I believe both the experts are correct- this is a cultural fit problem in the company that Elizabeth does not have much control over. While right now it is just something that affects her emotionally, with less of an impact on her career trajectory, this chauvinistic culture may eventually end up affecting it- and she should aim to take her talents elsewhere both to avoid it and to find a better fit for herself.
However, as this situation is affecting her emotionally, it is also important to face her decisions with a clear head. Due to her high status in the company, she has clear strengths and abilities that she can take to pastures far greener- she just needs to be patient, wait out the intensity of the next couple of months, and find that option for herself. Having this long term goal may also help her tread the emotionally charged waters she is in right now, as it will give her something beyond the company to work towards.
If I were a manager, I would know that my actions could do wonders to help reshape company- or just team- culture- especially if I were male or in a higher position of power. Due to the small size of the company, simply calling this behavior out, asking people to explain jokes they are making, or including Elizabeth in more conversations could both make Elizabeth feel more welcome and show other workers that these actions are not acceptable. However, a manager cannot control everything- thus, I would see if there are any roles Elizabeth would be open to doing with less direct contact with Claudia or Brad. Regardless, my role would be to keep Elizabeth from moving to a different company- especially since she is also interested in staying. By empathizing with her and working on creating a solution with her together, I would aim to advocate for Elizabeth’s comfort and status as much as I can.
