013: "Gossip is a fireable offense!"

Many years ago, I took a leadership course from Dave Ramsey, and there’s one line that’s stuck with me ever since:

“Gossip is a fireable offense. Period.”

Sounds intense, right? But when you’re building a strong, trust-filled culture like we are, gossip is poison.

Dave defined gossip as this:

Gossip = negative talk without a proposed solution.

That definition changed the game for me. I’ve used it for over a decade at Wright’s and NinjaZone, and it’s been a huge part of protecting our culture from the slow leak of negativity that can sneak in when we’re not paying attention.

Still, even with great people and good intentions, gossip can creep in - especially if there aren’t clear channels for communication or problem-solving.

So what do we do? How do we stop gossip in the moment without being awkward, condescending, or shaming someone who just wants to vent?

I’ve got you. 🤜🏼💥🤛🏼

Here are some real-life strategies you can use right away:

1. The Friendly Redirect

“Ahhh, I hear you. Have you had a chance to bring that up with [person/manager]? I bet they’d want to know.”

• Keeps the convo positive

• Empowers problem-solving

• Moves the energy forward
  

2. The Solution Shift

“Totally valid. What do you think we could do to make it better?”

• Recognizes the issue

• Encourages ownership

• Flips the script to action
  

3. The “Team Vibe” Reminder

“Let’s figure this out in a way that protects the vibe. We’re all on the same team.”

• Soft but clear

• Puts culture first

• Pulls everyone back into alignment
  

4. The Light-Hearted Pivot

“Uh-oh, this is sounding a little gossipy 😅 ... let’s be the crew that talks to people, not about them.”

• Non-threatening humor

• Honest without being harsh

• Reinforces expectations without drama
  

This isn’t about being the gossip police.

It’s about being leaders. People who protect the emotional safety of the people around us. People who listen, then lead. People who help others feel heard while also nudging them toward what’s next.

So next time something feels off in the breakroom or on the gym floor… pause. Smile. Shift.

We’re building something big here. Let’s protect it together. 💛

With love (and high standards), - Casey

 🎯Real Talk - Ever just want to heat up your leftovers between classes… and suddenly you’re stuck in an episode of Keeping up with the Coaches. 🍿

It usually kicks off with:

• “Not trying to gossip, but…” (spoiler: yes, they are)

• “Don’t tell anyone I said this…” (translation: I really want you to tell someone)

• Or the classic, “Can you believe…?” (yes, yes we can).
  

[We laugh...but you know exactly what I’m talking about. 😉]

Here’s the truth: in the moment, gossip can feel satisfying. Like you’ve just scored VIP access to the behind-the-scenes drama. But afterward? The vibe tanks, trust takes a hit, and suddenly everyone’s side-eyeing each other like we’re voting someone off the island. Ugh.

That’s where you come in. Those redirect lines? They’re your remote control. You get to flip the channel - - from drama to solutions. Same breakroom, way better show.

So next time, let’s leave the plot twists to Netflix. We’ve got something way better to build. 💛