In this episode of the Business English podcast, the hosts dive into how to describe disciplinary actions in the workplace, sparked by a listener's question about the phrase "giving someone a talking to." They examine terms like "stern warning," "reprimand," and "slap on the wrist," discussing their formal and informal uses and the different contexts in which they apply, including issues like gender bias and politics. The episode highlights the significance of grasping these phrases for better workplace communication and understanding workplace dynamics.