Ellen reflects on a truth many of us avoid: rest isn’t easy. In fact, for a lot of us, rest feels wrong—like we're breaking an unspoken rule. In this solo episode of Hard at Work, Ellen unpacks the layers of grind culture, internalized productivity pressure, and the self-sabotage that shows up when we finally try to slow down.

She kicks off the episode by answering an AMA question from a listener who's struggling to maintain boundaries on a leadership team that never stops working. What do you do when the people around you treat 2 a.m. emails like a badge of honor, and you’re trying not to burn out? Ellen offers practical scripts, reframes, and real talk about what's actually in your control—and what's not.

From the influence of capitalism and white supremacy on our inability to rest (shoutout to Tricia Hersey and Rest is Resistance), to simple tools to shift out of survival mode (thank you, Britt Frank and the “DEFUSE” method), Ellen invites listeners to look honestly at what keeps them busy and what they might be avoiding when they resist stillness.

Whether your weekends feel like a second shift or your rest comes with a side of guilt, this episode will help you name what’s happening and offer ideas for doing things differently—without shame, and without apology.

In this episode of the Hard at Work podcast, Ellen Whitlock Baker interviews Anita Verna Crofts, a communications expert and educator. They discuss Anita's journey in negotiating her career, the importance of salary transparency, and how women can advocate for themselves in the workplace. Anita shares her experiences of crafting a life of purpose, balancing multiple roles, and the significance of having a vision for the future. The conversation emphasizes the need for systemic change in salary equity and encourages listeners to explore their own aspirations. In this conversation, Ellen Whitlock Baker and Anita Verna Crofts explore the importance of intentional thinking about one's future, particularly for women. They discuss the significance of financial literacy, the dynamics of workplace relationships, and the necessity of advocacy in professional spaces. The conversation emphasizes the need for community building and transparency, especially in the face of societal challenges. They also touch on the responsibility of individuals with privilege to use their voices for advocacy and the importance of self-care and putting oneself first in the journey of personal growth.

Four generations, one workplace—and a whole lot of friction. In this episode, Ellen dives into the quiet resistance many of us feel when the workplace norms we grew up with start to shift. She shares what it’s like to navigate generational differences in real time, from being told not to cry at work to managing employees who name burnout out loud (gasp!).

This isn’t about bashing any generation—it’s about getting curious. Ellen walks through five practical steps to unpack your instinctive reactions, examine your assumptions, and figure out whether you’re holding on to outdated workplace beliefs just to feel safe. If you’ve ever rolled your eyes at a Gen Z coworker (or been the Gen Z coworker getting side-eyed), this one’s for you.

We’re talking change, identity, boundaries, and how to be less reactive and more reflective in the middle of a rapidly evolving workplace culture.

In this episode, Ellen Whitlock Baker interviews Montique Cotton Kelly, exploring the complexities of leadership in today's world. They discuss the importance of vulnerability, the challenges of managing teams, and the necessity of finding allies in the workplace. Montique shares her experiences transitioning into leadership roles, the significance of mentorship, and the impact of current societal issues on organizational culture. The conversation emphasizes the need for authentic connections and ongoing support in leadership. In this conversation, Montique Cotton Kelly discusses the importance of flexibility in leadership through the Gumby Initiative, emphasizing the need for a collaborative culture and the operationalization of core values. They explore performance management, the significance of feedback, and how to navigate difficult relationships with bosses. The discussion also touches on the personal fulfillment found in rescuing animals, highlighting the emotional rewards of advocacy and care.

Life doesn’t pause when work gets hard—and work doesn’t stop when life falls apart. In this honest and deeply personal episode, Ellen shares what it’s like to navigate grief, caretaking, and exhaustion while trying to show up professionally. If you’ve ever felt stuck in survival mode, spinning in stress, and wondering how to keep going when you’ve got nothing left, this one’s for you.

Ellen breaks down how the stress cycle hijacks your nervous system and what you can actually do about it. We’re talking burnout, emotional labor, and the myth of “just pushing through.” You’ll leave with 3 research-backed, real-world tactics to regulate your body and protect your sanity—without needing a wellness retreat or a two-week vacation.

This episode is for the tired professionals, the quiet overfunctioners, and the ones who hold it all together until they can’t. You’re not broken. You’re just human. Let’s talk about it.

In this conversation, Dr. Kira Mauseth discusses the importance of resilience and behavioral health in the workplace. She explains the distinction between mental health and behavioral health, emphasizing the need for transparency and active listening from leaders. The discussion also covers the significance of boundaries in work culture, the four ingredients of resilience, and how emotional adaptability can enhance leadership effectiveness. The conversation highlights practical strategies for fostering a supportive work environment that prioritizes mental well-being. In this conversation, Kira Mauseth and Ellen Whitlock Baker explore the complexities of emotional responses in decision-making, particularly in leadership during crises. They discuss the concept of disaster cascades, the importance of open communication in teams, and the recognition of burnout. The dialogue emphasizes the need for active coping strategies and personal restoration, while also highlighting the significance of creating a positive work environment and understanding team dynamics.

In this special solo episode, host Ellen Whitlock Baker reflects on the first six episodes of Hard at Work and unpacks the biggest themes that keep surfacing—from navigating systemic bias and invisible labor to learning how to say no before you collapse. Whether you’ve been with the show since day one or you’re just tuning in, this is a powerful moment to pause, connect the dots, and figure out what it all means for you.

Ellen also shares a free resource you can use right now: the Boundaries at Work Toolkit—a downloadable PDF packed with scripts, email templates, and a two-week energy tracker to help you set and sustain boundaries that protect your time and your well-being.

In this candid and energizing conversation, Ellen sits down with Greer Procich—disability advocate, HR expert, and LinkedIn firestarter—to talk about building workplaces that truly work for everyone. From navigating hidden disabilities to reshaping performance reviews, Greer brings both lived experience and sharp strategy. They unpack how access, autonomy, and psychological safety benefit all employees—not just those with disabilities—and why leaders need to stop checking boxes and start changing systems. If you're ready for practical ideas on creating inclusive, equitable, and humane work cultures, this one’s for you.

In this solo episode of Hard at Work, Ellen digs into the phrase many women have heard at work: “fix your face.” What does it actually mean when someone says you're coming off as ‘too much,’ ‘too aggressive,’ or ‘not smiling enough’? Ellen unpacks the coded language of professionalism, how it often punishes authenticity, and why emotion at work isn't a liability—it’s information. If you've ever been told to soften your tone or smile more, this episode is your permission to stop internalizing it and start decoding what’s really being said.

In this episode of Hard at Work, Ellen sits down with behavioral science expert and co-author of Anti-Racist by Design, Dr. Crystal Hall. Together, they dig into how public policy, psychology, and design thinking intersect with workplace equity—and what happens when structural racism is left out of the equation. This conversation dives into the blind spots of research, the limitations of well-meaning policy, and why truly equitable workplaces need more than good intentions. If you've ever wondered why workplace "fixes" fall flat, this one's for you.

In this episode of the Hard at Work podcast, Ellen Whitlock Baker addresses common workplace challenges, particularly focusing on issues of respect and communication between employees and bosses. She provides actionable advice on how to navigate difficult situations with coworkers and supervisors, emphasizing the importance of setting boundaries to prevent burnout. The conversation also delves into effective time management strategies and ways to improve meeting efficiency, encouraging listeners to advocate for their own well-being in the workplace.

In this episode, Ellen Whitlock Baker and Dr. Kyle Elliott delve into the complexities of trauma in the workplace, discussing how trauma manifests, the importance of trauma-informed coaching, and practical strategies for leaders to support their teams. They explore the nuances of emotional expression, the challenges of discussing feelings in professional settings, and the need for a culture that honors individual experiences with trauma. The conversation emphasizes the significance of listening, understanding, and creating safe spaces for open dialogue about mental health and emotional well-being in the workplace. In this conversation, Kyle and Ellen explore the concept of the 'window of tolerance' and its significance in managing stress and trauma responses. They discuss practical techniques for staying within this window, such as breathing exercises and grounding techniques. The conversation also delves into the importance of creating a supportive work environment, addressing trauma in the workplace, and learning from feedback. Additionally, they provide insights on identifying red flags during job interviews and preparing for future job opportunities by networking and planting seeds for career growth.

In Episode 1 of Hard at Work, Ellen Whitlock Baker shares why she created the podcast, her journey through burnout and toxic workplaces, and what listeners can expect. If you're ready to challenge outdated norms and work in healthier ways, this is where it starts.

I’m Ellen Whitlock Baker, and I’m a 20 year survivor of many different workplaces, from the good to the bad to the ugly.

I created the Hard at Work podcast to help you navigate…and maybe even update… the workplace, which wasn’t made for most of us. Hard at Work is the show for people who are ready to challenge workplace norms, advocate for themselves and others, and create a more equitable, healthier work culture.

Listen here for a preview of my first season, coming May 12, 2025.