Truth, Lies and Work 140. BBC Email Blunder, Amazon’s Culture Crisis, and the Battle for BooHoo. PLUS! Will Giangrande's Hot Take on Gen-Z
Welcome to another episode of Truth, Lies & Work, the award-winning psychology podcast on the HubSpot Podcast Network. Join hosts Leanne Elliott, chartered psychologist, and Al Elliott, business owner, as they break down the latest news and insights in the workplace, sharing practical advice to help you lead and work more effectively.
In this week’s episode, we dive into shocking workplace blunders, corporate culture clashes, and leadership drama in the retail industry, followed by a Hot Take from Gen-Z thought leader Will Giangrande, who shares insights into what Gen-Z brings to today’s workplaces. And, as always, we round things out with the Workplace Surgery, where Leanne tackles listener questions on mental health policies, personality testing, and navigating tricky family dynamics at work.
Segment 1: News Roundup
Accidental Emails and Office Drama
BBC Radio 5 Live presenter Tony Livesey accidentally sent an email critiquing his co-host’s performance—to the co-host herself. We discuss why such slip-ups can be damaging and how they reveal the importance of professionalism and civility in the workplace. Read more
Amazon Employees’ Public Criticisms of Workplace Culture
A former Amazon employee went viral on LinkedIn with her account of how the company’s culture has changed for the worse. We explore the implications of such public critiques and why even loyal employees are becoming vocal about their dissatisfaction. Read more
The Battle for Boohoo: Mike Ashley vs. Mahmud Kamani
A showdown is brewing between retail tycoon Mike Ashley and Boohoo co-founder Mahmud Kamani over control of Boohoo. We break down the high-stakes power moves and the impact this could have on Boohoo’s employees and future. Read more
Segment 2: Hot Take with Will Giangrande
Gen-Z workplace advocate Will Giangrande joins us to discuss how inexperience can be an asset. Drawing from his work as a Certified Facilitator and his podcast 19 Year Old Shrink, Will argues that Gen-Z’s fresh perspectives and willingness to question the status quo are reshaping traditional workplaces. He explains why companies that embrace Gen-Z's curiosity and innovative thinking stand to benefit.
- Follow Will on LinkedIn
- Listen to 19 Year Old Shrink Podcast
Segment 3: Workplace Surgery
Handling Mental Health Leave Requests as an HR Manager
A listener questions how to balance compassion for mental health with ensuring productivity, particularly when mental health leave requests seem to follow challenging performance discussions.
When Personality Testing in Hiring Backfires
A small company implementing personality assessments in hiring finds that candidates are being turned off.
Family Dynamics in a Family-Run Company
An executive assistant feels caught in family drama between a CEO and his family members.
Support with Mental Health and Well-being
If any of the topics in this episode have affected you, or if you need mental health support, please reach out to one of the following resources:
- UK: Mind offers mental health support and information. For those in distress, call Samaritans at 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org.
- US: Contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK or text HOME to 741741 to connect with a crisis counselor.
- Rest of the World: Visit Befrienders Worldwide to find a helpline in your country.
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- Email: Reach out at hello@truthliesandwork.com
- Book a Meeting: Schedule a meeting with Al & Leanne here.