Episode 31 - Toxic tech bros and one-on-ones

While recapping his whirlwind day as a tourist in Dubai—where he presented Teamangle at the Dubai International Project Management Forum—Brett reflects on the value of meaningful connections. This ties into a critique of Airbnb’s CEO dismissing one-on-one meetings as a waste of time and comparing listening to employees to playing therapist—a mindset Brett sees as toxic bro culture masking as innovation.

The discussion highlights the value of one-on-ones, the harm of toxic leadership rhetoric, and how leaders can create inclusive workplaces by fostering trust, empathy, and psychological safety. Balancing ambitious goals with supportive environments is key to better leadership.

The Review

This week, we discuss Brett's Same Page article, Avoiding one-on-ones? That’s not leadership, that’s toxicity and the themes of the article surrounding the need for one-on-one meetings and how toxic bro culture has no place at work, no matter the industry.

Plus, this week's Teamangle topics:

• Encouraging every voice: making team meetings inclusive
• The transformative effect of inclusivity on team morale and success

The Ask

We want to hear from our listeners! What's on your mind? What topics resonate for you? Drop us a note at [email protected]. We'd love to connect and hear what's top-of-mind for you. Who knows, maybe we'll bring it up on the show!

The Hit List

Brett:

• Reading: How tech billionaires screwed us all
• Listening: Stampede, Orville Peck
• Watching: RÜFÜS DU SOL - Live from Joshua Tree

Greg:

• Reading: Generation X: Tales for an Accelerated Culture
• Listening: Splinter - Sneaker Pimps
• Watching: American Primeval

The High Five

Believe it or not, the Teamangle Conversation Cards are shipping! Check out our shop next week to grab yours. And maybe grab a t-shirt too!