Ep 22: Navigating Politics in the Workplace with Jen Fox and Pete Turok

In this episode of the TroopHR Podcast, Taylor Bradley tackles the thorny issue of political discourse in today's workplace with HR veteran, Jen Fox, and conflict resolution expert, Pete Turok. The discussion challenges the traditional "no politics at work" rule, exploring why this approach may no longer be feasible in our hyper-connected world.

Fox shares insights from her deep experience in HR, discussing how "politics will get into you" regardless of workplace policies, while Turok introduces the concept of "brave spaces" as an alternative to traditional safe space thinking. Their conversation offers practical guidance for HR leaders navigating political expression at work, from managing ERG concerns to developing communication protocols that foster respectful dialogue while maintaining productivity.

For more information about joining our community, upcoming events like the 2025 TroopHR Retreat, and resources mentioned in this episode, please visit troophr.com.

Chapters
0:00 Introduction and the Challenge of Political Discourse at Work
4:42 The Impact of 'Bring Your Whole Self to Work'
10:47 Navigating Political Expression in the Workplace
20:44 Leadership Echo Chambers and Psychological Safety
23:07 HR's Role in Managing Workplace Culture
26:42 Creating Brave Spaces and Addressing Safety Concerns
33:07 Optimism and Finding Common Ground

Credits TroopHR Founder: Tracy Avin 

Show Producer: Nicole Fealey 

Show Host: Taylor Bradley 

Note: Transcripts generated by AI.

Chapters

• 0:00 Introduction and the Challenge of Political Discourse at Work
• 4:42 The Impact of 'Bring Your Whole Self to Work'
• 10:47 Navigating Political Expression in the Workplace
• 20:44 Leadership Echo Chambers and Psychological Safety
• 23:07 HR's Role in Managing Workplace Culture
• 26:42 Creating Brave Spaces and Addressing Safety Concerns
• 33:07 Optimism and Finding Common Ground