Can one bad apple ruin your team?

In this episode of Eat Sleep Work Repeat, host Bruce Daisley explores the science of human synchrony and its profound implications for workplace culture, drawing heavily from journalist Kate Murphy's book *Why We Click*. The conversation centers on the powerful, often invisible influence individuals have on team dynamics—both positive and negative. Daisley and Murphy discuss the 'bad apple' effect, where a single negative team member can drastically undermine group morale and performance, even without being consciously recognized by others. Yet, the episode offers hope through the 'good apple' phenomenon: one person with strong emotional presence and connection can counteract toxic energy by building bridges across the team. The discussion also challenges the assumption that remote work is sufficient for deep connection, arguing that face-to-face interaction is essential for true synchrony—measurable through mirrored heart rates, brainwaves, and body language. Daisley and Murphy advocate for intentional design of meetings, including shorter durations with deliberate interstitial time for reconnection, and suggest audio-only calls as a more effective alternative to video to reduce cognitive load and enhance empathy. Ultimately, the episode urges leaders and team members alike to become more aware of their emotional 'effective presence'—how they make others feel—and to cultivate environments where genuine human connection can thrive.