Why Workplace Connection Fails — And How Leaders Can Fix It

Relationships at Work - the leadership podcast helping you build workplace connection, improve culture, and avoid blind spots.

This is part 1 of 6 of our Workhuman LIVE series.

In this episode of Relationships at Work, host Russel Lolacher is joined by workplace culture and leadership expert Jason Lauritsen to explore the real obstacles leaders face when trying to build meaningful connections at work. From poor relationship training to fear of feedback, Jason breaks down why so many managers get connection wrong—and what to do about it.

We talk about the role of self-awareness, why cultural misfits suffer in silence, how trust is lost through delegation, and what connection really means in leadership. If you're looking to improve employee experience, boost psychological safety, and become a more human-centered leader, this episode is for you.

🔎 Topics include:

• The difference between relationships and connection
• Why middle managers get scapegoated
• The emotional cost of poor leadership
• The power of one-on-one conversations
• How remote leaders can still build trust and connection

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