Workplace culture doesn’t become toxic overnight, and the warning signs often show up long before leaders take action. In this episode, workplace culture and leadership experts Rebecca Del Secco and Catherine Mattice join Kara to break down the early indicators of a toxic workplace, how harmful behaviors are allowed to persist, and the critical role leadership plays in accountability and psychological safety. They explore how silence, fear, gossip, and unchecked power dynamics erode trust, what employees can do when they feel unsafe at work, and how leaders can intervene before toxicity becomes embedded in company culture. The conversation also covers rebuilding trust, navigating difficult conversations, and knowing when it’s time to advocate for change, or make the decision to leave.

Chapters:

00:00 Navigating Toxic Workplace Culture

03:07 Changing Definitions of Toxicity

05:52 Extreme Cases of Workplace Bullying

08:40 Identifying Toxic Work Environments

11:43 The Role of Leadership in Culture

14:45 Coaching and Feedback Dynamics

17:33 The Importance of Psychological Safety

20:39 Feedback and Communication Strategies

23:38 The Power of Core Values

26:30 Integrating Visionary and Operational Roles

29:36 Operationalizing Culture

32:41 Intentionality in Culture

35:32 The Balance of Systems and Creativity

38:31 Empowering Change in Culture

The Powerful Ladies podcast, hosted by business coach and strategist Kara Duffy features candid conversations with entrepreneurs, creatives, athletes, chefs, writers, scientists, and more. Every Wednesday, new episodes explore what it means to lead with purpose, create with intention, and define success on your own terms.

Whether you're growing a business, changing careers, or asking bigger questions, these stories remind you: you're not alone, and you're more powerful than you think.

Explore more at thepowerfulladies.com and karaduffy.com.

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