S2E16: Understanding Groupthink: MLMs, Cults, and Toxic Workplaces with Felicia

Explicit content warning

11/21/23 • 87 min

Let's Break Up - Toxic Workplace Stories

Ever wondered how multi-level marketing organizations manage to lure individuals into their webs of manipulation and false promises of financial freedom? Get ready to decode these toxic work environments with Felicia, an experienced industrial organization psychologist and the founder and fractional CPO at CPO Playbook. We unmask the tactics MLMs use to entice and manipulate people, highlighting the financial burdens placed on distributors, and how the structures of MLMs differ from traditional organizations.
We extend our conversation beyond MLMs, venturing into the territories of cult-like organizations. Revel in the striking similarities between MLMs and cults, and learn about the charismatic leaders who skillfully exploit and manipulate individuals. We dissect the prevalence of groupthink in these settings, discuss the potential dangers of toxic positivity, and expose the subtle yet potent recruitment and retention strategies employed.
As we traverse this complex terrain, we also touch on the significance of work-life balance and the potential for women to ascend as cult l

Welcome to Season 2, where we embark on authentic and unfiltered conversations about life, relationships, society, and more. Our opinions are solely our own and don't represent professional advice. It's just our perspective, so form your conclusions. Heads up, this podcast may contain adult content and explicit language. Let's dive in!
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This podcast does not constitute professional advice (financial, legal or otherwise) and you should seek your own professional advice where required. By listening to and/or accessing this podcast , you acknowledge this, and you acknowledge that no warranty, guarantee or representation is made as to the accuracy of any information featured in this podcast.
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Previous Episode

S2E15: Unpacking Misconduct Investigations and Microaggressions with Kia Roberts

When it comes to creating a safe and inclusive work environment, Kia Roberts, founder of Triangle Investigations, is the expert voice you want to hear from. Drawing from her unique experience as the NFL's first director of investigations and a former prosecutor, Kia walks us through the complex landscape of workplace misconduct investigations. She also shares the significant impact of the Me Too Movement on these practices and how it's reshaping the dynamics in our workplaces.
Our discussion also shines a spotlight on the repercussions of microaggressions in the workplace. Kia Roberts offers her expertise on how to conduct investigations into incidents of microaggression, and how to ensure witnesses feel prepared and comfortable sharing their experiences. We also examine an eye-opening sexual harassment case that Kia worked on, highlighting the potential dangers when leaders, like the CEO in this case, dismiss or minimize allegations. This episode is an enlightening exploration of workplace dynamics you won't want to miss.
https://www.triangleinvestigations.com/about

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S2E17: Surviving Deceitful Workplaces: Zuhara Miriam Exposes Unethical Practices in the PR Industry

Imagine being excited about a new job, only to find out that your employer is deceitful and manipulative. That’s the reality that Zuhara Miriam, a marketing and PR expert from Kenya, faced when she took on a job with a fraudulent employer. This episode serves as a cautionary tale, and a reminder to always be vigilant when entering into any employment agreement.
We navigate the treacherous waters of employment contracts gone awry, delayed payments, and the subsequent resignation. Listen to Zuhara’s harrowing experience of working under Catherine, a boss who not only delayed her payments but also created a toxic workplace culture. You may find yourself nodding along, recognizing similar experiences. Or, you may be shocked at the audacity of some employers. Either way, you're in for an enlightening conversation about work ethics, honesty, and transparency.
Lastly, we delve into the repercussions of a toxic leader and how that can leave deep scars on a team. Zuhara's story serves as a stark reminder of the struggles that many face in the PR industry. Despite the challenges, she rem

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Let's Break Up - Toxic Workplace Stories - S2E16: Understanding Groupthink: MLMs, Cults, and Toxic Workplaces with Felicia

Transcript

Felicia00:00:41.880

Yeah , all right .

Gina00:00:43.699

So , Felicia , you're going to talk to us about so many cool things . Yes , tell us a little bit about who you are , where you're coming from and anything you want our listeners to know about you .

Felicia00:00:59.131

Sure , so

Felicia00:01:01.325

I am the founder and frac