Creating a Fulfilling Culture + Combating Ageism
Recently, I had the privilege of chatting with Kamrin, a coach and the host of the thought-provoking podcast, "50, Not Dead." We delve into the crucial topic of toxic workplace culture, drawing from Kamrin's personal experiences that highlight the urgency of fostering a positive environment within every organization.
In this interview, we discuss:
The Impact of Toxic Workplace Culture. Kamrin opens up about her own encounters with toxic workplace culture, shedding light on how detrimental it can be for employees' mental health and productivity. Her insights serve as a stark reminder of the severe repercussions a negative work environment can have on individuals.
Leadership Styles Matter. During our conversation, we explore the role of leadership in shaping workplace culture. Kamrin and I discuss practical recommendations for leaders to improve their leadership styles. From the importance of positive feedback to creating growth opportunities, we uncover essential elements that can transform a hostile workplace into a positive and thriving one.
Challenging Ageism in the Workplace. We delve into Kamrin’s passion for creating conversational spaces that address this complex issue and the powerful impact it can have on fostering a more inclusive and age-diverse culture.
Listen Here:
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If you found this episode as engaging and enlightening as I did, be sure to check out Kamrin's podcast, "50, Not Dead," for further insights into combating ageism and promoting a more fulfilling workplace culture. Subscribe, share, and join the conversation to make a positive change in your organization today.
Eye Opening Insights:
[00:04:43] Kamrin: I guess last year because I'll be 51 soon. I was feeling really good. And feeling like I have so much to offer and so much to learn still. And like, my business was doing well and I have so many ideas for it. And then I started hearing things that were totally the, like the converse of that. Of just like, um, Oh, well, that's when you become most invisible, you know, is nothing. Nobody is more invisible than a 50 year old mother. I'm like, Oh, great. That feels really good. And talking to women who certainly the pandemic really, you know, like I think brought this to the forefront, but many women were laid off or furloughed or had to step out of the workplace because of the pandemic.
[00:12:36] Kamrin: But when it was my turn, it is really insidious. And it really got under my skin where I could no longer discern this has happened to, you know, I've seen it happen to, you know, this woman and this woman and this woman and this one, all of a sudden it was me and it was like, holy crap. Maybe I really am stupid. Maybe I am worthless. Maybe my years of experience are outdated. And I asked if I could, if they would support me with a coach. And I was laughed at and said that only the greenest of managers would be supported with a coach. And I was like an executive coach. And so they wouldn't support it. and I was asking the CEO and head of HR and, um, and they said no.
[00:13:47] Brittany: Well, that's such an interesting point that, you know, people, I think people believe like, Oh, if I recognize that this was happening to me, I would do something about it. Or I'd speak up. And this is so similar to like, if you face domestic abuse or, even psychological abuse in a partnership or something where. You turn on yourself and that's the thing that nobody anticipates is the way that these abuses or, just bullying toxic environments take place is it starts to make you question you and that's what's so dangerous about it. But by the time we can recognize that we've already gone down this path of thinking I'm not enough.
About Kamrin
Kamrin Huban is an Executive Leadership and Personal Development Coach focusing on helping women in their 50's make extraordinary change. Born in Seattle, Kamrin now resides in Providence, RI with her husband, daughter, cat and new puppy. She's lived in China, Vietnam, Germany and New York City and prior to becoming a Coach worked in Consumer Goods International Operations for brands like adidas, Coach and Brahmin.
Passionate about women finding their voice and an advocate of ageism being included in DEI initiatives, Kamrin is also the host of the podcast about gendered ageism, 50, Not Dead.
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