Out of the Office
Welcome to ”Out Of The Office”, a podcast exploring the lessons learned from the hit TV show, The US Office, on creating a more diverse and inclusive workplace. Join host Sara Chandran to delve into the world of Dunder Mifflin and examine the different characters and scenarios presented throughout the series. We will analyse how the show highlights the importance of respecting diversity, fostering inclusivity, and creating a positive work environment.
Episodes
Wednesday Apr 03, 2024
EP07 - Grief Counselling
Wednesday Apr 03, 2024
Wednesday Apr 03, 2024
We're focusing on Season 3, Episode 4, Grief Counselling in this episode. Michael Scott is overcome with grief when he learns about the death of his former boss, Ed Truck. Michael spends the rest of the day attempting grief counselling for the rest of the team.
The wonderful DeMario Bell joins us to talk about all things grief, in and outside the workplace. We unpack the difficulty of experiencing loss, especially at work, which can be met with clinical, formulaic responses and policies.
Listen in as DeMario and I unpack our experiences navigating grief and how people have supported us.
Wednesday Mar 27, 2024
EP06 - Gay Witch Hunt
Wednesday Mar 27, 2024
Wednesday Mar 27, 2024
In this episode, we unpack the uncomfortable and potentially triggering episode, 'Gay Witch Hunt' (Season 3, Episode 1) with the fabulous Whitney Simon.
We discuss how the manager, Michael Scott, creates a hostile environment for Oscar after discovering the character is gay. During our conversation, we unpack the power of 'letting in' vs 'coming out' and the intersectionality of the LGBTQIA+ community.
In addition, we chat about the importance of using correct language and terminology to foster workplace cultures where people feel like they belong and can be their true selves.
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Wednesday Mar 20, 2024
EP05 - The Dundies
Wednesday Mar 20, 2024
Wednesday Mar 20, 2024
In this episode, we unpack the cringe-fest of an episode, ‘The Dundies’ (Season 2, Episode 1), with the wonderful Nick Warner. We talk about how it falls short of boosting employee morale despite Michael Scott’s best attempts to create an engaging employee awards ceremony.
We unpack why it’s so important to tailor recognition to individuals; otherwise, generic awards can create a disconnect between managers and employees. In the episode, we also discuss the role of clear communication and regular feedback in building trust, enhancing teamwork, and driving employee development.
Follow us on Instagram: Fresh and Fearless UK
Follow us on LinkedIn: Fresh and Fearless
Get in touch: info@freshandfearless.uk
Wednesday Mar 13, 2024
EP04 - Boys and Girls
Wednesday Mar 13, 2024
Wednesday Mar 13, 2024
This episode examines ‘Boys and Girls’ (Season 2, Episode 21) of The Office (US). While Jan tries to empower the women of Dunder Mifflin, Michael has very different ideas about the boys and warehouse workers. In this episode, we have HUGE fan and talent acquisition manager Natalie Winterton-Whitfield to talk about workplace dynamics, shedding light on issues like boy's clubs and mentorships.
Tune in as we discuss Michael Scott's insecurities and unravel the impact of exclusionary behaviours on individuals and teams. From Jan's women in the workplace initiative to Michael's misguided attempts at camaraderie in the warehouse, we analyse the ramifications of gender stereotypes and discriminatory practices. With candid discussions and insightful commentary, we highlight the importance of allyship and advocacy in creating a more equitable workplace.
Natalie offers valuable insights into the differences between mentorship and sponsorship, emphasising the need for genuine support and opportunities for professional growth.
Wednesday Mar 06, 2024
EP03 - Diversity Day
Wednesday Mar 06, 2024
Wednesday Mar 06, 2024
In this episode, we unpack the unbelievable episode of The US Office, ‘Diversity Day’ (Season 1, Episode 2). It’s packed full of blunders, stereotypes and outrageously non-inclusive behaviours. And who better to talk about this episode than Asha Harkness, Founder of Indigo Inclusion?
Asha (She/Her) is a proud queer, brown, neurodivergent woman, equity strategist, public speaker and trainer. We discuss how Michael Scott’s misguided attempts to promote diversity lead to uncomfortable awkwardness and a much-needed wake-up call.
Get ready to explore the infamous episode in the podcast and learn how best to deliver diversity training with sensitivity, understanding and zero awkwardness.
Wednesday Feb 28, 2024
EP02 - Conflict Resolution
Wednesday Feb 28, 2024
Wednesday Feb 28, 2024
Join us to unpack the hilarious but challenging episode of The US Office, 'Conflict Resolution' (Season 2, Episode 21). This week's special guest is Silvia Bogan, an organisational psychologist passionate about tackling inequality.
We discussed the importance of psychological safety and psychological standing in the workplace. The value of healthy conflict between team members and how to ensure these disagreements are handled in the appropriate way.
Tuesday Feb 20, 2024
EP01 - The Merger
Tuesday Feb 20, 2024
Tuesday Feb 20, 2024
Join us as we unpack the catastrophic episode of The US Office, ‘The Merger, ’ with extra special guest Sharn Aujla-Osborne, Head of People at a dynamic Health-Tech scale-up.
We uncover how, despite Michael Scott’s best intentions, he reinforces a ‘them’ vs ‘us’ dynamic when attempting to include Stamford into the Scranton branch.
Listen in as we talk about ways to encourage engagement through leadership that you can implement when your business is undergoing significant change, like a merger.