Navigating Toxic Workplace Environments: When Is Enough, Enough?

‍

A toxic workplace can drain your energy, shake your confidence, and make you question your worth. Whether it’s a manipulative boss, workplace bullying, being undervalued, or dealing with constant burnout, the emotional and mental toll of toxicity is real. Too often, professionals stay stuck in unhealthy work environments out of fear—fear of losing stability, fear of retaliation, or fear that nothing better exists. But at what cost? Your well-being, career growth, and peace of mind should never be sacrificed for a paycheck.

Recognizing the signs of a toxic workplace is the first step, but knowing how to advocate for yourself, explore your options, and regain control is where transformation begins. That’s where coaching comes in—to provide strategy, confidence, and support as you navigate difficult work situations or prepare for your next move. You don’t have to tolerate toxicity. With the right guidance, you can reclaim your power, set boundaries, and position yourself for opportunities where you are respected, valued, and thriving.

‍

Let's Start the Conversation!

Have questions or curious about how PeopleFirst can help you overcome challenges in your personal life, career, or workplace? Ready to make a change? Fill out the form, and we’ll get back to you promptly to discuss how we can support your next step.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

take the first step toward your true self.

Free Clarity Consultation
aboutcontactservicesschedulenews/buzz
© 2025 Copyright PeopleFirstCCS All rights reserved.
close

Stephanie L. Herring

Executive Coach, HR & People Strategy Leader

With over 25 years of experience leading human resources, people, and culture strategy, Stephanie L. Herring is a dynamic force in the industry—an executive, coach, and trusted advisor committed to transforming workplace cultures and individual careers. As a subject matter expert in HR, business strategy, and leadership development, she has shaped the success of organizations nationwide, serving in executive roles such as Chief, Senior Vice President, and Director of Human Resources. Her work has spanned multiple industries, driving people-centric initiatives that bridge business goals with employee well-being.

Stephanie’s passion for people extends beyond boardrooms and HR strategy meetings. As the Founder and Chief Empowerment Officer of PeopleFirst Coaching & Consulting Solutions, she merges her corporate expertise with her lifelong dedication to coaching. Her firm was cultivated to empower individuals at every stage of life and career—whether navigating workplace challenges, overcoming toxicity in corporate environments, exploring entrepreneurship, or transitioning from college into the workforce.

A high achiever who believes in meeting people where they are, Stephanie’s coaching approach is grounded in authenticity, resilience, and actionable strategy. She has spent decades mentoring professionals and executives, guiding them toward clarity, confidence, and success on their own terms.

Stephanie holds degrees in Journalism Communications and Secondary Education. She is a Certified Professional in Human Resources (PHR, SHRM-CP) and a Strategic HR Business Partner (sHRBP), recognized by the Human Resources Certification Institute, Society for Human Resources Management, and Human Capital Institute. Additionally, she is a Certified Life and Career Coach, blending structured career guidance with personal empowerment.

Her leadership and impact have earned her numerous accolades, including being named one of the Top Admired Women Leaders in Pittsburgh by Women We Admire and receiving a C-Suite Award from the Pittsburgh Business Times—an honor she was nominated for by the workforce she served.

Stephanie’s driving philosophy is simple yet powerful: #PeopleFirst. Whether coaching individuals or shaping corporate cultures, she remains steadfast in her mission—helping others take their next authentic step forward.