
Truth, Lies and Work
Truth, Lies & Work is the award-winning podcast where behavioural science meets workplace culture. Hosted by Chartered Occupational Psychologist Leanne Elliott and business owner Al Elliott, the show has reached #2 in the UK Business Podcast Charts and consistently ranks as a Top 10 trending business podcast globally.With a unique blend of evidence-based insight and lived experience, Leanne and Al simplify the science of people and culture to help leaders attract, engage, and retain great talent.Episodes drop twice a week. Tuesdays feature a global people and culture news round-up, a hot take from an emerging or established voice, and the world-famous Workplace Surgery—where Leanne answers real listener questions with practical advice. Thursdays dive deeper with expert guests from across the business and psychology worlds, sharing fresh perspectives and actionable strategies.Whether you're scaling a startup or leading a large team, Truth, Lies & Work delivers the tools, thinking, and inspiration to build thriving, toxic-free workplaces that prioritise well-being and drive sustainable growth.Also, the hosts are married—so expect unfiltered honesty, occasional banter, and a real-life lens on work and life.
Latest episodes

Oct 24, 2024 • 53min
139. Why we're still lonely at work, with Dr. Connie Hadley
Welcome to Truth, Lies & Work, the award-winning psychology podcast brought to you by the HubSpot Podcast Network. In this episode, hosts Leanne Elliott and Al Elliott sit down with Dr. Connie Hadley, organizational psychologist and researcher, to discuss a critical issue facing today’s workforce - loneliness in the hybrid workplace. Contrary to popular belief, Dr. Hadley’s latest research shows that hybrid work may not be the leading cause of loneliness at work. Instead, the episode highlights the true drivers of workplace loneliness and offers practical strategies for leaders to foster stronger connections within their teams.Key Topics Discussed:Misconceptions About Hybrid Work and LonelinessDr. Hadley challenges the widely held belief that hybrid or remote work automatically leads to feelings of isolation. Instead, she explains how company culture, leadership practices, and organizational support systems play a much bigger role in determining whether employees feel connected or lonely.The Role of Leadership and CultureOne of the major takeaways is how leaders can create environments that minimize loneliness, regardless of the work setting. Dr. Hadley discusses the importance of leadership engagement and the value of fostering a high-trust culture to ensure employees feel seen, heard, and valued.Practical Solutions for Combatting LonelinessThe episode is packed with actionable tips for managers and HR professionals to implement within their own organizations. Dr. Hadley shares her research-backed strategies, including social opportunities like virtual team lunches and casual conversations during meetings, to help strengthen team bonds even when working remotely.Measuring Loneliness in the WorkplaceDr. Hadley has also created a Self-Assessment Tool that employees and companies can use to measure workplace loneliness. By identifying feelings of isolation early, organizations can take proactive steps to enhance the social well-being of their teams.Featured Resources:
HBR Cover Story on Workplace Loneliness: Read Dr. Hadley’s insightful article on why loneliness persists in today’s workplaces and what can be done about it: We’re Still Lonely at Work
Free Self-Assessment Tool: Curious about how lonely you are at work? Take the free assessment to find out and see how your company can help: Loneliness Self-Assessment Tool
Scientific Report on Loneliness: For those wanting a deeper dive into the research, check out Dr. Hadley’s full scientific report here: Workplace Loneliness Report
Connect with Dr. Connie Hadley:
LinkedIn: Connie Hadley
Website: Institute for Life at Work
Support with Mental Health and Well-beingIf 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.
Connect with Truth, Lies & Work
YouTube: Truth, Lies & Work YouTube Channel
TikTok: Truth, Lies & Work TikTok
Instagram: Truth, Lies & Work Instagram
LinkedIn: Truth, Lies & Work LinkedIn
Connect with Al Elliott: LinkedIn
Connect with Leanne Elliott: LinkedIn
Email: Reach out at hello@truthliesandwork.com
Book a Meeting: Schedule a meeting with Al & Leanne here.

Oct 22, 2024 • 56min
138. October theory explained, finding purpose, and EY's latest scandal. PLUS! Dr Audrey Tang's Hot Take on burnout - This Week in Work, 22nd October 2024
Welcome back to Truth, Lies & Work, the award-winning psychology podcast brought to you by the HubSpot Podcast Network. Join your hosts Leanne Elliott, chartered psychologist, and Al Elliott, business owner, as they bring you the latest workplace trends, news, and insights, along with practical advice to improve work culture, well-being, and leadership in your business.In this week’s episode, we dive into three thought-provoking articles, react to the latest corporate scandals, and feature a Hot Take from a special guest, Dr. Audrey Tang, on the flaws of individual-based burnout solutions.Segment 1: News RoundupOctober Theory – The New Year Reset in AutumnLeanne introduces us to the concept of October Theory, a trend gaining traction on social media where influencers are treating October as a reset month for setting new goals. The October TheoryFinding Purpose After Burnout – Lessons from Suneel GuptaAl highlights an article from CNBC featuring Suneel Gupta, who sold his wellness company for $20 million but still felt burnt out and unhappy. Gupta shares tips on finding purpose at work. Full article: 8 Practices for Finding PurposeEY’s Cheating Scandal – Multitasking Gone WrongLeanne brings up a recent scandal involving EY (Ernst & Young), where employees were fired for streaming multiple training sessions simultaneously, violating the company’s ethical guidelines. Full article: The Times CoverageSegment 2: Hot Take with Dr. Audrey TangWe welcome back Dr. Audrey Tang, Chartered Psychologist, TEDx speaker, and award-winning author, to share her hot take on burnout. Dr. Tang argues that individual burnout solutions, like stress management workshops, are only half the battle. Real change comes from fixing the systemic issues within the workplace. She advocates for a psychosocial safety approach, similar to physical health and safety practices, where the focus is on preventing the root causes of burnout, rather than treating symptoms.Workplace Surgery:Is it Wrong to Automate Your Job?A listener shares their dilemma about a co-worker who automated their tasks without informing management, leading to praise for efficiency. Should the listener report this to HR? Introverts vs. Forced Social EventsAnother listener writes in about their discomfort with mandatory team-building activities, as an introvert. Staying Visible While Working RemotelyWe help a listener struggling with feeling invisible in their company after choosing to work remotely. Connect with Dr AudreyLinkedInWebsitePrevious Interview on Truth, Lies and WorkSupport with Mental Health and Well-beingIf 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.
Connect with Truth, Lies & Work
YouTube: Truth, Lies & Work YouTube Channel
TikTok: Truth, Lies & Work TikTok
Instagram: Truth, Lies & Work Instagram
LinkedIn: Truth, Lies & Work LinkedIn
Connect with Al Elliott: LinkedIn
Connect with Leanne Elliott: LinkedIn
Email: Reach out at hello@truthliesandwork.com
Book a Meeting: Schedule a meeting with Al & Leanne here.

Oct 17, 2024 • 51min
137. How to have difficult conversations at work, with HR Experts Kathleen Troyer and Liz Bronson
Welcome to Truth, Lies & Work, the award-winning psychology podcast brought to you by the HubSpot Podcast Network. Join hosts Leanne Elliott, chartered psychologist, and Al Elliott, business owner, as they help you simplify the science of work.In today’s episode, we’re tackling one of the most challenging aspects of workplace dynamics - having difficult conversations. We’re joined by two outstanding experts in the world of people and culture, Kathleen Troyer and Liz Bronson, co-hosts of the Real Job Talk podcast. Together, they share practical advice on how to handle conflict, polarizing topics, and tough discussions at work.Meet Our Guests:
Kathleen Troyer is the CEO and Lead Consultant at Jigsaw Solutions Inc., where she specializes in leadership development and business strategy. Known for helping leaders engage in uncomfortable but necessary conversations, Kat shares her insights on creating psychologically safe workplaces.
Liz Bronson, a Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR), has dedicated her career to fostering inclusive and supportive company cultures. Her experience spans companies like Barclays Global Investors, VMware, and ThriveCart.
Key Discussion Points:The Impact of External Events on Workplace DynamicsKat and Liz discuss how global events like political upheavals, economic instability, and distressing news have forever altered how we interact in the workplace. How to Defuse Tension and Maintain a Positive CultureIn today’s polarized world, workplace conflict is inevitable. Our guests explore how leaders can guide difficult conversations, focusing on empathy, transparency, and respect. Bringing Your Whole Self to WorkKat and Liz debate whether this is truly feasible in today's diverse workplaces and discuss the importance of creating inclusive environments where everyone feels they belong, regardless of differing opinions.Aligning Company Values with Employee BehaviorKat and Liz stress the importance of living company values, not just displaying them on a wall. When to Have the Uncomfortable ConversationOur guests provide practical advice on how to approach difficult conversations when tensions rise in the workplace. Resources Mentioned:
Check out the Real Job Talk podcast: Real Job Talk
Connect with Kathleen Troyer on LinkedIn: Kathleen Troyer
Connect with Liz Bronson on LinkedIn: Liz Bronson
Support with Mental Health and Well-beingIf 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.
Connect with Truth, Lies & Work
YouTube: Truth, Lies & Work YouTube Channel
TikTok: Truth, Lies & Work TikTok
Instagram: Truth, Lies & Work Instagram
LinkedIn: Truth, Lies & Work LinkedIn
Connect with Al Elliott: LinkedIn
Connect with Leanne Elliott: LinkedIn
Email: Reach out at hello@truthliesandwork.com.
Book a Meeting: Schedule a meeting with Al & Leanne here.

Oct 15, 2024 • 55min
136. WordPress drama and the CEO big birthday crisis, PLUS Oliver Yonchev's Hot Take on A.I. - This Week in Work, 15th October 2024
Welcome back to Truth, Lies & Work, the award-winning psychology podcast brought to you by the HubSpot Podcast Network. Join hosts Leanne Elliott, chartered psychologist, and Al Elliott, business owner, as they explore the latest trends, news, and workplace insights that are shaping the future of work.In this week's episode, we tackle a range of stories from leadership struggles to the ongoing debates about remote work. Plus, we have an exciting new Hot Take segment featuring Oliver Yonchev, an entrepreneur and former CEO of Flight Story, the global marketing group founded with Steven Bartlett. Oliver shares his bold predictions about the future of AI and how it will shape the way we work.Segment 1: News RoundupMilestone Birthdays and CEO PerformanceLeanne dives into a study called The Big Birthday Crisis, which explores how CEOs nearing milestone birthdays, like 49 or 59, see a significant dip in company performance. WordPress vs. WP Engine DramaAl breaks down the recent feud between Matt Mullenweg, the founder of WordPress, and WP Engine. Remote Work vs. In-Office ConnectionLeanne covers a new study from Cornell University that challenges the idea that people form stronger bonds in person versus over video calls. Segment 2: Hot Take with Oliver YonchevThis week’s Hot Take comes from Oliver Yonchev, former CEO of Flight Story. Oliver’s bold prediction? He believes that AI will be able to do most of what humans do—and do it better—within two years. He discusses how advancements in AI, driven by Moore’s Law, are accelerating at an unprecedented rate, and what this means for the future of work. Connect with Oliver on LinkedInListen to Oliver's Podcast Memes and MachinesListen to Oliver's full interview on Truth, Lies and WorkEp38: Oliver Yonchev and The Art of Possible: Creating a Culture of Success at Flight Storyhttps://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/oliver-yonchev_2269/Segment 3: Workplace SurgeryLeanne answers listener questions, offering practical advice on the following:Question 1: Proving the ROI of Well-being InitiativesA listener with a consulting firm struggles to quantify the value of mental health and well-being programs in their company. Leanne shares tips on how to measure their financial impact and demonstrate ROI to skeptical finance teams.Question 2: Understanding Employee Engagement vs. SatisfactionA product manager asks about the difference between employee satisfaction and engagement, and Leanne breaks down why keeping employees happy is not the same as keeping them engaged—and why it matters.Question 3: Balancing Client Demands and Employee Well-beingA small business owner faces the challenge of keeping up with demanding clients while managing their team’s burnout. Leanne offers strategies for maintaining client satisfaction without sacrificing employee well-being.Resources Mentioned:Well-being: Productivity and Happiness at Work by Sheena Johnson, Ivan Johnson and Carey CooperSecret password/Easter egg = Bobi BeanSupport with Mental Health and Well-beingIf 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.
Connect with Truth, Lies & Work
YouTube: Truth, Lies & Work YouTube Channel
TikTok: Truth, Lies & Work TikTok
Instagram: Truth, Lies & Work Instagram
LinkedIn: Truth, Lies & Work LinkedIn
Connect with Al Elliott: LinkedIn
Connect with Leanne Elliott: LinkedIn
Email: Reach out at hello@truthliesandwork.com.
Book a Meeting: Schedule a meeting with Al & Leanne here.

Oct 10, 2024 • 1h 6min
135. How to Get a Job in Tech: Insider Advice from Industry Veterans John White and Nick Korte
Welcome to Truth, Lies & Work, the award-winning psychology podcast brought to you by the HubSpot Podcast Network. Join hosts Leanne Elliott, chartered psychologist, and Al Elliott, business owner, as they dive into the latest trends, insights, and practical advice to help you navigate the world of work.In today’s episode, we’re giving you a crash course in technology careers. Whether you’re looking to break into the industry, considering a career change, or simply curious about the tech world, this episode is packed with invaluable insights.We’re joined by John White and Nick Korte, co-hosts of the Nerd Journey podcast, who share their decades of combined experience in various tech roles. They discuss what it really takes to build a successful career in the tech sector.Key Topics Covered:
The Wide Range of Tech Roles
Getting Started in Tech
The Importance of Tinkering and Curiosity
The Reality of Tech Interviews
Salary Insights and Career Progression
Navigating Tech Company Culture
Staying Relevant in a Rapidly Evolving Field
Personal Stories
Resources Mentioned by John and Nick
Episodes on the Principal Engineer Role: For a list of discussions on the principal engineer role and its significance in the industry, visit Principal Engineer Episodes.
Max Kanat-Alexander (3 Episodes):
Part 1: Embracing the Open Source Spirit
Part 2: Succession Planning and Delegation Skills
Part 3: Scope Creep and Focusing on Essential Work
Ethan Banks: Discussion on doing work uniquely suited to your skills – Ethan Banks Episode.
Erik Gross's Tech Academy: Insights on coding bootcamps and leveraging valuable knowledge – Erik Gross Episode.
Kenneth Ellington and His Cyber Academy:
Part 1: Introduction to Cybersecurity
Part 2: Nurturing Cybersecurity Talent Development
VMware Explore 2024 Presentation: John’s talk on technical career progression, including slides and video – Uncovering the Patterns of Technical Career Progression.
Connect with John White & Nick Korte
Nerd Journey Podcast: nerd-journey.com
Email: nerdjourneypodcast@gmail.com
LinkedIn – Nick Korte: Nick Korte
LinkedIn – John White: John White
Support with Mental Health and Well-beingIf 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.
Connect with Truth, Lies & Work
YouTube: Truth, Lies & Work YouTube Channel
TikTok: Truth, Lies & Work TikTok
Instagram: Truth, Lies & Work Instagram
LinkedIn: Truth, Lies & Work LinkedIn
Connect with Al Elliott: LinkedIn
Connect with Leanne Elliott: LinkedIn
Email: Reach out at hello@truthliesandwork.com.
Book a Meeting: Schedule a meeting with Al & Leanne here.

Oct 8, 2024 • 49min
134. Do childless bosses lack empathy? PLUS Gen-Z salary demands and Sonia Thompson’s Hot Take on Inclusion
Welcome back to Truth, Lies & Work, the award-winning psychology podcast brought to you by the HubSpot Podcast Network. If you love hearing how organisations, big and small, have built amazing workplace cultures, then our Thursday episodes are for you. But today, it’s all about the Weekly News Roundup, Hot Takes, and of course, the famous Workplace Surgery, where we answer your burning workplace questions.Segment 1: News RoundupSalary Transparency and Gen Z TalentLeanne dives into a major shift: salary transparency is becoming crucial for attracting Gen Z talent. A new survey reveals that 85% of Gen Z workers are less likely to apply for a job if the salary isn’t listed. Read the full article.Childless Bosses: Lacking Empathy?Al discusses controversial new research that questions whether childless bosses lack empathy. Read more.EDITOR'S NOTE: On publication of the episode, the author of the article, Soulaima Gourani, contacted us and asked us to clarify the article "raised a question for discussion but didn't conclude that moms or dads are better leaders.".We believe our discussion reacted to the content of the article and the arguments presented by several sources that suggested leaders lack empathy if they are child-free. The author asked the question: Does Parenthood Make Better Bosses? Or reaction presented our arguments as to why we think 'no'. We do not, however, want anyone featured in an episode of Truth, Lies and Work to feel misrepresented or unfairly treated. We invited the author on to the show to set the record straight and/or to provide a written statement for inclusion in the show notes. Both invitations have, to date, been declined. Cynicism's Impact on LeadershipLeanne explores a new study on cynicism and its detrimental effect on leadership. Read more.Segment 2: Hot TakesThis week’s Hot Take comes from Sonia Thompson, inclusive marketing consultant and host of the Inclusion and Marketing Podcast. Sonia’s bold insight? Stop expecting people to assimilate. Brands and employers need to embrace diversity by acknowledging differences and creating environments where everyone feels they belong—without having to change who they are. Sonia shares her thoughts on why inclusion is more than just a buzzword; it's a necessity for the future of work and marketing.Segment 3: Weekly Workplace SurgeryLeanne answers listener questions:Defining Company Values in a Growing TeamA founder is feeling the pressure to define core values for a growing team ahead of an all-hands retreat. ce.Fear of Change in Family Business SuccessionA business owner is worried that handing over control to his daughter and her partner will lead to drastic changes in the company’s traditional values. Fostering Culture in a Remote TeamA CEO of a global marketplace is struggling to maintain a cohesive company culture with a remote team spread across four continents. More from Sonia:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/soniaethompson/Podcast: https://inclusionandmarketing.com/author/soniaethompson/Support with Mental Health and Well-beingIf 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.
Connect with Truth, Lies & Work
YouTube: Truth, Lies & Work YouTube Channel
TikTok: Truth, Lies & Work TikTok
Instagram: Truth, Lies & Work Instagram
LinkedIn: Truth, Lies & Work LinkedIn
Connect with Al Elliott: LinkedIn
Connect with Leanne Elliott: LinkedIn
Email: Reach out at hello@truthliesandwork.com.
Book a Meeting: Schedule a meeting with Al & Leanne here.

Oct 3, 2024 • 50min
133. How to network with VIPs, with F1 Legend, Sir Jackie Stewart
Welcome to Truth, Lies & Work, the award-winning psychology podcast brought to you by the HubSpot Podcast Network. In this special episode, we sit down with one of the most iconic figures in the world of motorsport & business - Sir Jackie Stewart. Known as “The Flying Scot,” Sir Jackie is a three-time Formula One World Champion, a key advocate for safety in motorsport, and the founder of the charity Race Against Dementia.Key Discussion PointsSir Jackie's Early Life & DyslexiaDespite struggling with dyslexia, which affected his ability to read and write, Sir Jackie recounts how he turned his challenges into opportunities. The Art of Networking with VIPsSir Jackie takes us behind the scenes, revealing the secrets of navigating relationships with the world’s most influential people. The Importance of Delivering ValueSuccess, as Sir Jackie points out, is about always exceeding expectations. Creating Lasting ConnectionsThroughout his life, Sir Jackie has built meaningful relationships with some of the world’s most successful people.Race Against DementiaSir Jackie founded Race Against Dementia after his wife, Lady Helen, was diagnosed with the illness. He passionately discusses his mission to fast-track dementia research by funding young scientists and innovative projects around the world. Lessons in Humility and SuccessAs one of the most successful figures in motorsport, Sir Jackie’s humility and focus on service offer profound lessons for anyone looking to build long-lasting relationships and navigate the high-stakes world of business. Resources Mentioned:
Race Against Dementia: Visit Race Against Dementia
Follow Sir Jackie Stewart: Instagram
Support with Mental Health and Well-beingIf 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.
Connect with Truth, Lies & Work
YouTube: Truth, Lies & Work YouTube Channel
TikTok: Truth, Lies & Work TikTok
Instagram: Truth, Lies & Work Instagram
LinkedIn: Truth, Lies & Work LinkedIn
Connect with Al Elliott: LinkedIn
Connect with Leanne Elliott: LinkedIn
Email: Reach out at hello@truthliesandwork.com.
Book a Meeting: Schedule a meeting with Al & Leanne here.

Oct 1, 2024 • 53min
132. A.I. Managers, Diversity Backlash, and Phill Agnew’s Hot Take on Hard Work – This Week in Work, 1st October 2024
Welcome to Truth, Lies & Work, the award-winning psychology podcast brought to you by the HubSpot Podcast Network. Join hosts Leanne Elliott, business psychologist, and Al Elliott, business owner, as they bring you the latest news and insights shaping the world of work.Today, it’s all about the Weekly News Roundup, New Voices, and of course, our World-Famous Weekly Workplace Surgery, where we tackle your questions with practical advice.Segment 1: News RoundupThe UK's "Accidental Managers"Leanne kicks off by discussing a shocking statistic: 82% of UK managers are “accidental managers” promoted based on technical skills rather than leadership ability. The lack of formal training for these individuals is wreaking havoc on workplace culture and employee turnover, costing the UK economy billions.AI Taking Over Managerial Roles?Al delves into a BBC article about the rise of AI in management, exploring whether AI agents can replace human bosses. While AI managers are helping small businesses streamline operations and reduce stress, concerns remain about AI lacking the empathy needed for effective leadership. The Diversity DilemmaLeanne introduces a recent Journal of Experimental Psychology study that reveals a concerning finding: pro-diversity messaging might actually backfire. The study shows that White conservative participants were more likely to favor White candidates after seeing pro-diversity messages. Segment 2: New VoicesIn this segment, we launch a brand-new series called Hot Takes, where thought leaders and influencers offer their boldest insights into the world of work. This week’s guest is Phill Agnew, a behavioural science expert and host of the UK’s number one marketing podcast, Nudge. Phill dives into the truths and lies of work, sharing his research-backed hot take on how hard work and effort are what employees value most.Segment 3: Weekly Workplace SurgeryLeanne tackles three listener questions:Underperforming Long-Term EmployeeA senior account manager, once a star performer, is now underperforming. Despite informal chats and extra support, there's been no improvement. The business owner is torn between loyalty and the need to protect client relationships. Work-Life Balance in AccountingA partner at a mid-sized accounting firm is concerned about burnout despite offering flexible working hours. With client demands high during tax season, how can they maintain a competitive edge while improving work-life balance? Boosting Engagement in a Non-ProfitThe director of a small environmental non-profit is struggling to keep employees engaged without a budget for perks or team-building activities. Support with Mental Health and Well-beingIf 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.
Connect with Truth, Lies & Work
YouTube: Truth, Lies & Work YouTube Channel
TikTok: Truth, Lies & Work TikTok
Instagram: Truth, Lies & Work Instagram
LinkedIn: Truth, Lies & Work LinkedIn
Connect with Al Elliott: LinkedIn
Connect with Leanne Elliott: LinkedIn
Email: Reach out at hello@truthliesandwork.com.
Book a Meeting: Schedule a meeting with Al & Leanne here.

Sep 26, 2024 • 1h 5min
131. Do you work with a psychopath? With Dr Abigail Marsh
Welcome to another episode of Truth, Lies & Work, the award-winning psychology podcast brought to you by the HubSpot Podcast Network. When we think of psychopaths, names like Ted Bundy or Hannibal Lecter come to mind. But what if we told you that psychopathy is much more common than you think—and that you might have already worked with someone who has these traits? In today’s episode, we sit down with Dr Abigail Marsh, an expert in psychopathy and altruism, to unpack this complex disorder and how it manifests in the workplace.Dr Abigail Marsh is a Professor of Psychology and Neuroscience at Georgetown University. Her research focuses on the brain structures and personality traits associated with psychopathy and altruism. With over 2.5 million views on her TED Talk and her groundbreaking book The Fear Factor, Dr Marsh is a leading voice in dispelling the myths surrounding psychopathy.Key Discussion Points:
Psychopathy 101: What is psychopathy, and how does it differ from sociopathy?
Psychopaths in the Workplace: While only about 1-2% of the general population meet the clinical criteria for psychopathy, some industries attract a higher proportion of people with these traits.
Spotting the Signs: How do you know if you’re working with a psychopath? Dr Marsh shares insights on how to spot behaviors like manipulation, charm used for self-serving purposes, and a lack of remorse or guilt.
Managing Psychopathy in the Workplace: What should leaders do if they suspect a team member or even a colleague exhibits psychopathic traits?
Extreme Altruism: On the opposite end of the spectrum lies extreme altruism. While psychopaths tend to lack empathy, some people are hardwired to care deeply about others.
Take the Psychopathy Screening TestCurious about psychopathy traits? Try this screening tool developed by Psychopathy Is: Psychopathy Screening TestResources Mentioned in the Episode:
Watch Dr Abby Marsh’s TED Talk: Why Some People Are More Altruistic Than Others
Explore Dr Marsh’s Book, The Fear Factor: Buy on Amazon
Visit Psychopathy Is: PsychopathyIs.org
Connect with Dr Marsh on LinkedIn
Join the ConversationWe’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Email us at hello@truthliesandwork.com or leave a comment on our YouTube channel to share your experiences, questions, or suggestions for future topics.Support with Mental Health and Well-beingIf 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.
Connect with Truth, Lies & Work
YouTube: Truth, Lies & Work YouTube Channel
TikTok: Truth, Lies & Work TikTok
Instagram: Truth, Lies & Work Instagram
LinkedIn: Truth, Lies & Work LinkedIn
Connect with Al Elliott: LinkedIn
Connect with Leanne Elliott: LinkedIn
Email: Reach out at hello@truthliesandwork.com.
Book a Meeting: Schedule a meeting with Al & Leanne here.

Sep 24, 2024 • 45min
130. Tesco’s Fire and Rehire Fail, Oversharing at Work, PLUS! Can A.I. Help Us Find Purpose? – This Week in Work, 24th September 2024
Welcome to another episode of the Truth, Lies & Work podcast, the award-winning psychology podcast brought to you by the HubSpot Podcast Network. If you love hearing stories of how organizations build thriving workplace cultures, then be sure to tune in to our Thursday episodes for in-depth interviews with inspiring leaders. But today, it’s all about the This Week in Work news roundup, the Fresh Voices segment, and of course, our world-famous Weekly Workplace Surgery where we answer your burning questions!Segment 1: News RoundupIntellectual Humility in Leadership: Leanne explores an article by Tom Loncar in The Psychologist, discussing how leaders can balance decisiveness with intellectual humility to create stronger, more confident teams. Read the full article.Tesco’s Legal Battle Over Pay CutsAl covers a major legal win for Tesco employees who fought back against the company's attempt to reduce pay for warehouse workers. Read more about the ruling.Can AI Help Us Find Purpose at Work?Leanne takes a deep dive into a Fortune article about AI’s role in the workplace. Could AI free us from mundane tasks and lead us toward more meaningful work, or does it risk eroding the human connections that give our jobs purpose? Read the full article.Segment 2: Fresh VoicesThis week’s Fresh Voice is Anna Papalia, CEO of Interviewology, a firm dedicated to improving the hiring process. Anna reveals a shocking statistic: 90% of hiring managers have never been trained on how to properly interview candidates. Anna shares insights on how to eliminate biases and improve decision-making in hiring, with practical tips for both job seekers and recruiters. Watch Anna’s LinkedIn video.Segment 3: Weekly Workplace SurgeryIn today’s Workplace Surgery, Leanne tackles three listener questions:
Oversharing in the Workplace: A marketing agency owner is struggling with a talented employee who overshares personal information, making her colleagues uncomfortable.
Scaling Company Culture During Rapid Growth: A tech startup founder who has scaled from 15 to 50 employees in just 18 months worries about losing the close-knit culture that once defined the company.
Managing Office Romances: A small business owner is concerned about a romantic relationship between two employees on different teams.
Join the ConversationWe’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Email us at hello@truthliesandwork.com or leave a comment on our YouTube channel to share your experiences, questions, or suggestions for future topics.Support with Mental Health and Well-beingIf 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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