Karen discusses a sexual harassment case under Title VII that took place at a plant in the Western District of Virginia. The female employee alleges that she was subjected to a hostile work environment filled with inappropriate comments and sexual references. She claimed that she reported these incidents to multiple managers and they failed to address the harassment and she experienced retaliation. The court considered whether the behavior was because of her sex, severe or pervasive enough to alter the conditions of her employment, and if the employer knew about it and failed to take action. The employer argued it was playful banter, but the court concluded that there was sufficient evidence for the case to be sent to a jury. Karen explains the crude and vulgar behavior that was alleged, and provides advice to employers and managers on how to create an environment free from harassment avoid this expensive litigation.

In our "Ask the Job Judge" segment, Karen also addressed a question from Reddit about an employee's experience with work during bereavement leave and emphasized the need for better communication and sensitivity from both parties.

The Job Judge Podcast is a podcast for anyone who works. This is not legal advice! Engaging and informative, it’s a must-listen/watch for any manager, business owner, HR professional, or anyone who works. Relying on three decades of experience as an employment law attorney and HR Executive, Karen Michael uses real case studies in the news and navigates through the legal landmines and workplace dysfunction that we know is probably happening right now in your organization.