Best Mary Abbajay Podcasts (2025)

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Re-Issue Lessons in Strategery Part Two 33:01

Play Pause

11M ago33:01

33:01

Tune in to hear Chris and Tim discuss “Lessons in Strategery Part One and Two.” You’ll understand the title when you hear the podcast. We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: [email protected] or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent…

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Re-Issue Lessons in Strategery Part One 33:39

12M ago33:39

33:39

Tune in to hear Chris and Tim discuss “Lessons in Strategery Part One and Two.” You’ll understand the title when you hear the podcast. We’re here to help you succeed! Send us your workplace dilemmas or career questions. Email us: [email protected] or tweet us: @cubicleconfide1. All names will be changed to protect the guilty and innocent…

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Major F%$@Up 32:50

12M ago32:50

32:50

“Oops you made a mistake, that’s all … and making mistakes is never fun” was a jingle from a decades-old cartoon series. Truer words were never sung. Blunder … error … gaffe … mis-step … oversight … blooper … many terms share that singular, sinking feeling when you realize you messed up in a big way. We help listeners own up and make amends when th…

1
Culture Woes 33:01

12M ago33:01

33:01

Leading a high-profile initiative can be daunting … even more so when you’re coordinating team members scattered around the globe. We help listeners tasked with getting the job done while navigating different languages, cultures and work styles. In honor of July 4th, the Cubicle Crew reminisces about the magic of fireworks. Segments in this episode…

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Feeling Down 32:00

1y ago32:00

32:00

As the saying goes, “Life unfolds at the office.” Feeling sad or down is a normal reaction to disappointing or difficult times. But when a low mood stretches from days to weeks it can be difficult to sleep, think or work. If you feel depressed, take the first step by talking to a mental health professional, your doctor, a friend or loved one. This …

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Promotion Blues 33:17

1y ago33:17

33:17

A new title, more responsibility, better pay and perhaps a little prestige … what could be bad about getting promoted? This week we help listeners grappling with the complexities and consequences of “moving on up” the corporate ladder. Chris probes Tim about his quasi-agrarian roots. Segments in this episode: Down About Moving Up In Bloomfield - “I…

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Mistaken Identity 39:14

1y ago39:14

39:14

Honesty is the best policy, but … the early bird gets the worm. Which idiom can save a listener from being an idiot? Next, an honest mistake does real harm … how to handle damage control when you unwittingly spill the tea about a job change. Is it just me, or has tipping gotten more complicated? Plus, a wild and wonderful tale from Wildwood. Segmen…

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It’s Just Lunch 35:36

1y ago35:36

35:36

This week we help listeners master the mid-day meal: one wants in on the action, while another wrestles with the cost of lavish lunching. Oh, what a tangled web we weave, when first we practice to deceive. Reflections on different types of lies. Segments in this episode: Not Clicking with the Clique in Chicago - “How do I crack the boy’s club at lu…

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Strange Bedfellows 34:22

1y ago34:22

34:22

What to do when work travel gets awkward? How to deflect when another couple wants to join your vacation. How to navigate a work trip when teammates become roommates. Chris reflects on his time as an instructor at a school for new consultants and the classical motif puer mingens makes a surprise appearance. Segments in this episode Two’s Company, F…

1
Political Animals 33:33

1y ago33:33

33:33

Religion … money … politics … in the modern workplace almost no subject is off limits. This week we help a listener in Texas do the two-step when his new teammates talk politics. The Gaylord hotel, the Curse of Knowledge and the toppling trees of the biosphere are a few more ingredients in this week’s stew. Segments in this episode: Damned if You D…

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Angling for a Better Opportunity 30:12

1y ago30:12

30:12

This week we help listeners shake up the status quo. What to do when your comp doesn’t match your contribution to the business? Next, how to start a job change when you think you’ve found some greener grass. In honor of Mother’s Day: Chris, Tim and Jack share memories of traditions both old and new. Science Corner: Butler’s Law of Conservation of S…

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To Poach, or not to poach; that is the question 35:39

1y ago35:39

35:39

Given the transient and mobile nature of the modern workforce, is poaching an ethical dilemma or a smart sourcing strategy? We help a restaurant owner contemplate countermeasures when an upscale rival raids his roster. Next, Chris and Tim help a consultant calm the waters when he is accused of aiding and abetting a defection. Also, a spirited point…

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Crushes 33:05

1y ago33:05

33:05

Tim’s much-maligned reference shelf includes the American Heritage dictionary which defines a crush as: “a usually temporary infatuation.” This week we help listeners work through the twists and turns of office obsessions. Chris waxes poetic about the rotary phone and the dating scene at Illinois Bell. Plus: back by popular demand – the word of the…

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Lasting Impressions 32:36

1y ago32:36

32:36

Sometimes it’s hard to stand out from the crowd, sometimes it’s hard to hide. We help listeners chart a course into -- and out of – the spotlight. Plus: an apology to Sean Evans, the “pretend agent” that launched a career, and the all-too-common confusion around Patrick Stewart and Patrick Swayze. Segments in this episode: TV NV in NYC - “I want an…

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It’s 420 (discussing weed at the workplace) 42:26

1y ago42:26

42:26

Recreational marijuana is all the buzz but what happens when Mary Jane dances a little too close to the office? We explore the complicated tapestry of state law, company policy and individual liberty. Is pot the new alcohol or is it a little more complicated? On a completely unrelated topic … Chris, Tim and Jack talk about their favorite binge-wort…

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Mission: Implausible 34:23

1y ago34:23

34:23

When does a stretch goal become a fool’s errand? This week listeners share their challenges with unrealistic expectations both foreign (from a client) and domestic (from the boss). Chris shares one of his favorite tools for assessing personality types and channels his inner Ross Perot. Segments in this episode Baffled in the Bay Area - “S.O.S., the…

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Artificial (vs. All-Natural) Intelligence 37:51

1y ago37:51

37:51

Intelligensia Artificialis is not a real phrase but it should be. We tackle two takes on the omnipresent A.I. system, Chat GPT. How can a freelance writer stay relevant? If you find time in your day, should you ask for more work (or just play)? We close with a quick tour of A.I. trends for 2024. Bonus quiz: what do acoustic guitar, snail mail and c…

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Pet Peeves 33:33

1+ y ago33:33

33:33

What to do when a co-worker’s pride and joy becomes your noisy nemesis? A cry for help as the office devolves into a petting zoo. In a first for the podcast, we help two listeners from the same company! Plus, an homage to a dark chocolate-enrobed peppermint confection. Segments in this episode Hound from Hell in Accounting - “How do I handle this f…

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Body Talk 30:40

1+ y ago30:40

30:40

Sharing the gym – and the locker room – with coworkers can lead to some uncomfortable encounters! Tune in to hear Chris and Tim help listeners avoid pulling a hamstring when access to amenities gets awkward. Segments in this episode Exorcised in LA - “My boomer boss wants me to be his workout buddy” Fishing for Sponsors: The StopAlong serves impres…

1
Fear Not 35:25

1+ y ago35:25

35:25

Did you know the number one fear in America is glossophopia? Chris and Tim help a listener manage their high anxiety. Next, they discuss how to tap the brakes on an unreserved rookie without crushing his spirit. Segments in this episode Naked Below the Waist in Boston - “I am so nervous about presenting to senior management” Fishing for Sponsors: A…

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Foreign to Me 34:24

1+ y ago34:24

34:24

In this episode, Chris and Tim offer advice on collaborating with co-workers from around the globe. The hosts discuss a resource for assessing and developing “cultural competence.” Are you a Gemini? You are if you like great food served in a comfortable, welcoming setting! Segments in this episode Defending or Offending in St Paul - "How do I help …

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Food and Drink 32:09

1+ y ago32:09

32:09

Tune in to hear Chris and Tim help listeners navigate the sense and sensibility of eating at the office and weigh the risks and rewards of drinking with clients. Is there a new sponsor on the horizon? Only time will tell … Segments in this episode Flabbergassed in Baltimore - “The new girl is stinking up our office!” Fishing for Sponsors: Freeze-dr…

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Everybody’s Got One … 32:03

1+ y ago32:03

32:03

How do you deal with a little old lady who happens to be a liar and a slacker and a favorite of the owner? Can you advance as the nice guy at a firm full of cut-throat alphas? In this episode Chris and Tim share advice for dealing with office a-holes. Segments in this episode Sweet Old Lady My Ass in Omaha - “She’s a total jerk but the owners love …

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Back to the Grind 31:36

1+ y ago31:36

31:36

This week Chris and Tim give tips on starting a job search and navigating changes to the work from home policy. We also talk through some practical advice for a smooth re-entry after a vacation. Segments in this episode Frozen in Place in Pasadena - “I’m done with my job but can’t get past my fear of leaving!” Tag, I’m IT in Wichita - “Help! My off…

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Sour Gripes 30:50

1+ y ago30:50

30:50

In this episode we wade into the waters of the grumps, the grumblers, the bellyachers and malcontents. Chris and Tim offer advice on dealing with whining in the workplace and share takeaways from an article on dealing with chronic complainers. Segments in this episode Flabbergast In Fremont … "OMG, my new staff person just asked for an easier assig…

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Ready, Aim … Misfire 31:46

1+ y ago31:46

31:46

This week we hear from listeners struggling to toe the company line when they have reservations about the products they’re asked to sell. Tune in to hear Chris and Tim discuss navigating company misfires and reflect on some epic marketing fails. Segments in this episode Electrifying Bad in White Plains … “Our dealership just got the new EV and it s…

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Lessons in Strategery, Part 2 33:25

1+ y ago33:25

33:25

Tune in to hear Chris and Tim discuss “Lessons in Strategery Part Two.” You’ll understand the title when you hear the podcast. These next two weeks will be a little different here at Cubicle Confidential. Tim McClure, the owner of Blue Oak Consulting LLC will be the substitute co-host with Chris De Santis while Mary wraps up a very busy year at her…

1
Lessons in Strategery, Part 1 33:25

1+ y ago33:25

33:25

These next two weeks will be a little different here at Cubicle Confidential. Tim McClure, the owner of Blue Oak Consulting LLC will be the substitute co-host with Chris De Santis while Mary wraps up a very busy year at her firm Careerstone Group. While Mary will be missed, all is not lost. We’re going to take this opportunity to learn about strate…

1
Managing My Manager (Help!) 32:00

1+ y ago32:00

32:00

During a recent Managing Up presentation, Mary received some questions about dealing with a variety of bosses. She thought it would be fun to get Chris’ input on them, too! Tune into this week’s episode to learn how to work with an impulsive boss, ask for help when you’re spread too thin, share your achievements with your manager, and so much more!…

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To Promote or Not To Promote? 33:16

1+ y ago33:16

33:16

This week we hear from a listener trying to figure out how to select a candidate for a promotion, one seeking to climb the corporate ladder, and another one who realized their new role isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. Tune in to hear Mary and Chris’ advice surrounding giving promotions and getting promoted! King Solomon’s Redux in Virginia has two …

1
Holidaze 32:36

1+ y ago32:36

32:36

Do office holiday parties get you in the festive spirit or turn you into the Grinch? Our listeners are navigating some ho, ho, horribly awkward holiday situations at work. Tune in to hear Mary and Chris’ advice on how to handle this season with a little extra joy and cheer! Shit Canned at Christmas in Atlanta got laid off from his job and his fianc…

1
Home of the Brave 28:06

1+ y ago28:06

28:06

When was the last time you did something brave in your job or career? This week, we hear from listeners trying to find their voice in meetings, harness extra energy for a retreat, and confront an executive about bogus expense receipts… Tune in to hear Mary and Chris’ advice on how to channel courage in the workplace! A Sleuth on The Loose in Chicag…

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Awkward! 35:12

1+ y ago35:12

35:12

What work situations make you cringe? Some of our listeners find themselves stuck in awkward situations and need support to figure out what to do! Tune in to hear Mary and Chris’ advice about job changes, connection requests, and honest feedback. Worried About a Gaffe with The Government works for the government with a good job that boasts a great …

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It's Time to Go... 32:50

1+ y ago32:50

32:50

Decisions, decisions! This week, our listeners are trying to decide if they (or others) should stay in their jobs or move on to greener pastures… Tune in to hear Mary and Chris’ advice on retirement, switching jobs, and making other big career choices (for yourself and others!) A Few Cards Shy of A Full Deck in Denver has spent 45 years at the same…

1
The Fame Game 30:01

1+ y ago30:01

30:01

Do you strive for fame and fortune? Some of our listeners do, too and others have already achieved it. In this week’s show, Mary and Chris address the wins and woes of being famous! Too Big for His Breeches in Boise runs a management training company. Their business is booming. To meet client demand, they farm out much of the work to subcontractors…

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Hopeful, Hopeless, or Hapless 31:04

1+ y ago31:04

31:04

Are you more of an optimist, pessimist, or realist? This week, we hear from listeners who find it challenging to work with bosses or coworkers on the other end of that spectrum. Tune in to hear Mary and Chris’ advice on how to bridge that gap! No Motion with This Lotion in Memphis works for a boss who is wildly optimistic, yet not too practical. He…

1
What's Your Status? 31:48

1+ y ago31:48

31:48

All human beings have a neuropsychological need for status. We need to feel that we are worthy and valued in the eyes of others. So, what happens when people lower our status? Or when we feel our status gets in the way of positive workplace relationships? A Star is Made and Born in Kentucky feels his increased status and success as a professional i…

1
Trust Me 32:04

1+ y ago32:04

32:04

Do you know the number one aspect of creating high-performance organizations? If you said trust, you nailed it! This week, we hear from listeners who want to earn trust or learn to trust. Tune in to hear Mary and Chris’ advice on creating a culture of trust in the workplace. Catering To My Needs in Portland is the first to admit they’re a micromana…

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Reissue: It’s Not Me, It’s You! 35:21

1+ y ago35:21

35:21

On this week’s re-release schedule, we have a fan favorite from Season Two – “It’s Not Me, It’s You.” This episode is all about dealing with annoying people because, unfortunately, they always have been and always will be a fact of life at work. Let’s be honest—sometimes other people are just a pain in the a**. In this week’s show, Mary and Chris a…

1
Promotion Motion 30:26

1+ y ago30:26

30:26

This week, we’re re-releasing our most popular episode from Season One and third most popular episode of all time – Promotion Motion. If you’re here to accelerate your career, you came to the right place and won’t want to miss this greatest hit! Are you trying to climb up the corporate food chain? Trying to crack that promotion code? Or are you tir…

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My Boss Sucks... 32:56

2y ago32:56

32:56

Next up on our re-release schedule is a timeless classic! We’re heading all the way back to the Season One for this fan favorite – “My Boss Sucks” to help our listeners deal with their bad bosses. “Conflicted on the Crew” wants to know if and how he should intervene on a difficult boss. “Recovering in Rhode Island” needs advice in dealing with a ga…

1
I Need Some ME Time! 31:09

2y ago31:09

31:09

Did you know that only 48% of Americans use all their vacation days? You have paid time off for a reason, and taking a vacation reduces stress, improves well-being, and boosts productivity, so it’s important to capitalize on that benefit! This week, we hear from listeners who don’t want to let their PTO go to waste. Tune in to hear Mary and Chris’ …

1
Why I Find You Irritating 33:53

2y ago33:53

33:53

We’re taking a little trip down memory lane to revisit one of our most popular episodes! This week, we’re traveling back in time to Season Two to relearn how to navigate generational friction at work – which is essential to succeeding in today’s multi-generational workplace! Do generational differences have work have you perplexed? Annoyed? Confuse…

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Help Me Succeed 32:45

2y ago32:45

32:45

Are you looking to make a move within your company? Maybe you want a new role or maybe you are trying to decide whether to change bosses. This week, we hear from listeners interested in advancing their careers and setting themselves up for success at work. Tune in to hear Mary and Chris’ advice on mentorship, internal mobility, and moving up the co…

1
Going Global 30:22

2y ago30:22

30:22

Let’s go around the world in 30 minutes! Our listeners are working across the globe, and they need our help dealing with time changes that leave them always on the clock, bridging cultural gaps, and transferring overseas. Tune in to travel to workplaces far and wide with us in this episode! Not Enthralled with Being On Call in Milwaukee works for a…

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Revenge 33:16

2y ago33:16

33:16

What’s a dish that’s best served cold? Yes, you guessed it! We’re talking about revenge. This week, we hear from listeners who aren’t interested in forgiving and forgetting but want to get back at their perpetrators. Tune in to hear Mary and Chris’ advice about whether or not, revenge is a dish that should be served at all… Here Not There in Zelien…

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Fearless Feedback with Joe Hirsch 33:38

2y ago33:38

33:38

Are you afraid to give feedback? Does the idea of giving someone difficult feedback give you cold sweats? Well, fear no more, because, in this special episode, Chris and Mary are joined by author and feedback expert Joe Hirsch! Joe shares his wisdom on how to give fearless feedback. If you want to have more caring, candid, and collaborative convers…

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Broken Promises, Regrets, and Bad Fits 32:33

2y ago32:33

32:33

Have you ever made a decision and then almost immediately regretted it? Or maybe you’ve been sold something that wasn’t quite what it seemed? This week, we hear from listeners who are in some sticky situations that they’re looking to get out of or turn around. Tune in to hear Mary and Chris’ advice on how to make lemonade out of lemons! The Bavaria…

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Sell! Sell! Sell! 32:12

2y ago32:12

32:12

We’re going back to the beginning and reviewing our ABC’s… …and in this case, we mean Always Be Closing in relation to making sales. This week, we hear from listeners who could use some extra support to close deals. Tune in to hear Mary and Chris’ top sales advice! Beauty’s Only Skin Deep in Sacramento just started her first job at a popular beauty…

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Zinged By Gen Z 34:18

2y ago34:18

34:18

There are some new kids on the block! Gen Z’er’s are entering the workplace and they’re bringing their opinions, feelings, and social awareness with them. Some of our listeners are struggling to understand and work with this younger generation. Tune in to hear Mary and Chris’ strategies to maximize the potential of these new youngsters in the workp…