Shows
Humanize the Workplace by Mindful Business AllianceThe Line Between Culture and Cult (and How to Spot It)Is your workplace a community or a congregation? Chuck & Andrew skewer the culty side of "culture": forced fun, founder worship, surveillance-y "care," and those rituals that eat your calendar and your soul. Then they map the healthy alternative—psychological safety, clear boundaries, dissent that isn't punished, and values that don't require chanting. If your team ends meetings with a slogan… this one's for you. In this episode: ✨ The "too much" test: when culture tips into control 🕺 Rituals vs. productivity (and why your introverts are quietly dying inside) 👑 Founder worship, ghost-of-the-founder energy, and anti-disse...
2025-10-0231 minHumanize the Workplace by Mindful Business AllianceStop Giving Advice: The Real Value of Coaching at WorkMost people think coaching is just advice with a fancier invoice. In this episode of Humanize the Workplace, Chuck Allen and Andrew Sheridan dismantle the biggest myths about coaching and mentoring, roast the corporate addiction to "advice culture," and explore why listening is a lost art leaders think they've mastered—but haven't. From the awkward truth that your boss's "mentoring" might just be storytelling in disguise, to the reason advice rarely works (hint: humans are allergic to other people's ideas), this episode dives deep into: Why coaching is not consulting in yoga pants. Ho...
2025-09-0345 minHumanize the Workplace by Mindful Business AllianceThink Wrong: Turning Stupid Workplace Policies on Their Head with Robert BloomAndrew and Chuck drag design-thinking rebel Robert Bloom, Founder & Managing Partner @ Design Thinkers South Africa, into the ring to skewer soul-sucking corporate policies and show you how to flip the script. From VUCA chaos to Elon Musk's rigid reign, learn why "thinking wrong" might be the only sane move left. Prepare for razor-sharp wit, ironic truth bombs, and a masterclass in human-first policies. Inside this episode: 🪓 Slash & Rebuild: Transform "because we said so" policies into creativity launchpads 🎲 Gamify the Grind: Turn cost-cutting from misery to high-score hunting ⚖️ Artists + Engineers: Hire both w...
2025-08-121h 08Humanize the Workplace by Mindful Business AllianceThe Hidden Cost of 90-Day Payment TermsDelayed payments shouldn't be a strategy—but for many corporations, 60- to 120-day terms have become standard practice. In this episode, Chuck & Andrew examine how "interest-free loans" from vendors distort cash flow, inflate prices, and erode trust across supply chains. Key points you'll hear: From 30 to 90+ days: how payment terms crept up and what it really costs both sides. "No P.O., No Dinero": the administrative maze that slows down innovation and strains relationships. Financial ripple effects: debt, staffing risk, and price hikes vendors use to survive long cycles....
2025-07-2929 minHumanize the Workplace by Mindful Business AllianceThe Art of Difficult Conversations: Curiosity, Compassion, and the Mindful Pause with Lorrie FairChuck Allen and Andrew Sheridan explore the emotional complexity of difficult conversations with guest Lorrie Fair—former U.S. national soccer player and current Chief Program Director at the Charlize Theron Africa Outreach Project. Together, they dive into the science of defensiveness, the impact of childhood conditioning, and the small yet powerful practice of taking a mindful pause. This candid conversation blends practical insights with human stories, offering a compassionate blueprint for improving how we connect and communicate at work. For more insights and resources, visit https://mindfulbusinessalliance.com/humanize-the-workplace-podcast/ Get in to...
2025-06-171h 08Humanize the Workplace by Mindful Business AllianceHow Labels Sabotage Diversity, Equity and Inclusion — and What Real Equity TakesChuck & Andrew sit down with healing‑facilitator Leah Williams to torch the corporate box‑ticking approach to diversity. From "fun hair" politics to the hidden costs of equity trainings, they unpack why everyone's tense, how impact beats intent, and what it actually takes to humanize the workplace. Leah shares: 🏷️ How race, gender, and parent status get questioned after you're hired ⚖️ Equality vs. equity in plain‑English (and why $75 might not be fair) 📢 The difference between "calling out" and "calling in"—and when each harms 🌍 Three arenas for real change: intrapersonal, interp...
2025-05-131h 14Humanize the Workplace by Mindful Business AllianceHow Smart Leaders Spot—and Stop—Manipulation: From Mall Hustles to Team MeetingsChuck almost bought enlightenment; Andrew almost financed a holy man's layover—and somehow they both wound up late for dinner. In this episode the duo dissect their own walk‑of‑shame scam stories, then torch the same persuasion hacks when they show up at the office disguised as "culture," "mission," or "just one more favor." If you've ever paid too much (in cash or overtime) because politeness pinned your feet to the floor, this one's your antidote. Key takeaways: 🤝 Politeness ≠ Permission 😎 Liking Hooks You 📌 One "Yes" Snowballs 🎁 Freebies Expect Payba...
2025-04-2936 minHumanize the Workplace by Mindful Business AllianceIs the Boss the Real Problem? (Probably.)Ever notice that whenever someone complains about their job, the boss is almost always the main character in that horror story? In this episode, we laugh (so we don't cry) about clueless managers, buddy-boss wannabes, and those "I'll just remove the trashcan from my Mac" dictators. If you suspect your team's daydreams involve quitting—or quietly leaving their work phone on the desk—maybe you should tune in. Key takeaways: 🤯 Boss = #1 Complaint 🙈 Ignorance Hurts Everyone 🚫 Authority Isn't a Shield 🌱 Develop or Lose Talent 🧳 Your Issues, Their Burden ...
2025-04-0232 minHumanize the Workplace by Mindful Business AllianceBonus Breakdown: Corporate BS Exposed!Chuck and Andrew tear into the absurdity of corporate incentives—from bogus bonus math to wellness facades that only add to the workload. They expose the toxic BS behind performance reviews and anonymous surveys, and they offer a no-nonsense call for real change in management practices. Key takeaways: 😒 Corporate wellness is a façade. 💼 Incentives are rigged for burnout. 🔍 "Anonymous" surveys aren't anonymous. 🚫 Boundaries are non-negotiable. 💸 Bonus schemes breed unhealthy competition. 🗣️ Honest feedback gets suppressed. 🤯 Overload and unrealistic targets crush morale. 👂 Active listening i...
2025-02-2550 minHumanize the Workplace by Mindful Business AllianceBurnout Boundaries: Corporate Self-Care Reality CheckIn this episode, Chuck, Andrew, and special guest Vincenza peel back the glossy facade of corporate "wellness" from a leadership lens. They skewer hollow self-care promises that burden your team, exposing why setting real boundaries isn't just HR fluff – it's a leadership must to prevent burnout. Expect razor-sharp wit, biting irony, and an unvarnished take that challenges managers to truly humanize the workplace. Key takeaways: 🚫 Boundaries are essential to combat burnout. 💼 Corporate wellness programs often mask deeper systemic issues. 🤔 True self-care requires addressing root causes, not just surface fixes. 🧠 Lea...
2025-01-2242 minHumanize the Workplace by Mindful Business AllianceDealing with Terrible FeedbackIn this episode, Chuck and Andrew face their very first YouTube burn on their AI episode. They break down a comment that kicks off with "This is terrible" and spirals into body odor brawls and tarmac tangents. Watch as they navigate the minefield of bad feedback with snarky humor, ironic takes, and a whole lot of eye rolls. Whether you're an AI enthusiast or just here for the laughs, this episode is your crash course in handling awful comments without losing your cool (or your sense of humor). 😂🔥 Tune in and learn how to make work suck less, one terrib...
2025-01-0718 minHumanize the Workplace by Mindful Business AllianceFrom Cell to CEO: Leadership Lessons Behind BarsIn this episode, Chuck and Andrew dive into Andrew's eye-opening visit to Singapore's Changi Prison. Discover how respect, boundaries, and rehabilitation aren't just for inmates—they're game-changers for your workplace too! Expect jaw-dropping insights, hilarious anecdotes, and brutally honest takes on transforming tough environments into thriving spaces. Tune in and learn how making work suck less starts with some unexpected prison wisdom! Key takeaways: 🎓 Respect is Non-Negotiable 🌍 Environment Shapes Behavior 🤝 Humans First, Always 📏 Be Consistently Predictable 🧠 Think Long Game 🛠️ Bosses Need Training Too 👂 Listen Like a...
2024-12-1742 minHumanize the Workplace by Mindful Business AllianceTrust Me, I'm Lying: Navigating Workplace Trust IssuesIn this episode, Chuck and Andrew hilariously dissect why trusting your coworker can feel like handing your car keys to a raccoon. From bosses who file your ideas under "trash" while smiling, to colleagues as predictable as a coin flip, we expose the office antics that make trust rarer than a clean office microwave. But it's not all snark and sarcasm! We'll drop some brutally honest tips on building real trust, setting boundaries even the sneakiest coworker can't cross, and becoming the leader everyone actually wants to work with. Key takeaways:...
2024-11-2645 minHumanize the Workplace by Mindful Business AllianceAI: Because Your Boss Needed an UpgradeEver thought your boss could be replaced by a toaster with better people skills? 🤖 Well, you're not alone! In this episode, Chuck and Andrew plunge into the wild world of AI in the workplace. Will artificial intelligence help us humanize work, or are we all just one algorithm away from unemployment? Strap in for a hilarious, thought-provoking ride through intrigue, terror, and the occasional passive-aggressive robot. Key takeaways: 🤖 AI Might Steal Your Job—But Only the Dull, Dirty, and Dangerous Ones 🙄 Your Boss is an Idiot—But Can AI Really Do Better?
2024-11-1234 minHumanize the Workplace by Mindful Business AllianceMicromanagement: The Soul-Crushing Art FormIn this episode, Chuck and Andrew dive headfirst into the dark abyss of micromanagement—the not-so-secret weapon of bosses determined to make work as soul-crushing as humanly possible. They unravel why some leaders just can't resist the urge to hover, meddle, and generally make everyone's life harder than it needs to be. Expect a rollercoaster of sarcasm, wit, and brutally honest insights as they expose the ineffective habits that turn workplaces into wastelands. Key takeaways: 🙅♂️ Micromanagement kills productivity. 😒 No one enjoys being micromanaged. 🧠 Hoarding knowledge harms the team. 🐣 Micromanaging...
2024-10-2941 minHumanize the Workplace by Mindful Business AllianceNavigating the Work-from-Home Life with Krista NewhouseIn this episode, Chuck chats with Krista Newhouse, from CooperSurgical about the wild ride of navigating work from home during and after the pandemic. From the chaos of Zoom etiquette to the joys of wearing leggings all day, they dive into the absurdities and silver linings of merging home and office life. Expect candid stories, unexpected humor, and a fresh take on making work suck less—even when your dog is barking in the background. Key takeaways: 🏠 Working from home enhances work-life integration. 💻 Virtual meetings require clear norms and etiquette. 🐶 Home...
2024-10-221h 01Humanize the Workplace by Mindful Business AllianceReturn to the Office? Let's Debate This NightmareIn this episode, Chuck and Andrew tackle everyone's (least) favorite topic: the dreaded return to the office. Is it time to dust off those cubicles, or should we keep embracing the pants-optional lifestyle of remote work? Join us as we dive into a hilariously heated debate, flip-flopping between corporate justifications and the sweet freedom of working from home. Key takeaways: 🔄 Hybrid work models offer balance. 🏢 In-person collaboration boosts creativity. 🏠 Flexibility increases employee satisfaction. 🗣️ Clear communication is essential. 📊 Decisions should be data-driven. 👨👩👧👦 Remote work positively impacts social dynamics.
2024-10-1534 minHumanize the Workplace by Mindful Business AllianceJensen Huang: The Tech CEO Turning Leadership Upside DownIn this episode, Chuck and Andrew take a deep dive into the enigma that is Jensen Huang, the co-founder and CEO of Nvidia. Is he a master of calm disguised in a leather jacket, or just the most composed guy to ever shake up Silicon Valley? Join us as we dissect his unconventional leadership quotes, his "no one-on-ones" policy, and why he might just be the game-changer we've all been waiting for in the tech world. Key takeaways: 🚀 Unconventional Leadership Works - Breaking traditional norms can lead to outstanding success. 🧘♂️ Calm Leadership En...
2024-10-0135 minHumanize the Workplace by Mindful Business AllianceCharisma in Leadership: The Good, The Bad, and The CheesyIn this episode, Chuck and Andrew dive into the murky waters of charisma in leadership—where it shines, where it flops, and where it gets downright manipulative. Are you projecting confidence or just putting on a show? Let's unpack the fine line between genuine charm and cheesy performance with a side of humor and a lot of real talk. For more insights and resources, visit Mindful Business Alliance / Humanize The Workplace Get in touch! Chuck Allen - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuck-allen-0b7b508/ Andrew Sheridan - ht...
2024-09-1728 minHumanize the Workplace by Mindful Business AllianceImposter Syndrome: When You Feel Like a Fraud at the TopIn this episode of Humanize the Workplace, Chuck and Andrew dive headfirst into the murky waters of imposter syndrome. From perfectionism to overachievement, they dissect the many ways leaders feel like frauds—and why that's actually more common than you think. If you've ever felt like a caterpillar trying to fake being a butterfly, this episode is for you. It's time to normalize the messiness of growth and ditch the guilt. Key takeaways: 🤯 Imposter Syndrome is Common: Everyone faces self-doubt, even top leaders. 🎯 Perfectionism Trap: Perfectionists risk burnout by chasing impossible standards...
2024-09-0331 minHumanize the Workplace by Mindful Business AllianceSurviving the Squeeze: Leadership in Times of OverwhelmChuck and Andrew dive into the harsh realities of leadership during times of large-scale layoffs and overwhelming workloads. Discover why it's crucial for leaders to prioritize, stay honest, and seek support. Spoiler: It's okay to push back. Key takeaways: 🧠 Understanding Overwhelm: Recognizing the common theme of overwhelming workloads among leaders. 🔄 Prioritization: Strategies for prioritizing tasks and focusing on what truly matters. 💬 Honest Conversations: The importance of having frank, mindful conversations with both the team and upper management. 🚨 Risks of Burnout: Identifying and mitigating the risks associated with burnout and e...
2024-08-2123 minHumanize the Workplace by Mindful Business AllianceToxic Positivity: When Good Vibes Go BadChuck and Andrew tackle the bizarre world of toxic positivity in the workplace. From enforced happiness to ignoring real issues, discover why sometimes, it's okay not to be okay. For more insights and resources, visit Mindful Business Alliance / Humanize The Workplace Get in touch! Chuck Allen - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuck-allen-0b7b508/ Andrew Sheridan - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewmsheridan Mindful Business Alliance Website - https://mindfulbusinessalliance.com/
2024-07-2344 minHumanize the Workplace by Mindful Business AllianceThe Good Life: What Leaders Need to KnowJoin Chuck Allen and Andrew Sheridan as they dive deep into the question, "What is a good life?" Discover why understanding this concept is crucial for leaders in today's workplace. Spoiler: It's not just about the 9-to-5 grind. For more insights and resources, visit Mindful Business Alliance / Humanize The Workplace Get in touch! Chuck Allen - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuck-allen-0b7b508/ Andrew Sheridan - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewmsheridan Mindful Business Alliance Website - https://mindfulbusinessalliance.com/
2024-07-2310 min