In this eye-opening episode, Dr. Ebony Baylor decodes thethree stages of DARVO—denial, attack, and reversal—and explains how this manipulative cycle chips away at your credibility. You'll discover practical tools to identify these behaviors early, set boundaries, and preserve yourmental health.

We break down how DARVO manifests in workplace disputes, what motivates perpetrators—fear, ego, control—and why understanding these dynamicsis essential for fostering psychological safety. Ignoring DARVO can lead to ongoing emotional destabilization, silence, and toxic work environments. But recognizing the pattern grants you power—empowering you to stand firm in your truth, hold others accountable, and protect your peace.

Whether you're facing this in your own interactions or aiming to build healthier workplace cultures, this episode provides clarity and action steps to navigate manipulation andrestore trust.

Perfect for HR professionals, managers, and employeescommitted to integrity, this episode emphasizes that true safety in the workplace hinges on accountability, truth, and mutual respect. Don't let DARVO silence your experience—learn to see through the deception and reclaim yourconfidence. Research and insights from leading psychologists and workplace experts illuminate how DARVO impacts trust and morale—and how you can combat it. If you're ready to spot manipulation, protect your mental space, andpromote genuine accountability, this episode is a great start.

References and Resources:

• Jennifer Freyd, PhD
• Harbor Psychiatry & Mental Health
• Workplace Bullying Institute
• DARVO in the Workplace: A Guide for HR and Managers

In this eye-opening episode, Dr. Ebony L. Baylor sits down with mental health expert and coach Katherine Thompson, LPC-S to reveal simple but powerful shifts that can transform your work experience today.

Katherine shares tangible tactics for building resiliencefrom within—skills like acknowledging your feelings, setting clear boundaries, and reprogramming your mindset around stress and overwork. You'll learn how to create psychological safety for yourself and others, even when organizationalculture is unresponsive.

This episode is perfect for anyone feeling drained, unheard,or undervalued at work. If you're ready to stop just surviving and start thriving—through better boundaries, mental health support, and real workplace change—this conversation is your blueprint. You'll leave equipped with practical tools, inspiring quotes, and a new perspective on how personalresilience can spark organizational transformation.

Katherine Thompson is a licensed mental health clinician,founder of Spero Psychological Services, and creator of the resilience coaching framework. Known for her impactful talks and innovative approaches, she’s dedicated to making mental health and workplace well-being accessible for underrepresented populations and organizations committed to change.

Ready to turn setbacks into comebacks? Tune in now and learn how to build resilience!

And don’t forget to check out the free resources Katherine mentions—available at Spero Psychological Services —that can help you reconnect with hope, purpose, and your best self at work and beyond.

Connect:

Spero Psychological Services

@Speropsycho

Spero Resources

Katherine on LinkedIn

In this episode, Dr. Ebony L. Baylor and author, coach andHR Professional Angela Rasheed-Stephens discuss her book, Beyond the Surface, Navigating Human Resources with Compassion and Insight.

Diving into the critical need for compassion and empathy in human resources. They explore the evolution of HR from a policy-driven function to a people-centric approach, emphasizing the importance of understanding employees as individuals with unique experiences. The conversation highlights the necessity of building trust and effective communication within organizations. Angela shares insights from her book, advocating for a shift towards empathetic leadership and the need for HR to be the most human voice inthe room.

#HRwithHeart #WorkplaceWisdom #BeyondTheSurface

Purchase:

Beyond the Surface (Amazon)

Beyond the Surface (Barnes & Noble)

Connect with Coach Angie

In this episode, host Dr. Ebony L. Baylor and Dara M. Wilson, a seasoned career coach, dive into recognizing when it's time to walk away from a toxic work environment. Many toxic environments are built on a foundation that can’t be changed from within. This episode highlights the emotional, physical, and mental toll of toxic conditions, challenges false security, and offers practical guidance for individuals ready to make the leap toward healthier workplaces.

This isn’t just about quitting a job—it’s about reclaiming life, health, your confidence and resilience.

This discussion includes:

• The critical role of values alignment and internal honesty in making a clean break.
• Why the fear of financial instability or loyalty makes quitting harder
• Practical steps to prepare for your exit, including healing from workplace trauma and building support networks

Connect with Dara:

• Dara on Instagram
• Dara on LinkedIn
• Your Goal Blueprint Course

In this conversation, Dr. Ebony L. Baylor explores theconcept of workplace identity, discussing how it is formed, the emotional implications of tying self-worth to work, and strategies for maintaining a healthy balance between professional and personal identity. She emphasizes theimportance of boundaries, self-discovery, and nurturing relationships outside of work to foster a fulfilling life.

#IdentityBeyondWork #HRtoHR

**Views & opinions are independent of any organizational affiliation or association**

Articles Referenced:

• LinkedIn Article: Work Isn’t Your Whole World, But It Can Help You Build One Worth Living In - Marie Gill 1.15.26

• Article: Mike Richardson: The Blurred Lines Between Work and Identity: How Your Job Can Affect Your Sense of Self 6.14.24.

• LinkedIn Article: Career Grief: The Hidden Emotional Cost of Professional Transitions - Kathy Caprino - 1.23.26

In this episode of the HR to HR podcast, Dr. Ebony L. Baylor engages in a deep conversation with Fela Rosa, founder of Corporate Warriors, about the critical need for healing and workplace restoration. They explore the reasons whyemployees often find their identities intertwined with their work, leading to a sense of pride and belonging that can be shattered in toxic environments. Fela shares her personal journey, emphasizing the importance of recognizing toxic systems and the unique experiences individuals face in the workplace. The discussion highlights the necessity of healing from workplace trauma and the steps to begin the restoration process, including self-awareness and understanding the deeper emotional wounds that may influence workplace behavior.

**Views & opinions are independent of any organizational affiliation or association**

Articles & Resources

Fela Rosa - Instagram - @corporate_warriors

LinkedIn Article: Rebuilding After Workplace Harm: Who Are You When You’re No Longer Surviving? by Gina Wilson (12.29.25)

In this first episode of HR to HR, Dr. Ebony L. Baylor explores the complex world of workplace and office politics, discussing its definitions, implications, and strategies for navigating it effectively.

She emphasizes the importance of relationships, influence, and power, while also addressing the negative aspects that can arise. The conversation provides insights into how individuals can leverage their position within an organization to foster positive outcomes, build meaningful connections, and maintain integrity in their professional lives.

**Views & opinions are independent of any organizational affiliation or association**

Articles & Training as referenced in order in episode:

Harvard Business Review - You Can't Sit Out Office Politics by Niven Postma (7.14.21)

LinkedIn Article: Navigating Office Politics: How to Rise Above the Fray and Make a True Positive Impact by Kathy Caprino (8.5.24)

LinkedIn Article:Office Politics: The Silent Career Killer of Worthy Professionals by Kanika Kumar (12.1.25)

LinkedIn Learning:Nano Tips for Navigating Office Politics by Virginia “Ginny” Clarke, Conscious Leadership Expert

January Teaser!

Preparing to dive into the chaos and wisdom of workplace politics by elevating your awareness and preparing to play the game! #WorkplaceWisdom #CareerTherapy

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