In this episode, we explore the reality of workplace bullying through the lived experience of Teresa, who describes enduring it multiple times across her career. Teresa explains how subtle behaviours escalated into constant criticism, isolation, micromanagement, and emotional pressure that followed her home and consumed her life.

From being undermined by a colleague‑turned‑manager to navigating grief under a boss who dismissed her vulnerability, Teresa’s personal account reveals how bullying can erode confidence, distort self‑belief, and turn a job once loved into something she dreaded.

In Teresa’s words, this is her unfiltered journey of how persistent mistreatment can suffocate even the strongest people - and how long it can take to recover.

Before we begin, a gentle but important message. Across this podcast, we sometimes discuss experiences that may be difficult to hear, including themes that centre around trauma. These conversations are handled with care, but they can still be triggering or emotionally heavy. Please listen in a way that feels safe for you and take a pause or step away at any time if you need to. If anything you hear brings up difficult feelings, reaching out to someone you trust or seeking professional support can make a real difference.

We are a peer-connection space focused on shared storytelling, not a medical service or crisis centre. If you are in immediate need, we recommend reaching out to professional emergency services.

Topics
Workplace bullying definition and types
Teresa's personal experiences with bullying
Impact of bullying on mental health and self-esteem
Strategies for documenting and confronting bullying
The role of HR and union support in addressing bullying
The importance of record-keeping and evidence gathering
Advice for victims on protecting themselves and seeking help

Chapters
00:00 Understanding Workplace Bullying
07:19 Personal Experiences of Bullying
12:19 The Impact of Bullying on Mental Health
20:01 Navigating Workplace Dynamics
27:39 Confronting the Bully
28:57 Recognising the Signs of Bullying
29:20 The Impact of Bullying on Mental Health
33:13 Confronting Workplace Dynamics
37:10 The Role of HR and Unions
45:43 Documenting Evidence Against Bullying
52:25 Finding Strength and Moving Forward

Resources
Union Support and Advice - https://www.unions.org
Workplace Bullying Guide by ACAS - https://https://www.acas.org.uk/bullying-at-work
Mental Health Resources - https://www.mind.org.uk

Keywords
Workplace bullying, mental health, self-esteem, HR, workplace harassment, coping strategies, professional boundaries, Bullying, Bullies

Disclaimer
The views, experiences, and opinions shared in this episode belong solely to the guest. They reflect their personal perspective and recollection of events. Nothing discussed should be taken as a statement of fact about any named or identifiable individual, organisation, or workplace. As host, I provide a space for open conversation but do not verify, investigate, or take responsibility for the accuracy of what is shared. This episode is intended for discussion and reflection only.

We are a peer-connection space focused on shared storytelling, not a medical service or crisis centre. If you are in immediate need, we recommend reaching out to professional emergency services.