123. How to disagree with your boss, Aussie work reforms and menowashing - This Week in Work 27th August 2024

Welcome to another episode of the Truth, Lies & Work podcast, the award-winning psychology podcast brought to you by the HubSpot Podcast Network. Join your hosts, chartered psychologist Leanne Elliott and business owner Al Elliott, as they explore the latest workplace trends, insights, and practical advice to help you create a thriving work environment.

For the month of August, we're taking a bit of a break, so we're only bringing you one episode each week. But don’t worry, we’ll be back to our regular schedule soon! Starting next Thursday, our interview series returns with some incredible guests who are not only household names but are also building the next generation of the workplace. Make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out.

Segment 1: News Roundup

In this week’s news roundup, Leanne and Al discuss three thought-provoking topics:

• Menowashing: Marketing Gimmicks or Genuine Support? Leanne introduces a new term—"menowashing"—which refers to brands capitalizing on the menopause movement by marketing products with little scientific backing. . Read more in The Telegraph.

• The Difference Between Managers and Leaders: Al shares a thought-provoking tweet by Rob Dance that highlights the difference between managers and leaders: "When I talk to managers, I get the feeling they're important. When I talk to leaders, I get the feeling I'm important." See the tweet.

• Australia’s New “Right to Disconnect” Law: Leanne brings hot-off-the-press news from Australia, where a new law now allows employees to ignore work-related communications after hours without fear of repercussions. Read more in Reuters.

Segment 2: Workplace Time Capsule

Our final "Workplace Time Capsule" segment takes us back to 1968, where journalist Fyfe Robertson reports from a cigarette factory on the movement for equal pay for women. Watch the video.

Segment 3: Weekly Workplace Surgery

In this week’s "World Famous Weekly Workplace Surgery," Leanne and Al tackle listener questions on the following workplace dilemmas:

• Leading a More Experienced Team: A listener who’s just been promoted to manage a team older and more experienced than they are seeks advice on how to lead effectively without appearing insecure or overly bossy.

• Disagreeing with Your Boss in a Meeting: Another listener wonders whether it’s appropriate to voice disagreements during meetings or if it’s better to bring up concerns afterward.

• Encouraging PTO Without Guilt: A business owner in the financial services sector struggles with employees feeling guilty about taking their PTO days.

Support with Mental Health and Well-being

If you’ve been affected by any of the themes in this episode or are struggling with your mental health, the following resources may be helpful:

• UK: Mind offers mental health support and information. If you are in distress or despair, including thoughts of suicide, call Samaritans for free on 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org.
• US: Contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) or text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained crisis counselor.
• Rest of the World: Visit Befrienders Worldwide to find a helpline in your country.

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