In this thought-provoking episode of Take It Online, host Brittain Wells explores the delicate balance between managerial support and professional boundaries when dealing with employee grief. The conversation with Leisse Wilcox examines why high-achieving employees often return to work prematurely after personal tragedy and the physiological impacts that affect their performance. The discussion evolves into a fascinating exploration of the manager-versus-therapist debate, with Wilcox offering the insightful metaphor of "building gates rather than walls" - creating clear boundaries while maintaining compassion. The episode challenges popular workplace rhetoric about "family-like" environments, emphasizing instead a professional framework that allows humanity without sacrificing accountability. Wells and colleagues highlight the importance of decisive leadership during crisis, making difficult decisions for struggling employees while maintaining the perfect Venn diagram between compassion and productivity. Music by: Harvey Waldman