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In this episode of Adult Nonfiction, we explore reputational harm—the slow, cumulative damage caused by smear campaigns, rumor-spreading, exclusion, and group bullying in workplaces, neighbourhoods, parent communities, and social circles. We unpack why adults engage in these patterns, how group dynamics can escalate cruelty while disguising it as “concern,” and why repetitional harm can be deeply destabilizing even when no single incident seems “serious enough.” This episode offers practical, non-inflammatory strategies for targets and bystanders, including language to interrupt rumours, ways to document patterns, and how to protect your nervous system while rebuilding credibility and support.