Middle Management Movement By Michelle Pascoe

Content warning: This episode discusses sensitive topics including sexual harassment and workplace safety. In this episode of The Michelle Pascoe Hospitality Podcast, we explore the leadership behaviours that create safer, more respectful hospitality venues — and why hope is not a strategy when it comes to workplace culture. Michelle is joined by Karen Maher, founder of Smart Culture and a leading WHS and cultural consultant, who brings over 20 years’ experience working across hospitality, government, and private organisations. In this episode, we discuss: Why leadership behaviour matters more than policies How hospitality culture has shifted — and where gaps still exist The real impact of sexual harassment on individuals, teams, and bystanders What strong leaders do differently to prevent unsafe behaviours How to build a speak-up culture that people actually trust Practical steps leaders can take to respond safely and supportively Why “hope” is one of the most dangerous workplace str