Early success in the workplace for Michelle Durpetti included a promotion to a supervisory position after only two years with a former employer in the 1990s.

What happened next blindsided the eager and enthusiastic businesswoman with grand visions of moving up the corporate ladder – her boss became more demanding while resorting to yelling and tacking on more work. Pleas for assistance and direction were ignored.

One last help request by Durpetti was turned into accusations of insubordination and a threat that she “better watch herself.” A fellow supervisor also was no longer friendly, making belligerent late-night phone calls to her home.