Evolve: A New Era of Leadership

In this episode, I’m joined by Kelly L. Campbell, a pioneer in trauma-informed leadership and the author of the revolutionary book, "Heal to Lead." We discuss how addressing trauma can fundamentally transform leadership styles, promoting environments of trust, psychological safety, and true connectivity within organizations. Kelly shares their journey from founding a cause marketing agency to writing her book, driven by their desire to revolutionize leadership through trauma healing.   The episode delves into the concept of trauma-informed leadership, the significance of understanding one's trauma, the negative impact of neglecting this aspect, and how leaders can foster psychologically safe environments that encourage vulnerability, resilience, and collective growth. Kelly details her experiences and the influences that shaped her views on leadership and organizational culture.   Kelly L. Campbell (they/she) inspires revelation and responsibility in leaders across the globe. As a trauma-informed leadership coach, speaker, facilitator, writer, and author, they empower self-aware visionaries to correlate their past wounds to their leadership style, transforming the way they lead, live, and love. Her debut book, Heal to Lead: Revolutionizing Leadership through Trauma Healing (Wiley) will be released in April 2024.   They write for Entrepreneur, have written for Forbes, and offer exclusive content to their Substack community, “The New TLC: Trauma, Leadership, and Consciousness.” Early in their career, Kelly was the founder and CEO of a cause marketing agency and sold it in 2016, which led her to advise Fortune 50 corporations, nonprofits, government organizations, and marketing and advertising agencies. They have hosted two top-rated podcasts since 2006—one on holistic health and wellness and the other on conscious leadership for marketing and advertising agency leaders.   A longtime conservationist, Kelly was trained by Al Gore as a Climate Reality Leader in 2017. Most recently, they became certified as a Reiki Level III Practitioner. Kelly’s vision is to empower more than half of humanity to heal its childhood trauma so that we may reimagine and rebuild the world together.   🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways: Trauma-Informed Leadership: An exploration of how understanding and integrating trauma can fundamentally enhance leadership effectiveness, as demonstrated through Kelly’s insights and her book, "Heal to Lead." 🌍 Healing and Leading: Discussion on why leaders must start with healing themselves to effectively lead others, highlighting the impact of personal trauma work on leadership styles and organizational health. 🏢 Personal Stories and Professional Insights: Kelly shares her transition from a cause marketing CEO to a trauma-informed leadership coach, illustrating the deep interconnections between personal healing and professional leadership. 🛤️ Impact of Neglecting Trauma: Kelly and I discuss the detrimental effects of ignoring personal trauma and how leaders can overcome these challenges to foster a healthier work environment. 🌱 Creating Psychological Safety: Strategies for leaders to create environments that encourage vulnerability, support personal growth, and ensure psychological safety in the workplace. 🔋 We talk about: 00:00 Intro 04:09 Why people need to read Heal to Lead, even if you’re ‘doing the work’ 06:13 What makes healing more inviting or necessary 09:29 Ego showing up in different ways, including being a people pleaser 13:07 Personality assessments that can help tell us what style leadership we have 14:50 Where do we direct people who want to learn more about themselves and their patterns, if not these tools 19:43 Not looking to fix people but inviting them to find out who they are, the benefits of coaching versus therapy 21:26 Four fundamentals of high conscious leadership 25:04 Embodiment and holding space 34:26 How do we prepare our bodies, minds, etc. to lead with compassion 40:16 Boundaries to avoid burnout 41:26 Lighting the way 44:54 Do you need to be in a place of self-actualization in order to come back to the collective wisdom? 49:12 TLC community 50:59 Rapid fire questions 🌈 Closing Thoughts: This episode with Kelly Campbell delves deeply into the necessity of trauma-informed practices in leadership. By integrating personal healing and understanding into daily leadership roles, leaders can cultivate environments that promote trust, safety, and resilience. We encourage you to reflect on how these practices can be integrated into your leadership to enhance both personal well-being and organizational success. Feel free to share your thoughts or experiences about adopting trauma-informed leadership practices on our social media channels. #TraumaInformedLeadership #PsychologicalSafety #LeadershipDevelopment #PersonalGrowth #OrganizationalHealth   Connect with Kelly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelly.l.campbell  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellylcampbell/  Book Pre-Order: https://klcampbell.com/heal-to-lead-book/  Website: https://klcampbell.com/  Substack: https://kellylcampbell.substack.com/  Leadership Quiz: https://klcampbell.com/leadership/  Healing Resources: https://myhealingmenu.com  Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolynswora/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/ Twitter: ​​https://twitter.com/CarolynSwora  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carolynsworkplaceculture/ Website: https://www.carolynswora.com/ Contact: media@carolynswora.com

In this episode, I’m joined by Lee Cordell, a pioneer in trauma-informed leadership and the founder of the Institute for Trauma and Psychological Safety. We discuss how recognizing and addressing trauma can fundamentally transform leadership styles, promoting environments of trust, psychological safety, and true connectivity within organizations. Lee shares her personal journey from a nursing career to establishing her institute, driven by the desire to create safer spaces and healthier relationships in professional settings.    The episode delves into the concept of trauma-informed leadership, the significance of understanding one's needs, the negative impact of neglecting personal trauma, and how leaders can foster psychologically safe environments that encourage vulnerability, resilience, and collective growth. Lee also details an upcoming experiential event by the Institute, aimed at expanding individual capacities and reconceptualizing the approach to leadership and organizational culture.   Dr. Lee started the Institute for Trauma and Psychological Safety after retiring from her decade-long career as an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and graduate-level professor.   She is devoted to helping humans understand their past so they can create happier, healthier futures. She integrates her personal stories of childhood abuse, depression and anxiety with her 20 years of professional experience in order to bring accessible, practical trauma education to all who desire to learn more.   🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways: Trauma-Informed Approaches: We discuss what trauma-informed leadership looks like and how it can transform organizational practices and leadership styles. 🌍 Institute for Trauma and Psychological Safety: Lee talks about the founding of her institute, its mission, and the programs it offers that cater to developing safer organizational spaces. 🏢 Personal Journey: Lee shares her transition from a healthcare professional to an educator and coach, focusing on the needs and well-being of leaders in various sectors. 🛤️ Impact on Personal Development: Explore how addressing trauma not only improves professional capabilities but also personal growth and self-awareness. 🌱 Sustainable Leadership Practices: Discussing strategies for maintaining balance and preventing burnout in high-demand leadership roles. 🔋 We talk about: 00:00 Intro 01:46 The Institute for Trauma and why she founded it 04:29 Starting a side business coaching other women 07:30 Leaving the bedside 12:17 Why do leaders need this work 17:56 New event November 2024 - "Full Capacity" 21:03 Why do we not do enough to help with psychological safety without attaching the word trauma to it? 26:18 The feeling of resentment under the frustration, and unpacking dysregulation  35:11 One of the riskiest things to do in corporate - ask for help from the wrong people 40:18 Intimacy and vulnerability in the workspace 47:56  Rapid fire questions 🌈 Closing Thoughts: Our deep dive with Lee Cordell offers invaluable perspectives on integrating trauma-informed practices into leadership. This episode not only highlights the importance of understanding the role of trauma in professional settings but also provides practical advice for leaders to implement these insights into their daily lives. Join us as we explore how transforming leadership through a trauma-informed lens can lead to more compassionate and effective management practices. Share your thoughts, experiences, or questions about integrating trauma-informed practices in your leadership on our social media channels. #TraumaInformedLeadership #PsychologicalSafety #LeadershipDevelopment #HealthcareLeadership #PersonalGrowth   Connect with Lee Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/becomingtraumainformed/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/becometraumainformed  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leeccordell/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@that1traumacoach  Website: https://institutefortrauma.com  Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1522051/share  The 10-Second Protocol: https://institutefortrauma.com/10sp  Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolynswora/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/ Twitter: ​​https://twitter.com/CarolynSwora  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carolynsworkplaceculture/ Website: https://www.carolynswora.com/ Contact: media@carolynswora.com

In this solo episode, I share insights from my journey as a leader, a host of this podcast, an author, and leadership consultant. With over 60 guests interviewed and a wealth of knowledge gained from my second book and certification programs, we dive into what I’ve learned about the  nervous system's influence on leadership, the essence of being trauma-informed, and the key learnings from my personal leadership journey. 🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways: 🧠 Three-Brained Beings: Discover the significance of integrating our three centers of intelligence—head, heart, and body—for effective leadership. 💡 Learning 1 - Discovering Body Wisdom: Uncover the power of acknowledging and harmonizing the wisdom of our body with our intellectual and emotional intelligence. 🕰 Learning 2 - The Influence of Our Past: Explore how past experiences shape our leadership styles and the importance of addressing emotional duress. 🔒 Learning 3 - The Stories Our Bodies Hold: Learn about the physical and physiological storage of memories and its impact on our reactions and decision-making. 🌱 Being Trauma-Informed: Understand the benefits of a trauma-informed approach to leadership, emphasizing compassion, safety, and co-regulation. 🛠 The Importance of Being a Trauma-Informed Practitioner: Insights into personal growth and professional efficacy through understanding and applying trauma-informed principles. We talk about: 00:00 Intro 02:22 Three brained beings 03:56 Learning 1 - Discovering how your three centers of intelligence work together 06:34 Learning 2 - Our past influences us more than we realize 09:34 Learning 3 - Our body store stories, memories that we don't have access to  10:43 What does it mean to lead by being trauma informed 13:25 Key learnings about being a trauma informed leader 17:50 What happens when we aren't trauma informed 20:33 The transformation that this leadership style can spark 24:17 What can we do? 🌈 Closing Thoughts: I invite you to reflect on your own leadership journey, to explore trauma-informed practices, and consider the continuous pursuit of personal and professional growth. Let me know what you think about my first solo episode! Would you like to see more? #LeadershipDevelopment #TraumaInformedLeadership #PersonalGrowth #ProfessionalDevelopment Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolynswora/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/ Twitter: ​​https://twitter.com/CarolynSwora  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carolynsworkplaceculture/ Website: https://www.carolynswora.com/ Contact: media@carolynswora.com

In this episode, we explore the transformative concept of body wisdom and its critical role in enhancing personal and professional growth. I’m joined by Erica Hornthal, a board-certified dance movement therapist, who sheds light on how accessing our body's inherent wisdom can lead to profound insights and healing. Through the lens of dance movement therapy, Erica provides a fascinating perspective on the interconnectedness of mind, body, and emotion. Erica Hornthal, is a licensed clinical professional counselor, board-certified dance/movement therapist, and the CEO and founder of Chicago Dance Therapy. Since graduating with her MA in Dance/Movement Therapy and Counseling from Columbia College Chicago, Erica has worked with thousands of patients aged 3-107. Known as “The Therapist Who Moves You,” Hornthal is changing the way people see movement with regard to mental health. 🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways: The Essence of Body Wisdom: Dive into understanding what body wisdom is and how we can tap into the knowledge our bodies hold about our experiences, emotions, and the stories of our lives. 🧘‍♀️ Sensations as Language: Learn about the significance of tuning into our body's sensations, the neurological underpinnings, and how they can guide our decisions and enhance our understanding of ourselves. 🌟 Embodied Knowledge and Leadership: Explore how embodied knowledge can influence leadership styles, decision-making processes, and the cultivation of conscious work environments. 🏢 Practical Exercises for Accessing Body Wisdom: Erica shares simple, accessible ways to begin incorporating body awareness into daily life, emphasizing the role of movement in processing emotions and fostering personal growth. 🌈 We talk about: 00:00 Intro 05:34 What is body wisdom 07:59 What are sensations and what are some examples of them 10:49 Why should we pay attention to these sensations 15:35 The impact our bodies have on each other for communication and connections 19:48 How do you lean into sensations and use them? 22:28 How to use this practically in the work space 28:22 The term mental health keeping us stuck in our head, so how to build literacy around wellness 35:48 What happens when you let your body give you wisdom 39:50 Why she created her product and what she hopes people use it for 45:52 Is there a purpose to the color delineation with her cards 50:02 Rapid fire questions 🌈 Closing Thoughts: Our conversation with Erica Hornthal offers profound insights into the value of reconnecting with our body's wisdom. The episode invites listeners to consider the ways in which embodied knowledge can enhance not only personal well-being but also professional efficacy and leadership. We delve into practical strategies for integrating body awareness into our lives, inviting a holistic approach to health and leadership. Share your thoughts, experiences, or questions about embracing body wisdom, and join us in redefining wellness and leadership. #BodyWisdom #LeadershipDevelopment #MindfulnessInBusiness #OrganizationalCulture #PersonalGrowth   Connect with Erica Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.therapist.who.moves.you    www.ericahornthal.com  Purchase the The Movement Therapy Deck   Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolynswora/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/ Twitter: ​​https://twitter.com/CarolynSwora  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carolynsworkplaceculture/ Website: https://www.carolynswora.com/ Contact: media@carolynswora.com

In this episode, we explore the transformative concept of conscious leadership and its vital role in today’s evolving business landscape. I’m joined by Jennifer Mulholland and Jeff Shuck, co-owners of Plenty Consulting and co-authors of “Leading with Light: Choosing Conscious Leadership When You’re Ready for More.” They provide profound insights into how embracing conscious leadership can significantly impact personal growth and organizational success.   Jennifer Mulholland is an author, strategist, alchemist, executive coach, and co-owner of Plenty Consulting. From a very young age, she's been dedicated to raising the consciousness of people on the planet. For the last decade, she and her business partner, Jeff Shuck, have helped thousands of conscious leaders and businesses grow in revenue, impact, and fulfillment.    Before becoming co-owner of Plenty, Jennifer was Chief Innovation Officer at SunGard, a Fortune 500 technology company. She founded several businesses focused on bridging the gap between information and impact in healthcare, technology, and holistic wellbeing. She is a certified Reiki and Theta healer trained in shamanic and energy medicine. She has a B.S. degree in Exercise and Sports Science, Psychology, and Coaching from the University of Utah.    Jeff Shuck is an accomplished leader and entrepreneur with deep experience in leadership development, consulting, and social impact. Jeff is co-owner of Plenty Consulting with his business partner Jennifer Mulholland. Together, they have helped thousands of for-profit and non-profit leaders and organizations create their strategies, grow their fundraising, innovate new programs, and develop conscious cultures.    Before founding Plenty, Jeff was co-founder and CEO of fundraising firm Event 360, raising nearly a billion dollars for charity over 12 years. Jeff graduated Phi Beta Kappa from the University of Rochester and earned an MBA from Kellogg School of Management and an MS in Predictive Analytics from Northwestern. His work in positive change and social impact has been featured in a variety of outlets such as Marketplace, the Wall Street Journal, Fatherly, and the Stanford Social Innovation Review.  🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways: Understanding Conscious Leadership: Dive into the essence of conscious leadership, focusing on self-awareness, interconnectedness, and the power of presence. 🧘‍♂️ Impact of Conscious Leadership on Organizations: Discover how conscious leadership can transform business strategies, employee engagement, and organizational culture. 🌱 Personal Journeys to Conscious Leadership: Hear Jennifer and Jeff share their personal paths and experiences that led them to embrace and advocate for conscious leadership. 🛤️ The Four Lights of Conscious Leadership: A deep dive into the Four Lights framework proposed by Jennifer and Jeff in their book, exploring practical ways to implement these principles in daily life and work. 💡 Strategies for Navigating Change and Challenges: Learn how conscious leaders can effectively navigate through challenges and changes within their organizations and personal lives. 🚣‍♀️ Building Resilient and Fulfilling Work Environments: Discussion on how conscious leadership can create more resilient, fulfilling, and productive work environments for everyone involved. 🏢 We talk about: 4:06 Why is conscious leadership so important 8:15 What is elevating conscious leadership to be more acceptable 15:40 The roots of why they wrote their book and the ‘being’ vs. ‘doing’ of conscious leadership 20:02 The juxtaposition of conscious leadership 24:02 Mack Truck moments 29:53 Intentionality in leadership by showing up as our best selves to help others achieve their full potential 32:31 First Light 34:32 Second Light 36:53 Being trained as leaders by being rewarded for finding problems and fixing them 40:37 Third Light 45:31 Fourth Light 48:46 Their hope for this book 52:45 Best places to get their book, contact, and retreat info 56:16 Rapid fire questions 🌈 Closing Thoughts: The conversation with Jennifer and Jeff underscores the transformative power of conscious leadership in today’s dynamic business environment. We delve into practical strategies and insights for adopting a more mindful, intentional, and holistic approach to leadership and personal development. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on how they can incorporate the principles of conscious leadership into their own lives and workplaces. Share your reflections, experiences, or questions, and join us in redefining leadership for the new era. #ConsciousLeadership #LeadershipDevelopment #BusinessTransformation #MindfulnessInBusiness #OrganizationalCulture #PersonalGrowth Connect with Jeff and Jennifer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/plentyco   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/plentyconsulting  Twitter: www.twitter.com/PlentyCo  Website: https://www.plentyconsulting.com  Podcast: https://www.plentyconsulting.com/podcast  Blog: https://www.plentyconsulting.com/news  Leading with Light Book: https://www.leadingwithlightthebook.com    Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolynswora/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/ Twitter: ​​https://twitter.com/CarolynSwora  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carolynsworkplaceculture/ Website: https://www.carolynswora.com/ Contact: media@carolynswora.com

In this episode, we delve into the prevalent issue of change fatigue within the corporate landscape, a phenomenon amplified by constant shifts and adaptations in today's work environment.    Jenny Magic joins me to unravel the complexities behind change fatigue and its significant impact on employees and organizational dynamics. She offers a deep dive into how leaders can recognize, address, and navigate this growing concern to foster a more adaptive and resilient workplace culture.   Jenny Magic has spent the past two decades as a communications strategist, serving a wide range of clients – from Sesame Street to AARP, Prudential to Purdue, and a whole slew of tech companies. She's now focused on helping teams combat burnout and eliminate "Unworkable Work." She’s co-author of CHANGE FATIGUE: Flip Teams From Burnout to Buy-In, and she lives in Austin with her architect husband and two young sons. 🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways: The Reality of Change Fatigue: Unpack the concept of 'change tokens' and understand how the pandemic and technological advancements have escalated the demand for adaptability in the workplace. 🔄 Signs of Change Fatigue: Learn how to identify the subtle and overt signs of change fatigue among employees, from silence and resistance to the more insidious forms like stalling and deprioritizing. 🚩 Strategic Leadership and Change Management: Explore strategies for leaders to manage their own and their team's capacity for change, ensuring that change initiatives are thoughtful, well-prioritized, and genuinely necessary. 🛠️ Overcoming Overwhelm: Discuss the balance between operational efficiency and innovative capacity, and how to create space within organizations for necessary changes without overwhelming employees. ⚖️ Authentic Engagement and Support: Delve into the importance of genuine leadership involvement in change initiatives and the role of psychological safety in facilitating open dialogue and feedback. 👥 Prioritizing and Stacking Successes: Discover the benefits of prioritizing change initiatives to enhance effectiveness and reduce burnout, using strategic selection to build momentum and achieve better outcomes. 🏆 We talk about: 2:55 What is change fatigue and why is it important that leaders understand the reality of it 5:21 Signs of change fatigue 6:45 What is our capacity or limit for change 9:11 How Jenny helps leaders 10:22 Overview of the steps of change outlined in her book 12:41 What people can do to make sure they're solving the right problem 18:21 What can sponsors be asking 21:17 What happens if we don't do this 23:55 Where does a change office or transformation office sit in this plan 26:29 Journey mapping 29:42 How stakeholder and journey maps help with communication 34:17 Team dynamics in change 39:40 The impact of COVID and change depending on privilege of workers 43:57 Unworkable work 47:57 Her templates 48:57 Rapid fire questions 🌈 Closing Thoughts: By acknowledging and addressing the challenges of change fatigue, leaders and employees can work together towards a more engaged, efficient, and adaptable work environment. We encourage listeners to reflect on their own experiences with change fatigue and consider the strategies discussed in this episode to enhance resilience and drive meaningful change in their organizations. Share your thoughts, experiences, or questions, and join us in embracing adaptive challenges as opportunities for growth and innovation. #ChangeFatigue #AdaptiveLeadership #WorkplaceCulture #StrategicChange #EmployeeEngagement #LeadershipDevelopment Connect with Jenny Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/HintofMagic   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennymagic  Twitter: www.twitter.com/JennyLMagic  Book and Course: www.ChangeFatigue.com Consulting: www.BuildBetterChange.com  Apply for a feedback session to share your take on “Unworkable Work here: www.BuildBetterChange.com  Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolynswora/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/ Twitter: ​​https://twitter.com/CarolynSwora  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carolynsworkplaceculture/ Website: https://www.carolynswora.com/ Contact: media@carolynswora.com

In this episode, we delve into the intricate relationship between language, perception, and survival instincts in personal and professional contexts. Our insightful guest, Adrian Koehler, shares his profound understanding and experiences in helping individuals navigate chaos with clarity and mindfulness. He emphasizes the power of conscious decision-making and the brain's inherent wiring for survival and energy conservation. Adrian is a seasoned coach who specializes in guiding founders of fast-growing companies through various crises. By fostering a mindset of growth and progress, he helps his clients transcend chaos and crisis, even in the face of success, and encourages personal responsibility and ownership for transformative outcomes. Adrian Koehler is a leadership engagement expert and senior partner at the executive coaching firm, Take New Ground. He coaches executives and entrepreneurs in the art and science of leadership for themselves, their teams, and clients to create new, unprecedented results and experience fulfillment in their work.  He is the Founder and Senior Partner at Take New Ground, a leadership coaching, training and consulting firm based in Los Angeles. TNG partners with select executives and organizations to get the results they want by creating the culture they need. He is the co-host of an engaging podcast The Naked Leadership Podcast with TNG Sr Partner Dan Tocchini. Drawing on his background in philanthropy, ministry, activism, and medicine, Adrian thrives in the extreme environments and finds comfort in difficult conversations—in fact, his passion for human performance has taken him around the globe, serving people in times of crisis, transformation, and stalemates. Over the last decade, Adrian has trained and developed leaders at NIKE, Virgin Hyperloop One, Jeni’s Ice Cream, Herschel Supply Co., Oprah Winfrey Network, Gavin DeBecker & Associates, Siegel & Gale, UCLA and elsewhere.   🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways: Power of Perception: Understand how our brain's survival mode influences our perceptions and decisions, and learn how to guide it towards more constructive outcomes. 🧠 Conscious Intervention: Discover the impact of conscious language and intervention in shifting from a state of fight or flight to one of logical thinking and planning. 🗣️ Navigating Chaos: Gain insights into Adrian's approach to helping individuals and corporate leaders navigate chaos and crisis, fostering a new perspective and actionable solutions. 🌀 Integration and Authenticity: Explore the importance of integrating various aspects of oneself to lead a more authentic and fulfilling life, beyond the facade of survival needs. ✨ Embracing Growth and Challenges: Uncover the balance between challenging oneself and providing comfort, and how this balance can lead to growth and improved leadership. ⚖️ Phenomenology and Self-Discovery: Delve into the concepts of phenomenology, shadow work, and the importance of confronting and befriending one's darker aspects for personal growth. 🔍 Courageous Living: Learn about the concept of living a courageous life by facing past traumas and embracing true self-discovery and personal growth. 🦁 Cultural and Leadership Transformation: Discover how Adrian and his firm 'Take New Ground' contribute to systemic changes in workplace culture and leadership for better work environments and team well-being. 🌱 We talk about: 2:36 His diverse experience and background 7:52 How our brains fire as if we are in life and death situations, and how corporate settings help us 9:40 What he has learned about leadership 11:13 How to get leaders to confront hidden aspects of themselves 21:25 Big transformations he's seen within his work 26:50 Hugging the cactus 35:46 The importance of having different approaches or views and still working together 40:42 Rapid fire questions 🌈 Closing Thoughts: By understanding and applying the principles discussed in this episode, individuals and leaders alike can foster environments of clarity, authenticity, and effective communication. We invite you to reflect on the themes of perception, authenticity, and emotional resilience in your life and leadership. Share your thoughts, experiences, or questions, and join us in transforming challenges into opportunities for growth and development. #ConsciousDecisionMaking #LeadershipGrowth #AuthenticLiving #EmotionalResilience #TransformativeLeadership   Connect with Adrian Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adrian.k/   YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3c7kMcC7nah-QdxffV2NXA  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adriankoehler  https://takenewground.com/  https://wearerevenant.com/  Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-naked-leadership-podcast/id1495058489  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/73ZuLDaxdfhCNYXlmIQy01?si=9a5b25f227f64ae1  The Change Imperative (FREE e-book) https://change.takenewground.com/  Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolynswora/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/ Twitter: ​​https://twitter.com/CarolynSwora  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carolynsworkplaceculture/ Website: https://www.carolynswora.com/ Contact: media@carolynswora.com

In this episode, we dive into the power of consciousness and emotional intelligence in leadership. Our inspiring guest, Marika Messager, shares her journey from the high-paced financial sector to pioneering the conscious leadership movement. She unpacks the art of truth-telling, the importance of emotional agility, and how breaking the cycle of the old leadership paradigms can lead to more fulfilling, productive work environments. 🌱   Marika Messager is a Conscious Leader, visionary, teacher, researcher in consciousness, elevating individuals, businesses, and the global community into a new paradigm of positive and purposeful impact.   🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways: Breaking the Cycle: Discover how moving away from traditional leadership paradigms can foster a more authentic, rewarding workplace. Learn from Marika’s transition from financial broker to conscious leader. 💡 The Art of Conscious Leadership: Explore the transformative power of mirroring truth and fostering self-awareness among team members. Understand the importance of aligning values for a harmonious workplace. 🎭 Emotional Intelligence: Dive into the crucial role of emotional intelligence in leadership. Learn about the cost of emotional numbness and the benefits of being emotionally present and aware. 🧠💖 Embracing Vulnerability: Uncover the strength in vulnerability and how personal crises can lead to significant personal growth and higher levels of consciousness. 🛡️ Generational Wisdom and Resilience: Discuss the dynamics between different generations in the workplace and how each can contribute to a more resilient and conscious organization. 🔄 Practical Emotional Agility: Gain insights into practical tools and exercises to enhance emotional intelligence and resilience, both individually and within teams. 🧘 Systemic Change for Better Work Environments: Learn how systemic changes, like adjusting meeting structures and implementing collective self-care practices, can lead to less burnout and higher efficiency. 🌍 We talk about: 2:04 What is conscious leadership and how can it transform a business 4:36 How do you help leaders break the cycle of the status quo 6:40 An example of data or information that leaders can receive in an objective way 18:06 Do you feel like we we have to go through extremely hard moments in order to grow and find this consciousness 21:25 Is the new pattern of people not staying at jobs as long a result from a new level of consciousness? 27:50 How do you help leaders get in touch with their EQ 32:01 How to practice EQ with the collective 40:27 Does Marika use the word ‘conscious’ in her work 42:40 Rapid fire questions 🌈 Closing Thoughts: By embracing the principles of conscious leadership, we can transform our workplaces into environments where every individual is recognized, valued, and empowered to bring their whole self to work. Join us in exploring how integrating emotional intelligence and conscious leadership can transform your approach and boost your team's well-being. We encourage you to share your insights, experiences, or questions.  #LeadershipHealing #EmotionalIntelligence #WorkplaceWellness #Resilience #ConsciousLeadership Connect with Marika Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marikamessager  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marikamessager  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/conscious-leadership-coaching-consulting/  Empowered Creator Worksheet: https://consciousleadership.org/the-2023-empowered-creator-worksheet/  https://consciousleadership.org/  Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolynswora/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/ Twitter: ​​https://twitter.com/CarolynSwora  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carolynsworkplaceculture/ Website: https://www.carolynswora.com/ Contact: media@carolynswora.com

In this transformative episode, we delve into the profound realization that workplaces can be arenas for emotional growth and healing. Nathan and I discuss the critical work of the Crisis and Trauma Resource Institute (CTRI), highlighting how understanding and addressing our own life difficulties can significantly improve workplace culture and leadership.  Nathan, the Managing Director of CTRI, specializes in trauma-informed practices to improve the lives of individuals, organizations, and communities. His expertise includes service coordination and rehabilitation for those with complex trauma and co-occurring disorders, particularly in the context of legal conflict. Holding a Master of Social Work degree and a Registered Social Worker status, Nathan co-authored "A Little Book About Trauma-Informed Workplaces" and edited numerous training materials for CTRI, focusing on creating impactful connections through training.    🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways: The Importance of Trauma-Informed Workplaces: Learn how acknowledging and addressing our own trauma not only supports individual healing but also fosters a more compassionate and productive organizational culture. Discover the transformative power of trauma-informed principles in creating safer, more supportive environments for all employees. 💡 Leadership and Helping Professions: Explore the concept that leadership inherently involves helping others. Nathan emphasizes that leading effectively means being attuned to the needs of others, whether or not one is in a traditionally defined helping profession, thereby expanding the definition of what it means to be a helper. 🧠💖 The Five Principles of Trauma-Informed Workplaces: Dive into CTRI's five foundational principles for creating trauma-informed environments: promoting awareness, shifting attitudes, fostering safety, highlighting and providing choice, and focusing on strengths. These principles guide organizations in nurturing resilience and empowerment among employees. 🛡️ The Role of Self-Awareness and Connection: Discover the importance of self-awareness and connecting with oneself and others. Nathan shares insights into his personal journey of self-discovery, emphasizing how understanding one’s backstory and triggers can lead to profound personal and professional growth. 🔄 Practical Tools and Strategies for Leaders: Gain actionable insights into creating a trauma-informed workplace, including initiating open conversations about mental well-being, investing in emotional intelligence and resilience-building programs, and implementing support structures that recognize the complexity of mental health. 🧘 We talk about: 3:54 What is CTRI 5:14 Definition of a helping professional 7:13 The evolution of trauma informed leadership 14:31 Difference between trauma aware and trauma informed 18:14 The importance of safety 22:18 Impact of COVID in workspaces 25:12 How does a hybrid work environment impact choice and safety 26:50 How do you help leaders who have a very compartmentalize thoughts on safety 31:56 Taking time for ourselves as leaders to become aware of ourselves 33:32 Wheel of power 46:31 Rapid fire questions 🌈 Closing Thoughts: This episode calls upon leaders to recognize and embrace their role in the emotional healing journey, not only for their personal growth but as a catalyst for change within their organizations. By fostering a culture of empathy, understanding, and resilience, we pave the way for workplaces where everyone is empowered to thrive, contributing to greater creativity, productivity, and unity. 💬 We invite your reflections and insights on creating more trauma-informed, empathetic workplaces. Share your experiences and questions with us, and together, let's shape a future of conscious leadership and emotional intelligence. #TraumaInformedLeadership #EmotionalGrowth #WorkplaceCulture #Resilience #EmpatheticLeadership Connect with Nathan Blogs: https://ctrinstitute.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ctrinstitute/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/crisis-&-trauma-resource-institute-inc-/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHTbhdDiaQAOZCBPimqRoCw/videos Book: https://www.amazon.ca/Little-Book-About-Trauma-Informed-Workplaces-ebook https://ctrinstitute.com/ Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolynswora/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/ Twitter: ​​https://twitter.com/CarolynSwora  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carolynsworkplaceculture/ Website: https://www.carolynswora.com/ Contact: media@carolynswora.com

In this transformative episode, we dive into the profound concept that the workplace can serve as a unique laboratory for emotional healing. Our guest, Susan Winchester, shares her personal journey of self-discovery, revealing how understanding the deep-seated impacts of childhood experiences can revolutionize our approach to conflicts and relationships in the corporate world.  Susan Schmitt Winchester, former Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) for Applied Materials, has made significant contributions to the HR community over her 35-year career, including executive roles at Rockwell Automation and Kellogg Company. She is recognized for her innovative HR strategies that foster inclusive cultures and exceptional company performance. Winchester co-authored "Healing at Work: A Guide to Using Career Conflicts to Overcome Your Past and Build the Future You Deserve" with Martha I. Finney, addressing mental wellness in the workplace.  🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways: The Power of Awareness: Discover how recognizing and confronting our past traumas and dysfunctions opens the door to personal and professional growth. Learn to navigate workplace conflicts with a conscious lens, transforming "bumper car moments" into opportunities for healing and understanding. 💡 Embracing Mental Well-being: With nearly two-thirds of people experiencing significant adverse childhood experiences, this episode underscores the critical need to prioritize mental health in the workplace. Join us in exploring strategies to foster a culture of mental wellness and empathy within organizations. 🧠💖 Healing as a Strength: Unpack the acronym ASDP (Adult Survivor of a Damaged Past) and how it symbolizes resilience, acknowledging that while we carry scars from our past, they do not define our future. Celebrate the survivor within and leverage your experiences as a foundation for empowerment. 🛡️ Redefining Self-Regulation: Move beyond traditional coping mechanisms like avoidance or substance use. Discover healthier ways to manage emotional triggers, including the groundbreaking "Rapid Power Reclaim" method, and how to step off the unconscious wound career path towards a more fulfilling life. 🔄 The Role of Forgiveness and Self-Compassion: Learn the importance of forgiving ourselves and quieting the inner critic. Embrace your inner coach and step into a space where self-compassion paves the way for authentic leadership and a healthier workplace environment. 🕊️ Practical Tools for Emotional Processing: Explore innovative exercises like the "Three Circle Exercise," designed to process and release pent-up emotions, facilitating a deeper connection with your inner child, adapted child, and highest functioning adult self. 🧘 We talk about: 3:58 Why we need to heal at work 6:58 Why is this specific work important now 10:10 HR's position in bearing witness to these behaviors 12:41 ASDP 17:27 Not resonating with the word ‘trauma’ 19:17 Conscious healing career path 29:42 Practice of forgiving yourself 31:15 Extending compassion to your colleagues 38:54 Bumper Car moments 45:49 Circle Exercise 52:46 You are wanted in the workplace 54:29 Rapid fire questions 🌈 Closing Thoughts: This episode is an invitation for leaders to embrace the journey of emotional healing. It will lead to personal growth that can be a transformative force within your organization. 💬 We'd love to hear your thoughts! Share your reflections, insights, or questions with us. Together, let's pave the way for a more empathetic and emotionally intelligent leadership paradigm. #LeadershipHealing #EmotionalIntelligence #WorkplaceWellness #Resilience #ConsciousLeadership Connect with Susan Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healingatwork/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/healing-at-work/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HealingAtWork https://healingatwork.com/ Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolynswora/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/ Twitter: ​​https://twitter.com/CarolynSwora  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carolynsworkplaceculture/ Website: https://www.carolynswora.com/ Contact: media@carolynswora.com

How can organizations reconcile the drive for high productivity with the imperative of maintaining employee well-being and work-life balance?    Matt Smead, a business psychologist recognized as a leading thinker by HR Magazine in 2023, shares his insights on wellbeing, engagement, and resilience in a corporate setting.    🌟 We get into the significance of promoting health and wellbeing in the workplace, focusing on the balance between productivity and work-life balance. He emphasizes the importance of addressing psychosocial risks, promoting psychological health and safety, and adopting a risk-based approach in addressing potential hazards.   The discussion also touches on the need for flexibility and innovation in the workplace environment, in line with addressing the growing concern for employee burnout. Lastly, Smead shares the advantage of co-creating solutions with the workforce to effectively address these concerns. 🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways: Optimizing Well-Being for Sustainable Success: 🌟 Matt Smeed introduces a paradigm shift, emphasizing that true, long-term excellence in the workplace hinges on optimizing well-being. This approach views both well-being and productivity as outcomes of effectively managing workplace pressures. The Causal Link between Well-Being and Business Metrics: 📈 Matt discusses the correlation, and potentially causal relationship, between employee well-being and key business outcomes, such as retention, reduced sickness absence, and a stronger employer brand. He suggests that organizations can foster well-being by granting autonomy, ensuring positive leadership, and preventing overload. Psychological Health and Safety in the Workplace: 🧠 Highlighting the importance of psychological health and safety, Matt advocates for a workplace that avoids causing harm by managing psychosocial risks such as workload, autonomy, and relationships. This preventative approach aims to ensure a psychologically safe environment conducive to well-being. Beyond Tick-Box Benefits to Address Psychosocial Hazards: ✅ While acknowledging the value of benefits like yoga sessions and cycle-to-work schemes, Matt stresses that these cannot substitute for addressing fundamental psychosocial hazards within the organization. True improvement in well-being requires tackling underlying issues first. Empowering Teams to Navigate Workplace Demands: 🚫 Matt speaks to the necessity of empowering individuals and teams to manage expectations and workload effectively, suggesting that the willingness to set boundaries and communicate limits is essential for preventing stress and burnout. The Business Case for Well-Being: 💡 Citing research, Matt presents a strong business case for prioritizing employee well-being, linking it to superior organizational performance. He also touches on generational shifts in workplace expectations, indicating a growing preference for well-being over traditional rewards. Innovative Approaches to Work Design: 🔄 Discussing a European consultancy firm's approach of encouraging employees to pursue side hustles on a four-day workweek, Matt highlights innovative work designs that can enhance purpose and autonomy, contributing to both individual and organizational success. Co-Creating Solutions with the Workforce: 🤝 Matt advocates for a participatory approach to solving complex workplace challenges, emphasizing the importance of co-creating solutions with employees. This involves listening, adapting, and iterating on strategies to enhance well-being and productivity. We talk about: 3:09 How can organizations strike a balance between high performance and wellbeing 06:09 Thinking of wellbeing being an outcome 08:26 Metrics to measure wellbeing 10:49 What's getting in the way of pleasure and purpose for people 15:06 Difference between psychosocial risk and psychological health and safety 27:57 What could individuals, leaders, or organizations do to bring this notion of health, safety, and wellbeing to their organization 34:17 Thinking about generational differences of purpose and pleasure and the drive each one has at work 37:01 Innovation around work 41:00 Return to work/hybrid work in the UK 47:35 Advice around health, safety, and wellbeing for their teams and organizations 50:41 Rapid fire questions Connect with Matt Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/workingwellcommunity LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/working-well-community/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-smeed-b6033922/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/matt_smeed  https://www.workingwell.community/   Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolynswora/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/ Twitter: ​​https://twitter.com/CarolynSwora  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carolynsworkplaceculture/ Website: https://www.carolynswora.com/ Contact: media@carolynswora.com

Rosie Tomkins, an executive and leadership coach, joins me to talk about harnessing natural intelligence to drive transformation and enable individual growth for leaders.    🌟 She explains how the fear of judgment can suppress innovation and creativity, stunting growth, and how she uses a mix of self-awareness, understanding energy levels, and connecting with nature, specifically through equine leadership, to initiate change.    She shares examples from her experiences, demonstrating the resilience, adaptability, and inherent instincts present in nature that can guide and inspire better leadership. The conversation also covers her book, 'Let Nature Be Your Compass', which explores these concepts further. 🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways: Harnessing Natural Intelligence for Leadership: 🌿 Rosie Tomkins and I discuss the untapped power of natural intelligence in leadership. Through the story of Sully Sullenberger and the use of equine therapy, we highlight the importance of trusting one’s instincts and perceptions to make swift, decisive actions. Adaptive Leadership Lessons from Horses: 🐴 The innovative approach of using horses for leadership training underscores the significance of non-verbal communication and adaptability. Horses mirror human behavior, offering profound insights into effective leadership and teamwork dynamics. Nature as a Leadership Guide: 🌳 Rosie emphasizes that observing how animals like horses and lions lead and communicate can offer valuable lessons for human leaders. The statement “We are not in nature, we are nature” encourages leaders to see nature as a reflection of themselves and a source of inspiration. Experiential Learning for Personal Transformation: 🔄 Experiential learning with horses allows leaders to become aware of their energy and its impact on others. Rosie’s work showcases how changing one’s energy can positively influence team dynamics and lead to personal and professional growth. Innovative Problem-Solving and Team Dynamics: 💡 Through practical exercises with horses, leaders learn the importance of creativity in problem-solving and the dynamics of team roles under pressure. This approach leads to insights on organizational behavior and the need for adaptive leadership. The Importance of Environment in Leadership: 🏞️ Rosie illustrates how altering the environment can lead to breakthroughs in how challenges are approached. This metaphorically applies to business, showing that changing perspectives or the context can unlock new solutions. Internal Validation and Authentic Leadership: 🔍 The conversation touches on the concept of internal versus external validation. Rosie advocates for a leadership style that values personal fulfillment and purpose over societal approval, highlighting the strength found in authenticity. We talk about: 3:03 How can leaders embrace the instinctive wisdom found in nature 9:13 Specific ideas of Natural Intelligence and the impact of it 11:20 How can this become suppressed 12:55 Equine leadership 17:22 Horses' learning 22:03 How horses can bring insights to a team 28:17 Becoming more conscious of your energy as a leader 33:19 How often is she using horses with these teams 36:01 'Let Nature Be Your Compass' – her new book 44:12 Rapid fire questions Connect with Rosie Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nstinctiveintelligence/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rosietomkins/?originalSubdomain=uk Twitter: https://twitter.com/n_stinctive YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgCuRgTFuoWKk4BaHSlQirg https://n-stinctive.com/   Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolynswora/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/ Twitter: ​​https://twitter.com/CarolynSwora  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carolynsworkplaceculture/ Website: https://www.carolynswora.com/ Contact: media@carolynswora.com

Dive into a thought-provoking episode with Angie Dairou, a seasoned psychotherapist and leadership coach, as we uncover the powerful role of the nervous system in leadership and team dynamics. Angie brings over 25 years of experience in guiding Fortune 100 organizations towards innovative and human-centric workplace cultures.   🌟 This episode blends leadership, psychotherapy, and organizational development, offering practical insights for leaders. Angie shares her extensive experience, focusing on the practical application of psychotherapy principles in leadership to create more empathetic, innovative workplaces.   The result is valuable insights into how leaders can use an understanding of the nervous system to enhance their leadership style and team effectiveness. Angie's practical advice is grounded in her extensive experience, providing listeners with actionable strategies for better workplace dynamics and personal growth. 🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways: Human-Centered Leadership: 🌐 Angie Dairou leverages her global experience to transform corporate cultures, advocating for a shift from traditional hierarchical structures to more innovative, human-centric approaches. 🔄 This transformation focuses on creating workplaces that prioritize human values and creativity, fostering a more dynamic and empathetic environment. Task vs. Process: 📋 The distinction between task execution and the experience of completing tasks is explored, highlighting the importance of how tasks are approached and managed. 💡 Angie proposes methods to create a work environment that is not only task-efficient but also fulfilling and nurturing for individuals. Understanding Trauma in the Workplace: 🧠 Angie provides a nuanced understanding of trauma, extending its definition beyond traditional boundaries to include a range of impactful experiences. 🗣️ She emphasizes the critical role of communication in recognizing and addressing trauma, thus improving workplace dynamics and employee well-being. Listening as a Leadership Skill: 👂 Effective listening is showcased as a pivotal skill for leaders, directly influencing team performance and employee satisfaction. 🚧 Angie highlights the importance of identifying and overcoming barriers to active listening, enhancing leaders' ability to connect with and understand their teams. Innovating Through Uncertainty: 🌪️ Angie encourages embracing uncertainty as a catalyst for innovation, suggesting that navigating through unknowns can lead to significant breakthroughs. 🤔 She reflects on her own experiences with burnout and the need for strategies that move beyond predictability to foster creative solutions. Body Awareness and Stress Management: 🧘 Focusing on the importance of physical and emotional self-awareness, Angie offers methods to manage stress and overload effectively. 🌊 She advocates for techniques that lead to a state of flow and balance, essential for maintaining health and productivity in demanding environments. We talk about: [2:50] How she began the core of her work in China [8:45] Why it can be beneficial to keep work and family separate  [11:55] Ensuring team members’ emotional needs are met  [13:55] The Satir Model [17:25] What is trauma  [20:45] Why it’s relevant for leaders in the corporate world to understand trauma [25:30] The lingering stress effects of 2020  [32:05] Strategies leaders can learn from silent retreats [36:50] Learning how to listen more [38:30] Why it’s hard to take stock of where you are right now [41:55] The cognitive load to be learning and also innovating [48:20] What 2030 will look like in the workplace [53:45] An experience she had that gave her heightened awareness about herself [56:00] A ritual or practice she relies on to help her return to a state of calm [57:45] A song or genre of music that makes her feel connected to something bigger than herself Connect with Angie Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angiedairou/ Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolynswora/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/ Twitter: ​​https://twitter.com/CarolynSwora  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carolynsworkplaceculture/ Website: https://www.carolynswora.com/ Contact: media@carolynswora.com

In our latest episode of "Evolve: A New Era of Leadership," we had the incredible opportunity to dive deep with Wendy Ryan, a seasoned HR and organizational development expert, CEO, and author of "Learn, Lead, Lift."   📘 Wendy shared her journey of writing the book she wished she had at 22. "Learn, Lead, Lift" is not just a guide for fresh graduates but a lifelong companion for anyone on a leadership path. It's about mindset, leadership, and making impactful changes at every career stage.   💡 The conversation was illuminating, especially around how our mindsets shape our reality. Wendy highlighted the importance of being aware of our mental lenses and how they filter our perceptions, emphasizing that understanding our mindsets can help us choose how we think about things.   🧠 But it's not just about mindset. Wendy and Carolyn discussed the critical role of emotions in leadership. Gone are the days when leaders were told to leave their feelings at the door. Emotions are data, and understanding them is crucial for making informed decisions.   🌍 Wendy's insights into leadership in a VUCA (volatility, uncertainty, complexity, ambiguity) world were particularly striking. She talked about the need for leaders to be constantly attentive, both to their own actions and the needs of those around them.   🏆 The "3T model" - Tolerate, Transform, Transcend - Wendy discussed is a powerful tool for decision-making. This framework helps leaders assess situations and decide whether to maintain the status quo, make changes, or completely overhaul their approach.   🙌 But perhaps most importantly, Wendy's work in recognizing and addressing systemic oppression and power dynamics in leadership is pivotal. She encourages leaders to be more intentional and aware of their privilege and how it impacts others.   This episode is a goldmine for leaders seeking to evolve and adapt in an ever-changing world. Wendy Ryan's insights provide practical tools and profound wisdom for anyone looking to lead with more awareness, empathy, and effectiveness.   Wendy Ryan (she/her/hers) is a Best Selling, 3x Award Winning Author, CEO of Kadabra, Mentor and Strategic Advisor. Wendy believes that all of our actions are consequential, especially in leadership. This is why it has been her life’s work to help leaders expand what’s possible through The Learn Lead Lift Framework®. Wendy is a fearless advocate for increasing diversity, equity, inclusion, and access in the business and investor ecosystems. She engages awareness and connection to inspire leaders to take their next step towards greatness. Wendy is available for in-person or virtual keynote speaking engagements, panel discussions, podcast interviews, and small group learning sessions. 🔗 Don't miss this episode of "Evolve: A New Era of Leadership." Tune in, absorb, and transform your leadership journey!   #LeadershipEvolution #LearnLeadLift #MindfulLeadership #EmotionalIntelligence #EvolvePodcast We talk about: [0:00] Intro [2:33] The inspiration behind writing her book [5:01] What her 20 year old self could have taken away from this book [6:44] How to overcome a workplace mindset that is no longer serving us [8:53] Mindset shifts within leaders [12:11] Tools to become more emotionally literate [14:55] Doing her work without stepping into the boundaries of being a therapist [18:24] Bringing safety, consistency and choice into your work with senior leaders [20:11] VUCA [24:18] Indicators that your team or organization might be ready for this work [27:20] How the 3T model fits in with her work with teams and individuals [33:23] Where does systemic oppression, power and privilege come into her work [38:01] What would you suggest for listeners to help them get curious and evolve their mindset around these topics [48:15] Rapid fire questions Join Wendy and I for this conversation, as we talk about self-awareness and emotional literacy and the impact it has in the workplace. You can find the full transcript of our conversation on my website, along with more information about them and their work. Thank you for being a part of my podcast community, and remember to stay tuned for more inspiring episodes to come! #PodcastEpisode #TraumaInformedLeadership #SelfAwareness #EmotionalIntelligence #ProfessionalGrowth Connect with Wendy Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/we_are_kadabra/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendyryankadabra/ Website: https://www.wearekadabra.com/ Show her the money: https://showherthemoneymovie.com/ and movie trailer Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolynswora/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolynswora/ Website: https://www.carolynswora.com/ Contact: media@carolynswora.com

In this episode, previously released in August of 2023, we explore the complex interplay between the nervous system and leadership, revealing the profound impact of past experiences on a leader's style and adaptability with Dr. Steve Hotz. The patterns ingrained in our nervous system are key to how we respond in various situations, significantly influencing decision-making and behavior in leadership roles. This understanding is crucial for leaders seeking to harness their full potential. We also delve into the nuanced way our nervous systems perceive challenges versus threats. This ability to recognize and fine-tune responses to different stimuli is essential in leadership, helping in guiding teams through complex scenarios and making informed decisions. Maintaining a balanced nervous system is another critical aspect discussed, highlighting its importance in accessing higher-level skills and expertise for effective leadership. We touch upon the impact of trauma on this balance, which can significantly affect a leader's ability to handle stress and lead effectively. The conversation then shifts to vulnerability in leadership, emphasizing how understanding and accepting our vulnerabilities can reduce their control over our actions. We explore common reactions to vulnerability, such as defensiveness and emotional numbing, and how they influence our leadership style. We also cover the power of co-regulation and the role of psychological safety and consistency in the workplace. A leader's ability to exhibit a calm and regulated demeanor can significantly influence the team's overall environment and effectiveness. This is complemented by a discussion on the importance of senior leadership understanding and facilitating nervous system regulation. Such awareness is crucial for adapting and responding to various situations, shaped by personal experiences and nervous system reactivity. Drawing insights from 'The Compassionate Mind' by Paul Gilbert, the podcast reflects on his model of three emotional regulation systems – energizing, threat, and contentment – and their influence on leadership styles. Understanding these systems is invaluable for effective leadership and emotional regulation. We also discuss the importance of fostering a culture that supports mutual regulation and secure connections among team members, essential for a productive work environment and beneficial for organizational dynamics. Finally, the episode concludes with practical advice for leaders. This includes techniques for becoming more aware of bodily experiences and staying present in the moment. Such practices are essential for effective leadership and decision-making, helping leaders to be more grounded, responsive, and empathetic. These insights enhance a leader's ability to lead effectively and inspire their teams, embodying the core message of our podcast – the intricate and influential relationship between our nervous system and leadership. Dr. Steve Hotz is a clinical and health psychologist with deep roots in community medicine and population health. In addition to his academic career and clinical practice, he has worked and consulted in continuing professional development for health care providers from many disciplines on such topics as motivation, health behaviour change, and treatment adherence. His clinical work incorporates interpersonal neurobiology, neuroplasticity, attachment, and approaches to change and growth that utilize the potential of knowledge in these areas. We talk about: [4:10] Our history working together [8:25] The impact of our life circumstances based on endured trauma [11:20] Our nervous system and its impact on our safety and emotional state [18:35] The research behind 'vulnerability' [21:40] The acceptance of trauma and vulnerability [22:40] Cognitive exercises of creating safety [25:10] Co-regulating as leaders [30:25] Being open to our own vulnerability and experiences [38:45] Going into sympathetic overdrive  [43:00] Rewiring our desire for balance  [45:30] Getting in touch with your inner experience [52:30] A moment that was very uncomfortable, yet full of tremendous insight about himself [55:45] A practice or ritual that keeps him in a calm or regulated state [58:20] A song or genre of music that makes him feel connected to others or part of something bigger than himself Resources mentioned in this episode: Brene Brown’s Power of Vulnerability: https://www.ted.com/talks/ Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolynswora/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/ Twitter: ​​https://twitter.com/CarolynSwora  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carolynsworkplaceculture/ Website: https://www.carolynswora.com/ Contact: media@carolynswora.com

🌟 Embark on a transformative journey of self-care with Vicki Enns and Marwa Fadol in our latest soul-stirring podcast episode! 🌟   Step off the relentless treadmill of personal and professional growth that often leads us perilously close to burnout. Dive deep into a riveting conversation that redefines self-care from a solitary endeavor into a shared, vibrant pursuit of well-being.   In their groundbreaking book, "Self Care Transformed," Vicki and Marwa debunk the tired clichés of bubble baths and scented candles, steering us towards a more inclusive and holistic approach. Imagine a world where self-care is not an isolated act but a communal symphony of actions, nurturing our physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual health in unison.   Discover through their compelling research and heartfelt narratives how interconnected our well-being truly is. Learn to view wellness not as segmented parts but as a harmonious whole, where neglecting one aspect can ripple through our entire being. Vicki and Marwa urge us to adopt proactive, preventative strategies, weaving self-care seamlessly into the fabric of our daily lives.   Delve into the power of vulnerability and the transformative effect it has on how we perceive and practice self-care. As Marwa poignantly reminds us, acknowledging when we're struggling opens doors to conversations and connections, fostering an atmosphere of collective support and wellness.   Vicki connects the dots to the crucial role of safe, supportive workspaces that encourage openness and vulnerability. Imagine an organization where discussing mental health is not taboo but a welcomed dialogue, creating a thriving environment for everyone's well-being.   In this compelling episode, Vicki and Marwa invite you to join a movement of collective self-care. Their call to action is clear: weave self-care into your daily life, embrace it as a community endeavor, and elevate your well-being and resilience.   🎧 Are you ready to revolutionize your approach to self-care and embrace it as a collective journey? Tune in to be inspired, share your insights after listening, and let's foster a world where self-care is everyone's business!   #SelfCareRevolution #CollectiveWellness #TransformativeSelfCare #HolisticHealth   Marwa is a Registered Psychologist in Alberta with over 15 years of counseling experience. Marwa has also been a trainer with the Crisis and Trauma Resource Institute (CTRI) for 7 years, and is a contributing author to their 2021 book Counselling in Relationships. Marwa is passionate about helping people from diverse backgrounds engage in the counseling process in a safe and inclusive manner.    Vicki is an individual, couple and family therapist. She has a private practice in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Vicki has worked for many years as a trainer and mentor for other counsellors and helping professionals and is the former Clinical Director of CTRI. . She is the author of Gratitude and Grit: A Journal for Growing Resilience, the editor and a contributing author of  Counselling Insights and Counselling in Relationships books, and co-author of A Little Book About Trauma-Informed Workplaces. Most recently Vicki - together with Marwa Fadol - has co-authored Self-Care Transformed: A Place for Meaning, Joy, and Community in the Helping Professions. Vicki is also the host of the CTRI’s Counselling Insights Podcast.    We talk about: [0:00] Intro [5:18] Why they wanted to write this book together [9:58] Is burnout inevitable when it comes to work? [12:57] Why they focused on self care vs. wellness [24:10] Is there one part of the wellness wheel that is more depleting? [28:29] Explaining their Collectivist approach to things [33:39] Suggestions for how people can create a community of wellness and self care [39:32] How can we sit in discomfort even if we're not trained professionals [43:31] Where people can find their book [44:25] Ending each chapter with an invitation to take a break and settle the nervous system [48:34] Rapid fire questions Join Vicki, Marwa and I for this conversation, as we talk about the essential role self care plays in our overall health and nervous system regulation. You can find the full transcript of our conversation on my website, along with more information about them and their work. Thank you for being a part of my podcast community, and remember to stay tuned for more inspiring episodes to come! #PodcastEpisode #TraumaInformedLeadership #SelfAwareness #EmotionalIntelligence #ProfessionalGrowth Connect with Marwa Instagram: www.instagram.com/marwafadol  www.lanternpsychology.ca  Connect with Vicki The book: www.ctrinstitute.com/product/self-care-transformed/   Podcast: www.ctrinstitute.com/podcast/   Free Handouts: www.ctrinstitute.com/resources/self-care-transformed-handouts/ Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolynswora/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolynswora/ Website: https://www.carolynswora.com/ Contact: media@carolynswora.com

In an era where employment-related stress and burnout are increasingly prevalent, it’s essential to understand and address these highly damaging issues at the corporate level. In the first episode of the year, Dr. Jacqueline Kerr, a globally recognized behavior change scientist, community advocate, and TEDx speaker joins me for a conversation about burnout, public health, and the role of organizations in mitigating burnout. Dr. Kerr deeply resonates with the intersection of public health and personal behaviour change, particularly with respect to the effects of workplace burnout. Burnout can affect every facet of a person's life and might be induced by pressures from multiple areas of life in its myriad versions. Dr. Kerr emphasized the value of intervention, noting the vital role that organizations can play in learning from and adopting community-based approaches to prevent burnout. Driving home the importance of collective efforts in combating burnout, Dr. Kerr highlighted the pivotal role of leaders. Leaders are encouraged to forge a healthier atmosphere in the workplace, thus decreasing the possibility of burnout. Flexible work hours, limiting non-essential meetings, and fostering a culture of appreciation can all contribute to a more engaged and less stressed workforce.  Furthermore, a thriving culture of inclusiveness is essential along with recognizing the link between bias and burnout. The approach must be comprehensive, considering individual, family, organizational, and societal level factors.  Workplace culture is often linked to changes in behavior patterns. As with managing any change, understanding where people stand in relation to the concept of change is crucial in bringing about effective behavioral adjustments. The key is to create a safe environment where employees feel comfortable discussing changes they'd like to see in the workplace.  Dr. Kerr highlighted the importance of reducing unnecessary meetings and encouraging more focused work time to boost productivity and reduce burnout. She recommended considering the reduction of meeting hours and introduced the concept of a "meeting-free week” as a productive approach to address the perceived need for continuous meetings within teams. Moreover, job crafting, cases of biased promotion systems, and other nuanced aspects of workplace practices can significantly impact burnout levels. Encouraging transparency, promoting flexibility, and valuing employee contributions can significantly ameliorate these effects. As much as organizational changes are vital, individual mental habit changes also play a critical role in mitigating burnout. Acknowledging that behavior change is tough and requires support, Dr. Kerr emphasized the importance of setting realistic daily behavior plans.  It is our aim to provide practical inputs and insights on mitigating workplace burnout, emphasizing collective responsibility and action. Through strategic implementation of behavioral sciences, workplaces can become more vibrant, engaging, and less stressful environments, where every individual can truly thrive. Job burnout is recognized by the World Health Organization, but there is also caregiver burnout, emotional burnout, and parental burnout that leads to #nervoussystemexhaustion . While self-care helps you manage your stress it does not solve the structural inequalities that create the conditions that cause burnout. We need to use behavior change science to create individual, organizational and cultural change to prevent burnout.   Dr Jacqueline Kerr is a mom, behavior scientist and burnout survivor. She is in the Top 1% of Most Cited Scientists worldwide and her work has informed the US Center for Disease Control Community Prevention Guide. Dr. Kerr left her position as a public health professor in 2018. She now hosts the Podcast 'Overcoming Working Mom Burnout' where she interviews researchers, diversity experts, and leadership coaches, focusing on #mentalillness. She is on a mission to dismantle the causes of working mom burnout and #genderbias with individual, organizational and cultural change through behavior change science. Connect with Jacqueline Kerr on LinkedIn and YouTube @Dr Jacqueline Kerr. Filming and video editing credits go to NSHAPS Productions and Kamal Ismail. Food photography credits go to Tom Adams.  We talk about: [0:00] Intro [3:13] What got Dr. Kerr into the burnout and behavior change space [6:19] What does it mean to be in a state of burnout [12:47] How can leaders help mitigate burnout for their team [18:33] Making burnout a collective responsibility [23:44] What do we commonly get wrong about behavior change [35:29] Mindset of "this is never going to work" can also be a sign of burnout [42:16] The importance for leaders to be self aware, and have an emotional connection with emotional intelligence [46:15] Rapid fire questions   Join Dr. Kerr and I for this conversation, as we talk about understanding and mitigating burnout in the corporate and leadership spaces You can find the full transcript of our conversation on my website, along with more information about Jacqueline and her work. Thank you for being a part of my podcast community, and remember to stay tuned for more inspiring episodes to come! #PodcastEpisode #TraumaInformedLeadership #SelfAwareness #EmotionalIntelligence #ProfessionalGrowth Connect with Dr. Jacqueline LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-jacqueline-kerr-a62581173/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/me2wemoms Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ca/drjacquelinekerr/ TedX Talk: https://youtu.be/9YY0gVnVPoQ?si=OMv0XbcX7_BW4kBG  https://www.thehuumangroup.com/ https://www.drjacquelinekerr.com/ Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolynswora/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolynswora/ Website: https://www.carolynswora.com/ Contact: media@carolynswora.com

This holiday note is an annual tradition that has become a part of our shared journey in the Evolve Community. This isn't just any message, though—it's a beacon of celebration and reflection, a moment to pause and appreciate the whirlwind of the year we've navigated together. Amidst the flurry of wrapping paper, the scent of spiced cider, and the echoes of carols, I am reminded of the incredible connections we've made, the stories we've told, and the growth we've witnessed within our vibrant community. This year, inspired by the wisdom of Britt Frank, a remarkable guest on my podcast and author of The Science of Stuck, I find myself contemplating the notion of being 'stuck'—a feeling all too familiar to many of us. Whether it's in our careers, our relationships, or the inner workings of our minds and souls, it seems to be a recurring theme. But here's the holiday twist: staying 'stuck' isn't where our story ends this year. As we raise our glasses to the year that's been, my holiday wish for you is to embrace the journey of self-awareness and hope. With each small, purposeful step—finding small moments of gratitude, igniting curiosity to understand new perspectives, and striving to move through life with grace and intention—we can all venture towards a future not limited by the past. Let's carry this spirit of transformation into the New Year, fostering health, happiness, and a sense of renewal for ourselves and our communities. Here's to a 2024 filled with moments that move us, experiences that elevate us, and the collective hope that we will emerge, together, joyously unstuck. Wishing you a wonderful and restful holiday season, and I look forward to the continuing our journey together in 2024!  Carolyn

In this episode, I sit down with Mark Yegge, the Wealth Architect, to discuss the importance of being open and flexible, thinking about your thought process, and letting events unfold as they should.  Mark shares his journey from a monetary wealth focus to a more holistic understanding of prosperity. He emphasizes that wealth encompasses health, relationships, spirituality, freedom, among other aspects. We also get into the importance of being connected to something bigger than oneself, and how that impacts leadership.  Mark Yegge embarked on his wealth exploration journey from a young age, initiating his foray into investing that led to him purchasing his first car at the age of 16. Displaying a growth mindset, he went on to establish a Wall Street software company that played a pivotal role in introducing after-hours trading, ultimately growing into a $30-million enterprise. Mark's entrepreneurial prowess earned him accolades such as Small Business of the Year, Florida 100, and recognition as an Inc Magazine Fast 500 recipient. Deloitte also acknowledged his achievements, naming him a finalist for Entrepreneur of the Year twice. Beyond his business success, Mark is a multifaceted author, having written books like "Hacking Money," "The Cash Flow Machine," “The 20 Keys To Pure Relationships,” and "Negotiate To Win-Win." These works extend beyond financial topics, addressing the broader aspects of building relationships, self-connection, and purposeful living. Presently, overseeing multiple investment funds and educating high-net-worth investors in the 7- and 8-figure range, Mark emphasizes the importance of balanced abundance in all facets of life through his community success and learning platform, Light Circle. Join Mark on his transformative journey as he intertwines the realms of abundant living and profound spirituality, aligning with the core principles of Light Circle. We talk about: [0:00] Intro [2:13] How expansive the word ‘Wealth’ can be [3:33] How his path unfolded in this work [6:03] How he stayed grounded once he reached material success [12:16] A peak into his mastermind [15:56] The importance of self connection [18:56] How long it takes to find out who you really are [21:35] Creating magical self connection [24:18] The light circle [29:22] His journey to profound spirituality  [37:36] Connecting spirituality and leadership [40:40] Rapid fire questions   Join Mark and I for this conversation, as we talk about the power in connecting to self, and how it shapes you as a leader. You can find the full transcript of our conversation on my website, along with more information about Mark and his work. Thank you for being a part of my podcast community, and remember to stay tuned for more inspiring episodes to come! #PodcastEpisode #TraumaInformedLeadership #SelfAwareness #EmotionalIntelligence #ProfessionalGrowth Connect with Mark Your Greatest Year event (Jan13-14, 2024) https://www.lightcircle.org/yourgreatestyear LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/light-circle-org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lightcircle_org/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61551260894505 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lightcircleorg YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaHStw-gq4tgEkqTqjA96EQ https://www.lightcircle.org/  Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolynswora/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolynswora/ Website: https://www.carolynswora.com/ Contact: media@carolynswora.com

In this episode with leadership coach Mary Beth Highland, we dive deep into the concept of values and their connection to burnout.  Mary Beth shares her personal journey of work addiction and how reevaluating her values helped her find peace and regain balance. She also outlines a practical approach to uncovering your core values, distinguishing them from aspirational or descriptive ones.  We touch on strategies to align personal values with organizational ones and turn them into effective guidance for decision-making and behavior.  MaryBeth Hyland is a bestselling author, coach and consultant on how to create a thriving life and business. She’s successfully led culture change efforts across nearly every industry. As a certified mediator, mindfulness instructor, and values expert she engages audiences and teams all over the world with her authentic style of facilitation, keynote speaking, and empowerment.  She’s a published thought leader in The Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, and New York Times to name a few. You can catch her interviews on how to reduce stress at work on ABC, CBS, and NBC. Her recent awards include: “Circle of Excellence“, “Innovator of the Year“, “Top 100 Women“, “Civic Engagement Leader“, and “Leading Women“. Her personal life’s mission is to remind people of the truth by giving full permission to be human. When she’s not on podcasts, she can be found on horseback in the mountains of Idaho wrangling cattle on her quest to become a cowgirl! This is a valuable conversation if you’re feeling overwhelmed or out of alignment, offering insights into the restorative power of understanding and acting on your values. We talk about: [0:00] Intro [3:35] Being the Chief Visionary of Spark Vision [6:35] Why she centered her book around values [9:00] Her definition of values and how we can find the right words to identify ours [9:50] The observation of organizations sometimes choosing non-heart driven ideas as their values [13:20] Connecting company values to teams [17:30] Building the muscle of talking about our values [19:35] MaryBeth’s process for identifying individual core values [25:25] My own experience examining my core values [29:00] Using our values work after doing that initial deep dive [31:35] Burnout and alignment to our values [35:30] How we bridge the gap between personal values and organizational values [41:20] How leaders can support organizational values while honoring their own [46:20] The difference between guiding principles, code of conduct, values, and leadership competencies [51:00] Rapid fire questions   Join MaryBeth and I for this conversation, as we get into the impact that understanding our values has on our overall success in life and within the workplace. You can find the full transcript of our conversation on my website, along with more information about MaryBeth and her work. Thank you for being a part of my podcast community, and remember to stay tuned for more inspiring episodes to come! #PodcastEpisode #TraumaInformedLeadership #SelfAwareness #EmotionalIntelligence #ProfessionalGrowth Connect with MaryBeth LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marybethhyland/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marybethandjames/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sparkvisionllc YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqXY58u471QmFGE58ni0LWw https://corevaluesquiz.com/ https://sparkvisionnow.com/ https://marybethspeaks.com/ Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolynswora/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolynswora/ Website: https://www.carolynswora.com/ Contact: media@carolynswora.com