Barely Manageable Podcast

You've proven yourself. You consistently deliver. You're dependable. So why does it sometimes feel like the reward for doing a great job is simply getting... even more work?

In Episode 12 of Barely Manageable, Dana and Mary tackle a challenge that many high performers know all too well. They discuss why reliable employees often end up carrying heavier workloads, how leaders can unintentionally create burnout, and what healthy recognition should actually look like.

The conversation explores setting boundaries, preventing employee fatigue, recognizing top performers without overloading them, and creating workplaces where hard work is rewarded—not punished.

Whether you're the employee everyone depends on or the leader assigning the work, this episode offers practical insights into building healthier, more sustainable teams.🎙️ Listen now to Barely Manageable with Dana Kelly & Mary Linkous.

⭐ Love the podcast? Help us grow by leaving a 5-star review, subscribing, and sharing the show with a friend or coworker.

📝 Then head over to our weekly blog for more leadership strategies and workplace conversations inspired by this episode.

Connect with Barely Manageable:

🌐 Website: BarelyManageable.com

📸 Instagram: @barelymanageablepodcast

🎵 TikTok: @barelymanageablepod

🎥 YouTube: Barely Manageable Podcast

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Every workplace has stories—the unforgettable coworkers, the awkward meetings, the leadership wins, and the moments that leave you thinking, "Did that really just happen?"

In Episode 11 of Barely Manageable, Dana and Mary turn the microphone over to their listeners by sharing and reacting to real workplace stories submitted by the community. Some are hilarious, some are frustrating, and many offer valuable leadership lessons hiding beneath the surface.

Together, they discuss what these situations teach us about communication, management, workplace culture, and navigating difficult personalities. No matter where you work, chances are you'll hear a story that reminds you of your own office.Because sometimes the best leadership lessons come from experiences we never expected.

🎙️ Listen now to Barely Manageable with Dana Kelly & Mary Linkous.

⭐ If you've been enjoying the show, please take a moment to leave us a 5-star review, subscribe, and share the podcast with someone who could use a laugh—and a little leadership wisdom.

📝 Be sure to read this week's companion blog for additional takeaways and practical leadership tips.

Connect with Barely Manageable:

🌐 Website: BarelyManageable.com

📸 Instagram: @barelymanageablepodcast

🎵 TikTok: @barelymanageablepod

🎥 YouTube: Barely Manageable Podcast

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Have you ever sat through a meeting wondering if anyone actually knows what "circle back," "move the needle," or "low-hanging fruit" really means?

In Episode 10 of Barely Manageable, Dana and Mary have some fun breaking down the corporate buzzwords that have become part of everyday workplace culture. From overused management phrases to trendy business jargon, they explore why these expressions catch on, when they're actually helpful, and when they become a substitute for real communication.

Along the way, they share laughs, stories from their own experiences, and discuss how clear, honest communication builds stronger teams than relying on the latest corporate catchphrases.

Whether you're a seasoned leader, a new manager, or just trying to survive your next staff meeting, you'll probably recognize more than a few phrases on this week's Bingo card.

🎙️ Listen now to Barely Manageable with Dana Kelly & Mary Linkous.

⭐ If you're enjoying the podcast, we'd love your support! Leave us a 5-star review, subscribe wherever you listen, and help us reach more leaders and professionals.

📝 Don't forget to check out this week's blog for even more leadership insights inspired by today's episode.

Connect with Barely Manageable:🌐 Website: BarelyManageable.com📸 Instagram: @barelymanageablepodcast🎵 TikTok: @barelymanageablepod🎥 YouTube: Barely Manageable Podcast🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Have you ever wondered what your boss is dealing with that you don't see?

In Episode 9 of Barely Manageable, Dana and Mary discuss managing up from a different perspective—understanding the responsibilities, pressures, and expectations that leaders face behind the scenes. As employees move into leadership roles, many are surprised to discover just how much happens above their level that was previously invisible.

From difficult staffing decisions and budget constraints to executive expectations, conflict management, and organizational pressures, they explore why leaders often have to make decisions that aren't always popular. The conversation highlights how gaining a broader perspective can improve workplace relationships, communication, and overall team culture.

Whether you're an employee looking to better understand leadership or a manager trying to bridge the gap between leadership and staff, this episode offers insight into the realities of what happens beyond your day-to-day responsibilities.

Because sometimes the full story isn't visible from where you're sitting—and understanding the bigger picture can change everything.

🎙️ Listen now to Barely Manageable with Dana Kelly & Mary Linkous.

Connect with Barely Manageable:

🌐 Website: BarelyManageable.com

📸 Instagram: @barelymanageablepodcast

🎵 TikTok: @barelymanageablepod

▶️ YouTube: Barely Manageable Pod

💬 Reddit: r/BarelyManageablePod 

🔗 All Links: linktr.ee/barelymanageablepodcast

⭐ Like, subscribe, and leave a 5-star review if this episode hit home.

✨ Save 25% off your first month at Ritual with code LINKTREE https://tr.ee/3MKwa6bOgY

🛒 Save 50% off of your Sam's Club membership with this link! https://tr.ee/1S6cq8OOeq

☕️ WIN OUR BARELY MANAGEABLE MUG GIVEAWAY! You've seen it in every episode—now it's your chance to have your own official Barely Manageable Mug! 🎙️

How to Enter: 📧 Email your workplace story, management challenge, leadership question, or "barely manageable" moment to [email protected] 🎧 Subscribe to Barely Manageable wherever you listen to podcasts 📱 Follow us on social media

We'll choose one lucky winner to receive the iconic mug featured on the show! Submit by 7/7 Winner announced 7/13

Got a story that's too good not to share? Send it our way—you might even hear it discussed in a future episode.

Why is a strong male leader often called confident, while a strong female leader is called something else?

In Episode 8 of Barely Manageable, Dana and Mary discuss the unique challenges women face in leadership roles. From being labeled "bossy," "intimidating," or "too emotional" to dealing with criticism that has little to do with actual job performance, they explore the double standards and biases that many women encounter throughout their careers.

The conversation dives into how name-calling, assumptions, and stereotypes can impact workplace dynamics, as well as practical ways women can lead authentically without shrinking themselves to make others comfortable. Dana and Mary also share personal experiences, leadership lessons, and encouragement for women stepping into positions of influence and responsibility.

Whether you're an aspiring leader, a seasoned manager, or simply interested in creating healthier workplace cultures, this episode offers an honest look at the realities of leadership through a female lens.Because leadership isn't about fitting someone else's expectations—it's about showing up, leading well, and staying true to who you are.

🎙️ Listen now to Barely Manageable with Dana Kelly & Mary Linkous.

Connect with Barely Manageable:

🌐 Website: BarelyManageable.com

📸 Instagram: @barelymanageablepodcast

🎵 TikTok: @barelymanageablepod

▶️ YouTube: Barely Manageable Pod

💬 Reddit: r/BarelyManageablePod

🔗 All Links: linktr.ee/barelymanageablepodcast

⭐ Like, subscribe, and leave a 5-star review if this episode hit home.✨ Save 25% off your first month at Ritual with code LINKTREE https://tr.ee/3MKwa6bOgY🛒 Save 50% off of your Sam's Club membership with this link! https://tr.ee/1S6cq8OOeq

☕️ WIN OUR BARELY MANAGEABLE MUG GIVEAWAY! You've seen it in every episode—now it's your chance to have your own official Barely Manageable Mug!

🎙️How to Enter: 📧 Email your workplace story, management challenge, leadership question, or "barely manageable" moment to [email protected] 🎧

Subscribe to Barely Manageable wherever you listen to podcasts 📱 Follow us on social media

We'll choose one lucky winner to receive the iconic mug featured on the show! Submit by 7/7

Winner announced 7/13Got a story that's too good not to share? Send it our way—you might even hear it discussed in a future episode.

Are they actually working... or just looking busy?

In Episode 7 of Barely Manageable, Dana and Mary tackle one of the most frustrating challenges leaders face: when employees begin operating on their own agenda. From side hustles during work hours and taking meetings from the driver's seat to finding creative ways to appear productive while avoiding accountability, they discuss the red flags managers shouldn't ignore.

The conversation dives into why these situations happen, how leaders can address them professionally, and the uncomfortable but necessary conversations that come with managing performance issues. They also explore the balance between trusting your team and holding employees accountable when expectations aren't being met.

If you've ever questioned whether an employee is truly engaged, struggled with workplace accountability, or had to address behavior that crossed professional boundaries, this episode offers practical insights and real-world leadership lessons.

Because trust is essential in the workplace—but trust without accountability can quickly become a problem.

🎙️ Listen now to Barely Manageable with Dana Kelly & Mary Linkous.

Connect with Barely Manageable:

🌐 Website: BarelyManageable.com

📸 Instagram: @barelymanageablepodcast

🎵 TikTok: @barelymanageablepod

▶️ YouTube: Barely Manageable Pod

💬 Reddit: r/BarelyManageablePod 

🔗 All Links: linktr.ee/barelymanageablepodcast

⭐ Like, subscribe, and leave a 5-star review if this episode hit home.

✨ Save 25% off your first month at Ritual with code LINKTREE https://tr.ee/3MKwa6bOgY

🛒 Save 50% off of your Sam's Club membership with this link! https://tr.ee/1S6cq8OOeq

☕️ WIN OUR BARELY MANAGEABLE MUG GIVEAWAY! You've seen it in every episode—now it's your chance to have your own official Barely Manageable Mug! 🎙️

How to Enter: 📧 Email your workplace story, management challenge, leadership question, or "barely manageable" moment to [email protected] 🎧 Subscribe to Barely Manageable wherever you listen to podcasts 📱 Follow us on social media

We'll choose one lucky winner to receive the iconic mug featured on the show! Submit by 7/7 Winner announced 7/13

Got a story that's too good not to share? Send it our way—you might even hear it discussed in a future episode.

Growth isn't always exciting—it’s often uncomfortable, messy, and a little awkward.

In Episode 6 of Barely Manageable, Dana and Mary discuss the reality of professional growth and why becoming better at what you do often means feeling uncomfortable along the way. From stepping into leadership roles and giving difficult feedback to learning new skills and making mistakes in front of others, growth rarely happens inside your comfort zone.

They share personal experiences, lessons learned, and practical advice for navigating the awkward stages of professional development with confidence and grace. If you've ever felt like you're stumbling through a new role, questioning yourself, or wondering if everyone else has it figured out, this conversation is for you.

Because the awkward phase isn't a sign you're failing—it's often a sign you're growing.

🎙️ Listen now to Barely Manageable with Dana Kelly & Mary Linkous.

Connect with Barely Manageable:

🌐 Website: BarelyManageable.com

📸 Instagram: @barelymanageablepodcast

🎵 TikTok: @barelymanageablepod

▶️ YouTube: Barely Manageable Pod

💬 Reddit: r/BarelyManageablePod 

🔗 All Links: linktr.ee/barelymanageablepodcast

⭐ Like, subscribe, and leave a 5-star review if this episode hit home.

✨ Save 25% off your first month at Ritual with code LINKTREE https://tr.ee/3MKwa6bOgY

🛒 Save 50% off of your Sam's Club membership with this link! https://tr.ee/1S6cq8OOeq

☕️ WIN OUR BARELY MANAGEABLE MUG GIVEAWAY! You've seen it in every episode—now it's your chance to have your own official Barely Manageable Mug! 🎙️

How to Enter: 📧 Email your workplace story, management challenge, leadership question, or "barely manageable" moment to [email protected] 🎧 Subscribe to Barely Manageable wherever you listen to podcasts 📱 Follow us on social media

We'll choose one lucky winner to receive the iconic mug featured on the show! Submit by 7/7 Winner announced 7/13

Got a story that's too good not to share? Send it our way—you might even hear it discussed in a future episode.

You can’t pour from an empty cup.

In Episode 5 of Barely Manageable, Dana and Mary discuss compassion fatigue—the emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion that can come from constantly caring for others. Whether you're a leader, healthcare professional, therapist, caregiver, or simply someone who spends their days supporting others, compassion fatigue can sneak up on you when you least expect it.

They explore the signs of burnout, the difference between compassion fatigue and everyday stress, and how helping professionals can recognize when their own well-being is being neglected. Through personal experiences and practical insights, they share ways to set healthy boundaries, prioritize self-care, and continue showing up for others without losing yourself in the process.

Because caring deeply is a strength—but even the strongest people need support too.

🎙️ Listen now to Barely Manageable with Dana Kelly & Mary Linkous.

Connect with Barely Manageable:

🌐 Website: BarelyManageable.com

📸 Instagram: @barelymanageablepodcast

🎵 TikTok: @barelymanageablepod

▶️ YouTube: Barely Manageable Pod

💬 Reddit: r/BarelyManageablePod 

🔗 All Links: linktr.ee/barelymanageablepodcast

⭐ Like, subscribe, and leave a 5-star review if this episode hit home.

✨ Save 25% off your first month at Ritual with code LINKTREE https://tr.ee/3MKwa6bOgY

🛒 Save 50% off of your Sam's Club membership with this link! https://tr.ee/1S6cq8OOeq

"Per my last email..." 👀

In Episode 4 of Barely Manageable, Dana and Mary dive into one of the most common forms of workplace conflict: the passive-aggressive email. From carefully worded messages and unnecessary CCs to subtle jabs disguised as professionalism, they unpack the emails that leave everyone wondering, "What did they really mean by that?"

They share real-life examples, discuss why passive-aggressive communication happens in the workplace, and offer practical advice for managers and employees trying to navigate tension, misunderstandings, and workplace drama without making things worse.

If you've ever reread an email five times trying to determine its tone—or found yourself tempted to respond with a little passive aggression of your own—this episode is for you. Because sometimes the biggest workplace conflicts don't happen in meetings... they happen in your inbox.

🎙️ Listen now to Barely Manageable with Dana Kelly & Mary Linkous.

Connect with Barely Manageable:

🌐 Website: BarelyManageable.com

📸 Instagram: @barelymanageablepodcast

🎵 TikTok: @barelymanageablepod

▶️ YouTube: Barely Manageable Pod

💬 Reddit: r/BarelyManageablePod 

🔗 All Links: linktr.ee/barelymanageablepodcast

⭐ Like, subscribe, and leave a 5-star review if this episode hit home.

✨ Save 25% off your first month at Ritual with code LINKTREE https://tr.ee/3MKwa6bOgY

🛒 Save 50% off of your Sam's Club membership with this link! https://tr.ee/1S6cq8OOeq

We’ve all had one… that boss. 😅

In Episode 3 of Barely Manageable, Dana and Mary are talking about the bad bosses we’ve all known—the micromanagers, the poor communicators, the power-trippers, and the leaders who taught us exactly what not to do.

From real workplace red flags to leadership horror stories (and a few laughs along the way), this episode dives into how bad management impacts teams, morale, and workplace culture—and what better leadership can actually look like.

If you’ve ever left a meeting thinking “what was that?”… this one’s for you. 🎙️

Because sometimes the worst bosses teach the best lessons.

Listen now to Barely Manageable with Dana Kelly & Mary Linkous.

Connect with Barely Manageable:

🌐 Website: BarelyManageable.com

📸 Instagram: @barelymanageablepodcast

🎵 TikTok: @barelymanageablepod

▶️ YouTube: Barely Manageable Pod

💬 Reddit: r/BarelyManageablePod 

🔗 All Links: linktr.ee/barelymanageablepodcast

⭐ Like, subscribe, and leave a 5-star review if this episode hit home.