In the explosive season one finale, Kiana and Tara tackle the ultimate workplace power move: quitting. They break down everything from the strategic two-week notice and the burnout bailout to the cathartic rage quit and the modern quiet quit. Drawing from personal horror stories and professional experiences—including counteroffers, toxic managers, and revenge-worthy exit interviews—they provide a raw, practical guide on how to leave a job on your own terms. Learn how to recognize the final red flags, protect yourself legally and financially, and walk away without burning bridges (unless you absolutely need to). This episode is your permission slip to bet on yourself and reclaim your career.

🎤 Know Your Exit Strategy – From the professional (two-week notice) to the passionate (rage quit) to the passive (quiet quitting), understand the pros and cons of every way to leave.

🔥 To Burn or Not to Burn Bridges – Learn when it’s strategic to leave a bridge intact and when lighting it on fire is not only justified but necessary for your well-being.

📄 Protect Yourself, Paper Trails Matter – A crucial checklist for your final days: final paychecks, PTO payout, exit paperwork, and equipment returns.

😮 The Boss’s POV on Being Quit On – Hear firsthand from Kiana about the shock, the guilt trips, and the management lessons learned when employees leave.

💡 Quitting Isn’t Failure, It’s Leveling Up – Debunk the myth that you must have another job lined up. Sometimes, leaving a toxic environment is the most strategic career and health decision you can make.

🚩 Red Flags on Your Way Out – Identify toxic final responses from employers, from guilt-tripping and gaslighting to trash-talking and delaying your final pay.

Listen for unforgettable stories, including the hotel pay-stub rage quit, the Slack-message resignation, and the email with the haunting smiley face. If you’re debating quitting, this episode is your sign.

In this episode, Kiana and Tara are back with Part 2 of their boldest conversation yet — all about getting fired. From Kiana’s first nerve-wracking experience firing someone to the lessons she learned after being fired herself, this episode dives deep into the boss’s point of view, real workplace red flags, and how being let go can actually be the best thing that ever happened to you. Whether you’ve been fired, done the firing, or fear it’s coming, this raw and funny conversation will leave you feeling empowered and a little less alone.✨ Learned lessons from both sides of the firing table🔥 What makes a boss decide “it’s time” — and how they prepare💡 Red flags before a firing (and why surprise terminations are toxic)🌱 Why getting fired might be a redirection, not a failure💬 How to handle the emotional aftermath and protect your confidence🚨 Common myths about unemployment and “cause” explained🧠 Kiana’s advice on reframing your firing story to strengthen your careerGetting fired doesn’t have to be the end — it can be your turning point. Tune in to hear Kiana and Tara unpack the uncomfortable truths, find humor in hard moments, and remind you to always keep your receipts and trust your gut.

In this episode, Kiana and Tara tackle one of the most anxiety-inducing topics in the workplace — getting fired. From the moment you sense something’s off to the final meeting with HR, this candid and hilarious conversation breaks down how firings really happen, what red flags to watch for, and how to protect yourself legally and financially. They cover everything from employment-at-will laws, performance improvement plans (PIPs), company culture fit excuses, and retaliation and discrimination cases to understanding your rights when it comes to unemployment benefits and severance agreements. Whether you’ve been let go, are worried about being next, or just want to learn how to recognize warning signs, this episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the realities of modern employment.

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

💼 Understanding employment-at-will and why you can be fired anytime 🚩 Red flags that signal you might be on the chopping block 📄 What a Performance Improvement Plan (PIP) really means ⚖️ Legal considerations: retaliation, discrimination, and your rights 💰 Unemployment benefits and severance — when you qualify and when you don’t 🧠 How to protect yourself: paper trails, reading contracts, and not signing away your rights 😂 Real talk on toxic bosses, scapegoat firings, and “soft” resignations

In this episode, Kiana and Tara dive deep into the realities of getting laid off—what it actually means, how to navigate it, and how it differs from getting fired. They break down everything from severance packages to red flags, and even share the behind-the-scenes perspective of managers and HR. Whether you’ve just been laid off, know someone who has, or want to stay prepared, this episode is packed with eye-opening insights and practical advice.

Key Takeaways: 🔍 Layoffs ≠ Getting Fired – Understand the legal and emotional differences. 📉 Reasons for Layoffs – Budget cuts, automation, outsourcing, mergers, poor leadership decisions, and more. 🛑 Red Flags – Sudden lockouts, no communication, waves of layoffs without leadership accountability. 🧾 Severance Tips – Why you should never sign on the spot and how to review your separation agreement. 🧠 Mindset Shift – A layoff is not a reflection of your talent or worth. 🧘‍♀️ Processing Emotions – Give yourself time to grieve, regroup, and rebuild confidence. 🧠 HR’s True Role – They're not your therapist—they’re there to protect the company. 🧠 Document Everything – Keep records, download important files, and protect yourself. 📉 Tech Industry Watch – Over 260,000 tech layoffs in 2023. Stay prepared. 🤝 Support Your Peers – Reach out, offer help, and keep networking strong.

SEO Keywords: layoffs, tech layoffs, getting laid off, severance package advice, COBRA insurance, WARN Act, HR role in layoffs, workplace red flags, career transition, job loss recovery, layoff survivor’s guilt, workplace automation, job restructuring, employment rights, layoff mental health

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 Introduction to Workplace Separation

01:20 Understanding Layoffs: Causes and Types

16:09 The Layoff Process: What to Expect

29:18 Employer's Perspective on Layoffs

36:25 Generational Perspectives on Work and Layoffs

36:53 Coping with Toxic Work Environments

38:02 Supporting Laid-Off Colleagues

38:39 Understanding Layoffs vs. Firings

42:02 HR's Role in Layoffs

46:53 Red Flags During Layoffs

01:00:20 Survivor's Guilt and Company Culture

01:02:05 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of How to Survive Your Boss, Kiana and Tara dive deep into the world of BONUSES — those elusive one-time payouts that can make (or break) your morale and finances. From performance and sign-on bonuses to holiday gifts and red flags, this episode covers it all. Kiana shares insights from her experience as both an employee and a boss, revealing truths most companies don’t tell you. Whether you're negotiating your first job offer or navigating end-of-year reviews, this episode is your go-to guide for making sense of bonus structures — and making sure you’re not leaving money on the table.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

💸 Not all bonuses are created equal — Learn the difference between performance, profit-sharing, sign-on, retention, spot, referral, and discretionary bonuses.

📉 Bonuses aren’t guaranteed — Even if it’s written in your offer letter, it’s often still “discretionary.”

📆 Timing is everything — You usually have to be employed at the time of payout to receive your bonus.

📋 Know the fine print — Watch out for vague language, ever-changing structures, unrealistic goals, and stock-based bonuses with long vesting periods.

🔍 Ask smart questions — Always clarify how bonuses are calculated, who decides them, when they’re paid, and what’s expected of you.

🚩 Red flags to avoid — From inconsistent bonus criteria to “pizza party” culture instead of real compensation, recognize the signs of poor leadership.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 Introduction to Bonuses

00:55 Types of Bonuses

01:06 Performance and Profit Sharing Bonuses

02:53 Sign-On and Retention Bonuses

04:28 Spot and Holiday Bonuses

05:48 Referral and Discretionary Bonuses

07:39 Understanding Bonus Structures

09:43 Boss's Perspective on Bonuses

17:49 Common Misconceptions About Bonuses

25:40 Red Flags in Bonus Agreements

26:09 Understanding Vague Contract Language

26:59 Historical Payouts and Red Flags

28:08 Employment Status and Bonus Payouts

32:25 Discretionary Bonuses and Criteria

37:07 Company Performance-Based Bonuses

38:12 Transparency and Timelines

39:24 Equity and Stock-Based Bonuses

47:30 Changing Bonus Structures

48:46 Final Thoughts on Bonuses

In this episode, Kiana and Tara break down the reality of promotions in the corporate world—what they really mean, the types you’ll encounter, how to ask for one, and red flags to watch out for. From vertical moves to honorary pizza party titles, they uncover the strategy, timing, and politics that go into climbing the career ladder. If you're wondering why you're stuck in your role or how to position yourself for growth, this episode is a masterclass in self-advocacy and smart corporate navigation.

🎯 Key Takeaways

• 🔺 Different Types of Promotions: Vertical, lateral, skills-based, honorary, cross-functional, and more—know the difference to know your worth.
  

• 💰 Dry & Title-Only Promotions: Why getting more responsibility without a raise can be a major red flag.
  

• 📣 Ask & Advocate: Promotions aren’t handed out—they’re earned through visibility, networking, and strategic self-promotion.
  

• 🧠 Mentality Check: Hard work isn’t always enough—timing, perception, and company politics play a huge role.
  

• 🚩 Red Flags to Watch: From vague promotion processes to being asked to “act the part” with no reward, learn how to protect your growth.
  

• 📊 How to Actually Get Promoted: Volunteer strategically, network across teams, express interest clearly, and document everything.
  

Whether you're early in your career or aiming for that next step up, this episode offers a real-talk guide to navigating promotions like a boss. No fluff—just truth bombs and actionable advice.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 Introduction and Catching Up

01:00 Types of Promotions Explained

01:32 Vertical and Lateral Promotions

02:23 Dry and Temporary Promotions

03:26 Honorary and Skills-Based Promotions

06:17 Dual Track and Cross-Functional Promotions

07:07 Title Only Promotions and Expanded Scope

08:10 Contractual and Tenure-Based Promotions

17:10 How to Get a Promotion

26:53 Boss POV: Giving Promotions

29:34 The Journey to Management

30:06 Expressing Career Goals

31:42 The Reality of Promotions

35:01 Taking Ownership of Your Growth

39:20 Red Flags in Promotions

52:53 Concluding Thoughts on Promotions

In this episode,  Kiana and Tara dive deep into the world of raises, breaking down the different types, how they work, and—most importantly—how to advocate for the raise you deserve. From merit-based increases and COLA (cost of living adjustments) to equity grants, spot bonuses, and promotion-related bumps, this episode offers practical advice, entertaining real-life stories, and a healthy dose of corporate reality. Learn how to track your contributions, recognize red flags, and navigate tricky conversations with confidence. If you've ever wondered when—or how—to ask for a raise, this one's for you.

💼 Key Takeaways:

🧠 Understand the Types of Raises: From merit and COLA to promotions, market adjustments, and stock-based compensation.

💰 Raises vs. Bonuses: Spot bonuses may feel rewarding, but they’re not the same as long-term pay increases—know the difference.

🧾 Paper Trail = Power: Track your accomplishments and quantify your contributions to build a strong case.

🔥 Red Flags to Watch: Vague promises, stalled conversations, no transparency, and promotion with no raise.

📊 Advocate Like a Pro: The right time to ask for a raise is when you’ve earned it—not when someone hands it to you.

🗣️ Boss POV: Get insight from Kiana’s leadership experience—what works, what backfires, and what not to do.

🚨 Game the System: Raises aren’t just about merit—they're about timing, relationships, and playing smart within company politics.

If you're navigating career growth, performance reviews, or simply tired of the pizza-party compensation culture, this episode helps you take control of your paycheck trajectory.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 Introduction to Raises

01:06 Types of Raises

04:01 Forms of Raises

07:06 How to Get a Raise

15:06 Manager's Perspective on Raises

20:13 Economic Factors and Raises

30:34 Advocating for Yourself

32:56 Unexpected Raises and Career Growth

33:48 Corporate Priorities and Compensation

34:08 Advocating for Non-Monetary Compensation

34:42 Misconception: Cost of Living Adjustments

35:50 Negotiation Tactics and Knowing Your Worth

38:54 Red Flags in Raise Discussions

52:09 The Importance of Transparency in Pay

58:54 Conclusion and Next Steps

In this episode of How to Survive Your Boss, Kiana and Tara dive deep into the world of performance reviews — what they are, why they matter, and how to navigate them without losing your sanity. Whether you’re dreading your first annual review or questioning the quality of feedback from your manager, this episode breaks down the different types, formats, and red flags to watch for. From real-life horror stories to actionable advice on self-advocacy and documentation, Kiana shares everything you need to protect your career, build a brag file, and survive even the shadiest of managers. If you've ever walked out of a review confused, frustrated, or gaslit — this one’s for you.

💡 Key Takeaways:

• 📋 Understand the purpose and structure of performance reviews — from self-assessments to 360 feedback.
  

• 🛠️ Different formats exist: written, scorecard, narrative, and binary — know what your company uses.
  

• 🚩 Major red flags to look out for: vague feedback, moving goalposts, no documentation, or all criticism with zero recognition.
  

• 🧠 Shift your mindset: Keeping your head down won’t get you noticed. Self-advocacy and visibility are essential.
  

• 📝 Create a brag file — track wins weekly to make performance reviews (and resume writing!) way easier.
  

• 🗣️ Not all feedback is created equal — only internalize input from people you respect or want to emulate.
  

• 🧨 Toxic reviews say more about the company than they do about you — assess the culture too.

  
  

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 Introduction to Performance Reviews

01:13 Purpose and Importance of Performance Reviews

02:18 Types of Performance Reviews

08:47 Formats and Methods of Performance Reviews

20:50 Common Misconceptions about Performance Reviews

27:37 Reflecting on Work Experiences and Feedback

28:12 Understanding Relevant Feedback

30:43 Handling Performance Reviews

33:05 Identifying Red Flags in Feedback

46:17 Concluding Thoughts on Performance Reviews

In this episode, Kiana and Tara dive deep into the nuanced world of taking time off from work. From standard paid time off (PTO) to legally protected leaves like FMLA and disability leave, they explore the many options available to employees. Kiana brings in her experience as a team leader to explain the boss’s point of view, shares practical steps on how to take time off responsibly, and highlights the cultural and legal differences across companies and countries. The episode also addresses common misconceptions, red flags in toxic work environments, and the evolving mindset around mental health, burnout, and boundaries in the workplace.

Whether you're negotiating a new job offer or unsure how to use your unlimited PTO without guilt, this episode will give you the clarity and confidence to take the break you deserve.

✨ Key Takeaways:

• 🏖️ Types of Time Off: Standard PTO, sick leave, holidays, floating holidays, sabbaticals, bereavement, and medical/mental health leave.
  

• ⚖️ Legally Protected Leave: FMLA, jury duty, disability leave, and paid family leave depending on your state.
  

• 💼 Policy Insights: Accrued vs. front-loaded PTO, unlimited PTO culture, and how to avoid giving away your unpaid vacation.
  

• 🧠 Boss POV: How managers think about time off and why good communication is key.
  

• 🚩 Red Flags: Guilt-tripping managers, retaliatory behavior post-PTO, or “unlimited PTO” that no one actually uses.
  

• 🧘‍♀️ Mental Health Matters: Don’t wait for burnout—PTO is part of your compensation, not a luxury.
  

• 📆 Planning Tips: Start with your employee handbook, notify your manager, block your calendar, and prep a handoff doc.
  

• 🌍 Global Perspective: Europe’s PTO culture vs. US standards—why it might be time to consider a move!

TIMESTAMPS:00:00 Introduction to Time Off

00:56 Types of Paid Time Off

01:19 Vacation and Sick Days

03:54 Personal and Floating Holidays

05:49 Legally Protected Leave

06:20 Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

07:06 Paid Family Leave and Jury Duty

08:19 Military Leave and Leave of Absence

10:18 Disability and Medical Leave

13:39 Mental Health Leave

14:19 Life Event Specific Leave

15:31 PTO Policies and Accrual

17:19 Unlimited PTO and Banked PTO

21:53 Requesting Time Off

25:19 Submitting Your PTO Request

25:39 Preparing for Time Off

27:39 Types of Leave: Bereavement, Paternity, and Sabbatical

29:51 Boss's Perspective on PTO

33:38 Misconceptions About Taking Time Off

40:32 Red Flags When Taking Time Off

47:30 Conclusion: Time Off is a Right, Not a Privilege

In this episode, Kiana and Tara explore the vital role one-on-one meetings play in professional development and team communication. They break down what these meetings should look like, how to prepare for them, common misconceptions, and red flags to watch out for. Whether you're a new employee or a seasoned professional, this conversation will help you take charge of your one-on-ones and make them work for you.Key Takeaways:

Purpose of One-on-Ones: These meetings are private, dedicated time with your manager to discuss progress, challenges, feedback, career goals, and workplace concerns.

Types of One-on-Ones

• Regular check-ins (weekly, biweekly, or monthly)

• Performance reviews

• Career development discussions

• Feedback sessions

• Project-based updates

How to Lead the Meeting

• Come prepared with an agenda and discussion topics

• Share accomplishments and advocate for your needs

• Send follow-up notes to document feedback and action items

Mentality Shift

• Use this time to talk about your growth—not just status updates

• Remember: your manager isn’t a mind reader—clearly express your needs and goals

Red Flags to Watch For

• Frequent cancellations without reason

• Meetings focused only on status updates

• No discussion of your growth or development

• Manager dominates the conversation or offers only negative feedback

• Dismissal of concerns, gaslighting, or boundary violations

• No mention of promotions, raises, or long-term goals

Pro Tip: Where legally allowed, record or transcribe your one-on-ones to keep a clear record of discussions and commitments.TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 Introduction to One-on-Ones00:44 Understanding the Purpose of One-on-Ones01:27 Common Issues with One-on-Ones03:40 Different Types of One-on-Ones07:27 Standard One-on-One Formats10:42 Boss's Perspective on One-on-Ones17:01 Maximizing Your One-on-One Meetings25:10 The Wrong Mentality in One-on-Ones26:52 Taking Control of Your One-on-One Meetings28:40 Preparing for Effective One-on-Ones31:22 Red Flags in One-on-Ones35:24 Handling Gaslighting and Toxic Environments48:06 Concluding Thoughts on One-on-Ones