The Empathy Edge

What are the hidden, unconscious forces that shape how we lead—why we react the way we do, why some situations knock us off center, and how we can build the internal security to lead with more empathy, clarity, and connection?My guest, Dr. Jaime Goff, is an executive coach, leadership strategist, and founder of The Empathic Leader, where she now works full-time helping leaders “lead from security, not fear.”With a Ph.D. in Couple and Family Therapy and two decades in organizational leadership, Jaime translates attachment theory, neuroscience, and emotional intelligence into practical tools leaders can use immediately. Her new book, The Secure Leader, helps readers uncover the narratives shaping their leadership, regulate under pressure, and create environments where their teams can thrive.We dig into why our brains love stories, and how those stories can limit us, what to do when leaders can’t see their own unhelpful narratives, why adaptive challenges can’t be solved with technical solutions, and the essential first step to emotionally regulate in today’s turbulent world.To access the episode transcript, go to www.TheEmpathyEdge.com, search by episode title.Listen in for…The connection between parenting leadership and team leadership. How early experiences influence leadership behavior. How insecurity blocks empathy and team flourishing.What leaders can do to build internal security and lead with more calm and clarity.Strategies and daily habits for emotional regulation and stress tolerance to be a better leader."You end up stifling the growth and development of your team because you're holding on to so much control that you don't let go of the reins and you don't empower them. You don't let them experiment, innovate, learn, and grow.” —  Dr. Jaime Goff Episode References: Dr. Jaime Goff's Secure Leader Style Scan: https://drjaimegoff.com/secure-leader-style-scanAbout Jaime Goff, PhD, Founder, The Empathic Leader, and Author of The Secure Leader:Dr. Jaime Goff is an executive coach, leadership strategist, and founder of The Empathic Leader, where she now works full-time helping leaders “lead from security, not fear.” She previously served as Director of Leadership Development at CHRISTUS Health, designing programs for more than 45,000 associates, and she brings a powerful blend of research and real-world experience to her work.With a Ph.D. in Couple and Family Therapy and two decades in organizational leadership, Jaime translates attachment theory, neuroscience, and emotional intelligence into practical tools leaders can use immediately. Her new book, The Secure Leader, helps readers rewrite unhelpful narratives shaping their leadership, regulate under pressure, and create environments where their teams can thrive.Whether delivering a keynote, facilitating workshops, or engaging in one-on-one coaching, Jaime is known for weaving research with relatable stories to spark insight and lasting behavior change.Connect with Jaime:The Empathic Leader, LLC: drjaimegoff.comLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjaimegoffInstagram: instagram.com/dr_jaimegoffBook: The Secure Leader by Dr. Jaime Goff Connect with Maria:Get Maria's books: Red-Slice.com/booksHire Maria to speak: Red-Slice.com/Speaker-Maria-RossTake the LinkedIn Learning Courses! Leading with Empathy and Balancing Empathy, Accountability, and Results as a Leader LinkedIn: Maria RossInstagram: @redslicemariaFacebook: Red SliceGet your copy of The Empathy Dilemma here- www.theempathydilemma.com

How do you actually practice empathy? How do you prove you have it — to employers, to clients, to the people you lead? And if you're building a team, how do you hire for it?Because here's the uncomfortable truth: most of us can't answer any of those questions well. And in the age of AI, that gap is getting more expensive by the minute.In this episode, Maria answers these questions as she discusses the importance of empathy in the age of AI, citing data from studies showing its impact on loyalty, efficiency, and job satisfaction. She dives into actionable steps you can take to hire empathetic leaders, gives practical tips for practicing empathy (and stresses the importance of practicing empathy under real pressure, in real-time situations), and discusses the need for better tools to develop, measure, and verify empathy as AI is accelerating. Finally, she invites everyone to learn more about and register for the upcoming Synanim FlexEmpathy event at flexempathy.com. To access the episode transcript, go to www.TheEmpathyEdge.com, search by episode title.Listen in for…Why empathy proof matters more than ever.The AI factor.How to practice and prove empathy.How to hire for empathy. "Empathy is not soft. It's not optional, and in the age of AI, where human connection is simultaneously more scarce and more valuable than ever. It's your most important competitive advantage." —  Maria RossEpisode References: Maria’s email list at: red-slice.com/newsletter/ FlexEmpathy, coming up April 25, 2025 www.flexempathy.comSynanim: https://www.synanim.com/EY's 2023 Empathy in Business Survey 2024 Businessolver State of Workplace Empathy ReportMcKinsey, It's Cool to Be Kind Research Report Connect with Maria:Get Maria's books: Red-Slice.com/booksHire Maria to speak: Red-Slice.com/Speaker-Maria-RossTake the LinkedIn Learning Courses! Leading with Empathy and Balancing Empathy, Accountability, and Results as a Leader LinkedIn: Maria RossInstagram: @redslicemariaFacebook: Red SliceGet your copy of The Empathy Dilemma here- www.theempathydilemma.com

Some conversations linger long after the recording stops; the conversations that deepen your humanity and reshape how you think about leadership. This episode is one of those conversations.Ashley Jones knows grief in its most devastating form. When her daughter Skylar died from a terminal illness just before her second birthday, Ashley was thrust into a darkness no parent should ever face. But through that unimaginable loss, she discovered a calling: helping people heal in grief.Today, Ashley shares her personal story and what her healing journey revealed about grace, resilience, and the power of community. We discuss the four survival reactions to trauma - fight, flight, freeze, and fawn - and how these can manifest. We also dive into the relationship between trauma and grief and how leaders can support those around them during these times.Trigger warning: In this episode, we both talk about experiences with sexual assault.Ashley shared incredibly valuable tips and resources to help you become a more trauma-informed leader and support your team to their fullest potential.To access the episode transcript, go to www.TheEmpathyEdge.com, search by episode title.Listen in for…Ashley’s personal story and what her healing journey revealed about grace, resilience, and the power of community.How leadership is evolving to become more deeply human—and the distance we still need to travel.Why grief is a universal leadership issue, and what it asks of us.The two fundamental needs people have after experiencing grief or trauma, and how to meet them.The four survival reactions to trauma that leaders need to understand.Why not all grief is traumatic, but all trauma includes grief, and what that means for how we support people."It's really about choosing love regardless of the situation, regardless of the people involved. To show up and say, ‘What is the best way I can love myself and others right now in this moment?’" —  Ashley Jones Episode References:How Can I Love You Better: howcaniloveyoubetter.comThe Empathy Edge:Stephanie Sarazin: What Is Ambiguous Grief and How To Show UpRon Gura: How Technology Helps People Navigate Grief and LossKatharine Manning: How Trauma Impacts Performance – and What Smart Leaders Can DoAbout Ashley Jones, Founder, Momento Foundation:Ashley was thrust into the depths of grief when her daughter, Skylar, died from a terminal illness just before her 2nd birthday. Her unique experience through darkness and healing led her to create the Momento Foundation (formerly Love Not Lost), a nonprofit on a mission to help people heal in grief. Known for creating innovative tools, new resources, and meaningful solutions for navigating grief, Ashley provides individuals and organizations with tangible help to better support themselves and each other through trauma and loss. She’s a sought-after TEDx & keynote speaker, author, and passionate plant mom.Connect with Ashley:Momento Foundation: momentofoundation.orgAuthor Site: www.ashleynicolejones.comBook: When You Can't See the LightLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ashleynicolejonesFacebook: facebook.com/momentofoundationInstagram: instagram.com/momentofoundationMomento Community: momento. impact.app Connect with Maria:Get Maria's books: Red-Slice.com/booksHire Maria to speak: Red-Slice.com/Speaker-Maria-RossTake the LinkedIn Learning Courses! Leading with Empathy and Balancing Empathy, Accountability, and Results as a LeaderLinkedIn: Maria RossInstagram: @redslicemariaFacebook: Red SliceGet your copy of The Empathy Dilemma here- www.theempathydilemma.com

Too many leaders are still trying to succeed by becoming someone they think they’re supposed to be—quieter, tougher, more polished, less human. And in the process, they’re leaving their greatest strengths at the door.My guest believes that’s exactly backward. Today, we welcome back Claude Silver to discuss her latest book, Be Yourself at Work: The Groundbreaking Power of Showing Up, Standing Out, and Leading from the Heart. We explore what authentic presence really looks like at work, and why pretending to be a different kind of leader rarely gets better results. Claude and I unpack why many leaders have accountability backwards, why the more power you gain, the less truth you often hear, and how being open and emotionally present doesn’t weaken communication but rather prevents under-communicating with your team. Finally, Claude offers us a simple, actionable practice you can use right away to take a small step and rebuild trust and connection where it matters most.This is a conversation with one of my favorite humans on the planet about stopping the performance of leadership—and starting to lead from the strengths that made you worth hiring in the first place.To access the episode transcript, go to www.TheEmpathyEdge.com, search by episode title.Listen in for…The importance of bringing your unique perspective, talents, and humanity to your team.What authentic presence looks like at work.Protecting healthy boundaries with courage and kindness while still connecting with others.Signs your culture is thriving and how to get there. Why is the room with everyone in it smarter than any one person in that room?The reason actions say more than words ever will.The dangerous byproduct of silence."When a person is real, they are not carrying the burden or the weight of any other facade." —  Claude SilverAbout Claude Silver, Chief Heart Officer, VaynerX, and Author of Be Yourself at Work:Claude Silver is on a mission to revolutionize leadership, talent, and workplace culture. She is the world's first Chief Heart Officer at VaynerX, partnering with CEO Gary Vaynerchuk to drive their success. Silver has earned Campaign US's Female Frontier Award and AdWeek's Changing the Game Award, and she electrifies audiences at national and international conferences, as well as at organizations including Meta, Google, US Government agencies, and the US Armed Forces. She has been interviewed on dozens of podcasts and featured in The New York Times, Forbes, and The Wall Street Journal. Silver lives in New Jersey with her wife and two young children. She is the author of Be Yourself at Work: The Groundbreaking Power of Showing Up, Standing Out, and Leading from the Heart.Connect with Claude:  Website: claudesilver.com VaynerX: beyourselfbook.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/casilver Instagram: instagram.com/claudesilver Book: Be Yourself at Work: The Groundbreaking Power of Showing Up, Standing Out, and Leading from the Heart  Connect with Maria:Get Maria's books: Red-Slice.com/booksHire Maria to speak: Red-Slice.com/Speaker-Maria-RossTake the LinkedIn Learning Courses! Leading with Empathy and Balancing Empathy, Accountability, and Results as a Leader LinkedIn: Maria RossInstagram: @redslicemariaFacebook: Red SliceGet your copy of The Empathy Dilemma here- www.theempathydilemma.com

Balancing performance with human leadership can be tough for some leaders. The goal is to strike a healthy balance, while always remembering that taking thoughtful care of your people, recognizing their unique contributions, and creating an environment where they can thrive can lead to the stellar performance results you seek.But how would you lead if your title or position didn't give you any power?Joris Merks-Benjaminsen is a leadership trainer and the award-winning author of Managing Without Power. Joris shares his unique journey at Google, watching the culture and leadership he loved so much shift as his managers changed, and why he’s committed to helping companies capture that early magic and scale it as they grow. We discuss recognizing and respecting your power dynamic while also understanding that the title does not give you power, but consistent, intentional small behaviors will ensure your team will help you meet your goals. Joris shares how to balance people nd performance through the five basics of his interconnected, practical, holistic leadership approach. And he shares how to solicit and take in upward feedback to help you effectively support an employee's journey, ensure high performance, and make tough decisions when needed.To access the episode transcript, go to www.TheEmpathyEdge.com, search by episode title.Listen in for…How managers can shape microcultures and establish team norms.Upskilling leaders to avoid conventional traps and pitfalls.Providing ongoing support to learning, not just one-time training. The five basics of his interconnected, practical, holistic leadership approach.How to solicit and take in upward feedback to help effectively support an employee's journey, ensure high performance, and make tough decisions when needed.“The problem I see is this balance between human-focused and performance-focused leadership. I regularly meet leaders who think of them as opposites, but you need both of them in a certain balance...in order to create a high-performing team and organization." —  Joris Merks-BenjaminsenEpisode References: Joris’ Book: Managing Without Power: Creating high-performance teams and organizations in your own human wayHow Google Works by  Eric Schmidt and Jonathan RosenbergGoogle re: Work - Guides: Give feedback to managers https://share.google/nhB0hREQOztuqQwOVAbout Joris Merks-Benjaminsen, Leadership Trainer, Author of Managing Without Power:Joris Merks-Benjaminsen is a leadership trainer and the award-winning author of Managing Without Power. Joris had a leading role in Google's Diversity, Equity & Inclusion initiatives, and was one of the highest-scoring managers in the company's history. Today, he trains managers and leaders to help find the right balance between humaneness and performance pressure.Connect with Joris:  Managing Without Power: www.managingwithoutpower.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joris-merks-benjaminsen-5673384/Connect with Maria:Get Maria's books: Red-Slice.com/booksHire Maria to speak: Red-Slice.com/Speaker-Maria-RossTake the LinkedIn Learning Courses! Leading with Empathy and Balancing Empathy, Accountability, and Results as a Leader LinkedIn: Maria RossInstagram: @redslicemariaFacebook: Red SliceGet your copy of The Empathy Dilemma here- www.theempathydilemma.com

What if the problem isn’t that moms are failing—but that we’ve built systems that quietly ask them to do the impossible and then blame them when they struggle?My guest today, Rebecca Geshuri, sits at the intersection of motherhood, mental health, and compassion in a way that feels deeply needed right now. We talk about why so many moms feel like they’re failing even when they’re doing everything they possibly can. We unpack the crushing mental load, the lack of structural support, and how quickly shame spirals take hold when moms feel they’re “not good enough.”This is a conversation about empathy, support, and the quiet strength of caregiving—and why taking better care of moms in the workplace and beyond ultimately makes all of us stronger.To access the episode transcript, go to www.TheEmpathyEdge.com, search by episode title.Listen in for…Why having healthy and supported mothers is key in our organizations and society.Lessons businesses and organizations can learn from mothers.How to stop assuming and do more noticing and learning about the mothers in your organization. "Don't count moms out. They’re working their tails off, trying to be everything to everybody, to care for everyone. They have parts of themselves that are planning things and organizing things, and seeing things that don't exist yet. Moms are visionaries and strategists." —  Rebecca GeshuriEpisode References: Book: When Good Moms Feel Bad: An Empowering Guide for Transforming Guilt, Anxiety, and Anger into Compassion, Confidence, and Connectedness  by Jessica Tomich Sorci and Rebecca Geshuri Maternal Mental Health Hotline: 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262)Second Street Collective: secondstreetcollective.orgAbout Rebecca Geshuri, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Co-Author, When Good Moms Feel Bad:Rebecca Geshuri, M.A., PMH-C, is a licensed marriage and family therapist. She holds certifications in Internal Family Systems, Perinatal Mental Health, and Brainspotting. Rebecca is the co-author of When Good Moms Feel Bad: An Empowering Guide for Transforming Guilt, Anxiety, and Anger into Compassion, Confidence, and Connectedness.In addition to seeing moms, their partners, and their babies in her private practice in Campbell, CA, Rebecca teaches workshops to therapists, physicians, doulas, and yoga practitioners. Rebecca is the Founder of Second Street Collective, which provides psychotherapy and support to moms and their families throughout California. She has presented at the IFS Institute and Postpartum Support International conferences and has been featured on several prominent podcasts. Rebecca’s work is grounded in the profound and extraordinary experience of being a mom to three daughters. Connect with Rebecca:  Rebecca Geshuri LMFT: https://rebeccageshurilmft.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-geshuri/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rebeccageshurimftInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rebeccageshurilmftConnect with Maria:Get Maria's books: Red-Slice.com/booksHire Maria to speak: Red-Slice.com/Speaker-Maria-RossTake the LinkedIn Learning Courses! Leading with Empathy and Balancing Empathy, Accountability, and Results as a Leader LinkedIn: Maria RossInstagram: @redslicemariaFacebook: Red SliceGet your copy of The Empathy Dilemma here- www.theempathydilemma.com

I had to get this urgent episode to you sooner rather than later, given the climate of fear in the U.S. in current times.For many employees right now, work doesn’t feel like a safe place. It feels uncertain, frightening, and deeply personal. In moments like this, how leaders respond matters more than ever. Michelle Feferman has spent decades helping organizations navigate complex DEI and workplace culture challenges in ways that protect people and strengthen the business. We talk directly about what leaders can do to support employees in the face of ICE raids and immigration-related fear, how to create real psychological safety at work, and why most DEI efforts are still entirely legal if you’re focused on risk mitigation, clarity, and care.We also unpack how retention, engagement, and productivity are tightly tied to DEI and empathy work, and the key elements leaders need to think through right now to support their people while capturing the full business benefit.This is a practical, compassionate conversation for leaders who want to do the right thing without panicking, posturing, or staying silent.To access the episode transcript, go to www.TheEmpathyEdge.com, search by episode title.Listen in for…Creating a diverse team that goes beyond old-fashioned quotas.Key benefits of having a wide pool of differing viewpoints within your organization.Actions to put in place to keep your employees safe and informed about handling ICE raids that could be used as a template for other crises. Tips to create an FAQ that matters  "If you can take the time now to get these things in place, the majority of people will relax, to some extent, and feel like they can come to work and just focus on work. People will relax more and be much more productive at work." —  Michelle Feferman Episode References: Michelle's article: It is Imperative to Create Psychological Safety at Work Amidst ICE Raids: https://mfeferman.substack.com/p/12868206_ice-raids-and-psychological-safetyBook: DO DEI Right: Cut Through the Noise and Drive Lasting ResultsAbout Michelle Feferman, Founder and CEO, Equity at Work, Author of Do DEI RightMichelle is passionate about helping organizations have a profound impact on their employees, businesses, and communities through their diversity, equity, and inclusion work. She is the Founder and CEO of Equity At Work, known for creating innovative, customized solutions for even the most complex DEI and workplace culture challenges. Her clients outperform their peers in revenue and margin growth, productivity, engagement, and retention.Michelle is the author of Do DEI Right, co-host of the podcast Your DEI Minute, and on the Investment Committee of RevTech Venture Capital. Before this, she spent 25 years working at Accenture, Kurt Salmon, Macy’s Inc., and The Walt Disney Company.From Our Sponsor:Keynote Speakers and Conference Trainers: Get your free Talkadot trial and enjoy this game-changer for your speaking business! www.share.talkadot.com/mariarossConnect with Michelle:Equity At Work: https://www.equity-at-work.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelleebogan/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093183559876Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/equity_at_workSubstack: https://mfeferman.substack.com/ Connect with Maria:Get Maria's books: Red-Slice.com/booksHire Maria to speak: Red-Slice.com/Speaker-Maria-RossTake the LinkedIn Learning Courses! Leading with Empathy and Balancing Empathy, Accountability, and Results as a Leader LinkedIn: Maria RossInstagram: @redslicemariaFacebook: Red SliceGet your copy of The Empathy Dilemma here- www.theempathydilemma.com

What if creating championship-level performance has far less to do with the team you inherit and everything to do with your own mindset and how you lead, design systems, and set standards from day one? That question came up again and again in my conversation with Donzel Leggett, a leadership strategist, executive coach, and the award-winning author of Make Your Destiny Happen. We dive into what leaders can learn from one of the most talked-about leadership turnarounds in sports this season: Curt Cignetti and the remarkable transformation of Indiana Hoosiers football. We unpack why turnaround success isn’t about inheriting the “right” team, it’s about setting expectations, creating belief, and installing systems that allow people to perform at their best. With more than three decades of leadership experience at Fortune 200 companies, Donzel helps leaders and organizations build clarity, capacity, and intentional leadership. He’s also a former Academic All-America football player, which makes his perspective on leadership, discipline, and performance especially powerful.To access the episode transcript, go to www.TheEmpathyEdge.com, search by episode title.Listen in for…What leaders need now to stay grounded, adaptable, and effective amid rapid change and disruption.How to translate big ideas into repeatable behaviors that actually create change over time.Helping individuals take control of their lives and make their destiny happen through life planning and consistent action. "In most cases, the majority of people have the talent and have the capability. They just need to believe, and they need some tools and some processes to go along with that to allow them to win." —  Donzel LeggettAbout Donzel Leggett, Founder, Destiny Development Delta, LLC, and Author, Make Your Destiny Happen:With more than three decades of leadership experience at Fortune 200 companies, Donzel is the Principal of Destiny Development Delta, LLC, where he focuses on executive leadership development. He is also the award-winning author of Make Your Destiny Happen: Take Control of Your Life with the Destiny Development Delta Model for Transformational Success.Recognized for his strategic vision and commitment to mentorship, Donzel is passionate about coaching and developing leaders worldwide. His purpose is clear: to help people unlock their full potential and become the best leaders they can be. A proud Purdue graduate and former Academic All-America football player, Donzel now splits his time between Florida and Chicagoland with his wife, Tracy.From Our Sponsor:Keynote Speakers and Conference Trainers: Get your free Talkadot trial and enjoy this game-changer for your speaking business! www.share.talkadot.com/mariarossConnect with Donzel:Destiny Development Delta: destinydevdelta.comBook: Make Your Destiny HappenLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/donzelleggettFacebook: facebook.com/destinydevdeltaInstagram: instagram.com/donzel_leggettYouTube: youtube.com/@DonzelLeggett Connect with Maria:Get Maria's books: Red-Slice.com/booksHire Maria to speak: Red-Slice.com/Speaker-Maria-RossTake the LinkedIn Learning Courses! Leading with Empathy and Balancing Empathy, Accountability, and Results as a LeaderLinkedIn: Maria RossInstagram: @redslicemariaFacebook: Red SliceGet your copy of The Empathy Dilemma here- www.theempathydilemma.com

What if empathy wasn’t something we talked about, but something we actually trained, practiced, and scaled?My guest today, Ed Kirwan, is doing exactly that. Ed is the CEO and Founder of Empathy Studios, a creative education organization using the power of film to develop empathy as a real, learnable skill. He’s also the founder of Empathy Week, now the world’s largest empathy festival for schools, reaching more than 1.8 million students across 56 countries since 2020. In this conversation, we explore why film is such a powerful catalyst for empathy, what Ed has learned from years of working with students around the world, why empathy is becoming a critical skill in the age of AI, and how developing empathy can boost well-being and help create a better world.This is a hopeful, practical, and deeply human conversation about what empathy looks like when we stop treating it like a soft skill and start treating it like a core capability.To access the episode transcript, go to www.TheEmpathyEdge.com, search by episode title.Listen in for…The emotional power of film to supercharge feeling and connection.Why empathy and related skills are necessary to reap the benefits of AI.How humans are adapting, seeking things that are real and authentic, and why making something look worse may actually be better. "That's the power of film. It can really supercharge emotions; it can supercharge feeling; it can supercharge connection." —  Ed KirwanEpisode References: Ed Kirwan: Empathy Week: Using the Power of Film to Build EmpathyAbout Ed Kirwan, CEO and Founder, Empathy StudiosPreviously a science teacher in London, Ed founded Empathy Studios, an education and creative organisation using the power of film to develop the skill of empathy in all. A director, filmmaker, and educator for 10+ years, Ed also started Empathy Week, the world’s largest empathy festival for schools, which has reached 1.8 million students across 56 countries since 2020. Their framework for empathy development is backed by the University of Cambridge, and Ed’s team now works across teams and leaders in the business world to help develop and embed the skill of empathy - foundational to high-performing and thriving teams.From Our Sponsor:Keynote Speakers and Conference Trainers: Get your free Talkadot trial and enjoy this game-changer for your speaking business! www.share.talkadot.com/mariaross Connect with Ed Kirwan:Empathy Studios: empathystudios.com Empathy Week: empathyweek.orgLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ed-kirwan Instagram: instagram.com/edkirwan YouTube: youtube.com/@Empathy-Studios Connect with Maria:Get Maria's books: Red-Slice.com/booksHire Maria to speak: Red-Slice.com/Speaker-Maria-RossTake the LinkedIn Learning Courses! Leading with Empathy and Balancing Empathy, Accountability, and Results as a Leader LinkedIn: Maria RossInstagram: @redslicemariaFacebook: Red SliceGet your copy of The Empathy Dilemma here- www.theempathydilemma.com

Managing up is one of the most powerful career accelerators you can master—and it all starts with empathy. Not just empathy flowing downward from leaders to teams, but empathy for your leaders: understanding their pressures, challenges, and decision-making context so you can build trust, influence outcomes, and create mutual success.Given multiple generations in the workforce, we need empathy flowing up for leaders dealing with added pressures and mental health issues right now. Today’s guest, Catherine Ducharme—Founder of Fluency Leadership, award-winning communicator, certified coach, and TEDx speaker—has spent over 30 years helping leaders and teams lead with heart, curiosity, and inspiration. She shares her own story of learning to manage up, the mindset shifts that change everything, and practical ways to anticipate needs, respond more effectively, and position yourself as a strategic leader.To access the episode transcript, go to www.TheEmpathyEdge.com, search by episode title.Listen in for…How to shift your own perspective, rather than trying to change others.Ways to hold your boundaries, while still meeting people where they are.The team building skills you cultivate when you engage in everyday activities with coworkers.Why is there nothing small about small talk or soft about soft skills? "A little vulnerability goes a long way. And it doesn't mean you're pouring your heart out, your woes and everything to your team, but giving them insight to what you're juggling or what's on your mind will tip the balance toward compassion." —  Catherine Ducharme Episode References: Catherine’s article on managing up: www.fluencyleadership.com/2024/07/17/the-crucial-art-of-managing-upFluency's Trust Breakout exercise: http://bit.ly/4lqTBunBook: Seen: The Untapped Power of Appreciation - coming in 2026 - Find out more hereTEDx Talk: The Untapped Power of AppreciationAbout Catherine Ducharme, Founder, Fluency Leadership Founder and Principal of Fluency Leadership, a leadership + team development and coaching practice, Catherine is a certified coach and facilitator with 30+ years of professional communications and leadership experience. She works with leaders and teams to build relational skills, empowering them to lead and influence with heart, empathy, curiosity, and inspiration. She’s been recognized as Regional Leader of the Year by the International Association of Business Communicators. She’s passionate about the need for more appreciation in the workplace and did a TEDx talk on that topic.From Our Sponsor:Keynote Speakers and Conference Trainers: Get your free Talkadot trial and enjoy this game-changer for your speaking business! www.share.talkadot.com/mariaross Connect with Catherine:Fluency Leadership: fluencyleadership.comLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/catherineducharme Connect with Maria:Get Maria's books: Red-Slice.com/booksHire Maria to speak: Red-Slice.com/Speaker-Maria-RossTake the LinkedIn Learning Courses! Leading with Empathy and Balancing Empathy, Accountability, and Results as a Leader LinkedIn: Maria RossInstagram: @redslicemariaFacebook: Red SliceGet your copy of The Empathy Dilemma here- www.theempathydilemma.com

What if the key to self-advocacy wasn’t being louder—but rewiring how you think, feel, and connect with empathy?Today, I’m joined by executive coach and podcast host Jamie Lee, who specializes in helping women and underrepresented leaders rise through the ranks without compromising their integrity. We dive into how empathy and neuroplasticity form the foundation of effective self-advocacy — and how rewiring internal narratives can lead to greater confidence, deeper connection, and clarity when speaking up. Jamie shares evidence-based techniques for regulating the nervous system so you can show up with presence and poise in high-stakes conversations. Plus, we touch on the six types of intelligence you can access to build connections and ask for what you want.If you’ve ever struggled with self-advocacy or want to communicate with more impact and empathy, this episode is for you.To access the episode transcript, go to www.TheEmpathyEdge.com, search by episode title.Listen in for…Defining self-advocacy and neuroplasticity in terms of empathy. Compassion as an action is the key to rewiring your brain. Ways to access your parasympathetic nervous system in your thinking brain and get out of your automatic stress response.Leveraging mirror neurons with empathy and compassion.  "The brain adapts. The brain grows. It changes according to the practices that you expose it to. Compassion is the missing link that helps us be able to access those self-advocacy muscles for ourselves." —  Jamie Lee Episode References: Book a free hour-long consultation for 1:1 coaching with Jamie: https://www.jamieleecoach.com/applyThe Empathy Edge podcast: Dia Bondi: How to Ask Like an AuctioneerMelissa Tiers' Anti-Anxiety Toolkit: https://www.amazon.com/Anti-Anxiety-Toolkit-Melissa-Tiers-ebook/dp/B0073HU3EGJames Tripp's website: https://www.jamestripp.onlineAbout Jamie Lee, Coach, Trainer, Podcast Host Jamie is an executive coach who specializes in women and underrepresented leaders who are "allergic" to office politics. She focuses on helping them get promoted and better paid without compromising their integrity or throwing anyone under the bus. In her practice, she blends proven self-advocacy strategies with evidence-based neuroplasticity tools.Over a decade, Jamie has trained thousands of professionals in effective self-advocacy at leading organizations, including Citi, Unilever, Association of Corporate Counselors, American College of Cardiologists, UC Berkeley School of Business, and Smith College.She's also the host of the Risky Conversations podcast, where she has honest talks with thought leaders on topics often considered taboo or "too risky" at work -- negotiation, mental and reproductive health, office politics, social injustices, and unconventional ways smart women navigate their path forward despite a flawed workplace. From Our Sponsor:Keynote Speakers and Conference Trainers: Get your free Talkadot trial and enjoy this game-changer for your speaking business! www.share.talkadot.com/mariaross Connect with Jamie:Jamie Lee Coach: jamieleecoach.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/leejieunjamie Instagram: instagram.com/jamieleecoach  Connect with Maria:Get Maria's books: Red-Slice.com/booksHire Maria to speak: Red-Slice.com/Speaker-Maria-RossTake the LinkedIn Learning Courses! Leading with Empathy and Balancing Empathy, Accountability, and Results as a Leader LinkedIn: Maria RossInstagram: @redslicemariaFacebook: Red SliceGet your copy of The Empathy Dilemma here- www.theempathydilemma.com

When it comes to empathy at work, there are a hundred different ways to infuse empathy into your operations and systems - in real, practical, non-emotional ways. One of those ways is to look at compensation strategies and professional growth and development.Today, Scott Trumpolt talks about empathy in compensation that leads to better employee engagement and more strategic growth. We discuss both the pitfalls of pay transparency leading to a dead end, but also the upside in how it catalyzes your company to reflect on and improve internal practices. He talks about how compensation is more than just salary, and the overlooked piece of career architecture - a concept that supports the Clarity pillar of empathetic leadership. Scott shares why programs fail, but culture shifts succeed, the #1 element to think about in determining competitive compensation structures, and why empathy is vital to ensure that compensation is about a one-on-one conversation and not a one-size-fits-all proposition. Scott also shares how HR leaders can strengthen credibility with business leaders and move the needle on company growth.To access the episode transcript, go to www.TheEmpathyEdge.com, search by episode title.Listen in for…Driving solutions aimed at employee engagement.Why compensation is not a one-size-fits-all solution and needs to be tailored to your employees and organization.Balancing pay transparency and directing packages and compensation for the individuals.Why job titles and compensation matter."There's a reason why compensation is not in finance. Yes, I use a lot of numbers, but we do it in a completely different way, and we are impacting the individual directly." —  Scott TrumpoltEpisode References: Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us by Daniel PinkThe Empathy Edge: Rhonda George-Denniston: Why Betting on Your People Leads to Market DominationAbout Scott Trumpolt, Managing Director & Compensation Consultant:Scott Trumpolt’s career is defined by a seamless evolution from corporate leadership to independent consultancy, reflecting over 30 years of expertise in compensation planning, HR leadership, and rewards strategies. For 18 years, Scott excelled in the corporate world, holding leadership roles in HR and Compensation across the United States and Germany. In 2012, he launched Trumpolt Compensation Design Solutions (TCDS) to provide bespoke solutions tailored to the unique needs of organizations worldwide.Scott’s corporate experience provided a solid foundation for mastering market-based pay structures, sales incentive plans, and job classification systems. Transitioning into independent consultancy, Scott has spent the past 12 years leveraging this expertise to deliver innovative, client-focused strategies. Scott’s global reach includes projects across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Latin America/Caribbean, reflecting his adaptability to diverse work cultures. He is a Certified Global Remuneration Professional (GRP), holds a master’s degree in Human Resources Management, and has maintained an A+ Better Business Bureau rating, underscoring his commitment to excellence and client satisfaction.From Our Sponsor:Keynote Speakers and Conference Trainers: Get your free Talkadot trial and enjoy this game changer for your speaking business! www.share.talkadot.com/mariaross Connect with Scott:  Trumpolt Compensation Design Solutions: hrcompensationconsulting.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/scott-trumpolt-m-a-g-r-p-257a6b317 BBB profile: bbb.org/south-east-florida/login/page/0/?li=1 Scott's Book: The Defragmented Consultant: https://www.amazon.com/DEFRAGMENTED-CONSULTANT-Transition-Independent-Consultant/dp/B0G53SY2Y7 Connect with Maria:Get Maria's books on empathy: Red-Slice.com/booksHire Maria to speak: Red-Slice.com/Speaker-Maria-RossTake the LinkedIn Learning Course! Leading with EmpathyLinkedIn: Maria RossInstagram: @redslicemariaFacebook: Red SliceThreads: @redslicemariaGet your copy of The Empathy Dilemma here- www.theempathydilemma.com

Many leaders come to empathy in their style and communication based on their own challenges. Today's guest shares how vulnerably sharing her story led her down the path of teaching and training on empathy, and how you can boldly leverage vulnerability as an asset in your communication, leading to stronger connections and better results.Sharon Steed is a keynote speaker, author, and empathy expert specializing in communication and collaboration. As the founder of Communilogue, she helps organizations build more inclusive, connected teams through the power of vulnerability and empathy. A stutterer since childhood, Sharon uses her personal experience to illustrate how embracing discomfort fosters growth. She has worked with Fortune 500 companies, tech leaders, and global organizations, delivering impactful talks and workshops. Sharon is also a LinkedIn Learning Instructor with multiple courses on empathy. She hosts a weekly live podcast on LinkedIn and YouTube on empathy in the age of AI called Empathy In Automation. Her work empowers professionals to lead with authenticity and compassion. Sharon shares her powerful story and discusses how to be vulnerable and communicate with empathy in productive ways—ways that influence and ignite your team, customers, and other stakeholders. We also had an interesting discussion about the intersection of empathy and AI and how to keep humanity in a tech-driven world.To access the episode transcript, go to www.TheEmpathyEdge.com, search by episode title.Listen in for…Why curiosity is an empathetic power.What it means to communicate with empathy and how to overcome communication barriers.The power of setting your conversational intentions out loud.The importance of empathy in the age of AI.  "Everybody swears that they are terrible at communicating. And (I say), well, no, every single time you enter a room, you are communicating." —  Sharon SteedEpisode References: The Empathy Edge podcast episodes:Dr. Michelle Zhou: Empathic AI is Real, and It’s Here – But We Need Everyone Involved!Chris L. Johnson: When Leaders Pause, They WinAbout Sharon Steed, Speaker and Founder, Communilogue:Sharon Steed is a keynote speaker, author, and empathy expert specializing in communication and collaboration. As the founder of Communilogue, she helps organizations build more inclusive, connected teams through the power of vulnerability and empathy. A stutterer since childhood, Sharon uses her personal experience to illustrate how embracing discomfort fosters growth. She has worked with Fortune 500 companies, tech leaders, and global organizations, delivering impactful talks and workshops. Sharon is also a LinkedIn Learning instructor, with courses on Communicating with Empathy and Driving Inclusion with Empathy; she hosts a weekly live podcast on LinkedIn and YouTube on empathy in the age of AI called Empathy In Automation. Her work empowers professionals to lead with authenticity and compassion. From Our Sponsor:Keynote Speakers and Conference Trainers: Get your free Talkadot trial and enjoy this game-changer for your speaking business! www.share.talkadot.com/mariaross Connect with Sharon:Communilogue: communilogue.coLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sharon-steedLinkedIn Learning Course: Communicating With EmpathyYouTube: Empathy in AutomationLinkedIn Newsletter: linkedin.com/newsletters/7107818443042656256/ Connect with Maria:Get Maria's books on empathy: Red-Slice.com/booksLearn more about Maria's work: Red-Slice.comHire Maria to speak: Red-Slice.com/Speaker-Maria-RossTake the LinkedIn Learning Course! Leading with EmpathyLinkedIn: Maria RossInstagram: @redslicemariaFacebook: Red SliceThreads: @redslicemariaGet your copy of The Empathy Dilemma here- www.theempathydilemma.com