Poison Break(toxic.tales@work)

Job interviews are supposed to be about you. But what if the person interviewing you is already showing toxic patterns? In this episode I share my personal experience and we dive into subtle but powerful red flags: When the interview becomes a performance Why lack of real interest in you matters Fake “similarity” as a control tactic Pressure tactics and rushed offers The mix of charm and chaos

In this episode we explore the confusing regret and mixed emotions that can show up after leaving a toxic workplace. The frustrating part: sometimes, it’s not the job itself that was the problem but certain people, unhealthy dynamics or a work culture that slowly drained you. So why does it still feel like a loss in a way? This episode dives into the emotional and psychological reasons behind miss...

Ever feel like your office is a stage and everyone’s playing a role? Work isn’t just work...it’s a stage. In this episode, we uncover the hidden scripts people play at work: the Victim, the Overachiever, the Manipulator and more. Learn how to spot these roles, read the energy around you and navigate your workplace like a pro.

In this episode, we’re talking about the subtle, often overlooked reality of bullying at work - when it’s not obvious, not loud, but still deeply affecting your confidence, mental health and sense of self. Workplace bullying doesn’t always look like aggression or open conflict. Sometimes, it shows up as constant criticism, being excluded, having your ideas dismissed, or slowly being made to feel l...

In this episode, we break down the psychological forces that keep us stuck: intermittent reinforcement, gaslighting, self‑doubt, trauma bonding and the sunk cost fallacy. You’ll learn why toxic workplaces feel so hard to leave, how these patterns show up in real life, and the subtle signs that tell you it’s time to walk away. This episode is for anyone dealing with a toxic boss, narcissistic leade...

Have you ever had the feeling that conversations at work somehow make their way back to your manager? Or that someone always seems to appear when you’re talking to a colleague? In this episode, I talk about a common dynamic in toxic workplaces: “flying monkeys.” These are coworkers who gather information, monitor conversations, or report back to manipulative or narcissistic leaders. Sometimes inte...

In this episode, we explore a real story of workplace retaliation. After documenting inappropriate behavior and filing a formal HR complaint, an employee was assured there would be no retaliation. Just three days later, she was fired for sudden “performance issues.” We unpack how toxic workplaces, power dynamics, and internal reporting systems can sometimes turn against the very people they’re mea...

Workplace gaslighting is one of the most confusing and damaging toxic behaviors and many people don’t realize it’s happening until they’re already doubting themselves. In this episode, we break down the psychology behind gaslighting, the most common signs, and why narcissistic bosses use it. Featuring research insights and real Reddit stories, this episode helps you recognize manipulation, protect...

Have you ever asked your manager a simple question and suddenly found yourself in an unexpected roleplay exercise? In this episode, we explore workplace roleplay as a subtle control tactic under narcissistic leadership. What looks like coaching or training can sometimes be micromanagement in disguise. If you’ve experienced a controlling boss, constant evaluation or felt anxious asking for clarific...

In this episode, I share a personal experience, where my narcissistic manager tried to catch me off guard by spying on my calendar - right in the middle of a meeting / interview. What looked like a simple scheduling request turned into a power move that left my heart racing and my instincts on high alert. If you've ever worked under a controlling or toxic manager, this story might feel uncomfortab...

A healthcare worker describes what it’s like to be trapped under a manager who lies, manipulates, and punishes anyone who speaks up. All in a place where quitting isn’t an option. This episode explores the emotional exhaustion of a team with no way out and the small but meaningful ways people try to stay resilient in a toxic environment. Side note: Please excuse sound issues. If you‘d like to subm...

In this episode I am talking about various red flags you should watch out for and which will help you spot the poisonous narcissists at work. There are so much more to mention but these are the first and most important to mention in my opinion. From weird attempts to "bond" with you early to micromanaging you, withholding information and belittling you. They only have one goal at the end of the da...

Ever had a job that made you question your sanity? You’re not alone. This short trailer introduces Poison Break , a podcast where we expose toxic workplaces through real stories, anonymous confessions, and my own experiences. Raw, honest, and sometimes shocking – get ready for the first full episode. If you‘d like to submit your own experiences or some you‘ve heard of, you‘re welcome to send an e-...