How to Win at Office Politics (Without Losing Yourself)
How to Win at Office Politics (Without Losing Yourself)  
Podcast: The Next-Level Paycheck
Published On: Tue Feb 24 2026
Description: Office politics isn’t optional — it’s leadership.In this episode, I share a real story about creating influence inside a model government by using the press, building alliances, and shifting where power lived in the room.If you think office politics is dirty or beneath you, this conversation will challenge that belief.We break down:• What office politics really is• The difference between culture and politics• How to build coalitions strategically• Why networking (even for introverts) is essential• How to recognize where real power lives• When and how to take credit for your workIf you’ve been stuck at the same level, avoiding politics while others advance, this episode will show you how to ride the wave instead of getting swallowed by it.You’re not stuck because you’re incapable. You’re stuck because you’ve been doing it alone.👇 Start now with the assessment: Take $2000 Leadership Growth Assessment - https://dvjkmswy.formester.com/f/kxIS...Join 7 day Leadership Sprint - https://nblnhiao.formester.com/f/fgBS...Start 21 day Leadership Acceleration Series - https://dvjkmswy.formester.com/f/dyHb...Free Ebooks Resource Hub - https://lindacureton.com/hub/ TIMESTAMPS00:00 – I Made Up a Scandal (Here’s Why)00:42 – How Power Shifted in the Room01:03 – Leadership Assessment Invitation01:41 – What Is Office Politics?02:25 – Positive vs Negative Politics03:10 – Culture vs Politics Explained03:49 – Baptized by Fire in Office Politics04:23 – Do You Have a Best Friend at Work?04:54 – Why You Need Alliances05:32 – My First Political Lesson in College06:35 – Building an Alliance with the Pastor07:16 – Using the Press to Manipulate the Situation08:13 – Where the Real Power Lived08:31 – Recognize Where Power Actually Is09:11 – Networking Outside Your Organization10:06 – Why Women Struggle to Take Credit11:03 – Balancing Humility and Visibility11:22 – Positive Political Behaviors to Master#OfficePolitics #WomenInLeadership #CareerAdvancement #LeadershipSkills #Networking #CoalitionBuilding #ExecutivePresence #WorkplaceStrategy