Showing respect when you just don’t connect.

Ever feel like caring about a coworker is just...not in the cards? Same. Here’s the thing though – you don’t have to be besties to show respect and keep things productive. In this episode, Kim, Amy, and Jason tackle the tough question of how to Care Personally when someone’s driving you up the wall. With relatable stories (yes, even a deodorant conversation makes an appearance) and practical tips, they break down how to stay curious, address frustrations head-on, and avoid letting those "ugh" feelings spiral into toxicity. The key takeaway? Stop writing mental soap operas about your colleagues and start having real conversations. Awkward? Sure. Worth it? Absolutely.

Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

Episode Links:

Connect:

Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction
Kim, Jason and Amy introduce a listener’s question about caring personally for someone you don’t like.

(00:02:09) Radical Respect
How respect forms the core of caring personally, even when someone annoys you.

(00:03:48) Reframing Perspectives
Reframing narratives to foster empathy in difficult workplace interactions.

(00:05:05) Addressing Irritating Behaviors
Two stories from differing perspectives on personal irritations at work.

(00:08:17) Curiosity as a Bridge
The power of curiosity in understanding and seeing humanity in others.

(00:11:02) Unspoken Disagreements
How assumptions and unspoken disagreements corrode relationships.

(00:14:16) Repairing Relationships at Work
The journey from conflict to rebuilding a strained relationship with a peer.

(00:22:17) Different Work Styles
Respecting differing approaches to work and optimizing collaboration.

(00:24:14) The Role Self-Awareness
Self-awareness and transitioning from internal frustration to constructive dialogue.

(00:33:08) Indifference vs. Engagement at Work
The inefficiencies of emotional detachment from colleagues.

(00:34:29) Balancing Connection and Boundaries
Maintaining professional relationships while respecting personal boundaries.

(00:37:38) Radical Candor Tips
Key tips from the episode, including respect, curiosity, and addressing biases.

(00:40:24) Conclusion

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How to Care Personally When You Don’t Personally Care 6 | 48

Radical Candor: Communication at Work