Podcast
b Cause Work Doesn't Have to Suck
Hosted by Erin Hatzikostas · EN
A podcast for GenX(ish) leaders who are exhausted from the suck and are looking for new, more authentic ways to kick butt.
The Because Work Doesn't Have to Suck podcast isn't another boring, stuffy leadership podcast. And it doesn't bring you a gazillion guests who had the guts to "ef" the 9-5, seemingly the only answer to truly being happy in your career.
Instead, this podcast is focused on helping you continue to rise in your career, but doing it without compromising everything else - your family, your health, or maybe even who you are.
Erin, a former corporate CEO turned Authentic Leadership expert, teams up with her good friend, Nicole, an ivy league grad and professional do-gooder. Nicole lays it all on the line to share her real-time work highs, lows, contemplations, and sometimes barely believable stories. And Erin coaches and cajoles her (really, you) along the way...all in the name of helping you feel less insane, more inspired.
Erin also interviews authentic leaders and experts who are focused on giving you the stories, advice, and tips that will have you making small, creative changes that will help you contend with and catapult your career.
Grab a drink, put your feet up, and come along for a journey that will involve career advice, unsanitized thoughts, leadership lessons, important guests, and who the hell knows what else. Because work DOESN'T have to suck.
28episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
275: Why Big Goals Backfire—And What to Do Instead
Feb 4, 202500:42:09Tap to summarizeNew year, fresh start… or just another round of unrealistic expectations? In this episode, Erin and Nicole chat about the pressure that comes with the start of the year—why we feel it, how it messes with our motivation, and why setting massive, all-or-nothing goals can actually work against us. Oh, and there’s also the story of how Nicole, a state regulator, opened an email full of unsolicited pics. So yeah, this episode has range. If you’re feeling the weight of it all—personally, professionally, or just existentially—this one’s for you. 206: From the Vault: Nicole’s Moving Out, Up, and Onward Finish: Give Yourself the Gift of Done If you’d like quick tangible tips and practical corporate career advice to level up your authentic leadership, download the 10 simple “plays” to stop selling out and start standing out at https://bauthenticinc.mykajabi.com/freebie To connect with Erin and/or Nicole, email: hello@bauthenticinc.com If you like jammin' with us on the podcast, b sure to join us for more fun and inspiration! Follow b Cause on Twitter (really it's mostly Nicole) Follow Erin on LinkedIn or Instagram Join the b Cause Podcast Facebook Group Take our simple, fun and insightful"What’s your workplace superhero name?”quiz Unleash your Authentic Superpower with Erin’s book,"You Do You (ish)" Check out our blog for more no-BS career advice Work with Us Or just buy some fun, authentic, kick-ars merch here DISCLAIMER: This episode is not explicit, though contains mild swearing that may be unsustainable for younger audiences. Tweetable Comments “ I have to do that shit again and supposedly better? Fuck! Somebody kill me.” ”Motivation is fleeting, but habits have staying power.” ”Have a little grace, have a little perspective and then we have to adopt some tools to make that a reality.” “Write down your failures.” "All our failures, fumbles, stresses, anxieties, and bad decisions—those are fabulously powerful stories that make us interesting and interested."
Transcribe →
274: Here Come the Girls with Don Barden
Jan 28, 202501:09:48Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Erin sits down with Don Barden—a globally recognized expert in leadership and decision-making with a PhD in organizational leadership and behavioral economics—to explore the research behind his latest book, Here Come the Girls. Don makes a bold declaration: by 2028, the scales of leadership will tip, with women leading the way. But can the data back it up? Erin and Don discuss the systemic barriers, cultural shifts, and surprising factors influencing women’s roles in leadership—and dig into whether women even want to occupy those top spots. This isn’t an episode packed with immediate action steps—it’s a thought-provoking conversation designed to explore where we can begin. There’s some pushback, some probing, and a lot to reflect on as we tackle how individuals like us can drive meaningful change. If you’re ready to challenge assumptions and spark new ideas, this is the episode for you. Here Comes the Girls book LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donwbarden/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/donbarden/ If you’d like quick tangible tips and practical corporate career advice to level up your authentic leadership, download the 10 simple “plays” to stop selling out and start standing out at https://bauthenticinc.mykajabi.com/freebie To connect with Erin and/or Nicole, email: hello@bauthenticinc.com If you like jammin' with us on the podcast, b sure to join us for more fun and inspiration! Follow b Cause on Twitter (really it's mostly Nicole) Follow Erin on LinkedIn or Instagram Join the b Cause Podcast Facebook Group Take our simple, fun and insightful"What’s your workplace superhero name?”quiz Unleash your Authentic Superpower with Erin’s book,"You Do You (ish)" Check out our blog for more no-BS career advice Work with Us Or just buy some fun, authentic, kick-ars merch here DISCLAIMER: This episode is not explicit, though contains mild swearing that may be unsustainable for younger audiences. Tweetable Comments “ I always knew that education was the only way for me to break the binds of the past.” ”Women outproduced men in equal business environments, three to one. It's not just in revenue and profits it’s in everything.” ”Women are better at helping their teammates work through critical problem solving issues on their own.”
Transcribe →
273: How Outrageous Authenticity is Her Ultimate Power Move with Leigh Brown
Jan 21, 202500:51:44Tap to summarizeHow can you be successful and stay authentic doing it? In this episode, Leigh Brown—real estate authority, 3-time author, and speaker—gets real about why chasing money and the top spot left her unfulfilled. She shares how redefining success and leaning into her imperfections helped her build deeper connections, stand out, and turn her outrageous authenticity into her ultimate power move. Some of the things you'll hear are: 1.) How Leigh embraces her 50/50 blend of being her dad/mom to create trust and be unique in the market 2.) The one thing SHE uses to balance work-life on a daily, micro basis and how she also does it on a macro basis 3.) Why attaching your success to things that can be taken away may not be your best strategy 4.) How she makes videos about boring or controversial topics unique and worth watching 5.) The time she drove herself into a chainsaw company and got herself a job Leigh’s Book: Outrageous Authenticity From Smoky to Sellable: How to Prep a Smoker's House for Sale Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leighthomasbrown LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighthomasbrown If you’d like quick tangible tips and practical corporate career advice to level up your authentic leadership, download the 10 simple “plays” to stop selling out and start standing out at https://bauthenticinc.mykajabi.com/freebie To connect with Erin and/or Nicole, email: hello@bauthenticinc.com If you like jammin' with us on the podcast, b sure to join us for more fun and inspiration! Follow b Cause on Twitter (really it's mostly Nicole) Follow Erin on LinkedIn or Instagram Join the b Cause Podcast Facebook Group Take our simple, fun and insightful"What’s your workplace superhero name?”quiz Unleash your Authentic Superpower with Erin’s book,"You Do You (ish)" Check out our blog for more no-BS career advice Work with Us Or just buy some fun, authentic, kick-ars merch here DISCLAIMER: This episode is not explicit, though contains mild swearing that may be unsustainable for younger audiences. Tweetable Comments “ If you're able to connect while asking questions, you can serve people really effectively.” “Humor breaks down defenses. It's not about a lack of seriousness. It's about finding a way to reach people.” ”The magic was in me being myself telling the truth in a really relatable way.” ”Your imperfections are the coolest thing about you.”
Transcribe →
272: Why You and Your Company Need an Identity
Jan 14, 202500:59:16Tap to summarizeWhat happens when you ditch the corporate fluff and give your company a bold, authentic identity? In this episode, Erin takes us behind the scenes of helping a company embrace the theme “Taking the BS out of E&S” causing a major internal shift that sparked excitement from the top dog CEO to their employees. Meanwhile, Nicole shares how leading an unconventional office Christmas party embraced their company’s theme—and their colleagues' personalities. If you’re stuck playing it safe, it’s time to rethink what your audience—and your team—really crave: something real, memorable, and worth talking about. If you liked this episode, you may also like: 206: From the Vault: Nicole’s Moving Out, Up, and Onward If you’d like quick tangible tips and practical corporate career advice to level up your authentic leadership, download the 10 simple “plays” to stop selling out and start standing out at https://bauthenticinc.mykajabi.com/freebie To connect with Erin and/or Nicole, email: hello@bauthenticinc.com If you like jammin' with us on the podcast, b sure to join us for more fun and inspiration! Follow b Cause on Twitter (really it's mostly Nicole) Follow Erin on LinkedIn or Instagram Join the b Cause Podcast Facebook Group Take our simple, fun and insightful"What’s your workplace superhero name?”quiz Unleash your Authentic Superpower with Erin’s book,"You Do You (ish)" Check out our blog for more no-BS career advice Work with Us Or just buy some fun, authentic, kick-ars merch here DISCLAIMER: This episode is not explicit, though contains mild swearing that may be unsustainable for younger audiences. Tweetable Comments ”You can do amazing shit in imperfect circumstances.” ”Having the perfect charcuterie board is not worth your mental sanity.” ”Somebody that leaves a legacy is somebody that when people look back, they talk about how that person made them feel.” "Having a kind of persona, theme, culture, and some measure of fun and humanity in this work gives you permission when you screw up." ”Don't build culture from the top. You build culture from the trenches.” “A theme is almost as powerful as a leader.”
Transcribe →
271: Eye-opening, Simple Changes to Nurture Neurodivergent Needs with Pasha Marlowe
Jan 7, 202501:00:55Tap to summarizeIn this episode, we’re tackling a topic that’s both incredibly important and eye-opening—understanding and supporting neurodivergent needs in the workplace. Sounds like a heavy topic? Well, it’s actually one that’s filled with tons of practical, real-world tips that could make a huge difference in your work environment. From sensory needs to access and support, we’re breaking it all down in a way that’s easy to digest and—dare we say—kind of fun. If you’ve ever wondered how to make your workplace more inclusive (or just want to know what “neurodivergent” even means), this episode is for you. Pasha Marlowe (she/they), is a trained marriage and family therapist, coach, speaker, and author. She wrote the best selling book "Creating Cultures of Neuroinclusion" and is recognized in Forbes as a neurodiversity expert. She enjoys presenting keynotes and workshops on neurodiversity-affirming practices and policies to organizations around the globe. Pasha proudly identifies as multiply-neurodivergent, disabled, and queer. Some of the things you'll hear are: 1.) Why we need to get away from talking in terms of functioning labels (ADHD, bipolar disorder, disabled, autism) and instead focus on unique needs 2.) How to focus specifically on three categories of needs: sensory, support, and access 3.) The practical things you can do and ask to be more inclusive of neurodivergent people 4.) How Pasha "Bucks That!" when she gives presentation, and how that can empower you 5.) How to talk with your child or children who might be neurodivergent Connect with Pasha: Instagram:@neuroqueercoach LinkedIn:@PashaMarlowe If you liked this episode, you may also like: 265: How to Nourish Neurodivergent Minds in a Neurotypical Workplace If you’d like quick tangible tips and practical corporate career advice to level up your authentic leadership, download the 10 simple “plays” to stop selling out and start standing out at https://bauthenticinc.mykajabi.com/freebie To connect with Erin and/or Nicole, email: hello@bauthenticinc.com If you like jammin' with us on the podcast, b sure to join us for more fun and inspiration! Follow b Cause on Twitter (really it's mostly Nicole) Follow Erin on LinkedIn or Instagram Join the b Cause Podcast Facebook Group Take our simple, fun and insightful"What’s your workplace superhero name?”quiz Unleash your Authentic Superpower with Erin’s book,"You Do You (ish)" Check out our blog for more no-BS career advice Work with Us Or just buy some fun, authentic, kick-ars merch here DISCLAIMER: This episode is not explicit, though contains mild swearing that may be unsustainable for younger audiences. Tweetable Comments "It took a lot of bravery for me to finally say, 'I haven't been following my innateness. I've been following the script. I've been following the rules. I've been following the norms,' but I don't think they're really me." "It's a bit tricky when you have a team with diverse needs, but I find that creating a psychologically safe space goes a long way. It’s important to foster an environment where it’s okay to ask for or claim a need and request accommodations.” “ I'm a much happier person if I can do the things that I love and less of the things that just hurt.” ”If you identify as neurodivergent, by definition, you're rejecting the label disorder because you're saying that there are differences. There are not disorders. There are differences and not deficiencies.”
Transcribe →
270: The Twelve Days of Work-mas (2020 Retro Replay)
Dec 24, 202400:20:41Tap to summarizeErin and Nicole couldn’t let this holiday season pass without a nod to their original, and highly relatable, "The Twelve Days of Work-mas" episode. So, to start your holiday off right, we’ve decided to revisit this fan-favorite and send you off with a few laughs. Plus, Nicole surprises Erin with her work rendition of Santa Baby. I mean, can it get any better? The Twelve Days of Work-mas 12 hour workday 11th hour deadline 10 interns sleeping 9 hours of meetings 8 corporate trainings A 7 year-old Intern 6 feet of distance 5 gooooldeeen handcuffs... 4 minute break 3 PowerPoints A 2-percent raise And a promotion to a trainee If you’d like quick tangible tips and practical corporate career advice to level up your authentic leadership, download the 10 simple “plays” to stop selling out and start standing out at https://bauthenticinc.mykajabi.com/freebie To connect with Erin and/or Nicole, email: hello@bauthenticinc.com If you like jammin' with us on the podcast, b sure to join us for more fun and inspiration! Follow b Cause on Twitter (really it's mostly Nicole) Follow Erin on LinkedIn or Instagram Join the b Cause Podcast Facebook Group Take our simple, fun and insightful"What’s your workplace superhero name?”quiz Unleash your Authentic Superpower with Erin’s book,"You Do You (ish)" Check out our blog for more no-BS career advice Work with Us Or just buy some fun, authentic, kick-ars merch here DISCLAIMER: This episode is not explicit, though contains mild swearing that may be unsustainable for younger audiences. Tweetable Comments "I totally prepared, I got cash, wine, pizza bagels, and snow melt." "Cash and cleavage is going to get you through." “ I'm just gonna stand out there and my like sexiest snowsuit with my desperation and my cash a wavin’.”
Transcribe →
269: Tips & Tricks to Conquer Conflict with Gabe Karp
Dec 17, 202400:55:25Tap to summarizeLife’s full of tough situations and tricky people—and nope, you can’t always dodge them. Sometimes, you’ve got to face them head-on. In this episode, we’ve got former trial lawyer turned entrepreneur, author, speaker, and conflict expert, Gabe Karp. He’s sharing how to handle tough situations—and even tougher people—with more grit, less regret, and a whole lot more control. Gabe’s strategies will not only help you tackle conflict, drive growth, and fuel success, but also leave you feeling empowered and happier while doing it. Some of the things you'll hear are: 1.) The phenomenon of their always being two tokens to choose from 2.) 5 traps that turn conflict against you/businesses and how to detox from them 3.) Gabe's least proud leadership moment and what he learned from it 4.) Why you should use your Shopping List Voice when things take a wrong turn 5.) The thing you might be doing that's depriving someone from being the best person they can be Website: GabeKarp.com LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gabe-karp-1b772a1b Check out Gabe’s TED Talk, How To Thrive With Difficult People: https://youtu.be/ggOQg6uUV2M?si=nKviXwvHJkGgvLGk If you’d like quick tangible tips and practical corporate career advice to level up your authentic leadership, download the 10 simple “plays” to stop selling out and start standing out at https://bauthenticinc.mykajabi.com/freebie To connect with Erin and/or Nicole, email: hello@bauthenticinc.com If you like jammin' with us on the podcast, b sure to join us for more fun and inspiration! Follow b Cause on Twitter (really it's mostly Nicole) Follow Erin on LinkedIn or Instagram Join the b Cause Podcast Facebook Group Take our simple, fun and insightful"What’s your workplace superhero name?”quiz Unleash your Authentic Superpower with Erin’s book,"You Do You (ish)" Check out our blog for more no-BS career advice Work with Us Or just buy some fun, authentic, kick-ars merch here DISCLAIMER: This episode is not explicit, though contains mild swearing that may be unsustainable for younger audiences. Tweetable Comments “Everyone knows what "better" looks like—they just don’t know where to start.” “When you really screw something up for a client, that is an opportunity to make the relationship stronger and better.” ”Mistakes are inevitable and a real true test of character is how we react once we recognize we've made a mistake.” ”You cannot drive growth and innovation without conflict.” “What do you get out of being mad?”
Transcribe →
268: Why You Might Need to Stop Hoarding Money (and Other Unique $ Tips) with Karen Coyne
Dec 10, 202400:56:58Tap to summarizeYour money, your rules, your life. Ditch the tired financial narratives that keep you stuck and create strategies that help you live authentically—right now. Because building wealth isn’t just about numbers; it’s about crafting a legacy that feels as good as it looks. Enter Karen Coyne. A certified financial planner, founder of Clarity Planning, and host of Money Without Math, Karen “deals in the real.” She’s the antidote to shaming and “shoulding,” bringing clarity and empowerment to your financial journey. Some of the things you'll hear are: 1.) Why the financial planning world obsession of "size and performance" is misguided 2.) Why the strategy of accumulation, accumulation, accumulation can be harmful 3.) Some basic and tangible tips regarding Estate Planning 4.) What the "Great Wealth Transfer" is and what it means to you 5.) Her son's advice on what you have to do to be #1 Website: https://www.raymondjames.com/clarity LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karencoyne/ Podcast: Money Without Math If you’d like quick tangible tips and practical corporate career advice to level up your authentic leadership, download the 10 simple “plays” to stop selling out and start standing out at https://bauthenticinc.mykajabi.com/freebie To connect with Erin and/or Nicole, email: hello@bauthenticinc.com If you like jammin' with us on the podcast, b sure to join us for more fun and inspiration! Follow b Cause on Twitter (really it's mostly Nicole) Follow Erin on LinkedIn or Instagram Join the b Cause Podcast Facebook Group Take our simple, fun and insightful"What’s your workplace superhero name?”quiz Unleash your Authentic Superpower with Erin’s book,"You Do You (ish)" Check out our blog for more no-BS career advice Work with Us Or just buy some fun, authentic, kick-ars merch here DISCLAIMER: This episode is not explicit, though contains mild swearing that may be unsustainable for younger audiences. Tweetable Comments "Be brutally honest with yourself—don’t hide behind the numbers." "If you’re incapacitated, a power of attorney is crucial—it lets someone manage your finances and medical decisions. Without it, even parents of adult children lose the authority they once had." “In order to be number one, you have to be odd.” "Showing up is the first step—again and again—because building financial confidence is like learning a language: it takes reps, not perfection."
Transcribe →