GBA Podcast Episode Explores Case History #107

In a new episode of the GBA Podcast Case History series, hosts Elizabeth Brown, P.E. (JLT Consultants) and Abi Corbett (SME) unpack the lessons of GBA Case History #107, where a supervisor’s failure to recognize and act on implied mental health disclosures led to costly legal consequences.

This case highlights essential risk management insights for every geoprofessional firm. It’s a reminder that technical excellence must be matched by leadership and empathy—especially when navigating the human side of business.

Brown and Corbett walk listeners through the real-world challenges faced by a GBA member firm that navigated a difficult employee performance issue involving the Family and Medical Leave Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act. Their conversational style and thoughtful analysis make this episode both accessible and deeply relevant for firm leaders, managers, and human resources professionals.

Key Takeaways for Geoprofessionals

Elizabeth and Abi use the case to highlight essential lessons for leaders and managers in geoprofessional firms, including:
• Train supervisors in HR fundamentals: Even basic awareness of employment law can prevent costly missteps.
• Take casual mentions seriously: Implied references to medical conditions may trigger legal obligations.
• Engage HR early: HR professionals are essential partners in navigating complex personnel issues.

Tune in to learn how compassion must be paired with compliance to protect both employees and the business.

Looking for more real-world lessons? Explore all GBA Case Histories.

GBA has published more than 115 case histories based on real-life events that have happened to geoprofessional firms. GBA Case Histories are unique because our members share real-life stories of problems that impacted their businesses. They also include the outcomes of corrective action, and lessons learned.

GBA’s Multimedia Delivery Committee also delivers select Case Histories as podcasts.

This podcast episode was produced by the following GBA members:
• Elizabeth Brown, P.E. (JLT Consultants)
• Abi Corbett (SME)
• Ryan White, P.E., G.E. (Apex Companies), Chair of GBA’s Multimedia Delivery Committee.