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In this episode of The Elephant in the Org, we’re tackling the controversial “work family” narrative. Is calling your workplace a family a sign of authentic connection, or is it just another way to blur boundaries and exploit loyalty?

Join Danny, Marion, and Cacha as they explore:

• The red flags behind the "work family" narrative.
• Why this language gives some people “the ick” and others a sense of belonging.
• How workplace culture can foster real bonds without manipulation.
• The fine line between psychological safety and toxic expectations.

From corporate love-bombing to performative culture, we’re breaking down what it really means to feel connected at work—and how companies can get it right (or very wrong).

Referenced Articles:
📄 We Need to Stop Referring to Work as Family—Here’s Why
📄 Company Culture: Why You Shouldn’t Refer to Your Team as a Family
📄 The Myth of Workplace Family and What Leadership Can Do to Cultivate Authentic Engagement
📄 The Toxic Effects of Branding Your Workplace a Family

Participate in Marion’s PhD Research:
Help shape the future of work by participating in Marion’s research survey on employees’ experiences with remote, hybrid, and in-office work, and how these affect psychological safety. Your insights will contribute to understanding workplace dynamics in a post-pandemic world.

👉 Take the survey here.

Listen now and decide: Is "work family" a comfort, a red flag, or something else entirely?

Connect with Us:

• Follow The Fearless PX on Linkedin at The Fearless PX
• Reach out to Marion, Cacha, and Danny at elephant@thefearlesspx.com
• You can find all episodes of The Elephant in the Org here.

We encourage you to subscribe and leave a review if you found this episode enlightening!

From April 2024, all new episodes of The Elephant In the Org will be posted bi-weekly.

Music Credits:
Opening and closing theme by The Toros.

Production Credits:
Produced by The Fearless PX, Edited by Marion Anderson.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are exclusively those of the hosts and do not necessarily reflect any affiliated organizations’ official policy or position.