The Psychology Behind Toxic Workplaces (And How to Fix Them) with Dr Mary-Clare Race

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Why do toxic workplaces thrive, and how can leaders turn them around?

In this HR L&D Podcast episode, we’re sitting down with Dr Mary-Clare Race, a workplace psychologist and leadership expert, to uncover the psychology of toxic cultures and the strategies that transform them into thriving, inclusive environments.

From her PhD research to leading DE&I initiatives for companies like Barclays, GSK, and Unilever, Dr Race explains why harmful behaviors persist, how to rebuild belonging, and why empathy, resilience, and self-awareness are the hallmarks of great leadership.

She shares practical ways to hold leaders accountable, strengthen workplace connection, and use AI as a tool to support human-centered coaching.

Whether you’re in HR or lead a team, this conversation delivers actionable insights for creating healthier, more productive workplaces.

Dr Mary-Clare Race’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-mary-clare-race-b59a602/

Nick Day’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickday/

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(00:00) Why Human Resources Matter Most

(01:46) Introducing Dr Mary-Clare Race

(04:00) The Psychology of Workplace Toxicity

(06:06) The “Toxic Triangle” Explained

(07:48) Turning Toxic Cultures Into Thriving Ones

(10:40) Why DE&I Slips During Economic Pressure

(13:16) The Backlash Against DE&I

(15:12) Building Belonging Through Human Connection

(16:45) Remote Work’s Impact on Toxicity

(18:27) The Connection Crisis at Work

(22:19) Do Playground Bullies Become Business Leaders?

(26:25) How Early Experiences Shape Leadership Styles

(28:56) Empathy, Resilience & Self-Awareness in Leadership

(31:46) Micro-Coaching Moments for Busy Leaders

(33:30) Leading Multi-Generational Workforces

(36:42) Supporting Caregivers and Working Parents

(39:26) AI in Coaching and Leadership Development

(43:45) Final Advice for HR Leaders