Login
Podcast Insider Logo

The law change that could transform toxic workplaces

by The Guardian

Today in Focus

Podcast Insider Logo

Get the full episode insights!

Enter your email below to get notified about more insights from:

Today in Focus

This episode is titled:

The law change that could transform toxic workplaces

Email

Notable Quotes

"The real harm and the real journey starts after you've signed that NDA."
"You're being gaslit by society. You're being told that your experience is not true, not valid, not allowed."
Podcast Insider Logo

Get episode summaries just like this for all your favourite podcasts in your inbox every day!

Get More Insights

Episode Summary

In this episode, Zelda Perkins shares her harrowing experiences working for Harvey Weinstein and how they led her to become a spokesperson against the misuse of non-disclosure agreements (NDAs). After breaking her NDA, Perkins helped spark the Me Too movement, providing a platform for countless individuals to voice their experiences of harassment and misconduct. She highlighted the negative effects NDAs have, claiming they perpetuate a toxic culture by hiding abuses of power from public scrutiny.

Perkins recounts her initial experience at Miramax, describing an environment that became increasingly dangerous, particularly after a co-worker was assaulted by Weinstein. As they sought justice, they were instead advised to accept settlements that included NDAs, which Perkins describes as a form of legal waterboarding. This experience led her to realize that NDAs silenced her not just publicly but privately, profoundly impacting her personal and professional life.

The conversation further explores how the misuse of NDAs extends across industries, condemning their role in protecting powerful individuals from consequences. The episode culminates in the announcement of a significant legislative change in the UK, where NDAs are now banned in cases of bullying, harassment, or abuse. This development is seen as a major victory in the fight for workplace rights and accountability.

Key Takeaways

  • NDAs are frequently misused to silence victims of workplace misconduct.
  • Breaking NDAs can lead to significant cultural shifts, as seen with the Me Too movement.
  • Legislative changes can enhance protections for victims and hold perpetrators accountable.

Found an issue with this summary?

Log in to Report Issue

Built for solopreneurs, makers, and business owners who don't have time to waste.