Toxic Leadership Isn't Always Loud

In this episode of Trail Talks, Kelly and Terra are joined by Sue and Heather for a real conversation about a form of workplace toxicity that often goes unrecognized—silent bullying.This isn’t about obvious conflict or explosive leaders. It’s about the behaviors that happen quietly: Avoiding hard conversations  Withholding feedback  Excluding people from information or opportunities  Creating environments where people feel unseen, unsupported, or unsure where they stand And the impact? It’s real. It affects trust, performance, confidence—and ultimately, people.Together, they unpack: What silent bullying actually looks like in leadership spaces  Why it often goes unaddressed  The subtle behaviors that signal something deeper is off  And what leaders—and teammates—can do to change it This conversation is honest, at times uncomfortable, and necessary.Because leadership isn’t just about what you say. It’s also about what you don’t say—and the space that silence creates.Disclaimer: The views expressed in this episode are our own and do not reflect those of the Department of War or the United States Air Force.