There are many things to ask to my manager (non-meeting days, remove non mandatory people from invites, open team discussion on the topic). I guess this is more of a culture thing at work where everyone is "expected" to show up. I see my boss' situation as even worst (although one might argue that that is his job, I see this as quite unhealthy no matter the role)
Love the cynical quip. Yes I am an IC (tech lead). The non-meeting days make a lot of sense. Ironically, this will deserve an additional 1-to-1 meeting with my manager