E47: Beyond the Surface - Sexual Harassment, Power Dynamics, and Domestic Violence with Rika Sawatsky

About this episode

Rika Sawatsky discusses the complexities of sexual harassment and domestic violence in the workplace, offering insights and strategies for employers and HR professionals.

Ever wonder how far workplace misconduct can go before it's officially called sexual harassment? Workplace lawyer and certified gender auditor Rika Sawatsky joins us to break down a jaw-dropping case that'll make you question everything you thought you knew about harassment. From "tube steak" propositions to isolated canoe invitations, Rika shares why sexual harassment isn't always overtly sexual. But here's the kicker: a tribunal decision maker said some of this behavior was just... innocent? We're learning into what employers are getting dangerously wrong, the shocking stat that 6.5% of your workforce is dealing with domestic violence right now, and why "zero tolerance" policies might actually silence victims instead of protecting them. Plus, Rika shares battle-tested strategies from Fortune 500 companies that actually work. Whether you're in HR, leadership, or just trying to navigate the modern workplace, this episode delivers the real talk and practical tools you need. Don't miss this one, listen now!

People in this episode

Hosts: Tanya Steele, Richard Dulong

Guest: Rika Sawatsky

Topics covered

• sexual harassment
• workplace misconduct
• power dynamics
• domestic violence
• HR strategies
• zero tolerance policies

Keywords

• workplace harassment
• gender audit
• domestic violence statistics
• HR policies
• employee protection
• workplace culture

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Fortune 500

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