Surviving the 9-to-5: A Guide to Toxic Workplaces by Chris Finley is a powerful, honest look into the challenges of navigating a toxic work environment. Blending personal experience with well-researched insights, Finley offers listeners a roadmap to recognizing toxic behaviors, protecting themselves, and finding a path forward.

From subtle disrespect to overt harassment, Finley recounts his journey through difficult workplaces—from his first job as a sales clerk to roles in the healthcare industry—showing how these issues cross industries and positions. He breaks down the emotional and physical toll toxic environments take and the signs to look for in manipulative coworkers and disengaged leadership.

What sets this guide apart is its blend of personal storytelling and evidence-based research, drawing on studies from the Harvard Business Review and MIT Sloan. Finley explains how everyday workers can identify red flags, understand their legal rights, and take action. He offers practical strategies tailored to different stress responses and personality types, empowering listeners to cope and push back effectively.

Key Takeaways:

Real-life stories of workplace toxicity across multiple job roles

Research-backed insights into the psychological and organizational roots of toxic cultures

Clear guidance on employee rights, reporting harassment, and legal protections

Actionable advice to help listeners rebuild confidence and resilience

Emphasis on support systems—both personal and professional—to navigate challenges

Empathetic and empowering, Surviving the 9-to-5 is more than a survival guide—it’s a source of strength for anyone dealing with a harmful workplace. Finley reminds us that we’re not alone—and with the right tools, we can reclaim our peace and power.