Join Rebecca, Kim, and special guest Mita Mallick (author of "The Devil Emails at Midnight: What Good Leaders Can Learn From Bad Bosses") for a wild ride through workplace dysfunction that'll make you question everything you know about good employees and bad managers. When an office manager's dedication to recycling leads to a written warning for "theft of company time," you know you're in for a story that's equal parts infuriating and unbelievable. But wait until you hear the twist that involves missing checks, embezzlement, and the most satisfying ending we've ever shared. Perfect for HR leaders who need real-world examples of how to spot talent hoarding, recognize invisible labor, and turn crushing employee spirits into career growth opportunities.

The Setup: Mid-size company with "we're family" culture, dedicated employee sorting trash for $1,500 monthly recycling rebate

The Problem: Manager issues final written warning for "theft of company time" without understanding the employee's contribution

Key Leadership Lessons:

Don't crush employee initiative without investigation

Channel above-and-beyond energy into strategic work

Invisible labor often affects specific demographics disproportionately

Good managers ask questions before making assumptions

The Plot Twist: Manager had been pocketing the rebate checks for years, thinking they were personal bonuses

The Resolution: Senior leader demonstrates proper recognition, offers promotion and additional compensation

Practical Takeaways for HR Leaders:

Create systems to recognize unseen contributions

Have regular conversations about employee initiatives

Channel self-directed energy strategically

Distinguish between going above-and-beyond vs. working on the wrong things

Build processes to catch financial irregularities

Guest Expert: Mita Mallick, author of "The Devil Emails at Midnight: What Good Leaders Can Learn From Bad Bosses"

Red Flags Discussed:

Talent hoarding by insecure managers

Pet-to-threat phenomenon

Control issues in leadership

Final warnings without progressive discipline

Management Archetypes:

Janine: The controlling, potentially fraudulent manager

Ken: The supportive, investigative leader who rewards results

Bottom Line: Be a Ken, not a Janine. Look for your Rileys and channel their energy strategically while ensuring financial oversight prevents embezzlement.

More about Mita's book:

The Devil Emails at Midnight: What Good Leaders Can Learn From Bad Bosses is a must read guide on how not to become that bad boss for anyone on their journey to be a better leader. Mita reminds us that a good leader can be the difference maker: ensuring we are recognized and valued for our contributions in our organizations. So remember that the devil emails at midnight. Let's make sure that devil doesn't become you.

Order your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1394316488

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