A manager prepares for a short leave of absence — and the team steps up with calm, professional leadership.

Want to follow along more easily? The full script for this episode is free and available below.
If you’d like the complete learning experience —

including the workbook, 7 exercises, and the pronunciation audios —
The complete lesson is waiting for you in Episode 11D
https://www.patreon.com/posts/episode-11d-back-151593779

Synopsis:

When Douglas announces he’ll be taking a short leave of absence to care of his mother, the team at Finn Enterprises responds with steady professionalism and empathy. Across three scenes, listeners hear how colleagues balance personal news with project planning, share responsibilities clearly, and use calm leadership language to keep work on track.

Character Spotlight:

Adam

Supports the team by taking over client communication and staying accessible so coworkers feel comfortable asking questions.

Lyla

Asks clarifying questions, takes on content updates, and “flags anything that needs a decision,” modeling proactive communication.

Penny

Provides structure, assigns responsibilities, and keeps deadlines realistic — a steady leadership presence throughout the meeting.

Douglas

Explains his leave with clarity and honesty, balancing personal responsibility with trust in his team’s professionalism.

Learning Hook (Zoe’s Grammar & Vocabulary Corner):

This episode highlights essential workplace language for responsibility and leadership, including:

• “follow up” — checking progress or confirming completion

• “flag anything that needs a decision” — bringing attention to issues early

• shared‑responsibility phrases like “I can handle that” and “I’ll keep everyone informed”

Learners can practice these forms in the workbook’s exercises, using examples from the story.

Tagline:

Leadership isn’t always loud — sometimes it’s the calm language that keeps a team moving forward.

We’d love to hear from you.

Share your thoughts or questions at podcastwordsatwork@gmail.com

Listener messages help us shape future episodes and keep this community warm and connected