Engagement isn’t a one-time spark—it’s a temperature that rises or falls based on what’s happening in the room. And just like a thermostat, someone’s always adjusting the dial. But here’s the real question: who’s in control?

In this episode of As I Was Saying, April Simpkins explores the concept of workplace engagement, likening it to a thermostat that can be controlled through effective communication and leadership. She discusses the importance of trust and clarity in fostering an engaged workforce, the different levels of employee engagement, and practical strategies for leaders to reignite engagement within their teams. The conversation emphasizes the need for purpose, recognition, and autonomy in the workplace; while also addressing the challenges of remote work and the mental toll it can take on employees.

If you’ve ever walked into a meeting and thought, “Wow, it’s chilly in here—and not because of the AC,” this one’s for you.

"Good vibes only" sounds harmless—until you're crying in a bathroom stall because you dared to have a human emotion on a Tuesday.

In this episode of As I Was Saying, April Simpkins peels back the glittery facade of toxic positivity and reveals the emotional cost of workplaces where only smiles are welcome. From “just be grateful” to “fake it till you make it,” we explore how constant positivity can become emotional censorship—and why that’s not wellness, it’s denial with a company logo.

April shares stories from the field, insights from psychology, and even her own grief journey to make one thing clear: suppressing emotions at work doesn’t build culture—it kills it. You’ll hear the real consequences of silencing employees and the quiet harm of “cheerfulness as policy.” And of course, she offers a practical playbook for leaders and employees alike—because fixing this starts with giving people permission to be real.

If your workplace vibes feel more like a stage play than a safe space, this episode is for you.

What do you get when you're part therapist, part human Google, part vending machine whisperer—and fully burned out? You get the Go-To Person. And if that’s you… whew, let’s talk.

In this episode of As I Was Saying, host April Simpkins pulls back the curtain on the unspoken emotional toll of being everyone’s everything at work. From the Rockstar employee who held it all together until she couldn’t, to the leader who realized a little too late that “praise” doesn’t equal “support,” we explore the mental strain, workplace blind spots, and what happens when boundaries are ignored for too long.

April doesn’t just vent—she gives you three solid action items to fix the dysfunction before your best employees walk out the door (mid-pizza party, no less). Whether you’re the go-to, manage the go-to, or just want to avoid becoming one, this episode is your reality check wrapped in wit, data, and hard-earned wisdom.

Because burnout isn't a badge of honor—it's a bright red warning sign.