Surviving Workplace Hostility

Surviving Workplace Hostility

From TonyTidbit: A Black Executive Perspective by TonyTidbit ™

April 30, 2026 · 12 min · Episode 369

About this episode

Dr. Nsenga Burton discusses workplace hostility and how marginalized professionals can navigate aggression while maintaining their integrity.

Episode Title: Episode Audio Link: https://podcast.ablackexec.com/episode/surviving-workplace-hostility- Episode Video Link: In this audio episode of Need to Know with Dr. Nsenga Burton , Dr. Burton examines workplace hostility, business etiquette, microaggressions, and the professional discipline required when your identity-based perspective is challenged. Using Ta-Nehisi Coates’ composed response during a difficult interview as a framework, Dr. Burton explains how Black professionals, women, people of color, and historically disenfranchised communities can respond to aggression without sacrificing their livelihood, reputation, or peace. This episode is a sharp reminder that standing firm does not mean self-destruction. Sometimes, the real power is knowing how to defend your perspective without burning down your own house. What You Will Learn • How hostility and microaggressions show up in professional spaces • Why is composure a survival skill in workplace conflict • How lived experience shapes disagreement around power, race, and equity • Why protecting your career does not mean abandoning your truth ▶︎ In This Episode 00:00, Introduction 00:45, Business etiquette and…

People in this episode

Host: Dr. Nsenga Burton

Topics covered

  • workplace hostility
  • microaggressions
  • business etiquette
  • professional discipline
  • identity-based perspective
  • power and race
  • career protection

Keywords

  • workplace conflict
  • composure
  • lived experience
  • disrespectful disagreement
  • career protection
  • microaggressions
  • business etiquette

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Need to Know

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