Episodes

5d ago

In this Best of 2025 special, The Lonely Office revisits the conversations that helped job seekers make sense of a new normal—where old career rules broke down and new ones quietly took shape. From power versus status, to remote work as negotiation, to AI’s real impact on hiring, these moments cut through the hype and name what’s actually happening beneath the headlines. Not shortcuts or silver bullets—just sharper language, better frameworks, and a little more agency for navigating work when certainty is gone. This is a great episode to recap 2025 and get ready for 2026! *Guests Featured Alison Fragale — Organizational Psychologist, Author & Professor of Management Daryl Fairweather — Chief Economist, Redfin Jeremy Schifeling — Founder and CEO, The Job Insiders Madeline Mann — Career Coach and Founder, Self Made Millennial Nick Bloom — Professor of Economics, Stanford University Phyl Terry — CEO and Co-Founder, Never Search Alone Hosts: Matt Sunbulli ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.firstdraft.vc⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Aaron Calafato ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Leah Ova ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Leah on TikTok ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Senior Audio Engineer: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Ken Wendt ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Research: Matt Sunbulli Zaid Safe Aaron Calafato

Dec 8

In this special TLO Ask a Recruiter episode, Leah Ova dives into the realities of senior-level hiring with Amy Lentz , Chief People Officer at Toms and the HR strategist behind Hack Your HR . Amy breaks down why the path to director, VP, and C-suite roles feels so different and how seasoned candidates can successfully position themselves for leadership roles. From networking that actually moves the needle to navigating salary expectations and switching industries later in your career, this conversation delivers practical, grounded guidance for anyone aiming for their next big step.

Dec 3

Job seekers today are told to “network harder,” but what happens when networking fails to nepo hires? Also is networking just nepotism with better branding? In this episode, we break down why the line between the two and why in the current job market that line is blurrier than ever.

Nov 26

A young attorney finds herself trapped in a workplace where the expectations keep shifting and the finish line keeps moving. Her story mirrors what so many job seekers are facing in 2025: disappearing opportunities, unclear roles, and leadership that prioritizes itself over its people. In this episode, Matt, Aaron, and Leah break down how to recognize these red flags early and how to safeguard your career before you get stuck running someone else’s race. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.firstdraft.vc⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Aaron Calafato ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Leah Ova ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Leah on TikTok ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Senior Audio Engineer: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Ken Wendt ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Research: Matt Sunbulli Zaid Safe Aaron Calafato

Nov 19

Layoffs are rising, AI is being blamed, but the data doesn’t agree. Challenger reports the highest October cuts since 2003 with AI as the #2 reason, while Yale’s 33-month BLS analysis finds no real disruption in high-AI-exposure jobs. We break down the confusion, the “AI layoff boomerang,” and why companies still struggle to get actual ROI from AI. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.firstdraft.vc⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Aaron Calafato ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Leah Ova ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Leah on TikTok ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Senior Audio Engineer: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Ken Wendt ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Research: Matt Sunbulli Zaid Safe Aaron Calafato

Nov 12

A new trend is spreading through Silicon Valley’s AI startups as job seekers are being sold “hard mode” as a badge of honor. What began as a protest against overwork in China has quietly become a recruitment pitch in America, with some companies normalizing 80-hour weeks as proof of passion and purpose. In this episode, Aaron, Matt, and Leah unpack the rise of the 9-9-6 culture, the strange mix of ideology and ambition driving it, and whether burnout has become the new benchmark for success. Because if working nonstop is the future of innovation, who’s really winning? Hosts: Matt Sunbulli ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.firstdraft.vc⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Aaron Calafato ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Leah Ova ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Leah on TikTok ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Senior Audio Engineer: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Ken Wendt ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Research: Matt Sunbulli Zaid Safe Aaron Calafato

Nov 5

Job searches are dragging on longer than ever with endless applications, ghosted interviews. Maybe it’s time to stop waiting for someone to hire you… and start hiring yourself. This week, TLO cohost and serial entrepreneur Matt Sunbulli shares the mindset and the literal script for turning frustration into a startup idea. We talk about why job hunts have become endurance tests, the rise of accidental entrepreneurs, and what it really takes to make the leap from job seeker to founder. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.firstdraft.vc⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Aaron Calafato ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Leah Ova ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Leah on TikTok ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Senior Audio Engineer: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Ken Wendt ⁠⁠⁠⁠ Research: Matt Sunbulli Zaid Safe Aaron Calafato

Oct 29

In a recent memo AT&T's CEO declared the company had “shifted away” from employment elements rooted in loyalty. Chief Correspondent at Business Insider, Aki Ito , breaks down how the employment contract has collapsed and what “strategic loyalty” looks like when the relationship becomes purely transactional. *Read Aki Ito's article about The Future of Loyalty Hosts: Matt Sunbulli ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.firstdraft.vc⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Aaron Calafato ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Leah Ova ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Leah on TikTok ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Senior Audio Engineer: ⁠⁠⁠Ken Wendt ⁠⁠⁠ Research: Matt Sunbulli Zaid Safe Aaron Calafato

Oct 22

Everyone’s using AI. in therapy, at work, even at the doctor’s office. Yet, we still avoid talking about it. AI has become the invisible collaborator behind so much of modern life, but it remains taboo to mention at work and in most public settings. In this episode, we explore the culture lag between private use and public admission and ask: when will saying “I used AI for that” sound as normal as “I used Google”? Hosts: Matt Sunbulli ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.firstdraft.vc⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Aaron Calafato ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Leah Ova ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Leah on TikTok ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Senior Audio Engineer: ⁠⁠Ken Wendt ⁠⁠ Research: Matt Sunbulli Zaid Safe Aaron Calafato

Oct 15

What happens when AI makes average work cheap? How do you stay valuable when AI commoditizes the very skills that once made you special? We explore how comparative advantage , a 200-year-old economic idea, explains today’s career dilemma: when to double down on your craft, when to pivot, and how to uncover the strengths machines still can’t copy. Plus, why narrowing your focus might be the most empowering move in an age obsessed with doing everything. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.firstdraft.vc⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Aaron Calafato ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Leah Ova ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Leah on TikTok ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Senior Audio Engineer: ⁠Ken Wendt ⁠ Research: Matt Sunbulli Zaid Safe Aaron Calafato

Oct 8

Managers are juggling 20–30 reports, one-on-ones are drive-bys, and "office hours" are replacing mentorship. We unpack whether AI is the accelerant: which tasks it's automating (performance reviews, expense approvals), why public markets love lean orgs, and how to stay visible when your boss is underwater. Playbooks for managing up, narrating your wins, and getting coached in a flat org. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.firstdraft.vc⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Aaron Calafato ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Leah Ova ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Leah on TikTok ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Editorial: Brooks Borden Matt Sunbulli Ken Wendt Senior Audio Engineer: Ken Wendt Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli Aaron Calafato

Oct 1

Job search support groups are transforming career hunting from a solo struggle into a multiplayer team effort. Phyl Terry , founder of Never Search Alone , joins us to talk about why even Harvard MBAs are joining support groups to crack today's brutal job market, how job search councils work, and the what's ahead for job seekers as AI rewires the market. Special Guest: Phyl Terry Hosts: Matt Sunbulli ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.firstdraft.vc⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Aaron Calafato ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Leah Ova ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Leah on TikTok ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Editorial: Brooks Borden Matt Sunbulli Ken Wendt Senior Audio Engineer: Ken Wendt Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli Aaron Calafato

Sep 30

What role does social media really play in your job hunt? TLO's Leah Ova talks with career coach Janel Abrahami to separate myth from reality, exploring how recruiters view your online footprint, what helps (and what backfires), and why one underrated job search tool might be the best advice you’ll hear this year.

Sep 24

Shark Tank host Matt Higgins makes the case that job autonomy beats money for long-term power. We break down the strategic “burn the boats” mindset (for goals, not tactics), the three-year quit rule, and how to use a big-brand logo as leverage—somewhere else. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.firstdraft.vc⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Aaron Calafato ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Leah Ova ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Leah on TikTok ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Editorial: Brooks Borden Matt Sunbulli Ken Wendt Senior Audio Engineer: Ken Wendt Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli Aaron Calafato

Sep 19

From vending machines to van life, today’s money plans feel unhinged. On this episode, we welcome special guest Orianna Rosa Royle —award-winning journalist and Associate Editor at the Success Desk at Fortune . She helps us break down Germany’s “start at age six” pension idea, why Social Security fears are fueling bad choices, and the $32 investing habit that could change your future. Reference Article by Orianna Rosa Royle As boomers are forced to ‘unretire’ because they’ve not saved enough, 6-year-olds in Germany could soon have retirement accounts Hosts: Matt Sunbulli ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.firstdraft.vc⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Aaron Calafato ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Leah Ova ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Leah on TikTok ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Editorial: Brooks Borden Matt Sunbulli Ken Wendt Senior Audio Engineer: Ken Wendt Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli Aaron Calafato

Sep 17

Instead of chasing openings, how do you become a candidate that employers chase? We cover Madeline Mann's "job shopper" system: targeted networking that isn't cringe, the 10%-above rule, work-sample binders that win interviews, and the negotiation language that gets you paid without getting bounced. Special Guest: Madeline Mann Hosts: Matt Sunbulli ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.firstdraft.vc⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Aaron Calafato ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Leah Ova ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Leah on TikTok ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Editorial: Brooks Borden Matt Sunbulli Ken Wendt Senior Audio Engineer: Ken Wendt Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli Aaron Calafato

Sep 15

On this episode of TLO Headlines cohosts Matt Sunbull i and Aaron Calafato dig into last week's historic jobs revision number (1 million fewer jobs), why executives and workers see the economy so differently, and what “span of control” means when your manager has 20+ direct reports. Finally, they wrap with culture ( Severance , The Studio ) and the rise of chaotic workplace TV as a mirror of the anxiety that today’s professionals feel. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.firstdraft.vc/ Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/

Sep 12

In this bonus episode, TLO co-host Leah Ova sits down with Linda Raynier —career strategist, speaker, and author of the upcoming book The Quiet Achiever: Your Journey to Authentic Confidence . With nearly 1M YouTube subscribers and over 2.6M LinkedIn Learning students , Linda has become a trusted guide for introverted professionals navigating confidence, communication, and leadership. Together they tackle Glassdoor community questions on awkward interviews, social media checks, ghosting, and whether extroverts really have the edge in hiring. Stick around for a rapid-fire segment where Linda shares her most underrated job search tool—and her biggest ick as a recruiter. Guest Linda Raynier ⁠

Sep 10

Job-related scams have tripled since 2020, and reported losses are on pace to approach half a billion dollars. These job scams target which desperate workers with fake companies and phantom paychecks. From "pay for your equipment" cons to AI-powered fake interviews stealing personal information, employment fraud are now the riskiest scam for workers aged 18-34. We break down the red flags and protective strategies when you need work most. Special Guest: Courtney Summer Myers * Courtney's Portfolio Hosts: Matt Sunbulli ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.firstdraft.vc⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Aaron Calafato ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Leah Ova ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Leah on TikTok ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Editorial: Brooks Borden Matt Sunbulli Ken Wendt Senior Audio Engineer: Ken Wendt Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli Aaron Calafato

Sep 3

Job hunting has started to feel less like building a career and more like sitting at a crooked blackjack table. Candidates burn out chasing dead-end postings, bots flood the system with hundreds of résumés, and interviews stretch into double digits with no payoff. In this episode, we dig into the absurd new rules of the game—and ask whether referrals are the only winning hand left. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.firstdraft.vc⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Aaron Calafato ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Leah Ova ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Leah on TikTok ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Editorial: Brooks Borden Matt Sunbulli Ken Wendt Senior Audio Engineer: Ken Wendt Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli Aaron Calafato

Aug 27

Redfin’s Chief Economist Daryl Fairweather joins TLO to explain how rent spikes, rate-lock, and thin relocation packages are holding jobs hostage—and what policy (or rate cuts) could free them. Read Daryl's new book: Hate the Game: Economic Cheat Codes for Life, Love, and Work Hosts: Matt Sunbulli ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.firstdraft.vc⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Aaron Calafato ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Leah Ova ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Leah on TikTok ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Editorial: Brooks Borden Matt Sunbulli Ken Wendt Senior Audio Engineer: Ken Wendt Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli Aaron Calafato

Aug 25

On this week’s TLO Headlines , Aaron and Matt dive into China’s bizarre new trend: young people paying to pretend they have jobs just to ease the stigma of unemployment. They also unpack ICE’s eye-catching $50,000 sign-on bonuses and student loan perks in a massive recruitment drive, and break down how AI impostors are fooling hiring systems—forcing companies to drag interviews back in-person. Along the way, they explore what these stories reveal about work, identity, and trust in a rapidly shifting job market.

Aug 20

Stanford economist Nick Bloom returns with new data showing return-to-office mandates are "dark matter" - constantly reported but not actually happening. We also explore how AI is reshaping worker productivity and whether it may be acting as a tailwind for remote work adoption. Special Guest: Nick Bloom Hosts: Matt Sunbulli ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.firstdraft.vc⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Aaron Calafato ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Leah Ova ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Leah on TikTok ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Editorial: Brooks Borden Matt Sunbulli Ken Wendt Senior Audio Engineer: Ken Wendt Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli Aaron Calafato

Aug 15

This bonus episode asks real questions that go straight to recruiters and career coaches. In this bonus episode, guest JT O'Donnell, founder and CEO of Work It Daily, shares insider strategies for today’s market: how to back channel into hidden roles, avoid the biggest recruiter icks, and recover from canceled interviews. JT answers quick-hit questions like: Networking or online applying? What she’d do first if she got fired Her biggest recruiter “ick” and top green flags for candidates Hosted by Leah Ova: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Leah on TikTok ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Aug 13

The Great Wealth Transfer is happening now - $53 trillion passing from boomers to younger generations over the next two decades. Bank of America says young working professionals could be the wealthiest generation by 2035. But there's a psychological twist nobody talks about: what happens when sudden wealth destroys the very drive that creates success? Rich spent eight years dodging eviction notices as a screenwriter until Netflix finally wanted his script. Then he inherited a fortune and lost all motivation to finish the deal. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.firstdraft.vc⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Aaron Calafato ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Leah Ova ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Leah on TikTok ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Editorial: Brooks Borden Matt Sunbulli Ken Wendt Senior Audio Engineer: Ken Wendt Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli Aaron Calafato

Aug 10

He never wrote a single line of code—but somehow became head of engineering. In this short TLO Heard at Work story, we meet a hand-drawn cloud diagram enthusiast who vibe-coded his way to the top… then disappeared without a trace.

Aug 6

What does true wealth mean anymore? With the rise of housing, healthcare, childcare and tuition costs, it feels like financial freedom isn’t a number, but a moving target. This week, we discuss the lag between our perception of wealth and the economic reality, and how we can recalibrate—with a little help from author Nassim Nicholas Taleb, whose definition of true wealth includes, among other things, worriless sleep (and good bowel movements). Hosts: Matt Sunbulli ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.firstdraft.vc⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Aaron Calafato ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Leah Ova ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Leah on TikTok ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Editorial: Brooks Borden Matt Sunbulli Ken Wendt Senior Audio Engineer: Ken Wendt Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli Aaron Calafato

Aug 4

On this week’s TLO Headlines , Aaron and Matt unpack Astronomer’s bold PR pivot —hiring Ryan Reynolds’ ad agency (with Gwyneth Paltrow starring) to reframe the Coldplay kiss‑cam scandal—and what that reveals about confronting workplace crises head‑on. They also break down Silicon Valley AI startups adopting 996 work schedules , explore how AI is decimating entry‑level jobs for grads , and discuss record‑high 401(k) hardship withdrawals as CEOs increasingly brag about workforce cuts in the name of AI efficiency.

Jul 30

When Zohran Mamdani clinched the Democratic nomination for NYC mayor, it blindsided New York’s business elite—not because the signs weren’t there, but because they weren’t listening. His surprise victory signals a shift not just in how people communicate, but in their willingness to engage openly on issues old media once casually dismissed—often on platforms leaders ignore. This episode explores what that means for politics, workplaces, and anyone in power. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.firstdraft.vc⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Aaron Calafato ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Leah Ova ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Leah on TikTok ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Editorial: Brooks Borden Matt Sunbulli Ken Wendt Senior Audio Engineer: Ken Wendt Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli Aaron Calafato

Jul 25

This episode kicks off a brand-new TLO Headlines format— weekly breakdowns of work and culture stories worth knowing. This episode, hosts Aaron and Matt cover everything from the $1,000 baby bonus in Trump’s new spending bill, to Stephen Colbert’s late-night exit, to why your free office snacks might be disappearing for good.

Jul 23

AI isn’t a shortcut to the corner office. It’s a tool that most are using wrong. We’re joined by Jeremy Schifeling , former LinkedIn insider and author of Career Coach GPT . He breaks down how to actually use AI to guide your career, from standing out to recruiters to writing resumes that don’t sound like a robot. Special Guest: Jeremy Schifeling Hosts: Matt Sunbulli ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.firstdraft.vc⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Aaron Calafato ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Leah Ova ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Leah on TikTok ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Senior Audio Engineer: Ken Wendt Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli Aaron Calafato

Jul 16

Your job used to require judgment, creativity—even coffee breaks. Now? You validate AI output, reject errors, and move digital widgets from column A to B. Welcome to the new white-collar factory floor. This week, we’re joined by Emma Burleigh (Success Reporter at Fortune ) to unpack what the Secretary of Commerce, Howard Lutnick, meant when he said the future lies in high-paying factory work—and to ask whether AI is quietly turning knowledge workers into glorified quality control clerks. Is this really the career arc we signed up for? Special Guest: Emma Burleigh (Success Reporter at Fortune ) Article Referenced: U.S. Secretary of Commerce says the ‘new model’ is factory jobs for life—for you, your kids, and your grandkids Hosts: Matt Sunbulli ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.firstdraft.vc⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Aaron Calafato ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Leah Ova ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Leah on TikTok ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Senior Audio Engineer: Ken Wendt Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli Aaron Calafato

Jul 12

Maria only shows up to work once a quarter—but when she does, it’s a full-blown performance. In this TLO Heard at Work story, we explore how one PowerPoint presentation turned a barely-there employee into an office legend.

Jul 9

Is retirement itself becoming obsolete for Millennials and Gen Z? And if the ritual dies, does the meaning of our work go with it? Jerry spent 40 years in accounting, dreaming of a gold watch and tearful goodbyes. Instead, his retirement was six people on Zoom—three cameras off and someone accidentally sharing a spreadsheet mid-goodbye. As workplace tenure shortens and careers become a blur of gig-hopping, are retirement parties just a relic of the past? Hosts: Matt Sunbulli ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.firstdraft.vc⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Aaron Calafato ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Leah Ova ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Leah on TikTok ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Senior Audio Engineer: Ken Wendt Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli Aaron Calafato

Jul 5

Soham Parekh made headlines for juggling four full-time startup jobs at once — without telling anyone. Fraud? Maybe. Genius? Possibly. Turns out, his work was solid, his employers were Y Combinator darlings, and the internet couldn’t decide whether to hate or love him. In this episode, we unpack Soham’s viral saga, question whether “overemployment” is really that bad, and revisit another jaw-dropping story about a paralegal’s double life, exposed during one unforgettable Zoom call.

Jul 2

Trevor used to work from a beanbag chair in Bali with a meditation stipend and Radical Candor Wednesdays. Now his keystrokes are monitored, and he's doing three jobs after layoffs. This week, Zaheer from Levels. fyi joins us to discuss the death of the tech dream. From 50,000+ layoffs in 2025 to AI anxiety replacing innovation perks, we explore how tech jobs became just like any other job - and why some engineers are whispering about unions. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.firstdraft.vc⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Aaron Calafato ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Leah Ova ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Leah on TikTok ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Senior Audio Engineer: Ken Wendt Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli Aaron Calafato

Jun 28

A workaholic dad catches his daughter scrolling at midnight—then realizes he’s the real problem. A short story about screen time, guilt, and modern parenting. Written by: ⁠Matt Sunbulli ⁠ ⁠Aaron Calafato ⁠ Narrated by: Aaron Calafato Hosts: ⁠Leah Ova⁠ Matt Sunbulli Aaron Calafato Sound Design: ⁠Isaac Gehring ⁠ Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt

Jun 25

This week, we sit down with the Podcast Princess herself, Hala Taha, to discuss why, in today’s “do more with less” AI economy, your personal brand is your best insurance policy. Hala shares her own journey—from dropping out of college, working for free at Hot 97 for three years of no paycheck, no benefits, even babysitting the host’s kid) to now running YAP Media, a podcasting juggernaut. Special Guest: Hala Taha Hosts: Matt Sunbulli ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.firstdraft.vc⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Aaron Calafato ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Leah Ova ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Leah on TikTok ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Senior Audio Engineer: Ken Wendt Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli Aaron Calafato

Jun 18

James Leonidas Klusaritz spent four months as a management consultant doing absolutely nothing before quitting to become a TikTok star. This week he joins us to discuss his viral "Paycheck Phantom" series - exploring how employees get lost in corporate bureaucracy and survive by mastering the art of invisibility. From nap rooms hidden behind filing cabinets to conference room whiteboard theater, we investigate the corporate cockroaches among us and why companies can't seem to catch them. Special Guest: James Klusaritz: On TikTok , On IG Hosts: Matt Sunbulli ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.firstdraft.vc⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Aaron Calafato ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Leah Ova ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Leah on TikTok ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Senior Audio Engineer: Ken Wendt Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli Aaron Calafato

Jun 11

Aaron lied in his job interview when asked if he was happily married - weeks later, he was navigating a new job, fatherhood, and divorce simultaneously. This week, we explore why divorce is the only major life event companies don't support, featuring divorce expert Christina Hawke. From co-founders whose splits nearly tank startups to choreographers with 43% divorce rates, we investigate when work destroys marriages and why no one talks about it. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.firstdraft.vc⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Aaron Calafato ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Leah Ova ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Leah on TikTok ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Senior Audio Engineer: Ken Wendt Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli Aaron Calafato

Jun 7

Introducing a new short story series in your TLO feed. TLO: Heard at Work delivers short, punchy stories with immersive soundscapes that drop you into the messy moments where work and life collide. When a struggling employee at a major credit card company faces a brutal performance review, he makes an unexpected move—gifting PTO days to his boss. Was it a bold act of workplace generosity or clever corporate bribery? In this short story from TLO: Heard at Work , we explore the fine line between redemption and manipulation in today’s office culture. Written by: Matt Sunbulli Aaron Calafato Narrated by: Aaron Calafato Hosts: Leah Ova Matt Sunbulli Aaron Calafato Sound Design: Isaac Gehring Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt

Jun 4

This week, we explore the tensions around aging in the workplace: from Warren Buffett finally stepping down at 94 to younger employees frustrated by older workers who can't afford retirement. When Gary fake-retires as a prank, colleagues suddenly realize he's been playing the long game. But at what point does experience turn from wisdom into a roadblock? Hosts: Matt Sunbulli ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.firstdraft.vc⁠⁠⁠⁠ Aaron Calafato ⁠⁠⁠⁠Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠ Leah Ova ⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Leah on TikTok ⁠⁠⁠⁠ Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Senior Audio Engineer: Ken Wendt Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli Aaron Calafato

May 28

This week, we investigate the rise of employee monitoring software through Manny's story - a Big Four accountant whose daily productivity walks were derailed by tracking tools meant to "prevent burnout." From mouse jigglers to heart rate monitors, we explore how surveillance software doubled during the pandemic and why companies are spending resources to monitor if employees are wasting resources. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠https://www.firstdraft.vc⁠⁠⁠ Aaron Calafato ⁠⁠⁠Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Podcast ⁠⁠⁠ Leah Ova ⁠⁠⁠Follow Leah on TikTok ⁠⁠⁠ Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Senior Audio Engineer: Ken Wendt Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli Aaron Calafato

May 21

This week, organizational psychologist and Glassdoor’s Chief Worklife Expert, Adam Grant , joins us to discuss why constant change is exhausting today's workforce. Grant offers practical resilience strategies, including mental time travel techniques and rejecting the "three Ps" of personalization, pervasiveness, and permanence. From millennials facing their "fourth once-in-a-lifetime recession" to the surprising research showing career benefits of tough economic starts, we explore how both managers and employees can navigate workplace uncertainty without burning out. Make sure and join Adam Grant for his upcoming "HotSeat" event on May 27th. Only on the Glassdoor App ! Special Guest: Adam Grant Hosts: Matt Sunbulli ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠https://www.firstdraft.vc⁠⁠⁠ Aaron Calafato ⁠⁠⁠Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Podcast ⁠⁠⁠ Follow Aaron's Viral Storytelling on YouTube Leah Ova ⁠⁠⁠Follow Leah on TikTok ⁠⁠⁠ Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Senior Audio Engineer: Ken Wendt Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli Aaron Calafato

May 14

This week we count down the 10 workplace personalities ready for AI replacement first. From the Faux CTO who draws cloud diagrams but never writes code to the Google Drive Gatekeeper who hasn't shown their face in two years, which corporate characters most deserve automation? And which one might you secretly be yourself? With AI project managers already in development, the office archetypes on our hit list should be watching their backs. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.firstdraft.vc⁠⁠ Aaron Calafato ⁠⁠Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Podcast ⁠⁠ Leah Ova ⁠⁠Follow Leah on TikTok ⁠⁠ Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Senior Audio Engineer: Ken Wendt Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli Aaron Calafato

May 7

With nearly 18 million Americans now identifying as digital nomads, is working from exotic locations truly the dream job? This week we investigate what happens when Addie meets a potential romance in Iceland, only to find herself uploading massive files from a freezing rental car to meet a deadline. From loneliness topping the list of nomad complaints to 14% of employees going global without telling their bosses, we explore whether the freedom to work from 60+ countries with special visas is worth the isolation, tax complications, and unpredictable wifi. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/⁠ ⁠https://www.firstdraft.vc⁠ Aaron Calafato ⁠Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Podcast ⁠ Leah Ova ⁠Follow Leah on TikTok ⁠ Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Senior Audio Engineer: Ken Wendt Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli Aaron Calafato

Apr 30

Maria shows up to work four times a year, just for the quarterly presentation, then vanishes. Yet leadership loves her. This week, we investigate why charismatic communicators advance faster than dedicated workers - and what that means in an AI-driven workplace. From walking briskly with papers to scheduling empty whiteboard sessions, we explore the corporate caricatures who excel at performing more than doing, and why that might matter more than ever. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/⁠ ⁠https://www.firstdraft.vc⁠ Aaron Calafato Follow Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Podcast ⁠ Leah Ova ⁠Follow Leah on TikTok ⁠ Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Senior Audio Engineer: Ken Wendt Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli Aaron Calafato

Apr 23

With 42% of kids owning smartphones by age 10, is it time to confront our digital hypocrisy as parents? Adam cut bedtime reading short to answer work messages—only to catch his daughter secretly scrolling Instagram. When we're expected to be always online yet limit our kids' screen time, who's setting the example—and who are we really protecting? Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Podcast Leah Ova Follow Leah on TikTok Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Senior Audio Engineer: Ken Wendt Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli Aaron Calafato

Apr 16

We kick things off with Glassdoor’s Chris Martin, who shares insights from a recent internship analysis. Then, we shift to a story that feels more relevant than ever: is the classic “mailroom to boardroom” path still alive? Zach thinks so—until he tries to follow in the footsteps of Nike’s new CEO, who rose from intern to corner office over 32 years. But there’s a catch: the unpaid internship Zach’s eyeing already requires two years of experience. From 12:03 AM rejection emails to career portals that treat human referrals like spam, we’re asking if today’s hiring systems are just brick walls painted to look like doorways. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Podcast Leah Ova Follow Leah on TikTok Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Senior Audio Engineer: Ken Wendt Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli Aaron Calafato

Apr 9

This week we investigate the growing trend of PTO marketplaces, where 10% of companies now allow employees to buy, sell, and even gift vacation days. From Ben bribing his boss with three PTO days before a performance review to employees purchasing extra time to care for aging parents, we explore whether these programs offer genuine flexibility or just another way for companies to offload responsibility. Are these exchanges the next evolution beyond unlimited PTO, or simply a clever accounting trick to remove vacation liabilities from the balance sheet? Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Leah Ova Follow Leah on TikTok Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Conor Bezane Aaron Calafato Senior Audio Engineer: Ken Wendt Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli Aaron Calafato

Apr 2

This week we investigate the $3 billion career coaching industry that's exploded to 70,000 coaches worldwide. From 23-year-olds giving life advice to vague promises about "audacious visions," we examine what happens when professionals like Jamie spend $6,000 on advice like "eat a healthy breakfast" only to lose their job anyway. With advertising veteran Cindy Gallop, we explore whether the problem is really you needing "fixing" or just your work environment, and why sometimes the best career guidance doesn't come from the person charging by the hour. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Leah Ova Follow Leah on TikTok Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Conor Bezane Aaron Calafato Senior Audio Engineer: Ken Wendt Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli Aaron Calafato

Mar 26

When promotions go to office politicians instead of high performers, more workers are choosing to do exactly what they're paid for - and nothing more. With 52% of young professionals now doing exactly what they're paid for and nothing more, we explore whether "acting your wage" is sustainable in today's challenging job market. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Leah Ova Follow Leah on TikTok Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Conor Bezane Aaron Calafato Senior Audio Engineer: Ken Wendt Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli Aaron Calafato

Mar 19

This week we explore corporate messaging tactics that walk the line between strategic communication and outright manipulation. When a seemingly doomed company announces they're "facing unexpected challenges" but miraculously recovers days later, should employees feel relieved or manipulated? From mysteriously "secured" contracts to stress balls instead of bonuses, companies are experts at controlling their narrative. We explore the blurry line between necessary narrative control and outright deception. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Leah Ova Follow Leah on TikTok Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Conor Bezane Aaron Calafato Senior Audio Engineer: Ken Wendt Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli Aaron Calafato

Mar 12

With searches for "AI girlfriend" up 2400% and one in five men on dating apps trying AI companions, are we witnessing the next evolution of human connection, or just a temporary stop on the journey to finding real love? When Vince loses his job after turning Slack into his personal dating playground, he finds an unexpected solution: an AI chatbot named Dolly. From workplace romances gone wrong to the surprising statistics behind AI dating, we explore the blurring boundaries between professional messaging and personal relationships. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Leah Ova Follow Leah on TikTok Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Conor Bezane Aaron Calafato Senior Audio Engineer: Ken Wendt Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli Aaron Calafato

Mar 5

From CEOs embracing "masculine energy" to workers claiming they can't "be themselves" anymore, something's triggering a masculinity crisis at work. This week, we explore what happens when men feel their identity is challenged in the modern workplace. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Leah Ova Follow Leah on TikTok Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Conor Bezane Aaron Calafato Senior Audio Engineer: Ken Wendt Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli Aaron Calafato

Feb 26

A weekend email from DOGE—titled What Did You Do Last Week? —hit millions of federal employees’ inboxes, sparking confusion, panic, and speculation about a mass downsizing effort. Was it a routine check-in on government efficiency or a strategic move to force resignations and trim the workforce? In this episode, we break down the chaos, agency responses, and what this moment reveals about the evolving nature of job security. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories

Feb 26

When Mark chooses to "sever" his work self from his home self in Apple TV's hit show Severance , it reveals a workplace fantasy many secretly share: what if you could leave your work baggage at the office and your personal troubles at home? From compartmentalized personas to corporate cult culture, we explore how this sci-fi drama eerily mirrors today's workplace reality. Are we all performing different versions of ourselves throughout the day? And in a world where work-life boundaries continue to blur, would the ultimate separation actually be a relief? Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Leah Ova Follow Leah on TikTok Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Conor Bezane Aaron Calafato Senior Audio Engineer: Ken Wendt Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli Aaron Calafato

Feb 19

When USAID issued sudden stop work orders, thousands of NGO workers were caught in the crossfire. This week, as DOGE sets its audit sights on more federal agencies, we talk to a furloughed employee about the impact of frozen federal funding. Are American taxpayers’ calls for greater accountability being answered? Is this truly about fiscal responsibility, or are we putting America’s strategic “soft power” at risk? Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Before you start a podcast, talk to Aaron! Leah Ova Follow Leah on TikTok Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Conor Bezane Aaron Calafato Senior Audio Engineer: Ken Wendt Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli Aaron Calafato

Feb 12

Welcome to the "in-between hours”—that precious window from school drop-off to pickup where working parents attempt to pack a full day's productivity into six fleeting hours. When Matt tries to squeeze his workday between 9 and 3, he discovers the new reality of the remote working parent. From impromptu kid cameos on Zoom calls to the pressure of the afternoon countdown, we explore how parents navigate these compressed hours. Is there a way to succeed in this new normal, or are we all just surviving organized chaos? Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Before you start a podcast, talk to Aaron! Leah Ova Follow Leah on TikTok Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Conor Bezane Aaron Calafato Senior Audio Engineer: Ken Wendt Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli Aaron Calafato

Feb 5

When Brooks started outperforming everyone on his team, he thought his career was about to take off. Instead, his manager Jordan felt threatened, blocked his promotion, and even asked him to train his own replacement. Sound familiar? From blocking promotions to playing favorites, we explore why being too good at your job can backfire. How do you handle a boss who sees your talent as a threat? And is there a way to shine without becoming a target? Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Before you start a podcast, talk to Aaron! Leah Ova Follow Leah on TikTok Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Conor Bezane Aaron Calafato Senior Audio Engineer: Ken Wendt Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli Aaron Calafato

Feb 1

This week, millions of federal workers received an email that upended their job security overnight. With a deadline looming, they must decide: accept a new reality of stricter performance mandates, a full return to office, and reclassification to at-will status—or opt for an eight-month resignation package. What does this seismic shift mean for public sector employees, their families, and even the private sector? In this episode Matt and Aaron explore the ripple effects of this high-stakes moment in American work culture.

Jan 29

Nike's new CEO started as an intern in 1988 and worked his way to the top over 32 years. When Zach saw this "mailroom-to-boardroom" success story on LinkedIn, he thought he'd found his path forward—until he discovered even unpaid internships now require years of experience. From automated rejections to impossible requirements, we explore whether these classic career success stories are possible anymore. Has the traditional path to the top disappeared, or does it just look different in 2024? Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Before you start a podcast, talk to Aaron! Leah Ova Follow Leah on TikTok Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Jan 22

When the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) announced its mission to tackle $200 billion in federal waste, it got us thinking: what if companies had their own version of DOGE? From 17-meeting days to empty offices collecting dust, we imagine what a corporate DOGE would tackle first. Could this government initiative inspire a revolution in how companies handle their own bureaucratic bloat? Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Before you start a podcast, talk to Aaron! Leah Ova Follow Leah on TikTok Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Jan 15

When high-achieving Meghana discovered her stellar work at Instagram wasn't enough to impress leadership, she learned a crucial lesson: success isn't just about what you do—it's about how you tell your story. Together with psychologist and author Allison Fragale, we explore the delicate balance between being likeable and assertive at work. Are you undermining your own success by staying quiet about your achievements? And what's the secret to promoting yourself without coming across as arrogant? Connect with Alison Fragale Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Before you start a podcast, talk to Aaron! Leah Ova Follow Leah on TikTok Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Jan 8

When one job seeker's 145-application odyssey became Glassdoor's most viral post of 2024, it captured the year's challenging job market perfectly. From eight-month job searches to office toe-nail clippers, we're diving into the stories that defined workplace life this past year. Join us for a candid look at 2024's biggest trends, most heated debates, and what they tell us about the future of work in 2025. Plus, our Gen Z researcher finally reveals himself to weigh in on the generational divide that's reshaping offices everywhere. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Before you start a podcast, talk to Aaron! Leah Ova Follow Leah on TikTok Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Jan 1

As Congress pushes to ban TikTok, a generational battle is brewing. For Harold, a disillusioned young professional who found solace in endless scrolling, the proposed ban wasn't just about losing an app—it was the last straw in a series of broken promises. From surveillance concerns to freedom of speech, we explore why 150 million Americans are fighting to keep their favorite platform. Is this about protecting privacy, or are we missing the bigger picture about how younger generations consume information? Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Before you start a podcast, talk to Aaron! Leah Ova Follow Leah on TikTok Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Dec 23, 2024

Office holiday parties walk a delicate line between celebration and career sabotage. When Morgan abandoned her one-drink rule and mixed up the CEO's birthday with the VP's, she learned that some party memories follow you back to your desk on Monday. From inappropriate revelations to ill-timed layoff announcements, we explore the dos and don'ts of navigating the annual workplace ritual. With 12% of employees admitting to romantic encounters and the average attendee consuming 4.1 drinks, are these celebrations worth the risk?

Dec 18, 2024

In an era where everyone seems to be monetizing their passion, the line between day job and side hustle grows increasingly blurry. When Chelsea's vintage artifact business collided with her corporate role, she learned the hard way that not all companies embrace the hustle economy. From MMA fighters turned TikTok food critics to corporate employees building startups in secret, we explore how to balance your dreams with your day job. Is the remote work revolution making it easier to pursue your passion, or just easier to get caught? Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Before you start a podcast, talk to Aaron! Leah Ova Follow Leah on TikTok Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Dec 11, 2024

How much do failing companies and countries have in common? In this episode of The Lonely Office, we follow Lianna, a young attorney watching her dream of partnership fade away as her firm’s leadership hoards profits and power. Inspired by the Nobel Prize-winning book Why Nations Fail, we explore how the "extractive policies" that doom nations—concentrating wealth and power in the hands of a few—also plague companies. From Blockbuster's $50M Netflix blunder to today's imploding startups, we examine how resistance to change, decision-making concentrated in the hands of the CEO and close executives, and a lack of organizational justice—such as undeserved promotions—can collectively pave the way for spectacular collapses. Are modern companies built to last, or are they simply extracting value on their way to inevitable failure? Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Before you start a podcast, talk to Aaron! Leah Ova Follow Leah on TikTok Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Dec 4, 2024

Your past doesn’t always stay in the past—especially online. In this episode of The Lonely Office, we dive into the surprising ways our digital footprints, from Roblox handles to controversial posts, can resurface in professional settings. Are employers justified in scrutinizing these digital traces during interviews, or has the line between personal history and professional qualifications blurred beyond reason? Tune in as we explore stories of online embarrassments haunting job seekers, the ethics of digital privacy, and what it all means for your next promotion. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Before you start a podcast, talk to Aaron! Leah Ova Follow Leah on TikTok Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Nov 27, 2024

Remember when delegation meant sharing the workload, not abandoning ship? When Zoe, the intern, found a critical company audit on her desk, with no boss in sight and only "Ask ChatGPT" as guidance, she knew something was wrong. From absentee managers to entry-level employees running entire departments, we explore why modern delegation has gone off the rails. Is your boss actually leading or just delegating their job away? Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Before you start a podcast, talk to Aaron! Leah Ova Follow Leah on TikTok Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Nov 20, 2024

Remember when getting a promotion was a good thing? This week, Ellie was offered a better title and salary, she did the unthinkable—she turned it down. And she’s not the only one. 30% of today’s workers quit within a month of promotion. From endless Zoom calls to "forced fun" events, we explore why more professionals are saying "No, thanks!" to moving up. Is the traditional career ladder broken, or are we finally asking for what we're worth? Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Before you start a podcast, talk to Aaron! Leah Ova Follow Leah on TikTok Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Nov 13, 2024

This week, we start with the story of a Citigroup analyst, who unexpectedly found himself internet-famous, blending work and social media in ways he hadn’t foreseen. Join us as we dive into the world of low-key influencers—employees hiding behind cubicles by day and thriving online by night. How does this new professional reality affect our workplaces? And what happens when your side hustle becomes the main event? Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Leah Ova Follow Leah on TikTok Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Nov 6, 2024

We all remember our first adulting moment. For some, it was their first paycheck; for others, it was moving to the big city. For Amani, it was getting kicked off the family phone plan. When does adulthood start? Do you have to stop chasing your dreams to pay the bills? This week, we discussed moving out, paying rent, and everything #Adulting. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Leah Ova Follow Leah on TikTok Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Nov 1, 2024

On this episode of The Lonely Office, we dive into the latest economic insights with Glassdoor’s lead economist, Daniel Zhao, as he unpacks the complexities behind two major job market reports—the JOLTS report and the Employment Situation report. With factors like hurricane impacts and the Boeing strike shaping this month's data, we break down what these reports reveal about job openings, hiring rates, and why so many employees feel “stuck” in their roles. Join us for a candid look at the evolving job market and the pressing questions around work-life balance, job security, and career satisfaction. Special Guest: Daniel Zhao https://www.linkedin.com/in/dbzhao/ Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories

Oct 30, 2024

As the sparkling promise of a college education turned into the shadow of crushing student debt, many are signing up to be mechanics, technicians, and electricians—and desk workers are yearning to make the switch. Are the tides finally turning on the trades? Or is it a case of romanticizing the other, and wanting what you can’t have? This week, we talk the pros and cons of blue collar jobs, living to work vs. working to live, and the quest for meaning within it all. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Leah Ova Follow Leah on TikTok Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Oct 23, 2024

In the sports world, contracts go far beyond the numbers. From deferred payments to ‘love of the game’ clauses, there’s a lot we can learn from athletes like Shohei Ohtani and Michael Jordan. Can you negotiate like the pros? And how much leverage do you really have? We’ve got answers, advice, and tips to help you get paid. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Leah Ova Follow Leah on TikTok Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Oct 18, 2024

In this episode of The Lonely Office , we dive into the world of startups and the hard truths behind venture capital. Peter Walker, Head of Insights at Carta, joins us to break down the numbers, offering key advice on when to take that leap into entrepreneurship—or when to hold back. Special Guest: Pete Walker Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories

Oct 16, 2024

In the age of algorithms, getting noticed by employers can feel like trying to go viral. When did applying for jobs morph into a social media contest? Sometimes, the best way to outsmart the system is to circumvent it altogether. In this episode, we share stories and research on some age-old tactics that can help land you a job. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Leah Ova Follow Leah on TikTok Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Oct 9, 2024

401ks were meant to be our generation’s retirement plan, but now they’re becoming many workers’ only means of survival. With Social Security drying up and a chaotic job market, our financial future hangs in the balance. Are we really spending too much money on coffee? Or are we innocent victims of a broken system? Today, we’re talking retirement, 401ks, and all about the moolah. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato Listen to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Leah Ova Follow Leah on TikTok Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Oct 2, 2024

Amazon’s company-wide return-to-office mandate sent shockwaves through the tech world. And 72% of employees said they were ‘reconsidering their future’ with the company. Is Amazon’s decision a mass layoff in disguise? Will more companies follow suit? Stanford economist Nick Bloom joins us to find the truth behind the headlines. Special Guest: Nick Bloom Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato Subscribe to Aaron's 7 Minute Stories Podcast

Sep 27, 2024

In this episode of The Lonely Office , we bring chief correspondent Aki Ito on to discuss the heated debate over LinkedIn's "open to work" banner. The "Open to Work" badge makes some job seekers feel embarrassed. But can it actually land you a job? Special Guest: Aki Ito, Chief Correspondent at Business Insider https://www.linkedin.com/in/itoaki Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/

Sep 25, 2024

Nowadays, resumes must beat applicant tracking systems and "wow" hiring managers. From TikTok handles to colorful redesigns to mindfulness sections, Gen Z is trying everything to get a return phone call. What are resumes even good for anymore? And should you tailor yours to the machines or humans? We chat with comedian Azhar Usman about the new generation of resume builders. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Special Guest: Azhar Usman https://azhar.com/ Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Sep 23, 2024

In this episode of The Lonely Office , we dive into the disconnect between economic data and the job seeker’s reality, exploring why many still feel gaslit despite reports of a "booming economy." Joined by economist Guy Berger, we break down the real challenges of the job market, highlighting the frustration of job seekers navigating slow hiring and overstated job openings in today’s labor landscape. Special Guest: Dr. Guy Berger, Director of Economic Research @ Burning Glass Institute https://www.linkedin.com/in/guyberger Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/

Sep 20, 2024

With more CEOs going on record about their return to office mandates, it has us wondering: was the golden promise of working from home too good to be true? On this episode, we discuss the hidden market players who want you back in office and how companies like JM Smuckers are rolling out their hybrid work policy. (Re-air) Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ https://www.aaroncalafato.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova

Sep 18, 2024

Workers are taking less and less PTO, yet working more and more when they do. This week, Malcolm’s ‘staycation’ turns into an anxiety-filled week of self-reflection that leads to him reconsidering his career. Why aren’t we using our full PTO allowance? Are we at fault, or is it the company? And is our mental health deteriorating as a result? Comedian Chanel Ali joins us to talk about vacation. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ https://www.aaroncalafato.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Special Guest: Chanel Ali https://www.chanelali.com/ Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Sep 16, 2024

Could it be that choosing degrees in the humanities is actually a smart, tactical move for the future? As tech job markets tighten, we explore how skills rooted in creativity and human insight are becoming more valuable—and share key strategies for standing out in this evolving landscape. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ https://www.aaroncalafato.com/

Sep 11, 2024

Job hopping can be great for your wallet, but is it detrimental to your career? This week, Ferris’ job hopping led to pay bumps and new positions until layoffs stopped him in his tracks. Is it the key to making more money? Or does job loyalty pay off in the long run? Comedian Azhar Usman joins us to talk about the new social contract between workers and companies. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ https://www.aaroncalafato.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Special Guest: Azhar Usman https://azhar.com/ Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Sep 9, 2024

In this reaction pod of TLO, we dive back into the controversial world of workplace surveillance with special guest Cody Rogers, Chief Product Officer at Hubstaff. Are these tools about transparency and efficiency, or are they enabling a culture of micromanagement? Join us as we explore the fine line between monitoring and trust. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ https://www.aaroncalafato.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Guest: Cody Rogers, Chief Product Officer at Hubstaff

Sep 6, 2024

On today's TLO Reaction Pod , Matt & Aaron dive into the stark realities of job hunting in an unpredictable economy—where even the most prepared knowledge workers might be forced to dip into their 401(k)s just to stay afloat. With layoffs climbing and job openings dwindling, the remote worker could be facing the same fate as the Rust Belt worker of the past. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ https://www.aaroncalafato.com/

Sep 4, 2024

Starting your own business is something many dream about, but few actually do. This week, ‘Emma’ is torn between taking a job promotion or pursuing her passion. Is there ever a right time to make the leap? Do you really have to say ‘goodbye’ to your social life? We take you through the hard truths of forming that first LLC. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ https://www.aaroncalafato.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Opening Story Performed by: Aaron Calafato Adapted by: Matt Sunbulli & Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Aug 30, 2024

The latest government job report issued a massive revision on the number of jobs that were actually in the market, throwing a wrench into the narrative of the "booming market" earlier this year.. We break down how these inflated job numbers, especially in the professional services sector— tech, finance, consulting—misled workers and painted a false picture of opportunity. Joining us this week is Bob Coursey, an employment lawyer, who sheds light on the rise of fake job postings and what it could mean for legal and government crackdowns on this growing issue. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ https://www.aaroncalafato.com/ Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobcoursey/ Audio Production: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz

Aug 28, 2024

AI is eating our skills and taking away our remote jobs. From the operating room to the cubicle, it appears that our trusty sidekicks may be planning a takeover. How is this different from the software revolution? And which jobs are most at risk? Matt Beane, author of The Skill Code, joins us this week to take on the machines. Special Guest: Matt Beane Learn more about Matt's book: The Skill Code: How to Save Human Ability in an Age of Intelligent Machines https://www.mattbeane.com/ https://www.ted.com/talks/matt_beane_how_do_we_learn_to_work_with_intelligent_machines Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ https://www.aaroncalafato.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Opening Story Performed by: Aaron Calafato Adapted by: Matt Sunbulli & Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Aug 21, 2024

Career or kids? That’s the question facing many young adults like Kennedy who are in the middle of job transitions. Can you be a great parent and have a successful career? And what's behind the rise of 'childless cat owners'? We get real with comedian and parent Azhar Usman. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ https://www.aaroncalafato.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Special Guest: Azhar Usman https://azhar.com/ Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Opening Story Performed by: Aaron Calafato Adapted by: Matt Sunbulli & Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Aug 14, 2024

Unfortunately for job seekers, fake job posts have flooded career sites. This week, a fake job post aimed at replacing ‘Serenity’ led her to work double and hire her little sister. Why do companies do it? And how do you spot one? Corporate recruiter Karen Young joins us to dish the truth on fake job posts. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ https://www.aaroncalafato.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Special Guest: Karen Young https://www.linkedin.com/in/kareneyoung/ Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Opening Story Performed by: Aaron Calafato Adapted by: Matt Sunbulli & Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Aug 7, 2024

The shift to remote work has led companies to invest in surveillance software in attempt to increase worker productivity. Is it a breach of privacy? Why do companies resort to it? And should you buy a mouse jiggler from TikTok? This week, we cover it all with comedian Chanel Ali. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ https://www.aaroncalafato.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Special Guest: Chanel Ali https://www.chanelali.com/ Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Jul 31, 2024

Do you ever put your morals on pause for a job? How have workers’ considerations of 'evil' companies evolved with the rise of frameworks like ESG? From the excesses of Wall Street companies in the 90s to Tech companies pillaging our privacy for gold in the 2000s—in this episode, we're debating the age-old battle of morals vs. money. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ https://www.aaroncalafato.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Jul 26, 2024

TLO cohosts dive into the largest UBI study ever conducted, backed by OpenAI's Sam Altman, exploring its potential as a disaster relief fund for those displaced by AI. The hosts also tackle the evolving workplace dynamics, discussing the rise of 'hushed hybrids,' where employees navigate the balance between office mandates and remote work. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ https://www.aaroncalafato.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Jul 24, 2024

You did it. You landed your dream job. When all of a sudden, the boss who hired you does a complete 180. This week, ‘Kenya’s’ attentive, supportive boss from her interview has turned into a toxic, micromanaging nightmare. What do you do when reality is much, much worse than the expectation? And how do you sniff out a ‘bad boss’ in the interview process? Comedian Chanel Ali joins us to talk about surviving bad bosses. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ https://www.aaroncalafato.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Special Guest: Chanel Ali https://www.chanelali.com/ Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Jul 23, 2024

In the wake of last week's shocking assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump and the ensuing chaos, the nation is grappling with unprecedented uncertainty. How do employees and employers cope with such turmoil? Join the TLO crew as we explore the impact on the workplace and discuss strategies for finding stability and productivity in these challenging times. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ https://www.aaroncalafato.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova

Jul 17, 2024

Sometimes you’ve got a game-changing idea, but your boss says no. This week, ‘Dylan’ ignored direction from his boss and now has the CEO’s attention. Should you always listen to your boss? Is it worth going over their head? We’ve got advice for everyone whose boss is holding them back. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ https://www.aaroncalafato.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Jul 10, 2024

Scrolling through preachy lectures on LinkedIn can leave us all squirming in our seats. This week, a wholesome moment between ‘David’ and his family quickly turns into a cringey, performative post. What’s spurring this invasion of cringe on professional networking sites? And who is liking these posts? We dive into the answers on this week’s episode. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Jul 3, 2024

At-will employment makes posting about your political beliefs a risky game. This week, ‘Brandon’s’ controversial social media posts led to an HR meeting and ended up getting him fired. Is it legal? Are your posts covered under the First Amendment? Labor and employment lawyer Chris Collins joins us to talk about free speech and employee protections. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Guest: Christopher Collins, Partner, Labor and Employment Law at Sheppard Mullin https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-collins-1b099013/ Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Jun 26, 2024

Politics has infiltrated the workplace, from performative CEOs to anonymous town hall comment sections. This week, 'Tabitha' is divorcing her work husband after a controversial political post on LinkedIn. Tune in for a talk about politics. Does it belong in the workplace? Should it impact your career choices? And more. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Jun 19, 2024

Do you compare your income to others? At what point does seeing where you stand turn into an anxiety-filled obsession? This week, ‘John’ is feeling major income anxiety and wondering if all his hard work was worth it. Join us for a chat about salary transparency, what it is, why it’s important, and how it can quickly turn ugly. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Jun 12, 2024

From endless rounds to take-home projects, interview horror stories are everywhere. This week ‘Jordan’s’ hard work on an interview project didn’t net her the job, but it did show up on the company’s website months later. Should you say no to take-home interview projects? Should you get paid if you say yes? Join us for advice on how to protect yourself and increase transparency during the interview process. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Jun 5, 2024

Getting fired can leave you shell-shocked, speechless, and in no place to negotiate. Like' Dylan,' he just got fired over Zoom, and now his severance package consists of a career services subscription to help him "improve his resume." 'Dylan's' IRL layoff story got us thinking: are you ready for what's next? This week, we're talking about how to get fired, negotiate a fair severance package, and more. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

May 30, 2024

Is job loyalty an asset or a liability? Is passion for your work overhyped? This week, inspired by the story of 'Alexandra'—a recent graduate who took a comedian's unconventional advice to heart—we explore the rocky path from graduation to the workforce. Joining us to unpack 'Alexandra's' experience is Matt Higgins, Shark Tank co-host and co-founder and CEO of RSE Ventures. Together, we discuss the importance of resilience, the role of luck, and the strategic moves young professionals can make to navigate their careers more effectively. Special Guest: Matt Higgins https://rseventures.com/team-members/matt-higgins/ Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

May 22, 2024

Don’t trust the headlines: whether you’re a new graduate or a seasoned professional, the job market feels anything but robust. And like recently-laid-off “Roland,” you find yourself receiving thoughts and prayers in lieu of offers on LinkedIn. Glassdoor's expert on the current two-track labor market, Chief Economist Aaron Terrazas, joins the show to talk about the recession hitting white-collar workers—and how to make the most of it. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

May 15, 2024

From the vault of The Lonely Office is one of our greatest hits—a horror story for the remote work era: going through endless rounds of interviews, wondering whether you’ve wasted your time. On this episode, we dive into a real 11-round-interview incident endured by one candidate named “Mike”. We’ll debate the risks and merits of a lengthy interview process, getting caught in the crosshairs of a company’s misaligned objectives, and whether it’s all a sign to get out of the corporate matrix. We’re also joined by special guest Azhar Usman, comedian and writer on the Hulu show, Ramy. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Special Guest Azhar Usman https://azhar.com/ Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

May 7, 2024

We’ve all worked with great communicators. On the one hand, they razzle and dazzle during presentations, woo the C-suite, rally the troops. On the other, they can overinflate their own achievements, and take credit where no credit was due. This week, inspired by the story of “Maria,” a flaky strategist who’s earned a reputation as a great actress at her company, we discuss the role of communication in the workplace, who it benefits, and how it might just be the key to future jobs in the age of AI. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

May 1, 2024

As the unemployment rate for recent graduates climbs higher than the national average, qualified white-collar workers are turning to unlikely sources for their next job. This week, we discuss a sticky situation involving “Mark,” an Ivy League marketer, and his stint at a Canadian adult entertainment company. What are the moral implications of taking a job in a taboo industry, and how does it impact one’s career? And what exactly is responsible for the dearth of jobs? Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Apr 24, 2024

Have you ever been ghosted by an interviewer, only to be officially rejected a year later? That’s the story of Karen Young the recruiter. Hers is the inspiration for our episode this week, and in an unprecedented first, she’s also our special guest on the show. We discuss ghosting as an industry-wide plague, how to bring your humanity to these interactions, and the wider cultural phenomena at play. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Special Guests: Karen Young https://www.linkedin.com/in/kareneyoung/ Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Apr 17, 2024

“Harold” is a disillusioned quiet quitter who finds himself impassioned to act after the House passed a bipartisan bill to ban TikTok. Harold represents some of the younger 175 million Americans fighting to keep the app around, whether as a source of information, entertainment or livelihood. On the other side of the generational divide, there are those who perceive TikTok to be, at best, an app drugging America's youth, and at worst, a means of surveillance for foreign adversaries. Why can't we agree on this ban, what might it mean for our freedom of speech, and what regulatory measures can we put in place to avoid it? That’s our conversation this week. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Apr 10, 2024

Film, with all of its cinematic magic, was supposed to be creativity’s last line of defense against artificial intelligence. But when OpenAI’s impressive text-to-video generator Sora is taking meetings with Hollywood’s heads of production, what hope does that leave the rest of us? This week, inspired by the real story of “Lee,” a young film editor who sees his future thwarted by Sora, we discuss the impacts of AGI on creativity. Is it killing creatives’ livelihoods, or democratizing access? And will our sense of passion or purpose survive the AI takeover? Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Apr 3, 2024

Picture this. You’re the fly on the wall in a layoff call. The employee isn’t getting any of the answers they want. The HR representative isn’t allowed to deviate from their rote, clinical script. It’s all very, very awkward. That’s this week’s topic, inspired by the mortifying tale of “Jenna” the HR newbie, and the viral video from TikToker Brittany Pietsch. In this episode, we chat about what employees deserve in this scenario, how employers can do better, and how this process is fundamentally broken. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Mar 27, 2024

Here’s a staggering stat: through 2045, the wealth to be inherited by Generations X-Z is estimated to be 53 trillion dollars, an unprecedented sum in modern times. In this episode we cover the story of “Rich,” a 30 year-old screenwriter who, after receiving a financial windfall left by an uncle, finds himself losing his sense of purpose and creative motivation. Rich’s example and others' have us thinking about this Great Wealth Transfer: Can you inherit financial freedom and still retain your will to work? What happens to passion, persistence, and grit when labor becomes optional? Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Mar 20, 2024

Unlimited vacation is often lauded as a workplace perk, but who does it actually benefit? On this episode, we reflect on our previous experiences with this “generous” perk, and whether it served us. We also discuss why employers might be incentivized to adopt unlimited PTO policies—and why employees might be getting the short end of the stick. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Mar 12, 2024

You just found out that the new, fresh-out-of-college hire at work… makes the same salary you do. What would you do next? That’s the true story from “Lorrie” that inspired this conversation around salary transparency and fair pay. This week, we share some of our own experiences with speaking up (or not) for ourselves, ideas on what companies could do to promote salary transparency, and some tactical recommendations for next steps, if you find yourself in a similar position as Lorrie. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Mar 5, 2024

This week, truth is stranger than fiction. We’re discussing real anonymous stories from professional double-timers: two jobs, two time zones, and even two identities. It has us wondering: Socially, how did we get here? And legally, what are some complexities one should watch out for, if inspired to do the same? Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Feb 27, 2024

This week, we’re inspired by the real revenge story of an electrician named Jerry. With massive government funding of new industries in clean energy and semiconductors, Jerry represents a new cohort of trade workers finding success in today’s job market, despite the social stigma surrounding blue-collar jobs. From the astronomical costs of higher education today to economic factors that create demand for skilled trades, we chat about the conditions that make this redemption arc possible—and what’s on the horizon. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Feb 20, 2024

So you messed up at work. How do you move forward? This week, we’re inspired by a real workplace snafu, shared with us by “Zach.” From accidental all-staffs to awkward client commentary, we share some of our own professional mistakes on this episode—and our seasoned tactics on how to move past them. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Feb 20, 2024

If you’ve ever wondered “What should I do if I get laid off?” or “Is it still taboo to talk about politics at work?”—this is a show for you. Welcome to The Lonely Office : a podcast about the increasingly blurry line between work and life, brought to you by Glassdoor. The stories that inspire our discussions are sourced firsthand from the anonymous conversations happening on the Glassdoor app. It’s hosted by Matt Sunbulli (serial tech entrepreneur and co-founder of Fishbowl), Aaron Calafato (podcaster, 7 Minute Stories), and Leah Ova (content creator and advertising executive), with special appearances from industry thought leaders and experts. Hosts: Matt Sunbulli https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunbulli/ https://www.threads.net/@mattsunbulli https://www.firstdraft.vc Aaron Calafato https://www.7minutestoriespod.com/ Leah Ova https://www.tiktok.com/@leahova Editorial: Matt Sunbulli Brooks Borden Ken Wendt Aaron Calafato Audio: Ken Wendt Jan Cruz Research: Zaid Safe Matt Sunbulli

Feb 7, 2024

From baseball player Shohei Ohtani’s highly unusual (and highly lucrative) contract to Michael Jordan’s “Love of the game” clause, uncommon terms of agreement might be more common than you think. On this episode, we discuss the creativity of contract negotiations—and our tips for getting more out of your next professional engagement.

Jan 26, 2024

In this episode we follow the real-life anonymous work story of "Dylan". What do you do when your Boss is impeding your advancement at work? How do you get ahead if you’re constantly told to stay in your lane—and to only do what is asked of you? Do you fold, or do you adopt the age-old wisdom: “Don't ask for permission, ask for forgiveness later”? We discussing Dylan's story this week, as we share ideas on how to approach similar workplace conundrums.

Dec 26, 2023

“Emma’s” IRL identity crisis brings up a couple of important questions: what does it take to quit the corporate slog and start a new business of your own? Is there a certain philosophy that successful entrepreneurs adopt? What are the relationship and financial ramifications of launching your own startup? Is your idea better suited for bootstrapping or fundraising? Listen in to this end of the year episode of The Lonely Office to draw some inspiration towards quitting your job and tracking out your true, original course.

Dec 15, 2023

Why are professionals getting fired for what they post on their own social media? Some of us have had to learn it the hard way: Your rights as a citizen ≠ your rights as an employee—especially when comes to freedom of speech. It has us asking, “What does at-will employment mean, exactly?” Inspired by the true tale of “Brandon’s” termination over a controversial Linkedin post , we’re joined by Chris Collins (Partner, Labor and Employment Law at Sheppard Mullin) to discuss just that, and what employees can do to protect themselves.

Dec 8, 2023

The painfully real tale of “David’s” social oversharing brings up a great point : how did we get so ‘cringe’? Whether it be sharing personal divorces on professional platforms like LinkedIn, or wrapping everyday moments into a vessel for social media edification, has our push for recognition or sharing vulnerability gone too far? How does technology play a role in enabling this? Does the convergence of our social and professional lives have something to do with it?

Nov 29, 2023

The anonymously shared story of “John’s” salary analysis brings up an excellent question: are there downsides to comparing our career path to others? Kayak, Zillow, Glassdoor - whether we’re looking at prices or salaries, the rise of transparency platforms that shed light on previously undisclosed financial information has given us new ways to compare ourselves to those around us. But are these tools improving our lives, or are they just impeding our mental health? On this episode, we’re talking about financial transparency—and the anxiety that comes with the territory.

Nov 16, 2023

So you messed up at work. How do you move forward? From accidental all-staffs to awkward client commentary, we share the unfortunately true story of “Zach”, a marketing professional who makes one big boo-boo. Additionally, we discuss some of our own professional mistakes on this episode—and our seasoned tactics on how to move past them.

Nov 8, 2023

“Ellie” did what many would deem the unthinkable: refused a promotion. Whether it’s a lack of confidence, a lack of support, or a lack of trust in their employer, a sizeable portion of professionals today are turning down their promotions. What might be impacting their decisions, and how can employers ensure that fewer of their people walk away at this juncture? Ellie’s anonymous story inspired us to talk about the process of moving on up—or moving on out in this episode.

Nov 2, 2023

The true story of “Tabitha” and “Brandon’s” work marriage brings up today’s topic: is talking about politics at work as taboo as it used to be? The age-old debate of whether we should engage in political discussions at work gains a new dimension as workers go to social media to voice their own political opinions. What do we expect from our company leaders and each other? And how does being online—whether on Slack or social media—enable AND hinder our ability to engage in political discussions with our coworkers?

Oct 19, 2023

HR is not your friend, they say. They’re a necessary evil, they say. When did the human resources department acquire this reputation? Should we consider them employee welfare workers, or are they only in service of corporate interests? On this episode, we’re joined by HR expert and startup advisor Rusty Rueff to talk about the real and totally relatable story of “Darren” and a weekend-ruining email , the origins of human resources, and how it’s come to represent the broken social contract between employee and employer.

Oct 13, 2023

You enter the workforce in a pandemic. You’re onboarded remotely. You’re mandated to RTO. And the whole time, it feels like you’re being sold to. That’s the Gen Z experience of the workplace so far, and they’re not loving it. On this episode, we’re joined by Gen Zer Zaid Safe to chat about what his generation wants from workplace culture—and the practices they’d leave behind.

Oct 6, 2023

ADHD prescriptions are on the rise, ADHD medication is selling out, and your algorithm thinks you have it, too. Are we finally getting proper diagnoses, or are we living in an age of self-medicating for productivity? This episode explores the real story of “Olivia” and the trend of “smart drugs”—whether it’s Adderall, mushrooms, or yes, even Brazil nuts—and whether any of it ACTUALLY makes us smarter and more productive.

Sep 28, 2023

As higher education becomes increasingly open source, it has us wondering: are degrees like MBAs still worth the hefty price tag, or is it all LinkedIn optics? On this episode, we discuss “Joey’s” anonymously shared Linkedin hacks, contrarian career paths that impress recruiters, the inherent value of an MBA, and alternative ways of investing in yourself (and your resume).

Sep 21, 2023

With more CEOs going on record about their return to office mandates, it has us wondering: was the golden promise of working from home too good to be true? On this episode, we discuss the hidden market players who want you back in office and how companies like JM Smuckers are rolling out their hybrid work policy.

Sep 13, 2023

Why do “normies” otherwise known as the silent middle engage so little on platforms like Twitter? Should platforms be responsible only for their business model, or should they aim to be a model business? On this episode, we dive into the ethics vs. economics of unregulated voices on social.

Sep 5, 2023

Based on the true story of “Bo”, on this episode we explore whether or not corporate nepo babies and college legacies the same. Since the recent Supreme Court ruling, legacy admissions are being re-examined as unfair and white-washed. On this episode, we dive into the privileges and perks of being a college legacy, as well as the harm it brings to higher education and society as a whole.

Jul 7, 2023

From the excesses of Wallstreet companies in the 90s to Tech companies pillaging our privacy for gold in the 2000s, how have workers’ considerations of evil companies evolved with the rise of frameworks like ESG? This, talk about digital gold miners in World of Warcraft, and more all on this episode of Lonely Office.

Jun 13, 2023

It’s happened. You’ve been laid off. What do you do next? Do you jump on LinkedIn with a heartfelt post? Do you go live on TikTok? Inspired by the true story of “Maggie” - we talk about how to set yourself up for success before and after a potential layoff—from warming your professional network to re-evaluating your options.

May 30, 2023

Whether you’re a frequent job hopper or company loyalist, you’ll likely be affected by layoffs at some point in your working life. “Dylan’s” IRL layoff story got us thinking: are you ready for what happens next? On this episode, joined by corporate content creator Leah Ova, we’re talking about how to prepare for layoffs—what you should keep in mind, what you should enquire about, and what data to have in hand.

May 17, 2023

There are an estimated 70,000 professional career coaches worldwide. But are they the answer that lost professionals are looking for? On this episode, we discuss the real story of “Jamie”, whose expensive career coach falls short of expectations. We’re joined by special guest Cindy Gallop (advertising consultant, founder of MakeLoveNotPorn, and yes, career coach) to debate the approaches career coaches take today—and whether the profession provides as much value as it touts.

May 5, 2023

Whether you see it as a privilege or a right, companies are changing their tune when it comes to remote work— like popular advertising agency TBWA, whose policies inspired today’s story. Should employees be going back in, or should they be walking out? On this episode, joined by corporate content creator Leah Ova, we chat about the benefits and impacts of returning to office, and what the alternatives can be.

Apr 27, 2023

Just be yourself, they say. But not that self. In a culture that preaches authenticity one day and cancels you the next, how do you know how much of your personality and selfhood to reveal in a professional setting? Inspired by the true story of “Bill”, who struggles to socialize at work, we talk about the risks and rewards of bringing your full self to work—and whether the whole concept is a carryover from a bygone era.

Apr 13, 2023

With artificial intelligence becoming more intelligent by the hour, who will lose their jobs first? Where will they go? And is this a case for universal basic income? On this episode, joined by comedian and writer Azhar Usman, we follow the rapid rise of AI to its professional, social, and ethical conclusions.

Apr 4, 2023

Are the younger generations really coddled and entitled, or is this just a classic case of “OK Boomer”? When it comes to workplace attitudes, there’s a clear generational divide, especially in the case of “Allie” and “Randy” (protecting their anonymity!) who inspired today’s story. In this episode, we’re joined by beloved guest Leah Ova to unpack these stereotypes—and how remote work might be making everything worse.

Mar 22, 2023

Unlimited vacation is often lauded as a workplace perk, but who does it actually benefit? On this episode, we’re joined by marketer and content creator Leah Ova to discuss why employers might be incentivized to adopt unlimited PTO policies—and why employees might be getting the short end of the stick.

Mar 15, 2023

After working overtime, “Mo” expected a nice work perk, but received branded snacks instead. Their anonymously-shared story prompted us to ask the question(s): What should be the reward of a job well done? A sense of purpose? A round of applause? A box of pretzels? This week, we’re joined by comedian Azhar Usman and content creator Leah Ova to debate the full spectrum of how we might feel about our work—from meaningful to meaningless.

Mar 10, 2023

Pregnancy, disabilities, age—when it comes to sharing sensitive personal information in a professional setting, where do we draw the line? On this episode, we dive into the true story of an HR professional named Diana, a pregnant new hire, and one boss with a big mouth . We’re joined by motherhood content creator Leah Ova to discuss the reasons why expecting women in the workplace may or may not want to disclose their pregnancy during the interview process.

Mar 7, 2023

Is ChatGPT a powerful tool to augment our work, or is it a weapon of capitalism on the verge of taking our jobs? In this episode, we discuss an anonymous story shared by “Megan”, a PR professional whose excellent writing skills are secretly attributed to AI. We’re joined by startup advisor Rusty Rueff this week to debate the merit of AI tools like ChatGPT from all sides—from their innumerable benefits to unintended consequences.

Feb 16, 2023

A horror story for the remote work era: going through endless rounds of interviews, wondering whether you’ve wasted your time. On this episode, we dive into a real 11-round-interview incident endured by one candidate named “Mike”. We’ll debate the risks and merits of a lengthy interview process, getting caught in the crosshairs of a company’s misaligned objectives, and whether it’s all a sign to get out of the corporate matrix. We’re also joined by special guest Azhar Usman, comedian and writer on the Hulu show, Ramy.