BetterUp, a Silicon Valley life coaching startup valued at $5 billion, has faced sharp criticism from current and former employees, who have described its workplace culture as a “toxic train wreck.” The company, which employs the Duke of Sussex, Prince Harry, as its chief impact officer, has drawn scrutiny for its alleged “psychologically unsafe” environment.

 

Prince Harry, appointed to his role in March 2021, has been a prominent advocate for the company’s mission, even describing his personal experience with a BetterUp coach as “invaluable.” Reflecting on his coaching journey after stepping back from royal duties, he said, “I was matched with a truly awesome coach who has given me sound advice and a fresh perspective.” His positive experience led him to extend BetterUp services to staff at the Archewell Foundation, the organization he runs with the Duchess of Sussex.  

 

However, despite the Duke’s public endorsement, reviews from employees have painted a contrasting picture of the workplace culture. On Glassdoor, a platform that promotes workplace transparency, the company has a rating of just 2.9 out of five stars based on over 600 reviews. Alarmingly, only 35% of reviewers said they would recommend BetterUp to a friend.  

 

Employees have voiced concerns about an environment where many feel “uncomfortable and living in fear.” One worker described the leadership team as an “elitist club of leaders” with “no moral compass” and a glaring “lack of self-awareness.” Another former employee branded BetterUp a “literal circus” in a review, criticizing the executive leadership for being “detached from everyone else” and prone to “constantly shifting strategy.”  

 

The challenges of breaking into BetterUp’s perceived “inner circle” were also highlighted. “If you’re not in the inner circle, good luck to you,” a review from September noted, reflecting what many see as a culture of exclusivity.  

 

BetterUp’s CEO and co-founder, Alexi Robichaux, who offered the Duke his position after being introduced through a mutual acquaintance in 2020, has repeatedly defended the company and its mission. He has praised Prince Harry for his “model of inspiration and impact through action,” noting that the Duke’s commitment to helping others aligns with the company’s goals of empowering people to reach their full potential.  

 

Despite the Duke’s optimism, the negative feedback from employees has cast a shadow on his first significant business role since leaving the UK. BetterUp’s mission of “equipping people to thrive” may face hurdles as the company works to address internal criticisms and repair its public image.

 

 

Based on a report by Daily Telegraph 2024-12-30

 

 

 

I doubt anyone needs mental health support more than  woeful Harry 

18 hours ago, Social Media said:

The company, which employs the Duke of Sussex, Prince Harry, as its chief impact officer, has drawn scrutiny for its alleged “psychologically unsafe” environment.

 

Sounds like he started bringing Meghan to the office with him to show staff her special brand of "kindness and authenticity".

10 hours ago, jippytum said:

I doubt anyone needs mental health support more than  woeful Harry 

Trump????