Women at Work

Michelle Drapkin, a clinical psychologist specializing in anxiety, dives deep into the pervasive issue of anxiety at work, especially among women. She separates typical anxiety from serious disorders, offering insights into recognizing the signs. Drapkin shares practical tips for handling overwhelming moments, like waking up anxious or recovering from mistakes. The conversation also highlights the need for supportive workplaces and open discussions about mental health, encouraging leaders to foster empathy and communication.

Alison Fragale, a professor of organizational behavior and author of Likeable Badass, shares her insights on achieving professional success by blending assertiveness with warmth. She discusses how women can enhance their communication skills and effectively negotiate without compromising likability. Practical tips include crafting thoughtful emails and reconnecting with past contacts to build meaningful professional relationships. Alison emphasizes the power of genuine compliments and encourages reframing rejection in negotiation as a valuable learning experience.

Political scientist Farida Jalalzai and organizational psychologist Laura Morgan Roberts discuss the implications of having a woman like Kamala Harris in the Oval Office. They explore how female leadership can transform societal perceptions of women in power and inspire future generations. The conversation addresses the challenges and complexities of representation, the dual expectations faced by women leaders, and the potential impact on political support from women. They also highlight the importance of diverse leadership in reshaping organizational culture.

We’re back with another season! How are women using GenAI to transform their work? What can we learn from the listeners who identify as “AI power users” about how to boost our productivity, creativity, and confidence?  Why is working while parenting a teenager so much harder than Amy Gallo expected, and how can she and other moms navigate this emotionally demanding phase of motherhood? If you’re mid-career and thinking about switching industries, what should you know before making the leap? These questions are at the heart of some of the conversations the Amys are having this season. As always, they’ll bring you expertise, stories, and advice. Sign up for the Women at Work newsletter. Email us: womenatwork@hbr.org

In this engaging discussion, DEI strategist Lily Zheng shares insights on the pivotal role of data in driving effective diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. They highlight how measurable outcomes can help organizations identify inequities in recruiting and improve their approaches, regardless of size or budget. Zheng also tackles the prevalent backlash against DEI efforts and advocates for transparency in data to foster accountability and trust. With real-world examples, they inspire leaders to cultivate meaningful change through informed decision-making.

Learn from seasoned COOs about navigating hurdles in moving from mid-level to senior management, overcoming self-doubt, and proposing new roles. Explore challenges women face, importance of networking, and strategies for career advancement. Hear personal stories on transitioning and the significance of reputation building for growth.

Experts Sue Ashford and Ellen Bailey share tips on selling innovative ideas to leadership. They discuss framing proposals, understanding problems, and gaining buy-in from executives. Strategies include mapping allies, handling resistance, and prioritizing battles for successful idea implementation.

Strategist Andrea Belk Olson shares tips on executing strategies despite disagreements, handling resistance, and providing progress updates. Amy B and colleagues discuss overcoming skepticism. Insights include understanding motivations, the importance of buy-in, effective communication, and aligning departmental strategies with corporate goals.

Amy B, having transitioned from individual contributor to manager, along with guest experts, shares insights on avoiding micromanaging as a mid-level manager. They discuss setting clear expectations, empowering teams, and creating a culture of accountability. With emphasis on delegation, building trust, and cultivating an ownership mindset, the podcast explores effective team management strategies and ways to navigate micromanagement and meeting overload in a managerial role.

Executive coach Dorie Clark offers guidance on working with current ambitions, while organizational psychologist Ruchi Sinha discusses trust within teams. DEI strategist Lily Zheng explains the power of data in addressing discrimination. The podcast also includes a Q&A session for attendees on various leadership topics.