay to say that you feel really supported and cared for, but also that you feel really underwater." — Karen

Resources and Links

Karen Borchert

Maya Kadar Kovalsky

Workplace Weirdness

Back-stabbing Boss and Post-COVID Wellness

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 17:31:00 -0000

Ever wondered how to handle a boss who indulges in office gossip? In this episode of Workplace Weirdness, host Maya Kadar Kovalsky sits down with Maya Cadena, founder and CEO of Vetted Pet Health, a primary pet care service.

Maya opens up about the unique challenges women face in business—especially when it comes to networking and securing investment. She shares her own struggles with bias, particularly in male-dominated spaces, and emphasizes the importance of advocating for oneself in these environments.

The episode doesn’t shy away from tackling other workplace challenges, including navigating COVID-19 policies and maintaining health and safety at work. They also discuss the uncomfortable reality of bosses who gossip about employees, offering strategies for dealing with the situation while maintaining professional integrity and open communication.

Let’s get right into it!

Key Takeaways

The significance of hiring the right team and managing team dynamics in a growing business.
Addressing gender bias, particularly in leadership roles and its impact on women in business.
Overcoming challenges women face in networking and investment contexts, and navigating male-dominated environments.
The importance of mentorship and female representation in leadership roles, and advocating for oneself in business.
Building a supportive workplace culture, especially concerning health and safety, and maintaining trust and integrity.
Handling workplace dynamics like gossip, setting boundaries, and managing professional communication with humor.

In This Episode:

[00:00:00] Introduction
[00:01:22] Meet Maya Cadena
[00:05:51] The growth of Vetted
[00:08:27] Lessons from entrepreneurial journey
[00:14:04] Startup success: investors, self-reflection, and hiring the right fit
[00:21:15] Identifying team fit early
[00:23:18] The importance of candor
[00:24:04] Weirdest workplace moment
[00:26:30] The week in work: CVS CEO ouster bias
[00:32:10] Overcoming networking challenges
[00:33:31] Confronting dismissive language
[00:37:37] Defining leadership and standards
[00:40:48] Merit vs. gender in leadership
[00:45:16] Listener question on COVID-19 policies
[00:54:05] Listener question on gossip
[01:05:01] Cringeworthy autocorrect mistakes
[01:09:42] Closing remarks and thanks

Notable Quotes

[00:03:17] "I started Vetted Pet Health because as a French bulldog mom, I was going to the vet a lot. There are certain breeds that have a lot of health conditions, and really, you just need to constantly do things for them in order for it not to get worse." — Maya Cadena

[00:16:05] "I've made a lot of mistakes, and I'm very thankful for them. I know that maybe it sounds cliché, but I promise you that those mistakes have taught me so much about myself." — Maya Cadena

[00:20:08] "If you're spending a certain majority of that time thinking about imposter syndrome, it's best to just separate ways. It's best for everyone, for Vetted, for the company, it's best for the individual because they will constantly feel that they're failing." — Maya Cadena

[00:21:52] "It's really hard. I'm not going to make it sound easy. I like all of them. I hired them because I think they're great people, and I believed in them in that phase." — Maya Cadena

[00:24:47] "I basically conducted a board meeting in the bathroom of a Marriott hotel. I sat on the floor, the laptop was on the toilet seat, and I just sat there and looked all professional." — Maya Cadena

I have found that the passive aggressive attitudes are the worst behaviors. It is better to have someone be straight up aggressive because then it’s clear and then you can say “unacceptable”. But passive aggressive is hard to weed out. —Maya Cadena

Resources and Links

Maya Cadena

Maya Kadar Kovalsky

Workplace Weirdness

Treating Trauma with AI Plus AWOL Coworker

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 09:27:00 -0000

Can AI help heal trauma—and what does that mean for the workplace? In this episode of Workplace Weirdness, host Maya Kadar Kovalsky welcomes Omer Golan, serial entrepreneur and founder of MyWhatIf, a nonprofit using AI to transform trauma care.

Omer’s remarkable journey—from surviving a life-altering event to building cutting-edge solutions for mental health—is as inspiring as it is thought-provoking. And yes, you’ll also hear the unforgettable story about a mobster landlord dropping a quarter-million dollars in cash on his office couch.

Maya and Omer also dive into workplace realities, including burnout, vulnerability in leadership, and finding stability in high-pressure environments. Let’s dive in!

Key Takeaways

How MyWhatIf uses technology to offer judgment-free trauma care and reignite hope.
The importance of managing workplace expectations and providing employees with decompression time.
Why authentic, empathetic leadership fosters stronger, more cohesive teams.
Embracing open communication to build inclusive workplace dynamics.
Tips for managing emotional outbursts and staying resilient under pressure.
Finding stability amid frequent leadership changes and volatile environments.

In This Episode:

[00:00] Omer Golan's introduction
[01:28] AI and mental health support
[02:52] The role of AI in therapy
[05:12] AI as a non-judgmental tool for mental health
[06:45] How AI helps rewrite personal stories
[10:30] The concept of the "hope switch" and AI's role in reactivating it
[15:20] Omer Golan's personal trauma story and recovery
[20:45] The non-profit AI foundation and its mission
[26:29] Omer Golan's reflection on unrealistic workplace expectations
[30:15] Burnout and its connection to trauma
[35:50] The importance of vulnerability in leadership
[40:10] How AI can reduce burnout in the workplace
[45:30] The importance of focusing on unique human skills in the age of AI

Notable Quotes

[05:12] "AI is kind of like therapy in the sense that it mirrors back to you everything that you're putting into it." — Omer Golan

[06:45] "With AI, there's no judgment. There's no need to build trust. You trust it. It's there, it doesn't judge, it offers an ear so to speak, and it helps you rewrite your story in a way that a human could never help." — Omer Golan

[30:15] "Burnout definitely leads to trauma... You need to really dig deep inside of you and make sure that you don't get people to burn out. Otherwise, you might win a battle, but you're not going to win the war." — Omer Golan

[35:50] "Vulnerability is like a muscle... If you practice and you just put yourself out there in a smart way, it helps build a culture of openness and sharing." — Omer Golan

[40:10] "AI can reduce burnout... If you think about AI as a tool that helps you, you can create automations for all your repetitive tasks, and now you're free to focus on meaningful things that are way more human." — Omer Golan

[45:30] "People should focus on their soft skills, on what makes them unique and human... If there's something that I can add as a person that makes it unique, that makes it me, that AI cannot possibly provide, I should really focus on that." — Omer Golan

Resources and Links

Omer Golan

Maya Kadar Kovalsky

Workplace Weirdness

Surviving Small-Town Imposter Syndrome and Meditation Bias

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 08:03:00 -0000

What if the key to a thriving workplace was something as simple as play? Could fostering creativity, community, and cognitive development unlock innovation and connection among employees?

In this episode of Workplace Weirdness, host Maya Kadar Kovalsky is joined by Yolonda Deon, founder of Mindful Play Learning, to discuss the power of "play" in the workplace. Yolonda, a certified birth and postpartum doula, shares her unique journey and insights on mindful play, highlighting how it fosters a positive work culture. They explore the three C's of play—community, creativity, and cognitive development—and how these elements improve engagement and productivity.

Tune in for practical advice on mentorship, mindfulness, and embracing imperfections to build a more fulfilling work environment.

Key Takeaways

The significance of play in the workplace and its impact on work culture
The three C's of play: community, creativity, and cognitive development
The consequences of a lack of play in office environments, including toxicity and dysfunction
The importance of intergenerational mentorship and learning from both successes and mistakes
Strategies for overcoming imposter syndrome in professional settings
The value of mindfulness practices in the workplace and addressing judgment from colleagues
The importance of authenticity and self-acceptance in navigating workplace challenges
Encouragement for organizations to redefine play and create supportive environments for employees

In This Episode

[00:01:11] Introduction to Yolonda Deon
[00:01:38] Yolonda's first doula experience
[00:04:36] The three C's of play
[00:07:27] Role of play in office culture
[00:10:46] Weirdest workplace moment
[00:14:46] Trends in work and career paths
[00:20:11] Leveraging employee creativity
[00:23:18] Intergenerational play in the workplace
[00:26:27] Imposter syndrome in social situations
[00:28:10] Navigating social interactions
[00:32:39] Mindfulness in a toxic environment
[00:33:58] Addressing workplace comments
[00:36:16] Workplace friendships vs. colleagues
[00:41:15] Handling mistakes in professional settings
[00:46:06] Closing thoughts

Notable Quotes

[00:07:54] "When play is not a part of workplace culture, that's when you get the toxicity. That's when things don't always go well. That's when we find that there are problems in the workspace." — Yolonda Deon
[00:23:34] "We learn through our elders, either through their triumphs or their mistakes, and that's important for them to be able to reach back and teach the next generation." — Yolonda Deon
[00:26:27] "I think imposter syndrome is such a big thing in this world that we live in now." — Yolonda Deon
[00:32:39] "If going to that meditation room helps you to feel better, then focus on that. Keep meditating, keep doing your thing, and if you feel like you need to go to someone, go talk to HR and let them take care of it for you." — Yolonda Deon
[00:44:21] "My heart is always in the right place. I never mean to hurt anyone's feelings or make anyone feel uncomfortable. Charge it to my head, not my heart." — Yolonda Deon

Resources and Links

Yolonda Deon

Maya Kadar Kovalsky

Workplace Weirdness

Cracking Gen Z Recognition, Jealous Bosses, And Stinky Offices

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 08:46:29 -0000

What makes a workplace truly exceptional? Is it the recognition employees receive—or how meaningful that recognition really is? How can leaders inspire trust, foster strong team dynamics, and bridge the generational gap? And when those awkward moments inevitably pop up—how do you handle them with finesse and empathy?

In this episode of Workplace Weirdness, host Maya Kadar Kovalsky is joined by the ever-inspiring David Homan—a CEO, composer, and superconnector. David's impact advisory firm orchestrates connections between startups, funds, and nonprofits, building relationships that scale and drive growth across industries. Together, Maya and David explore the importance of recognition in Gen Z’s work life, offering fresh insights on balancing meaningful appreciation with the pressures of workplace expectations.

But that's not all. They dive into the tricky terrain of managing a jealous boss, and yes, they even tackle the not-so-pleasant subject of how to lead a conversation about an awkward office smell—because let’s face it, these moments happen.

Tune in for a conversation packed with wisdom on leadership, recognition, and navigating those everyday workplace oddities.

Key Takeaways

The importance of recognition in the workplace, especially for Gen Z employees
Generational differences in workplace expectations and validation
Strategies for dealing with a jealous boss and maintaining professional relationships
The significance of empathy and curiosity in leadership and team dynamics
How to balance meaningful appreciation with superficial recognition
How to address awkward situations in the office, such as personal hygiene issues
The role of humor in easing uncomfortable conversations
Creating a culture of trust and open communication within organizations
The impact of personal experiences on workplace interactions and relationships
Encouraging authenticity and understanding in navigating workplace dynamics

In This Episode:

[01:14] - Introduction to David Homan
[09:32] - David’s weirdest workplace moment
[13:55] - Generational differences in recognition
[21:32] - Curiosity and empathy in leadership
[25:34] - Addressing jealousy in the workplace
[28:31] - Finding balance in workplace culture
[34:43] - Listener's struggle with small talk
[42:26] - Addressing awkward office smells
[48:01] - Handling difficult conversations

Notable Quotes

[00:19:18] "Maybe they weren't recognized and praised as much, they had to develop their own self-praise or their own systems in order to handle not being praised or being criticized." — Maya Kadar Kovalsky

[00:21:32] "Leaders should embody the skills that are necessary, like curiosity, empathy, generosity, and gratitude." — David Homan

[00:22:30] "If you need something to justify yourself, what is it feeding? It's feeding an emptiness, which means that you have self-work to do." — David Homan

[00:23:45] "How dare I ever assume that what I am feeling is more important than what somebody else is going through?" — David Homan

[00:32:51] "I led an organization for years where very few people I worked with ever asked how I was." — David Homan

[00:47:19] "There’s a way to say things in a way that hopefully is not demeaning, like talking heart to heart and just telling you that you’re going to do better with everybody on this team if they feel comfortable around you." — Maya Kadar Kovalsky

[00:49:19] "If you’re not diminishing the person, you’re commenting on the situation. Eventually, if they have any maturity, they will handle it and move on from it." — David Homan

Resources and Links

David Homan

Maya Kadar Kovalsky

Workplace Weirdness

Handling Election-Year Politics and Other Office Power Plays

Wed, 25 Dec 2024 08:00:00 -0000

What truly makes or breaks a thriving workplace? From whispered favoritism to tense political discussions during election seasons, the workplace is often a microcosm of life's most complex dynamics. These challenges don’t just shape daily interactions; they ripple through employee morale, mental health, and even career trajectories. Add in the need for authenticity, self-advocacy, and mentorship—especially for underrepresented groups like the Latinx community—and the stakes are even higher.

In this episode of Workplace Weirdness, host Maya Kadar Kovalsky sits down with John Staines, managing partner of DHR Global Human Resources, to discuss peculiar office dynamics. John shares his extensive HR experience and his dedication to mentoring the Latinx community. They address issues like favoritism, political discussions at work, and the importance of authenticity. John advises on navigating favoritism by focusing on one's contributions and suggests maintaining professionalism during peer reviews. The episode underscores the significance of open, civil conversations and fostering a positive workplace culture, even during contentious times like election seasons.

Don’t miss this chance to reshape how you approach workplace challenges! Tune in now, and let’s start building healthier, more authentic work environments together.

Key Takeaways

Favoritism in the workplace and its impact on employee morale
Insights on navigating political discussions during election seasons
The Importance of authenticity and self-advocacy in professional settings
Mentoring and support for the Latinx community in the workplace
Strategies for handling negative feedback and peer reviews
The significance of mental health and well-being in workplace culture
Encouragement of open communication and respectful dialogue among colleagues
The role of leaders in fostering a positive and inclusive workplace environment

In This Episode:

[01:15] - Introduction to John Staines
[05:21] - Advice for young Latinx professionals
[09:01] - John's weirdest workplace moment
[11:03] - Navigating political conversations in the workplace
[21:35] - Listener question on favoritism
[26:13] - Listener question on peer review feedback
[30:12] - Importance of authenticity
[34:33] - Cringeworthy listener question
[39:06] - Conclusion and thank you

Notable Quotes

[02:22] "I started coaching and mentoring when I was in leadership positions, and then when I left the corporate world about five years ago, I decided this is going to be part of my mission. I want to help emerging Latino leaders." — John Staines
[07:47] "You really need to be able to see yourself with that team. I remember going into some early job interviews and actually coming out and closing my eyes and saying to myself, can I see myself getting along with the people here?" — Maya Kadar Kovalsky
[18:44] "People are going to say things, shame on them for saying it, but shame on you if you bite. If you take the bait, don't react." — John Staines
[32:05] "If you are anxious to go into the office every day, and you feel stressed, and you don't sleep well, that's the wrong culture for you. Your health is more important than anything else." — John Staines

Resources and Links

John Staines

Maya Kadar Kovalsky

Workplace Weirdness

Navigating Micromanagement and Awkward Moments at Work

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 08:00:00 -0000

Are you tired of feeling like you’re stuck in a bizarre workplace circus? Ever wonder how those cringe-worthy micromanagement moments or awkward encounters can actually be transformed into stepping stones for growth?

Welcome to the very first episode of Workplace Weirdness! Join host Maya Kadar Kovalsky as she kicks off this exciting journey into the quirks and challenges of the modern workplace. In this debut episode, Maya chats with the incredible Kavita Vora, Chief People Officer of BrainPOP, as they delve into the complexities of workplace dynamics, sharing personal anecdotes and addressing listener questions. They discuss challenges like micromanagement, emphasizing the importance of open communication and setting boundaries. The conversation also covers the nuances of remote work, including video fatigue during virtual meetings, and strategies for delivering difficult news with empathy. Throughout the episode, they underscore the value of humor and vulnerability in fostering a positive work environment, and the importance of empathy, communication, and resilience in navigating workplace challenges. Let’s dive in!

Key Takeaways

Challenges of micromanagement and its impact on employee autonomy
Importance of open communication between employees and managers
Strategies for managing remote work dynamics, including video meeting etiquette
Approaches to delivering difficult news to teams, such as layoffs
The role of humor in diffusing tension and fostering a relaxed work atmosphere
Building trust and empathy among colleagues through shared vulnerabilities
Navigating the complexities of hybrid work environments
Encouraging proactive leadership and accountability in workplace relationships
Embracing the quirks and weirdness of office culture for personal growth and connection

In This Episode

[00:01] - Introduction to Kavita Vora
[04:07] - The importance of laughter in leadership
[04:40] - Kavita's career path
[07:45] - Skills transition from finance to HR
[10:50] - Challenges of remote work
[17:54] - Answering Listener Questions
[21:09] - Managing up: Owning your narrative
[24:08] - On-camera expectations in meetings
[25:13] - Zoom burnout and engagement
[30:02] - Navigating leadership challenges
[35:44] - Embracing vulnerability and connection
[37:49] - Mini Weirdness
[40:00] - Closing remarks

Notable Quotes

[12:54] "I wish I had people around me, but I totally understand. You can't go to extremes. It depends on which industry, of course. If you're doing work that needs to be done out of a factory, there's no way to do that remotely." — Maya Kadar Kovalsky

[21:49] "If you're going to ask me every five minutes what I'm doing, I can't get anything done." — Maya Kadar Kovalsky

[28:43] "If they're feeling it's difficult, their team is probably feeling it difficult, and it is hard to lead through these moments." — Kavita Vora

[33:00] "I think that you're right that the management should have communicated better, but they didn't for whatever reason they had." —Maya Kadar Kovalsky

[37:24] "It's better to just move on quickly and not let it ruin your day or your week or your month." — Maya Kadar Kovalsky

[38:15] "Vulnerability makes you look more human and people feel empathy towards you." — Kavita Vora

[39:09] "The biggest CEO of the biggest company has had an embarrassing moment, and we just have to acknowledge that it's part of the journey." — Maya Kadar Kovalsky

Resources and Links

Kavita Vora

Maya Kadar Kovalsky

Workplace Weirdness

Workplace Weirdness - Trailer

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 18:45:18 -0000

Welcome to "Workplace Weirdness," the podcast that takes a deep dive into the delightful oddities of office life. Ever wondered why the break room smells like a science experiment or why your boss insists on using 'synergy' in every meeting? We've got you covered!

Join Maya and her revolving door of guest hosts as they unravel the mysteries of cubicle culture and decode the cryptic behaviors of your coworkers. From bizarre email sign-offs to the enigma of office fridge politics, no topic is too weird for us to tackle.

Each week, we'll talk about hot HR topics, answer listener questions and dissect an awkward workplace theme, all while keeping things light, fun, and packed with HR humor. Tune in, because in the world of work, the only thing you can count on is the unexpected!

So, grab your coffee, put your feet up on that ergonomic footrest, and let's get weird at work together. Trust us, it’ll be a productivity boost like no other!