Is return to office really the problem, or is it just exposing deeper workplace issues? In this episode of the Corporate Baggage Podcast, Whitney Siders and Catie Campbell unpack the real driver of employee engagement—leadership. They break down why policies alone don’t create engagement, how flexibility has become the new battleground, and why top companies are missing the mark. If you're a leader struggling with morale, strategy, or culture, this one’s for you. Tune in and let’s lighten the load together!

Takeaways

• The return to office is exposing long-standing challenges in workplaces.
• Leadership is the primary driver of employee engagement.
• Flexibility is now a top priority for employees.
• Policies should not disregard the human element of work.
• Creating a positive employee experience requires intentional leadership.
• Engagement is linked to how employees feel about their leaders.
• Companies need to focus on the emotional aspects of work.
• Communication issues are prevalent in many organizations.
• Intentionality in leadership can lead to a thriving culture.
• Identifying core issues is essential for effective problem-solving.

Keywords

Corporate Baggage, Return to Office, Employee Engagement, Leadership, Flexibility, Workplace Culture, Human-Centric, Intentional Leadership, Communication, Organizational Challenges