In this powerful episode of Hostile Work Environment, Derek and Dawn dive deep into the fundamentals of workplace harassment—what it is, how to identify it, and what legal standards apply. Then, they’re joined by special guest Ian Bryson, senior trial attorney at the Derek Smith Law Group, who walks us through his landmark $1.8 million jury verdict against the City of Philadelphia—the largest sexual harassment and retaliation verdict in the city’s history.

From defining “quid pro quo” and “constructive discharge” to breaking down the McDonnell-Douglas burden-shifting analysis, this episode unpacks the legal tools available to employees who are facing toxic, discriminatory workplaces.

• What legally constitutes workplace harassment
• How to prove retaliation and adverse action
• The difference between a hostile work environment and just a bad boss
• How courts analyze discrimination using the McDonnell-Douglas framework
• What made the $1.8M Philly police department case so historic
• Why reporting harassment is critical—and how to protect yourself

Ian Bryson – Trial Attorney at Derek Smith Law Group

Lead counsel in the $1.8M verdict against the City of Philadelphia involving retaliation and sexual harassment of two female police officers.

• Hostile Work Environment
• Quid Pro Quo Harassment
• Retaliation & Adverse Employment Actions
• Constructive Discharge
• Temporal Proximity
• Employer Negligence vs. Supervisor Liability

If you’ve experienced workplace harassment, discrimination, or retaliation—don’t wait.

📲 Call now: (800) 807-2209

🌐 Visit: www.dereksmithlaw.com

Don’t miss future episodes of Hostile Work Environment. We bring real legal talk, expert advice, and raw conversations that could change your life or someone you care about.

Welcome to the first episode of Hostile Work Environment, the podcast that pulls back the curtain on workplace misconduct, employee rights, and employment law. Hosted by Derek Smith, owner of Derek Smith Law Group, and Dawn Demaio, Head of HR and a seasoned paralegal, this episode tackles one of the most pressing issues in workplace law—sexual harassment.

We define what legally constitutes sexual harassment, explore real-life scenarios, and discuss how employees and employers can navigate these situations. Dawn shares firsthand experiences from her time in HR and legal work, offering valuable insights into how cases unfold behind the scenes.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The legal definition of sexual harassment and its two main types:
• Quid pro quo harassment (when job benefits are tied to unwanted advances)
• Hostile work environment harassment (when persistent behavior creates an intimidating or offensive workplace)
• The gray areas of workplace behavior and common misconceptions
• How HR professionals and legal teams handle harassment complaints
• Dawn’s experiences in HR and legal settings, witnessing cases firsthand
• Steps employees should take if they experience or witness harassment
• Legal protections available to victims of workplace harassment

Why This Matters:

Many employees aren’t sure where the line is drawn between inappropriate behavior and illegal harassment. Understanding your rights and protections under the law can empower you to take action and create a safer work environment.

Resources & Links:

• Learn more about your rights at Derek Smith Law Group
• Need legal help? Contact Derek Smith Law Group at 800-807-2209

• Follow us on social media for updates and legal insights

Subscribe to Hostile Work Environment on your favorite podcast platform and stay informed on the legal side of workplace rights.