Step into the shadowy labyrinth of leadership and conflict in this episode of Monster in My Closet – Into the Shadows. Hosts Anil Saxena and Morgan Hunter are joined by Kristen Knepper Bahbahani, founder of Work.Like.A.Girl.co, to unravel the mysteries of conflict resolution and its connection to workplace trauma and systemic issues.

Kristen shares her unique perspective as a former attorney, policy advisor, and tech leader turned executive coach, shedding light on how leaders can use emotional intelligence to navigate conflicts, create safe spaces for dialogue, and address burnout before it leads to apathy. From untangling systemic challenges to recognizing when it’s time to call in a neutral third party, this episode provides practical strategies to transform conflict into collaboration.

Episode Insights:

• Conflict often has roots in systemic issues rather than interpersonal misunderstandings.
• Emotional intelligence and self-awareness are vital for effective leadership.
• Creating a safe and open environment helps teams resolve issues without fear.
• Third-party mediation can be a game-changer for deep-rooted workplace challenges.
• Burnout and apathy in teams are often more dangerous than outright conflict.

If you’ve ever struggled to lead through the fog of conflict, this episode will equip you with the tools to take on even the most haunted workplaces.

Find the full show notes and more at https://www.medusaas.org/podcasts.

In the dark corners of the workplace, beware of the "Elixir of Learned Helplessness"—a potent brew that tempts businesses and individuals alike to over-serve, creating a dangerous cycle of dependence. This week on Monster in My Closet, we unmask the chilling consequences of overdoing support for customers, partners, and even colleagues or family members, and reveal practical strategies to break the cycle. These lessons aren't just for business—they can empower you to build resilience in every part of your life, from personal relationships to professional interactions. Tune in to discover how empowering others can help your organization, and yourself, thrive… instead of haunting your growth.

Topics We’ll Cover:

• Defining Learned Helplessness in Business and Beyond: What it looks like when over-service turns into over-dependence.
• The Costs of Over-Servicing: How too much help can stifle growth, trap resources, and impact personal boundaries.
• Empowerment Strategies for Resilience: Methods to encourage self-sufficiency and growth in others—whether in work, friendships, or family dynamics.

Full show notes available at https://www.medusaas.org/podcasts.

In this episode of Monster in My Closet – Into the Shadows, we venture into the often-overlooked emotional landscape of organizational change. Hosts Anil Saxena and Morgan Hunter are joined by Christopher Lind to uncover the surprising connections between change, grief, and resistance in the workplace.

Christopher, an expert in blending technology with human experience, sheds light on how employees often experience hidden losses during transformations—even positive ones. Together, they discuss how the stages of grief echo the resistance many feel toward new processes and technologies. From navigating unprocessed grief to allowing space for ‘organizational mourning,’ this episode reveals how empathetic leadership can help teams process change more effectively, boosting resilience and innovation.

Episode Insights:

• Resistance to change often stems from underlying grief.
• The stages of grief can mirror adoption of new technologies or processes.
• Leaders should recognize and allow for the grieving process to support team well-being.
• Empathy, trust, and open dialogue are crucial in navigating transformations.

If you’re a leader looking to bring empathy into your change management, or anyone curious about the emotional underpinnings of transformation, this episode will help you see change in a whole new light.

Find the full show notes and more at https://www.medusaas.org/podcasts.