The Hidden Cost of One Toxic Employee - And What To Do About It

The Purposeful CEO with Emma Campbell

In this episode, I’m diving into something I know so many of us grapple with - what to do when someone on your team just isn’t aligned. Maybe they’re technically doing the job, but the energy? It’s off. Whether it’s subtle undermining, ongoing negativity, or just a general vibe that drags the whole team down, the impact of one misaligned team member is real—and costly.

I’ve seen how easy it is to keep someone on because they’re “irreplaceable” in one part of the role, or because you’re holding onto hope they’ll turn things around. And I know how hard it can be to even think about having that difficult conversation. But here’s the thing—while everyone else is tiptoeing around it, you’re left carrying the emotional weight. That’s not sustainable.

In this conversation, I’m unpacking what toxic behaviour really looks like, why it’s often ignored or justified, and how to address it in a way that’s firm, clear, and still rooted in compassion. I share the mindset shifts that can help you lead through the discomfort, what questions to ask before taking action, and how data—like a simple team engagement check-in - can help you get out of your head and into the full picture.

This isn’t just about performance - it’s about culture. The cost of doing nothing can be massive. From increased turnover to burnout, lost productivity, and the emotional toll it takes on you as a founder or CEO… it all adds up fast. But the moment you choose to act with intention? That’s when the turnaround begins.

If you’ve got a team that’s lost its spark, I’ve created a free masterclass just for you. On 7 May, I’m walking you through three ways to boost morale and unlock performance - without needing to spend more on salaries or bonuses. It’s designed for small biz owners and empathetic leaders who care deeply about their people but are ready for real results.

Spots are limited, and you can register now by DM on Insta or emailing me at [email protected].

I truly hope this episode helps you move forward with confidence - and protects the culture you’ve worked so hard to build.

Connect with me:

Instagram: @emma_lou_campbell

LinkedIn: Emma Campbell

Website: www.emmacampbell.com.au