Law, HR, Furries, and Other Accommodations with Leah Stiegler

In a recent episode of the Manage Smarter podcast, Woods Rogers Principal Leah Stiegler dives into the complexities of modern workplace dynamics. From handling toxic personalities to navigating the intricacies of non-compete agreements, Leah offers invaluable insights for employers. She discusses the importance of maintaining a psychologically safe environment and the role of documentation in protecting both employees and employers. 

The conversation explored:

• Workplace relationships: Why outright bans often backfire, and how tools like “love contracts” can help mitigate risk.
• Addressing concerns early: How proactive responses prevent issues from escalating into legal or cultural problems.
• Documentation practices: Why clear, factual records of performance are essential in avoiding disputes and supporting management decisions.
• AI policies: The need for guidelines that safeguard confidential business information while allowing responsible use.
• Non-compete agreements: The importance of tailoring restrictions to make them enforceable without stalling career growth.

Through real-world examples and practical advice, Leah emphasized how managers can mitigate legal risk while fostering a safe, transparent, and productive workplace.

Check out the episode here or wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.