Work with Erika Ayers Badan

In this episode of WORK, Erika talks with Max Shaw, founder of Windmill, about what happens when you actually try to fix work with software. They get into performance reviews, why no one knows what anyone does anymore, and how AI can help  the way we collaborate. It’s a conversation about systems, strategy, and the mess between productivity and performance.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of WORK, Erika explores what it means to actually do your job—without overthinking, over-talking, or waiting for permission. She unpacks the myth of linear careers, the shift away from traditional full-time roles, and the impact of AI on creative work. It’s a conversation about clarity, momentum, and getting out of your own way.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of WORK, Erika unpacks what it really means to hire big personalities, lead through change, and build systems that actually work—especially for moms. She shares the story behind launching Rework, reflects on Gen Z’s relationship with ambition, and makes the case for hiring the divas, not avoiding them.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of WORK, Erika sits down with Julia and Kiernan, two longtime team members leaving the food52, for honest and thoughtful exit interviews. They talk about growth, burnout, resilience, and what it takes to stay optimistic during change. Erika also reflects on grief, legacy, and why leaving things better than you found them still matters.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of WORK, Erika breaks down the massive shift happening at Food52 and Schoolhouse. She talks hard choices, layoffs, and the reality of running a business when the numbers don’t add up. She gets into what went wrong, what had to change, and what’s next.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of WORK Erika dives into the realities of workplace culture, productivity, and the challenges of modern leadership. She explores how uncertainty, fear, and exhaustion are shaping the way people show up at work—and why relationships matter more than ever. Plus, a discussion on daylight savings (should we even have it?), the right way to set boundaries when dealing with personal loss, and the importance of closing the loop at work. There’s also a deep dive into AI, including why you might want to start being nicer to your GPT. With insights, humor, and plenty of real-world experiences, this episode is all about navigating the chaos of work and life with a little more clarity.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Work Erika dives into the challenges of balancing workload, managing priorities, and navigating career growth. The conversation explores how to take ownership of work, build strong relationships, and rethink productivity. Plus, she tackles the evolving expectations around remote work, the impact of leadership styles, and the importance of follow-through in business. With insights, humor, and plenty of real-world experiences, this episode is all about making work, well… work.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Work, Erika talks about the controversial world of office snacks, and the generational differences in work-life balance. We also dive into strategies for staying positive in the face of daily chaos, the importance of setting boundaries, and the ongoing debate about remote work versus office culture. Plus, we discuss the challenges of managing bandwidth and staying productive while juggling multiple responsibilities. Tune in for a fun, insightful conversation filled with workplace wisdom, personal anecdotes, and a few unexpected laughs!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Work, Erika shares a key lesson on responding vs. reacting in the workplace, gives a behind-the-scenes look at the Nobody Cares live event, and dives into the challenges of discussing work on social media. Guests include Ben Kraim on cannabis marketing and George Wells is back breaking down SGA expenses. 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we dive into the real challenges of modern work - figuring out what actually matters. From sifting through endless meetings to understanding the power of AI, we’re breaking down how to work smarter, not harder. We explore why prioritization is key, how AI is shaping the future of productivity, and whether remote work policies are sustainable. Special guest Lindsay Metzler joins to talk social media at work, and George Wells makes a return to teach us more about the financial realities behind running a business by going over what GAAP means.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.