Kate Viana, Founder of Viana Communications, shares a Client Horror Story like no other.
In 2021, after leaving a nonprofit to strike out on her own, Kate was thrilled when a Texas-based client reached out. She began by improving their website—despite having little experience and doing it for free—before transitioning into consulting work.
Eager to expand her expertise, Kate offered to visit the organization in person. What she discovered was shocking. At her very first dinner meeting, leaders openly backstabbed each other and spread negativity. Survey responses later confirmed what she had witnessed: a toxic, abusive workplace. During a site visit, Kate saw it firsthand when the executive director screamed at employees in front of her.
Still committed, Kate compiled a detailed report outlining her observations. Instead of appreciation, she was abruptly let go. Months later, when the organization demanded access to the website and files she had created, Kate requested payment before handing anything over. That's when things spiraled.
The executive director launched a campaign of harassment—bombarding Kate with emails, calls, texts, and even social media attacks. She went as far as contacting her new employers to berate her.
Tune in to hear how Kate endured this ordeal and the changes she made to protect herself and her business moving forward.