027 | Leading Through Toxic Culture: How To Find Calm, Clarity, and Confidence

In this powerful and deeply personal episode, Dr. Denaige McDonnell confronts one of the most painful realities in modern work life—what it means to lead inside a toxic workplace. From politics and power dynamics to the silencing of dissent and the betrayal of values, she shares not only her lived experience of being fired for standing up but also the hidden emotional labor behind everyday leadership in dysfunctional systems.

Whether you’re the one speaking up, the one staying silent, or the one holding power—this episode challenges you to reflect, act, and lead with integrity.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✅ What toxic workplaces really look like—beyond the buzzwords
✅ Why power, not personality, is the root of sustained dysfunction
✅ The emotional toll of being a courageous advocate
✅ Strategic steps for speaking up without burning out
✅ How allies and leaders can stop playing it safe and start disrupting the cycle
✅ The long-term cost of silence—and how to build micro-cultures of trust

Key Moments & Takeaways:

Segment 1: Defining Toxicity in the Workplace
Segment 2: The Hard Truths About Power and Merit
Segment 3: What It Really Means to Speak Up—and What It Costs
Segment 4: How to Be a Visible, Strategic Ally
Segment 5: The Leadership Shift—Disrupting the Status Quo
Final Reflection: Courage Isn’t Comfortable—It’s Contagious

Power Quote from Dr. McDonnell:

"Leadership in toxicity demands action—strategic, courageous, and often uncomfortable action. It’s not about managing the optics; it’s about changing the system.”

Resources Mentioned:

Equistry Inc. – Learn how we help courageous professionals lead from their values

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