In this bonus episode, Faisa writes in as a manager whose confidence was shattered by a direct report who consistently blurred the line between vulnerability and manipulation. From rejecting basic feedback and weaponising mental health language, to quietly shifting blame and undermining leadership through conflicting narratives, this experience explores what happens when managers, especially empathetic, conscientious ones, find themselves unable to do their job for fear of being seen as "cold," "mean," or "sabotaging."

This story is a must-listen for anyone navigating emotionally complex team dynamics, and a vital reminder that toxic dynamics aren’t exclusive to senior-level roles.

Expert Insight

Clinical psychologist Dr. Daksha Hirani offers compassionate, trauma-informed insight into:

• The concept of weaponised incompetence and how empathy can be used against you
• How to reclaim your voice, your confidence, and your authority as a manager
• When guilt is unjustified, and how to separate emotional manipulation from support needs
• Practical tips for documentation, boundary setting, and healing from leadership trauma

Key themes

• Weaponised Vulnerability: Using mental health language to deflect responsibility or silence accountability
• Gaslighting and Narrative Control: Contradicting stories to different people, making the manager seem unstable or unkind
• Guilt + Gendered Power Dynamics: The fear of being seen as "sabotaging" a junior woman's career, especially as a woman in a senior role
• Loss of Confidence in Leadership: Lingering anxiety, fear of managing again, and emotional burnout
• How to Reclaim Trust in Yourself: Practical tools to navigate manipulation while staying true to your values

Why this episode matters

Not all narcissistic dynamics look like shouting CEOs. Some are quiet, confusing, and disguised as wellness, vulnerability, or even friendship. Faisa’s story sheds light on the often invisible burnout that comes from managing someone who continually avoids accountability while presenting themselves as the victim. It’s a form of gaslighting that leaves empathetic leaders questioning their instincts, doubting their decisions, and, too often, abandoning leadership altogether.

Bonus episodes

Listener Letters are real stories submitted by the Other Box community, sharing lived experiences of navigating toxic workplaces and narcissistic dynamics. Each letter is anonymised, read aloud, and followed by expert insight from clinical psychologist Dr. Daksha Hirani. Together, we unpack the behavioural patterns at play and share tools for clarity, support and recovery. We hope these real-life accounts allow you to recognise the signs sooner and start focusing on how to reclaim your life. 

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You can connect with Other Box: otherbox.co/podcast for further resources. 

Narcissism At Work is a co-production from Other Box and Breaking Atoms. Subscribe to get new episodes as soon as they drop.

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