367: How to Deal with Toxic People at Work Without Quitting with Dr. Sheela Reddy

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Jul 22, 2025

Dr. Sheela Reddy, an expert in Trauma-Informed Leadership Psychology with 25 years of experience, dives deep into understanding toxic workplace behaviors like narcissism and Machiavellianism. She emphasizes the pivotal role of emotional intelligence (EQ) in managing these challenges. Listeners learn about setting boundaries and enhancing emotional awareness for healthier interactions. Sheela also shares insights on the importance of supportive leadership and the journey of personal growth, offering valuable strategies to navigate high-pressure situations effectively.

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INSIGHT

Understanding the Dark Triad

The "dark triad" consists of narcissism, Machiavellianism, and psychopathy, manifesting as manipulative and exploitative behaviors at work.
These traits include lack of empathy, deceitfulness, impulsivity, and emotional detachment, making toxic coworkers challenging to handle.

ANECDOTE

Story of Toxic Colleague Victor

Victor, a charismatic colleague, boosted Elena's ego publicly but cut her down privately, slowly diminishing her self-esteem.
He manipulated the situation by gaslighting Elena and taking credit for her hard work, exemplifying toxic workplace behavior.

INSIGHT

Roots of Toxic Behavior

Many toxic behaviors stem from trauma, learned patterns, and low self-esteem rather than purely malicious intent.
Some individuals struggle with emotional awareness or regulation, leading to toxic actions from a place of distress, not inherent evil.

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Do you walk out of meetings feeling more exhausted than empowered? Are toxic behaviors affecting your team?

Navigating a workplace with individuals who show signs of narcissism, Machiavellianism, or psychopathy can be incredibly challenging. But understanding the root of these toxic behaviors is key to managing them effectively, and today’s guest is here to help us do just that.

Meet Dr. Sheela Reddy. Sheela has more than 25 years of experience in Trauma-Informed Leadership Psychology, a PhD in multicultural systems psychology, and a fellowship in trauma. She is a published author, speaker and coach.

She loves conducting experiential learning workshops to increase EQ and develop empathy for diversity in teams for organizations. She is most passionate about increasing mind health, reversing the effects of trauma, and developing empowered, liberated, skilled & resilient diverse female leaders.

In this episode, Sheela and I explore the core elements of narcissism, Machiavellism, and psychopathy, and how these often show up as manipulative or emotionally abusive behaviors at work.

She emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence (EQ) and teaches how we can build distress tolerance to deal with toxic behaviors in high-pressure situations.

Plus, in the extended episode available to Podcast+ members, Sheela uncovers the surprising link between toxic behaviors and emotional intelligence.

Join the conversation now!

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Conversation Topics

(00:00) Introduction
(01:26) Understanding the Dark Triad in the workplace
(05:42) The effects of toxic behaviors in team dynamics
(09:17) Unpacking the root causes of toxic workplace behaviors
(12:49) What to do if you recognize unhealthy patterns in yourself
(15:04) How to handle negative emotions in a productive way
(18:45) Strategies for managing interactions with toxic colleagues
(25:38) A great manager Sheela has worked for
(29:37) Keep up with Sheela
(30:24) [Extended Episode Only] The surprising link between toxic behaviors and emotional intelligence

Additional Resources:

- Get the extended episode by joining The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community for just $15 per month

- Read the full transcript here

- Follow me on Instagram here

- Visit my website for more here

- Upskill your team here

- Subscribe to my YouTube Channel here

Keep up with Dr. Sheela Reddy

- Follow Sheela on Instagram

- Check out Rise Mind’s official website for more information here

Live LinkedIn Sessions: Your Bi-Weekly EQ Boost

Join Dr. Sheela Reddy every other Thursday at 12:30 PM ET or Friday at 12:00 PM ET for free live sessions on LinkedIn. Explore various EQ abilities and practical tips to help you manage stress, improve your mood, and strengthen your relationships. Connect with Sheela on LinkedIn to join!

Dive Deeper: Free Podcast on Self, Interpersonal & Leadership Skills

Continue your growth journey with Sheela’s podcast, RISEMIND - EQ Evolution, where you explore essential skills for developing a more empowered self, mastering interpersonal management, and honing your leadership abilities.

FREE EQ Assessment and Tame the Tough Boss Article

Members of Podcast+ get two amazing bonuses from Sheela this week: a FREE EQ Assessment and Tame the Tough Boss Article

The first 20 members to sign up will receive a complimentary EQi 2.0 assessment (a $100 value!) followed by an exclusive group consultation. During this session, we'll delve into your personalized results, providing you with actionable tips to boost your EQ for personal and professional success.

And, get practical strategies to navigate challenging professional relationships with Sheela’s article: "Tired of Walking on Eggshells? How to Manage Your Difficult Boss (Without Getting Fired)."

To get this bonus and many other member benefits, become a member of The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community.

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