The Workplace Podcast: Real Lessons. Honest Conversation.

Workplace 101 Hub
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The Workplace Podcast is your no-nonsense guide to navigating today’s workplace. I’m Barbara—an HR leader, recruiter, and learning professional with over 15 years of experience helping people grow, communicate, and succeed at work. Each episode delivers real-world strategies, honest advice, and practical tools to help you build confidence, communicate effectively, and level up—whether you’re just starting your career, finding your footing, or ready to take the next step. It’s everything no one teaches you—but everyone expects you to know. 

Episodes

  1. 18H AGO

    Episode 12: Same Message, Different Meaning — How Communication Lands with ADHD

    In this episode of The Workplace Podcast, we explore a part of workplace communication that rarely gets named — the space after the conversation ends. The same message doesn’t land the same way for everyone. For some people, understanding is immediate. For others — including many people with ADHD — meaning forms later, through reflection and integration. And when that difference isn’t understood, it often gets mislabeled as overthinking, being too sensitive, or not letting things go. This episode isn’t clinical, and it isn’t about diagnosis. It’s about self-awareness as a professional skill. We talk about: Why understanding doesn’t always happen in real timeHow ADHD (and other processing styles) can shape how communication landsThe difference between participation and understandingPractical, workplace-appropriate strategies for navigating feedback and conversations when clarity comes laterHow to adapt thoughtfully at work — without over-disclosing or asking others to changeWhether you have ADHD or simply recognize yourself in the experience of delayed clarity, this episode offers language, perspective, and tools you can actually use. This is part of an ongoing series about communication, feedback, and the unspoken expectations of work. In the next episode, we’ll apply this same lens directly to feedback — where immediacy, ambiguity, and identity often collide. If you’ve ever walked away from a conversation knowing something landed — but needed time to understand what to do with it — this episode is for you. Send us a text 👉 Shop all the books and my favorite career tools here: 🔗 https://linktr.ee/workplace101hub Disclosure: Some links in my Linktr.ee are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them — at no extra cost to you. I only recommend what I truly love and use myself.

    13 min

  2. DEC 16

    EPISODE 11: Understanding Communication Through My ADHD Lens

    In this episode of The Workplace Podcast, I’m starting a new series by stepping back and sharing my own experience with communication at work — through the lens of living with ADD. We’ve talked about communication and feedback before. This time, the conversation is different. Instead of tips or scripts, this episode focuses on what communication feels like for me — why certain conversations linger, why feedback can hit harder than expected, and why vague or incomplete communication can feel heavier than it probably was meant to be. This episode isn’t medical or clinical advice. It’s simply my lived experience — the patterns I’ve noticed, the moments I’ve replayed, and the mindset shifts that helped me stop turning communication inward and start understanding what was actually happening. If you’ve ever walked away from a conversation feeling unsettled, replayed a meeting in your head, or struggled to separate intent from impact, this episode will likely resonate. We’re setting the foundation for a series designed to slow communication down, create clarity, and make workplace conversations feel more manageable — one layer at a time. Send us a text 👉 Shop all the books and my favorite career tools here: 🔗 https://linktr.ee/workplace101hub Disclosure: Some links in my Linktr.ee are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them — at no extra cost to you. I only recommend what I truly love and use myself.

    9 min

  3. DEC 12

    Episode 10: The Feedback Mindset That Changes Everything

    Feedback can feel heavy. Confusing. Personal. Especially when you’re trying to do your best—and it still lands wrong. In this episode, we bring everything together. Over the past several conversations, we’ve explored feedback from managers, peers, trainers, and everyday interactions. Now it’s time to connect the dots and focus on one of the most important mindset shifts you can make if you want feedback to help you grow instead of derail you. Because most of us were never taught how to interpret feedback—only how to react to it. So, when feedback shows up unexpectedly, many people spiral, shut down, or take it as a reflection of who they are rather than what’s happening. In this episode, we talk honestly about: Why feedback hits so hard (and why that’s human)The difference between feedback and identityHow systems, context, and expectations shape most feedbackWhy feedback is meant to be processed—not absorbed How to quiet the inner voice that turns feedback into self-criticismThe mindset shift that helps you pause, reflect, and respondThis isn’t about becoming numb to feedback or pretending it doesn’t sting. It’s about learning how to hold feedback without letting it define you. If feedback has ever made you question your confidence, your competence, or your place at work—this episode will help you reframe the moment and move forward with clarity and control. Because feedback doesn’t decide your worth. What you do with it shapes your growth. Send us a text 👉 Shop all the books and my favorite career tools here: 🔗 https://linktr.ee/workplace101hub Disclosure: Some links in my Linktr.ee are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them — at no extra cost to you. I only recommend what I truly love and use myself.

    11 min

  4. DEC 4

    Episode 9: Feedback in Everyday Interactions — How to Receive It and Give It Well

    Feedback doesn’t just happen at work — it shows up everywhere. From car dealerships and doctor’s offices to service desks, emails, surveys, and online reviews, everyday feedback shapes experiences, trust, and reputation far more than most people realize. In this episode of The Workplace Podcast, we step outside of formal performance conversations and explore how to handle feedback in everyday interactions — especially when it’s unsolicited, emotional, or unstructured. In this episode, we discuss: What everyday feedback really is and why it often feels personalWhy feedback in real-world interactions can feel more intense than workplace feedbackHow to receive feedback calmly without getting defensiveThe difference between validation and agreementHow to turn feedback into forward movement instead of conflictWhy follow-through and feedback continuation matter more than the perfect responseHow giving feedback well leads to better outcomes and stronger service experiencesIf you interact with people — at work, in service environments, or in everyday life — this episode will help you communicate more clearly, respond more thoughtfully, and use feedback as a tool for improvement instead of frustration. Because feedback isn’t about being right.  It’s about making things better. Send us a text 👉 Shop all the books and my favorite career tools here: 🔗 https://linktr.ee/workplace101hub Disclosure: Some links in my Linktr.ee are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them — at no extra cost to you. I only recommend what I truly love and use myself.

    16 min

  5. DEC 3

    Episode 8: Feedback from Your Peer or Buddy — Why It Matters More Than You Think

    Feedback doesn’t only come from managers or formal reviews. Some of the most influential feedback you’ll receive in your career comes from peers, buddies, mentors, and trainers—often early on, often informally, and often without much context. In this episode of The Workplace Podcast, we take a deeper dive into feedback following Episode 7 and explore why peer and buddy feedback plays such a powerful role in how you’re perceived, how quickly you grow, and whether others invest in your development. We cover: Why peer feedback feels different—and why it can hit harderHow to receive informal feedback without getting defensive or second-guessing yourselfHow to tell the difference between expectations and personal working styleWhy feedback continuation is the missing growth skill most people are never taughtHow to give feedback back—to peers and even to trainers—professionally and confidentlyWhy understanding feedback early can change your career trajectoryIf you’re onboarding, stepping into a new role, mentoring others, or navigating everyday feedback at work, this episode will help you turn informal feedback into visible growth and credibility. If Episode 7 helped you understand why feedback matters, this episode shows you how to work with it. Subscribe to The Workplace Podcast for practical, real-world guidance on communication, growth, and navigating the unspoken rules of work. Send us a text 👉 Shop all the books and my favorite career tools here: 🔗 https://linktr.ee/workplace101hub Disclosure: Some links in my Linktr.ee are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them — at no extra cost to you. I only recommend what I truly love and use myself.

    8 min

  6. NOV 26

    Episode 7: How to Give and Receive Feedback: The Skill That Changes Everything

    Feedback is one of the most important skills you’ll ever develop in your career — but most of us were never taught how to handle it. In this episode, we’re diving into the real, practical tools that help you give and receive feedback without shutting down, getting defensive, or taking it personally. We’ll break down why feedback feels so uncomfortable, how to respond with confidence instead of panic, and what leaders are actually looking for when they assess “coachability.” You’ll walk away with strategies you can use immediately — in your next 1:1, project review, or unexpected “Can I give you some feedback?” moment. In this episode, we cover: How to receive feedback without spiralingWhat openness vs. resistance sounds likeHow to give feedback that’s honest and respectfulWhy mastering feedback accelerates your careerHow to shift your mindset so feedback feels useful, not threateningIf you’re ready to communicate better, grow faster, and show up with more credibility at work, this episode will change the way you approach feedback. Workplace 101 Hub — teaching the things everyone expects you to know, but no one really explains. 🎧 Send us a text 👉 Shop all the books and my favorite career tools here: 🔗 https://linktr.ee/workplace101hub Disclosure: Some links in my Linktr.ee are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them — at no extra cost to you. I only recommend what I truly love and use myself.

    25 min

  7. NOV 19

    Episode 6: Being Coachable - The Skill That Changes Everything

    Coachability is one of the most powerful career advantages you can build — and it has nothing to do with how long you’ve been working. In this episode of The Workplace Podcast, we break down what coachability really means, why leaders value it so highly, and how it influences your growth, your opportunities, and your reputation at work. You’ll learn the behaviors that signal openness, the patterns leaders look for behind the scenes, and the subtle habits that quietly damage credibility. We’ll also walk through a simple framework for taking feedback professionally, recovering from missteps with confidence, and showing people you’re someone worth investing in. If you want to grow faster, build trust quickly, and stand out in any workplace — this episode is your roadmap. In this episode, we cover: • What coachability actually looks like • How leaders assess whether someone is coachable • Closed-to-coaching behaviors that hold people back • How to take feedback without spiraling or getting defensive • Micro-behaviors that signal maturity, openness, and readiness • How coachability builds trust in new roles and new environments • A 4-part Coachability Challenge you can start this week Coachability isn’t about perfection — it’s about openness, awareness, and your willingness to evolve. If this episode helps you, share it with someone who’s building their career too. Connect with me on Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube for more tools, insights, and workplace wisdom:  https://linktr.ee/workplace101hub Affiliate links included — I may earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. Send us a text 👉 Shop all the books and my favorite career tools here: 🔗 https://linktr.ee/workplace101hub Disclosure: Some links in my Linktr.ee are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them — at no extra cost to you. I only recommend what I truly love and use myself.

    11 min

  8. NOV 15

    Episode 5: The First 90 Days: Building Credibility Fast

    Starting a new job can feel overwhelming, but your first 90 days don’t have to be a guessing game. In this episode, we walk through how to show up with confidence, communicate clearly, and build credibility from day one—no matter where you are on your career journey. You’ll learn: • What people really notice in your first 90 days • How communication shapes your reputation • A simple 30–60–90 framework to guide your growth • How to recover from mistakes professionally • The daily habits that strengthen your credibility • A challenge to help you apply everything this week Want more career support?  Follow me on Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube—links in the bio! If this episode resonated, hit like, subscribe, and share it with someone starting a new role. Send us a text 👉 Shop all the books and my favorite career tools here: 🔗 https://linktr.ee/workplace101hub Disclosure: Some links in my Linktr.ee are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them — at no extra cost to you. I only recommend what I truly love and use myself.

    27 min

  9. NOV 12

    Episode 4: 5 Books That Changed How I Communicate and Connect at Work

    Want to communicate with more confidence and credibility at work? In this episode, I’m sharing 5 books that completely changed how I connect, influence, and build trust in the workplace. Each one offers practical strategies you can apply right away—whether you’re early in your career or ready to level up your leadership. Books Mentioned: How to Win Friends and Influence People – Dale Carnegie Simply Said – Jay Sullivan Emotional Intelligence 2.0 – Travis Bradberry & Jean Greaves Conversational Intelligence – Judith E. Glaser Dare to Lead - Brené Brown Send us a text 👉 Shop all the books and my favorite career tools here: 🔗 https://linktr.ee/workplace101hub Disclosure: Some links in my Linktr.ee are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them — at no extra cost to you. I only recommend what I truly love and use myself.

    7 min

  10. NOV 10

    Episode 3: Beyond Words: The Real Skills Behind Effective Communication

    Communication isn’t just about what you say — it’s about how you connect. In this episode, I dive deeper into the nuances of workplace communication: how to navigate meetings with confidence, talk with your leader the right way, and build emotional intelligence that strengthens trust and credibility. You’ll learn how to:  💬 Prepare for meetings and add value (not noise)  🧭 Communicate with your leader clearly and respectfully  🤝 Lean into emotional intelligence and empathy  ⚡ Replace control with connection to build stronger teams Because great communication isn’t a talent — it’s a skill. And when you master it, you don’t just get heard… you make an impact. 🎙️ The Workplace Podcast — Real lessons. Honest talk. The stuff no one teaches—but everyone expects you to know. Send us a text 👉 Shop all the books and my favorite career tools here: 🔗 https://linktr.ee/workplace101hub Disclosure: Some links in my Linktr.ee are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them — at no extra cost to you. I only recommend what I truly love and use myself.

    7 min

  11. NOV 8

    Episode 2: The Unspoken Rules of Communication What No One Teaches About Speaking Up at Work

    Communication isn’t dying — it’s evolving. AI, remote work, and endless messaging have changed how we connect — but the skill that still matters most is being human. Episode 2 of The Workplace Podcast dives into the unspoken rules of communication — how to listen, speak up, and truly connect again. Send us a text 👉 Shop all the books and my favorite career tools here: 🔗 https://linktr.ee/workplace101hub Disclosure: Some links in my Linktr.ee are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them — at no extra cost to you. I only recommend what I truly love and use myself.

    8 min

  12. NOV 5

    Episode 1: I Wish Someone Would Have Told Me Sooner!

    In this first episode, we’re tackling a big truth: most workplace struggles aren’t performance issues—they’re teaching issues. We expect people to lead, communicate, and grow, but we rarely show them how. I’ll share why this topic hits home, what inspired The Workplace Podcast and Workplace 101 Hub, and how we can start bridging the gap between what’s expected and what’s taught. If you’ve ever thought, “I wish someone had told me this sooner,” you’re in the right place. Subscribe and join me as we make the workplace less intimidating—and a lot more human. Send us a text 👉 Shop all the books and my favorite career tools here: 🔗 https://linktr.ee/workplace101hub Disclosure: Some links in my Linktr.ee are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them — at no extra cost to you. I only recommend what I truly love and use myself.

    9 min
  • 12 Episodes

About

The Workplace Podcast is your no-nonsense guide to navigating today’s workplace. I’m Barbara—an HR leader, recruiter, and learning professional with over 15 years of experience helping people grow, communicate, and succeed at work. Each episode delivers real-world strategies, honest advice, and practical tools to help you build confidence, communicate effectively, and level up—whether you’re just starting your career, finding your footing, or ready to take the next step. It’s everything no one teaches you—but everyone expects you to know. 

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