Workplace Psychology with Dr. Martha Grajdek

Ethical Dilemmas And Moral Injury At WorkIn this episode, Dr. Grajdek explores ethical dilemmas and moral injury at work. When people feel pushed to act against their values, the harm lingers beyond stress – it can erode identity, trust, and engagement. Dr. Grajdek defines moral injury, shares red-flag indicators, and provides decision guardrails. She also makes suggestions of best practices for individual employees and organizations. Dr. Grajdek points out that while prevention is best, when ethical dilemmas and moral injury at work become reality, healing and rebuilding integrity quickly become priority one. Tune in to learn more.   Check out Stress-Free With Dr G on YouTubehttps://youtube.com/channel/UCxHq0osRest0BqQQRXfdjiQ The Stress Solution: Your Blueprint For Stress Management Masteryhttps://a.co/d/07xAdo7l

In this episode, Dr. Grajdek explores how globally distributed teams often stumble not on skills but on mismatched norms, such as direct vs. indirect feedback, time-zone fairness, and distance. She decodes these differences and offer tools that preserve respect across cultures. Listeners learn to turn friction into fluency and documentation into a unifying culture. Tune in to learn more.  Check out Stress-Free With Dr G on YouTubehttps://youtube.com/channel/UCxHq0osRest0BqQQRXfdjiQ The Stress Solution: Your Blueprint For Stress Management Masteryhttps://a.co/d/07xAdo7l

Invisible Work & “Office Housework”: The Non-Promotable Task TrapIn this episode, Dr. Grajdek explores invisible work and “office housework” in terms of their necessity, contribution, and burden. From taking notes to emotional glue work, non-promotable tasks keep organizations running but rarely count toward advancement, thus disproportionately burdening reliable high performers. Dr. Grajdek explains how to inventory and rotate this work, add it to performance criteria, and give public credit. She also teaches boundary language and manager best practices to rebalance invisible workload so that essential service is valued without quietly capping careers. Tune in to learn more.  Check out Stress-Free With Dr G on YouTubehttps://youtube.com/channel/UCxHq0osRest0BqQQRXfdjiQ The Stress Solution: Your Blueprint For Stress Management Masteryhttps://a.co/d/07xAdo7l

Meeting Science: Fewer Meetings, Better Outcomes, More Deep WorkIn this episode, Dr. Grajdek explores replacing the overload of too many meetings with a science-based redesign where only meetings related to decision or co-creation are truly required. She reviews lean facilitation (owner/decider/scribe roles, decision logs, 25/50-minute caps) and team norms (no-meeting focus blocks, monthly audits). Moreover, Dr. Grajdek recommends practices that focus on tangible metrics and suggests a 30-day challenge to cut 15% of meetings while improving decisions. Tune in to learn more.  Check out Stress-Free With Dr G on YouTubehttps://youtube.com/channel/UCxHq0osRest0BqQQRXfdjiQ The Stress Solution: Your Blueprint For Stress Management Masteryhttps://a.co/d/07xAdo7l

Job Crafting: Redesigning Your Role Without Changing Your Job TitleIn this episode, Dr. Grajdek explores how employees can tailor tasks, relationships, and mindsets to better align with strengths and values thus boosting energy and performance without a promotion or a job change. She highlights guardrails that keep job crafting from creating extra work for the individual employee and/or peers. As an exercise in exploring job crafting, Dr. Grajdek offers a two-week experiment idea that can be utilized by employees and employers alike. She also offers ways for employers to explore and monitor job crafting as a practice that can benefit everyone involved, where the result embraces small, sustainable changes that compound into higher engagement and greater satisfaction. Tune in to learn more.  Check out Stress-Free With Dr G on YouTubehttps://youtube.com/channel/UCxHq0osRest0BqQQRXfdjiQ The Stress Solution: Your Blueprint For Stress Management Masteryhttps://a.co/d/07xAdo7l

In this episode, Dr. Grajdek examines how publishing pay ranges reshapes trust, motivation, and team dynamics, separating true fairness (process) from perceived fairness (outcomes). She unpacks real risks such as pay compression, rumor spirals, and anxious managers. Moreover, Dr. Grajdek shares a clear transparency rollout – audit and correct inequities, publish ranges with context, and coach leaders on respectful compensation conversations. Tune in to learn more.   Check out Stress-Free With Dr G on YouTubehttps://youtube.com/channel/UCxHq0osRest0BqQQRXfdjiQ The Stress Solution: Your Blueprint For Stress Management Masteryhttps://a.co/d/07xAdo7l

This episode, Dr. Grajdek explores the often-overlooked role of workplace rituals – the intentional practices that go beyond routine to create connection, stability, and shared identity. From onboarding ceremonies to end-of-week reflections, rituals can improve team cohesion, reduce stress, and reinforce company culture. Listeners will learn how to design meaningful rituals that energize rather than exhaust. Tune in to learn more.   Check out Stress-Free With Dr G on YouTubehttps://youtube.com/channel/UCxHq0osRest0BqQQRXfdjiQ The Stress Solution: Your Blueprint For Stress Management Masteryhttps://a.co/d/07xAdo7l

In an age of prolonged screen time and nonstop notifications, digital overload is quickly eroding attention, productivity, and well-being. In this episode, Dr. Grajdek breaks down how hyperconnectivity impacts cognitive performance and mental health. Furthermore, she offers strategies to reclaim focus by highlighting intentionally moving toward digital wellness in teams. Dr. Grajdek also teaches how to protect your brain in a world that never powers down. Tune in to learn more.   Check out Stress-Free With Dr G on YouTubehttps://youtube.com/channel/UCxHq0osRest0BqQQRXfdjiQ The Stress Solution: Your Blueprint For Stress Management Masteryhttps://a.co/d/07xAdo7l

Employee activism is reshaping how workplaces respond to social and ethical concerns. In this episode, Dr. Grajdekinvestigates why employees are speaking up more than ever, how purpose and values drive this movement, and how companies can respond constructively. Moreover, she also explores the psychological risks and rewards of activism at work. Finally, Dr. Grajdek discusses and how leaders can foster dialogue while protecting both voice and vision. Tune in to learn more.   Check out Stress-Free With Dr G on YouTubehttps://youtube.com/channel/UCxHq0osRest0BqQQRXfdjiQ The Stress Solution: Your Blueprint For Stress Management Masteryhttps://a.co/d/07xAdo7l

Open office designs aim to foster collaboration, but for sensory-sensitive employees, they can be overwhelming. In this episode, Dr. Grajdek explores how noise, lighting, and other environmental factors affect focus, stress levels, and performance – especially for those with heightened sensory processing. Furthermore, Dr. Grajdek provides actionable steps for individuals and organizations to create more adaptable, neuroinclusive workspaces that support diverse sensory needs. Tune in to learn more.   Check out Stress-Free With Dr G on YouTubehttps://youtube.com/channel/UCxHq0osRest0BqQQRXfdjiQ The Stress Solution: Your Blueprint For Stress Management Masteryhttps://a.co/d/07xAdo7l

Not all workplace hierarchies are formal. In this episode, Dr. Grajdek unpacks how perceived status influences everything from speaking up in meetings to how credit is distributed. She examines how subtle status signals shape team dynamics and impact employee engagement, and offer strategies for leaders to create more inclusive, status-balanced environments where everyone feels seen and heard, regardless of title or tenure. Tune in to learn more.   Check out Stress-Free With Dr G on YouTubehttps://youtube.com/channel/UCxHq0osRest0BqQQRXfdjiQ The Stress Solution: Your Blueprint For Stress Management Masteryhttps://a.co/d/07xAdo7l

When too many voices weigh in – or when no one takes the lead – teams can get stuck in a state of indecision. In this episode, Dr. Grajdek explores decision paralysis in collaborative environments, exploring its psychological roots and organizational consequences. Moreover, Dr. Grajdek offers insight into group dynamics, fear of conflict, and choice overload, allowing listeners to gain tools to streamline decision-making, boost clarity, and encourage confident action. Tune in to learn more.  Check out Stress-Free With Dr G on YouTubehttps://youtube.com/channel/UCxHq0osRest0BqQQRXfdjiQ The Stress Solution: Your Blueprint For Stress Management Masteryhttps://a.co/d/07xAdo7l

Stories aren’t just for marketing – they’re a powerful internal tool that shapes meaning and motivation. This episode, Dr. Grajdek explores how corporate storytelling enhances employee engagement by connecting everyday work to purpose, vision, and shared values. She discusses how leaders can use storytelling to inspire trust, align teams, and drive culture change, and offers strategies for turning communication into connection. Tune in to learn more.   Check out Stress-Free With Dr G on YouTubehttps://youtube.com/channel/UCxHq0osRest0BqQQRXfdjiQ The Stress Solution: Your Blueprint For Stress Management Masteryhttps://a.co/d/07xAdo7l

In this episode, Dr. Grajdek uncovers the powerful impact of microbreaks on focus, productivity, and well-being. From neuroscience to practical examples, Dr. Grajdek explains how short resets can counteract fatigue, boost mental clarity, and improve overall job performance. Listeners will learn how to build microbreaks into their daily routine and how organizations can support a culture that values strategic recovery over nonstop hustle. Tune in to learn more.   Check out Stress-Free With Dr G on YouTubehttps://youtube.com/channel/UCxHq0osRest0BqQQRXfdjiQ The Stress Solution: Your Blueprint For Stress Management Masteryhttps://a.co/d/07xAdo7l

In today's remote and hybrid work environments, much of communication happens through screens, where tone and intent can easily be misinterpreted. In this episode, Dr. Grajdek explores the concept of digital body language, as she highlights how timing, punctuation, word choice, and formatting affect how messages are received. She offers strategies for improving digital communication, ensuring professionalism, and maintaining strong team connections even across virtual spaces. Tune in to learn more.   Check out Stress-Free With Dr G on YouTubehttps://youtube.com/channel/UCxHq0osRest0BqQQRXfdjiQ The Stress Solution: Your Blueprint For Stress Management Masteryhttps://a.co/d/07xAdo7l

Going above and beyond at work – known as organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) – can sometimes lead to burnout when extra efforts become expected rather than simply appreciated. In this episode, Dr. Grajdek explores the phenomenon of workplace citizenship fatigue, its signs, and its effects on both employees and organizations. Listeners will gain strategies for setting boundaries, recognizing voluntary contributions, and balancing organizational appreciation with respect for employees’ limits. Tune in to learn more.   Check out Stress-Free With Dr G on YouTubehttps://youtube.com/channel/UCxHq0osRest0BqQQRXfdjiQ The Stress Solution: Your Blueprint For Stress Management Masteryhttps://a.co/d/07xAdo7l

In this episode, Dr. Grajdek addresses the cost of perfectionism in high-performing organizations. She examines the signs of organizational perfectionism, its impact on creativity and mental health, and how unrealistic expectations can stifle innovation. Dr. Grajdek offers solutions for building a culture that values learning, growth, and progress over unattainable standards of flawlessness. Tune in to learn more.   Check out Stress-Free With Dr G on YouTubehttps://youtube.com/channel/UCxHq0osRest0BqQQRXfdjiQ The Stress Solution: Your Blueprint For Stress Management Masteryhttps://a.co/d/07xAdo7l

In this episode, Dr. Grajdek examines the nature of humor at the workplace. Humor can be a powerful force for building bonds and reducing stress at work, but it can also alienate or offend when used poorly. This episode Dr. Grajdek discusses the dual nature of workplace humor, the benefits of encouraging appropriate, inclusive humor, and the risks when humor crosses lines. Listeners will learn how to foster a positive humor culture that strengthens teams without creating divisions. Tune in to learn more.  Check out Stress-Free With Dr G on YouTubehttps://youtube.com/channel/UCxHq0osRest0BqQQRXfdjiQ The Stress Solution: Your Blueprint For Stress Management Masteryhttps://a.co/d/07xAdo7l

In this episode, Dr. Grajdek examines psychological contracts and their influence on employee satisfaction and engagement. She discusses how these contracts form, how breaches damage trust and motivation, and how leaders can maintain strong, healthy psychological agreements through consistent communication, honesty, and expectation management. Dr. Grajdek also highlights the critical role psychological contracts play in employee retention and organizational loyalty. Tune in to learn more. Check out Stress-Free With Dr G on YouTubehttps://youtube.com/channel/UCxHq0osRest0BqQQRXfdjiQ The Stress Solution: Your Blueprint For Stress Management Masteryhttps://a.co/d/07xAdo7l

In this episode, Dr. Grajdek shines a light on the often invisible and undervalued burden of emotional labor (or emotional burden) – the effort employees expend to manage their emotions in professional settings. She explains how roles in healthcare, customer service, and leadership among others are particularly affected. Dr. Grajdek examines the mental health consequences of unrecognized emotional labor. Listeners will learn strategies for acknowledging, validating, and reducing the emotional strain employees face daily. Tune in to learn more.  Check out Stress-Free With Dr G on YouTubehttps://youtube.com/channel/UCxHq0osRest0BqQQRXfdjiQ The Stress Solution: Your Blueprint For Stress Management Masteryhttps://a.co/d/07xAdo7l