Give Me a Break Podcast

In this episode, we talk about liminal warfare —conflict in the gray zone—and how the same psychological mechanisms can show up in the workplace. Why are there people who behave manipulatively, create a negative atmosphere, and undermine others—yet somehow never get questioned? We go through common tactics that are used behind the scenes, why they’re so hard to pinpoint, and how they can affect bo...

Manipulation at work can feel confusing, exhausting, and downright unfair — but did you know that many of these tactics mirror the strategies of psychological warfare? In this episode of Give Me a Break Podcast , we explore how subtle manipulation, rumors, and office politics operate much like strategic warfare — aiming to confuse, divide, and control. You’ll learn: How manipulative colleagues sub...

In this episode, we tackle a topic few people dare to speak openly about: revenge —and the deeply human desire for justice and vindication after serious workplace injustice. What happens when you’re unfairly accused, pushed out, silenced, or sacrificed in a toxic organization? When your reputation is damaged, your livelihood threatened, and you never get the chance to defend yourself? Feelings of...

How can unclear feedback and “fake concern” turn into a case that costs someone their job — even when they’ve done nothing wrong? In this episode of Give Me A Break Podcast , we expose how vague criticism, personal agendas, and workplace politics are used to build false narratives that lead to forced settlements or dismissal. You’ll learn to recognize early warning signs, understand why strengths...

Whistleblowing is often praised as a powerful tool for exposing fraud, corruption, and wrongdoing — but what happens when speaking up turns you into the problem? In this episode, we dive deep into the growing integrity crisis across organizations, the risks whistleblowers face, and the dark power dynamics that silence truth-tellers. You’ll hear shocking statistics, real-life cases, and the story o...

What can a Roman general who ruled an empire — and met a bloody end — teach us about leadership today? In this episode, Annsofi Thunholm explores the rise and fall of Julius Caesar, uncovering timeless lessons about power, loyalty, trust, and ambition in the modern workplace. From building alliances to handling rivals and recognizing toxic behaviors, discover why acting like Caesar at work can eit...

Was Niccolò Machiavelli really the cold, manipulative schemer his name has come to represent — or have we completely misunderstood him? In this episode Ammsofi Thunholm dives deep into the life, legacy, and lasting myths surrounding one of history’s most controversial figures: the Florentine thinker whose name became synonymous with cunning and deceit. But was Machiavelli himself actually Machiave...

In this first episode of Give Me a Break Podcast, we talk about the subtle but destructive dynamics of toxic workplaces — manipulation, resistance, and bullying that can slowly undermine leaders. Author Liselott Husberger shares insights from her book “Luisa is so sensitive”, a story about a new manager whose team works against her, leaving her isolated and questioning her own leadership.   A...