Workplace dynamics part 1: barriers and bias

Episode summary

Welcome back to the WorkWell Podcast! This is part one of a two-part deep dive into workplace dynamics, where we’re breaking down the systemic barriers and biases that shape our careers. If you’ve ever felt stuck in your role despite doing everything right, this episode is for you.

We unpack the glass ceiling, broken rung, maternal wall, and pay gaps - what they are, why they exist, and most importantly, what you can do about them. Whether you’re navigating these challenges yourself or leading a team, we’re here to give you the tools to push back, level up, and create workplaces that actually work well.

What we talked about:

Why workplace barriers aren’t just personal hurdles - -they’re systemic issues

• The glass ceiling (and its cousins, the bamboo ceiling and concrete ceiling) and why progression stops for certain groups
• The broken rung and sticky floor - how early career roadblocks set people back for decades
• The maternal wall - why mothers are penalised at work while fathers are rewarded
• The gender, racial, age, and disability pay gaps (spoiler: they’re real, and they’re still a problem)
• What employees can do: self-advocacy, mentorship, and strategic career moves
• What leaders must do: conducting equity audits, rethinking promotions, and actually using their influence for good

Try this: one step toward change

This week, reflect on your own workplace experience:

• Are you facing one of these barriers? Take one small action - track your wins, reach out to a mentor, or start a conversation about workplace equity.
• If you're a leader, audit your team. Who gets the best projects? Who gets overlooked? Make an intentional effort to support underrepresented voices.

Useful resources:⁠

Invisible Women by Caroline Criado Perez 

The Fix by Michelle P. King 

The Authority Gap by Mary Ann Sieghart 

Bias Interrupted by Joan C. Williams

WorkWell’s definitive course on self-advocacy - Own Your Brilliance

Connect with us

We’d love to hear how you’re tackling workplace barriers! Email us at [e-mail] or share your stories with us on social media. Search for @thisisworkwell on Instagram, Threads, Facebook and LinkedIn.

Next week’s episode: We’re continuing the conversation with Workplace Dynamics Part Two - Culture and Systemic Change. From quiet quitting to AI discrimination, we’re looking at the cultural forces shaping today’s workplaces. Don’t miss it!

Final note

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Visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.thisisworkwell.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ for more resources and inspiration!