Journalist and author Samhita Mukhopadhyay talks about the myth of making it in the workplace, reflecting on her experience at Teen Vogue. She discusses the need for a more equitable workplace, challenges of imposter syndrome, burnout in the fashion industry, and the importance of systemic changes for gender equality and workplace culture.
Work is not always a meritocracy, gender dynamics impact career journeys.
Reimagining workplaces with care and support can lead to higher retention rates and better outcomes.
Deep dives
Reflecting on Career Progression and Gender Dynamics
The speaker explores her career journey from the early belief in work as a meritocracy to realizing gender dynamics in senior roles. She reflects on being one of the few female writers in senior positions and confronting feelings of rejection and male colleagues' differing sensibilities.
Navigating Identity and Success in Teen Vogue
The speaker discusses her experience working at Teen Vogue, feeling a sense of imposter syndrome despite achieving success. She delves into the challenges of fitting into the fashion editor role and the internal questioning of career alignment and personal well-being amid high expectations.
Redefining Workplace Culture for Inclusivity and Support
The conversation shifts to reimagining workplace culture, focusing on creating environments where care and support are integral. The speaker highlights examples of companies prioritizing employee well-being, leading to high retention rates and meaningful product outcomes.
Critiquing Diversity and Inclusion Efforts in Workplaces
Examining diversity and inclusion efforts, the discussion critiques the limitations of traditional DEI programs in fostering genuine inclusivity. The exploration emphasizes the significance of cultural norms, respect, and individual treatment in creating truly diverse and supportive work environments.
Growing up, most of us are taught that if we work hard, we’ll make it to the top. In reality, it’s a bit more complicated than that. Journalist Samhita Mukhopadhyay is the author of “The Myth of Making It: A Workplace Reckoning.” She sits down with Jessi to discuss the collapse of her belief that work is a meritocracy. Samhita walks us through this realization after landing her dream job as executive editor of Teen Vogue and realizing it wasn’t all she’d thought it would be. In this episode, she shares her vision for a more equitable workplace.
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