Walmart (yes, Walmart) has now done more for worker rights than the U.S. government

Image by Sven via Wikimedia Commons

Earlier this month, Walmart announced sweeping additions to how it compensates its employees.

The 3rd nominee for the “worst employer of 2018” is … the camera creep

The third nominee for the Worst Employer of 2018 might be the creepiest I’ve shared yet.

From the Tampa Bay Times (c/o the ABA Journal):

Attorney James Patrick Stanton, accused of secretly videotaping nude and partially clothed female employees of a Tampa company, has agreed to never practice law again in Florida. 

WIRTW #490 (the “hilarious world of depression” edition)

Mental illness, especially among our youth, is an issue about which we do not pay nearly enough attention (to wit: this week’s suicide of Washington State quarterback Tyler Hilinski).

Today, I recommend that everyone check out The Hilarious World of Depression podcast.

The Hilarious World of Depression is a series of frank, moving, and, yes, funny conversations with top comedians who have dealt with this disease, hosted by veteran humorist and public radio host John Moe. Join guests … to learn how they’ve dealt with depression and managed to laugh along the way. If you have not met the disease personally, it’s almost certain that someone you know has, whether it’s a friend, family member, colleague, or neighbor. Depression is a vicious cycle of solitude and stigma that leaves people miserable and sometimes dead. Frankly, we’re not going to put up with that anymore. The Hilarious World of Depression is not medical treatment and should not be seen as a substitute for therapy or medication. But it is a chance to gain some insight, have a few laughs, and realize that people with depression are not alone and that together, we can all feel a bit better.

As a launching point, I recommend the January 2 episode featuring Rhett Miller (who also wrote and performs the podcast’s theme song, about “the world’s greatest clown”). Rhett talks frankly about his own teenage suicide attempt and how music saved his life. It’s a supremely worthwhile listen from one of the world’s great songwriters, and an all around good guy.

Here’s what I read this week:

Employee’s refusal to take drug test dooms discrimination claim

Can an employee, terminated for refusing to submit to a “reasonable suspicion” drug test, sue the employer for discrimination?

According to one recent federal district court opinion (and good ol’ common sense), the answer is no.

Employers win when they support the Sandwich Generation

I am declaring today New Year’s Day 2.0.

To put it bluntly, the first 16 days of 2018 sucked. I need a do over.

This has been my 2018 to date.

How likely are you to sexually harass?

Are you tired of seeing your Facebook feed littered with the results of your friends’ quizzes, with titles such as, “Which Game of Thrones Character are You?” or “Which Disney Couple Defines You?”

Well, I have one more quiz for you to take, and this one may just pique your interest.

It’s the Likelihood to Sexually Harass quiz.

Today’s America would deeply disturb Dr. MLK

A date appropriate reminder that our nation works better when our leaders seek to unite rather than divide.


We should strive to take these words to heart.