#213 Outsmarting Office Politics with Jennifer Selby Long – Part One

So you finally quit that toxic job, only to find yourself in another workplace filled with the same drama. What gives? Leadership expert Jennifer Selby Long explains why office politics follow you wherever you go—and how to stop them from running your career. In this two-part series, we tackle power dynamics, corporate chaos, and the real reason some people seem to climb the ladder effortlessly while others get stuck. If you’re tired of feeling like a pawn in someone else’s game, this episode is for you. Key Highlights of Our Interview: Finding Your Ally Among the Majority “In political environments, success hinges on securing a powerful ally. Aligning your interests with theirs and elevating them as a leader in your cause is essential if you plan to stay and thrive in such an environment.” When Conversations Clash, Progress Pauses “Business meetings often default to task-focused debates where differing perspectives turn into verbal standoffs. Rarely do teams pause to acknowledge the conflict and approach it constructively, missing opportunities to uncover deeper understanding.” No Permanent Friends, No Permanent Enemies—Just Interests “Drawing from the wisdom of Martin Luther King’s attorney, Clarence Jones: the game of politics is about aligning interests, not forging everlasting alliances. Understanding this can shift how you approach your workplace dynamics.” Assumptions: The Silent Saboteur “Most conflicts arise not from genuine disagreement but from unchecked assumptions about others’ motives or goals. Pausing to clarify and validate these assumptions can eliminate a significant portion of perceived conflict.” _________________________ Connect with us: Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Jennifer Selby Long ______________________ --**Chief Change Officer**-- Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself. Open a World of Deep Human Intelligence for Growth Progressives, Visionary Underdogs, Transformation Gurus & Bold Hearts. 6 Million+ All-Time Downloads. Reaching 80+ Countries Daily. Global Top 3% Podcast. Top 10 US Business. Top 1 US Careers. >>>100,000+ subscribers are outgrowing. Act Today.<<< --Chief Change Officer-- Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself. Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligence for Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep, Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts. EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist. 20 Million+ All-Time Downloads. 80+ Countries Reached Daily. Global Top 1% Podcast. Top 5 US Business. Top 1 US Careers. >>>180,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.<<<