Radical Candor

Tune in to the Radical Candor podcast to learn to love your job and kick ass at work without losing your humanity by practicing the principles of Radical Candor. Host and Lead Radical Candor Coach Amy Sandler leads discussions with Radical Candor Author and Co-founder Kim Scott and CEO and Co-founder Jason Rosoff about what it means to be Radically Candid, why it’s simple but not easy to Care Personally and Challenge Directly on the daily, and why it’s worth it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Uncovering the messy reality of salary secrecy. Pay transparency—yikes, it’s one of those topics that makes everyone squirm, but avoiding it does more harm than good. Let’s be real: when salaries are shrouded in secrecy, it doesn’t just make things awkward—it allows inequity and mistrust to thrive. And here’s the kicker: people are already talking about pay, just in whispers instead of open, productive conversations. In this episode, Kim and Jason take a no-nonsense approach to tackling the discomfort. From real stories of pay gaps to the tangled emotions and messy realities behind compensation conversations, they discuss how a lack of transparency impacts trust and fairness, and share practical tips for making compensation more equitable. Whether you’re trying to influence change at your organization or navigate these conversations as an employee, this is your guide to addressing one of the workplace’s biggest taboos—without losing your humanity. Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast. Epis

Missed promotions, broken promises, and the fallout that follows. Promotions gone wrong? Yeah, it’s a thing. On this episode, Kim and former Twitter CEO Dick Costolo tackle a listener’s tale of missed opportunities, broken promises, and a management team that just can’t get it together. From the cringe-worthy red flags to the frustrating aftermath, they explore how leadership missteps can wreak havoc on trust and motivation. Tune in for sharp insights, practical advice, and a whole lot of “what NOT to do” when navigating messy workplace dynamics. If you’ve ever felt stuck in a system that doesn’t seem to work, this episode will help you find your way forward. Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast. Episode Links: Transcript Managerial Musings With Kim Scott & Dick Costolo 5 | 26 Dick Costolo | LinkedIn Kim Scott & Dick Costolo Unpack the Messy Truth About Management Dilemmas What Happens When Promotions Go Sideways? Connect: Website Instagram TikTok LinkedIn

The fine line between transparency and TMI. Let’s get into it: oversharing at work — we’ve all done it, and we’ve all cringed after. But here’s the tea: when we spill sensitive info without thinking, we’re not just breaking trust, we’re tanking our ability to Care Personally and Challenge Directly. In this episode, Kim, Jason, and Amy dig into a listener's story about sharing too much too soon and just how quickly oversharing can derail trust and create chaos. They unpack why these missteps happen, how different company cultures play into it, and what it really takes to find that sweet spot between transparency and discretion. If you’ve ever found yourself in the awkward aftermath of an overshare, this one’s for you. Let’s learn how to slow down, think it through, and keep our Radical Candor intact! Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast. Episode Links: Use the GSD Wheel So No One Feels Sad, Bad or Left Out 4 | 2 Connect: Website Instagram TikTok LinkedIn YouTub

Susan Rigetti on speaking up, keeping receipts, and why silence is never the answer. We’re shaking up the workplace and diving deep into the raw reality of whistleblowing and the courage it takes to speak up with this special episode from the Radical Respect podcast. Kim, Wesley, and special guest Susan Rigetti, author of Whistleblower, break down the challenges of calling out toxic systems while being real with yourself. When harmful practices go unchecked, they don’t just derail careers—they damage the core of psychological safety that we all need to do our best work. So how do you find the strength to raise your voice when the stakes feel impossibly high? Susan shares her own powerful story of calling out the broken culture at Uber, laying out what happens when you decide you’ve had enough and choose to act. If you’ve ever struggled to raise your voice in the face of workplace dysfunction, learn why silence is never the answer and how respect and courage can transform even the most challenging environment

Brace yourself—this episode is all about navigating workplace tension with Radical Candor. Kim and Amy team up with Denise Hamilton, author of Indivisible: How to Forge Our Differences Into a Stronger Future, to tackle the complicated landscape of workplace polarization and the radical power of respect. Denise, known for her "irrational optimism," sheds light on how we can bridge deep divides, even when it feels impossible and that respect isn’t something earned through understanding—it’s the baseline that makes understanding possible. They explore why caring personally means building trust, even when opinions clash, and how we can create workplaces that honor both individual voices and collective purpose. With Denise’s wisdom and Kim’s Radical Candor principles, this episode digs into the tough conversations leaders often avoid but desperately need. If you’ve ever felt the strain of differing views at work, this conversation is for you—because staying connected is the only way forward. Get all of the show no

Handling workplace bullying when family dynamics are involved. We need to talk about nepotism and workplace bullying, because WHEW, does it ever mess with our ability to Care Personally and Challenge Directly! Here's the real deal — when family ties eclipse talent, we're not just hurting individual careers. We're poisoning the well of psychological safety that teams need to thrive. How can you tell someone to "bring their whole self to work" when the rules aren't the same for everyone? KIm, Amy, and Jason explain why avoiding these conversations doesn't help anyone. Whether you're dealing with the CEO's daughter who's actually crushing it, or the founder's cousin who's... not so much, you've got to stay rooted in those two key principles: Care Personally AND Challenge Directly. Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast. Episode Links: Transcript Injustice At Work: 4 Effective Ways To Respond | Radical Candor Right To Be Upstanders Vs. Bystanders: A Story Every Manager Needs To R

With feedback, how do you measure what matters? Kim, Jason, and Amy dive into the art of measuring feedback, emphasizing that it's not just about what you say, but how it's heard. It's crucial to pay attention to how your feedback lands and be ready to adjust your approach, especially when you notice defensiveness or indifference. Tune in to explore practical strategies for handling emotional reactions while keeping your communication clear and compassionate. Learn how to stay present in tough conversations and create a space where open dialogue leads to growth and stronger relationships, both at work and in life. We'll also cover how to effectively solicit feedback and navigate defensiveness, ensuring that your interactions are not only productive but also supportive and understanding. Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast. Episode Links: Transcript How to Gauge Feedback You’re Giving & Getting 3 | 4 How To Gauge Your Feedback | Radical Candor When Someone You Love Is Upset,

Effectively manage feedback you disagree with. On this episode of the Radical Candor podcast, we tackle a challenge that's at the heart of Radical Candor: what to do when you receive feedback you don't agree with. It's a question we get all the time, and it's crucial because how we handle these moments can make or break our relationships at work. The team gets into the get into the nitty-gritty of how to respond to tough feedback and suggests specific phrases you can use to show you're listening, even if you're not fully on board. Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast. Episode Links: Transcript How to Respond to Negative Feedback at Work That You Disagree With | Radical Candor Listen, Challenge, Commit | Radical Candor Podcast 6 | 17 Radical Candor Community 6 Tips For How To Receive Feedback Well | Radical Candor Follow These 4 Steps to Create Psychological Safety in Your Teams | Fast Company Tell Me Why I'm Wrong: Resolving Disagreements with Your Direct Reports |

In this episode of the Radical Candor Podcast, Jason and Amy discuss how to introduce radical candor to teams effectively. They emphasize the importance of starting small, creating pockets of excellence, and the role of accountability and praise in fostering a feedback culture. The conversation also covers effective communication strategies for implementing change, real-world examples of cultural shifts, and practical tips for individuals and teams looking to embrace radical candor. The episode concludes with an invitation to join the Radical Candor community for ongoing support and resources. Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast. Episode Links: Transcript Building a Radically Candid Culture | LinkedIn 6 Steps for Rolling Out Radical Candor | Radical Candor 3 Ways to Introduce Radical Candor's Feedback Framework to Your Organization | Radical Candor Radical Candor Book Discussion Guide | Radical Candor Radical Candor Community How To Give Candid Feedback With the Rad

Kim and Jacob Morgan, author of Leading with Vulnerability, discuss the power of vulnerability in leadership and its role in building trust and driving performance. They explore the common misconceptions about vulnerability, the balance between competence and connection, and how to navigate the fine line between strength and openness. Jacob shares stories of successful and failed leadership, emphasizing the importance of choosing the right moments to be vulnerable. The conversation also touches on how to foster psychological safety, deal with workplace bullies, and follow with vulnerability in challenging environments. Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast. Episode Links: Transcript Denial: Why Business Leaders Fail to Look Facts in the Face—and What to Do About It | Richard Tedlow Leading with Vulnerability: Unlock Your Greatest Superpower to Transform Yourself, Your Team, and Your Organization | Jacob Morgan Performance Improvement Plans | Radical Candor Podcast 5 | 20 W

Explore the surprising science of meetings and how to make them suck less with Dr. Steven G. Rogelberg, a renowned organizational psychologist and author of The Surprising Science of Meetings, Glad We Met: The Art & Science of 1:1 Meetings, and more. Dr. Rogelberg discusses with Kim and Amy why meetings often feel unproductive and costly, covering common pitfalls and offering actionable strategies to enhance their effectiveness. The conversation spotlights the power of one-on-one meetings, emphasizing their unique role in fostering meaningful connections between managers and employees. Dr. Rogelberg shares insights on how to structure these meetings to maximize engagement, support, and productivity, making them a crucial tool for leadership and team success. Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.Episode Links: Transcript Steven Rogelberg 7 Ways To Improve One-on-One Meetings | Radical Candor Effective 1:1s - Tips For One-on-One Meetings With Your Team | Radical Candor 3 Tips F

Praise can be powerful, but when it’s vague, generic, or something you can say to a dog like "good job," it can backfire and do more harm than good. Kim, Jason, and Amy explore the nuances of Ruinous Empathy and praise, sharing real-life examples, like the infamous FEMA response during Hurricane Katrina, to illustrate the pitfalls of Ruinously Empathetic feedback. They discuss the importance of making praise specific and sincere so people know what was good and why, allowing them to repeat their success.   Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast. Episode Links: Transcript Praise & Ruinous Empathy | Radical Candor Tips to Avoid Ruinously Empathetic Praise | Radical Candor Appreciation (That's What The Money's For!) | Radical Candor 5 | 16 Radical Candor Podcast: A Tale Of Ruinous Empathy Beyond 'Sorry': How to Apologize and Mean It 6 | 22 DARVO | Wikipedia Being 'Nice' Instead of Kind is One of the Biggest Mistakes Well-Intentioned Bosses Make Connect: Website

Kieran Snyder, founder of nerd processor and co-founder of Textio, joins the Radical Candor podcast to explore inclusivity in meetings, revealing data-driven insights from her research on in-person versus remote settings. Kieran discusses the dynamics of interruptions, idea credit-taking, and the impact of power and gender on participation. With over 1,100 hours of meeting data analyzed, she sheds light on the complexities of remote work, the significance of structured agendas, and the importance of leadership in fostering inclusive environments. The episode offers practical tips for leaders to enhance meeting engagement and navigate the evolving landscape of workplace communication. Get all of the show notes at  RadicalCandor.com/podcast. Episode Links: Transcript Dear Manager, You’re Holding Too Many Meetings | HBR Why Gender Bias Makes Giving Feedback Hard For Everyone | Radical Candor Radically Inclusive Virtual Workshops: Real-Time Learnings From Zoom | Radical Candor 7 Leadership Comm

How do you handle political conversations at work without crossing boundaries or alienating colleagues? The team dives into the complex and often uncomfortable topic of discussing politics at work, exploring the impact of these conversations on workplace dynamics, productivity, and personal relationships. Kim, Jason, and Amy share insights on navigating political discussions with respect, setting boundaries, and maintaining open dialogue without imposing beliefs on others. Drawing on personal anecdotes and thought-provoking statistics, the conversation provides practical tips for managers and employees alike on fostering an inclusive environment where diverse viewpoints can coexist without derailing professional harmony. Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast. Episode Links: Transcript ResumeHelp’s Politics in the Workplace Study 2024 | Resume Help Reacting To Trump's Bloviating BS With Radical Candor | Radical Candor What to Do When Your Coworker Brings Up Politics | HBR Th

Feedback can be tough to give and at times even harder to receive. But what about when it’s ignored? Jason and Amy tackle a listener's challenging workplace scenario involving ignored feedback, toxic dynamics, and a strained relationship with their boss. Through role play, practical advice, and Radical Candor tips, they explore how to rebuild trust, address emotional wounds, and navigate difficult conversations when feedback isn't properly received.  Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast. Episode Links: Transcript Fears For Tears | Radical Candor Podcast 6 | 7 Navigating Emotional Reactions at Work | Radical Candor Podcast 2 | 16 Absentee Management Vs. Quiet Firing | Radical Candor Podcast 5 | 3 How To Apologize And Mean It | Radical Candor Podcast 6 | 22 Emotional Reactions At Work Are Awkward: Here’s How To Deal | Radical Candor When Your Employee Feels Angry, Sad, or Dejected | HBR Connect: Website Instagram TikTok LinkedIn YouTube Chapters:

Jason and Amy discuss the creation of Radical Candor's new online community designed to help people leaders stress less, build stronger relationships, and connect with peers and pros. Jason emphasizes the importance of community-based learning and he and Amy reflect on the challenges and rewards of building a space for continuous learning and personal growth. Join them as they discuss how aspiring and experienced managers alike can benefit from this exciting new venture. Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast. Links: Transcript Community Website Instagram TikTok LinkedIn YouTube Chapters: (00:00:00) IntroductionJason and Amy introduce the episode, outlining a Radical Candor community Jason’s been working on.(00:00:26) The Concept of Radical Candor CommunityAn overview of an upcoming Radical Candor online community.(00:04:25) Project Management and Setting GoalsHow the project started from two primary goals leading to the development of the community. (00:06:13) Ea

Amy and Kim sit down with the remarkable Guy Kawasaki, Chief Evangelist at Canva and host of the Remarkable People podcast. The conversation delves into Guy's storied career, his insights on leadership, and his newest book, Think Remarkable: 9 Paths to Transform Your Life and Make a Difference. They explore the concept of being remarkable, the importance of saying yes, and the value of grit, growth, and grace in both personal and professional life. With humor and candor, Guy shares anecdotes from his journey, offering listeners valuable lessons on how to make a difference and lead a meaningful life.  Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast. Episode Links: Transcript Guy Kawasaki Books | Guy Kawasaki  Guy Kawasaki's Remarkable People Podcast  Think Remarkable | Guy Kawasaki Guy Kawasaki | Substack Is There Better Than Better | Ellen Langer Developing a Growth Mindset with Carol Dweck Mindset | Carol Dweck Kim Scott: The Power of Radical Respect and Candor | You

Kim and Jason tackle a challenging listener question about dealing with severe workplace harassment. They explore the importance of managerial action, share insights on effective documentation, and provide practical advice for identifying supportive work environments during job searches. Personal anecdotes highlight the nuances between bias and bullying, and the hosts emphasize the critical need for creating and enforcing consequences for toxic behavior. Tune in to this episode of Radical Candor for actionable tips on fostering a respectful and safe workplace. Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast. Episode Links: Transcript The No Asshole Rule: Robert Sutton | Amazon Workplace Bullying: Ignoring Bullies Doesn't Work - Try This Instead | Radical Respect LinkedIn Reflecting On One Very, Very Strange Year At Uber | Susan Fowler Firstround Review: Tips for Leaders - Code of Conduct | Radical Candor Connect: Website Instagram TikTok LinkedIn YouTube Chapter

In the finale of the Radical Candor FAQs series, together Kim, Jason, and Amy answer a new round of most frequently asked questions about Radical Candor. They explore how Radical Candor operates across different cultures and discuss strategies for managing defensiveness in feedback. Through personal anecdotes and practical advice, they illustrate how to apply Radical Candor both at work and at home. The episode also delves into the importance of building authentic relationships, increasing employee retention, and enhancing team productivity through clear and compassionate communication. Concluding with the handy Radical Candor checklist, this episode is packed with insights to help listeners become better leaders and communicators. Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast. Episode Links: Transcript How To Navigate Feedback Conversations On Diverse Teams | Radical Candor Radical Candor Cultural Differences Radical Candor Knows No Boundaries Responding To Negative Feedback: 5 Wa