Episode 84

Stop Avoiding Hard Conversations at Work

Silence is compliance. That’s the raw truth at the heart of this episode.

Josh Anderson and Bob Galen dive into what it really means to speak truth to power — and why so many teams and leaders fail to do it. They unpack the fear, politeness, and avoidance that keep people quiet, and share hard-won advice on building a culture where truth-telling is not just encouraged but expected.

Through real stories, role-playing, and honest debate, they challenge leaders (title or not) to step up, put the uncomfortable truth on the table, and make it normal to question, disagree, and align on what’s real. This episode isn’t about being reckless with words — it’s about building trust, courage, and clarity, even when it’s uncomfortable.

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About the Podcast

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Meta-Cast
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About your hosts

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Josh Anderson

Josh Anderson is a seasoned software professional with a passion for agile methodologies and continuous improvement. As one of the hosts of The Meta-Cast podcast, Josh brings his wealth of experience and expertise to the table. With a knack for practical advice and a penchant for engaging storytelling, Josh captivates listeners with his insights on agile methodology, team dynamics, and software development best practices. His infectious enthusiasm and dedication to helping others succeed make him a valuable resource for aspiring software professionals.
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Bob Galen

Bob Galen is a recognized industry leader and an authority on agile practices and software architecture. With years of hands-on experience, Bob brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to The Meta-Cast podcast. As a co-host, he delves into topics ranging from agile fluency to organizational transformations, providing listeners with invaluable insights and strategies. Bob's charismatic and humorous style, combined with his ability to simplify complex concepts, makes him a fan-favorite among software professionals seeking guidance on navigating the challenges of agile development. His passion for continuous learning and his dedication to helping teams succeed shine through in each episode of the podcast.

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Lisa $10
Thank you both for sharing all your insight. It's been extremely valuable to me.