Breaking Workplace Stigma: A Deep Dive on Mental Health
What happens when “mental wellness” in the workplace is treated as just another compliance checklist? In this episode, we dig into the truth behind mental health programs that look good on paper but fail in practice.
Marie and Randy sit down with Registered Psychologist, Trish De Guzman, to unpack misconceptions, workplace realities, and the urgent need for safe, stigma-free spaces.
From red flags you shouldn’t ignore, to the real role of HR, to why toxic leadership often goes unchecked, this conversation will shift how you think about mental wellness at work.
Key Highlights:
Why mental wellness should never be reduced to a compliance checklist
The difference between psychologists, guidance counselors, and psychiatrists
The most common workplace red flags: anxiety, bullying, overthinking, and lack of focus
How toxic leadership and unchecked managers trigger attrition
The role of HR in addressing workplace trauma and protecting employees
Why safe, private wellness spaces matter in every company
Real strategies for resilience when bosses or systems don’t change
How professionals like Trish decompress after emotionally heavy sessions
Radical Thoughts from the Episode:
Marie Ampeloquio (Host)
“It is a business at the end of the day, but sana service first, not business first.” - Marie Ampeloquio
“Why would you allow a person to constantly decline when you have the data points in front of you?” - Marie Ampeloquio
“You have to fill your own cup you can’t pour from an empty one.” - Marie Ampeloquio
“That’s the exact point of this conversation: clarity, not guesswork.” - Marie Ampeloquio
“Even in HR, facts and data should guide us in confronting toxic behaviors.” - Marie Ampeloquio
Randy Lobiano (Guest)
“How do we protect wellness from turning into just another business?” - Randy Lobiano
“Sometimes, leadership training isn’t the answer, maybe it’s mental well-being support.” - Randy Lobiano
“If therapy is part of productivity, then leaders should be open to it.” - Randy Lobiano
“The first time you ask, the answer is always no but that doesn’t mean the issue isn’t real.”- Randy Lobiano
“Attrition isn’t just numbers, it’s a mirror of unresolved workplace issues.” - Randy Lobiano
Trish De Guzman (Guest)
“The first thing I give clients is a safe space where they can be their true selves.” - Trish De Guzman
“Most employees don’t even realize they’re being bullied at work.” - Trish De Guzman
“If I’m not okay, I will not accept a session acknowledging that is key.” - Trish De Guzman
“Sometimes, the problem isn’t the team’s resilience, it's the manager’s behavior.” - Trish De Guzman
“We all have bad days. Being honest about that is the first step to healing.” - Trish De Guzman
