Workplace gossip isn’t just harmless chatter. It can ruin reputations, derail careers, and even land employers in court.

In this debut episode of Punching the Clock, employment attorney Mila Arutunian exposes how office rumors cross the line into harassment, retaliation, and discrimination under California law.

From real lawsuits like Miller v. Dept. of Corrections to a high-profile case against Avis Rent a Car, Mila reveals why gossip tied to race, gender, disability, or sexual orientation isn’t just toxic — it’s illegal. She also breaks down what employers are legally required to do to stop it, and what employees can do if they’re targeted.

The takeaway: Gossip is not harmless. When it’s weaponized, it’s a legal issue. Employees have rights. Employers have duties.