The Leading Below the Surface Podcast with LaTonya Wilkins

What if healing your inner child could unlock the wisdom of your ancestors? In this episode of Leading Below the Surface, LaTonya Wilkins sits down with Tamala Floyd, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Psychotherapist, and the first Black IFS lead trainer for a raw and revelatory conversation about Internal Family Systems (IFS), ancestral trauma, and what it really takes to heal below the surface. From navigating white-dominated spaces to transforming inherited rage, Tamala shares how IFS can reach the communities that need it most and how you can start your own healing journey without ever stepping into a therapy office.🎥 Prefer to watch? This episode is also available on YouTube with chapters: https://www.youtube.com/@changecoaches/podcastsEpisode Chapters [00:00] Welcome & introducing Tamala FloydLaTonya shares how she discovered Tamala's book through a previous guestWhy she's fangirling — and what makes this conversation different[03:15] Being the first Black IFS lead trainerHow Tamala came to IFS through The Body Keeps the ScoreWhat it means to be a gatekeeper — and why representation in leadership matters[07:30] Bringing IFS into Black and marginalized communitiesWhy language and framing matter when working across culturesThe "storyteller part" — and why Tamala pushed back on the traditional IFS approach[11:00] What IFS actually is — and why it's not a fadParts, protectors, and getting to the root of trauma (not just managing it)[15:00] LaTonya's personal IFS session & the ten-year-old withinA vulnerable share about divorce, displacement, and emotional catharsisWhat it felt like to finally talk to her younger self[18:00] Tamala's ten-year-old — abandonment, rejection, and healingHow Tamala's own wound shaped her people-pleasing and rageWhat happened when that part finally released its burden[20:30] Reconnecting with your inner child through travel, play, and joyHow Tamala's ten-year-old "drags her by the hand" to the beachWhy adult joy doesn't have to look exactly like childhood joy — just carry its spirit[26:00] Where to start: what's not working & what triggers youTwo entry points for doing your own IFS workThe question to ask yourself when a protective part shows up: What am I afraid would happen if I didn't do this?[31:00] Jealousy, envy, and the fixed vs. growth mindsetWhat envy is really protecting — and the scarcity wound underneathWhy two things can be true at once[34:00] Parts, contradictions, and why you're not inconsistentHow to make sense of holding opposing beliefs at the same time"You're dealing with two different parts of me" — the most freeing reframe[37:00] Legacy burdens and bringing in ancestral wisdomTamala's original contribution to IFS: inviting ancestors in to release inherited woundsWhy it's not your burden to carry — and how to let it go for your whole lineage[41:00] Altars, ancestors, and practical ways to connectWhere to start if you want to connect with your ancestors todayPlants, photos, and conversations — small acts with big resonance[43:00] Healing Works Academy — IFS for everyoneWhy Tamala created an online space for self-guided IFS healing[45:00] Where to find Tamala & final thoughtsResources, platforms, and how to go deeper with this workResources 🔹 Tamala Floyd: https://tamalafloyd.com 🔹 Healing Works Academy:https://www.tamalafloyd.com/work-with-me/ 🔹 Book: Listening When Parts Speak — available at Bookshop.org 🔹 Explore Coaching Below the Surface™ (ICF-approved): https://changecoaches.io/coaching-below-the-surface/ 🔹 Follow Change Coaches on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/change-coaches 🔹 LaTonya Wilkins on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/latonyawilkins/🔹 If this conversation resonated, come go deeper with me. I send a semi-monthly newsletter on grounded leadership, identity, and what it means to lead below the surface. Join here: https://change-coaches.kit.com/profile

Psychological safety has become one of the most popular leadership buzzwords in recent years. But is it enough on its own?Inspired by Amy Edmondson’s recent Harvard Business Review article, executive coach and author LaTonya Wilkins explores the six most common misconceptions about psychological safety — and what leaders can do to move beyond them.LaTonya also shares exciting news about the second edition of her award-winning book Leading Below the Surface, coming this fall, and gives three practical tips for keeping psychological safety alive in your organization.Why psychological safety isn’t about being “nice” or avoiding accountabilityThe difference between safety and job securityHow safety drives performance and collaboration, not the oppositeWhy everyone — not just senior leaders — can create safety🌟 What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy psychological safety isn’t about being “nice” or avoiding accountabilityThe difference between safety and job securityHow safety drives performance and collaboration, not the oppositeWhy everyone — not just senior leaders — can create safetyThree practical ways to make psychological safety last🔗 Resources & LinksOfficial Podcast Hub: leadingbelowthesurface.comHBR Article: What People Get Wrong About Psychological Safety by Amy C. Edmondson & Michaela J. KerrisseyLaTonya’s Article: The Relationship Between Psychological Safety and AccountabilityChange Coaches on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/change-coachesLaTonya Wilkins on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/latonyawilkinsCoaching Below the Surface Program: changecoaches.io/coaching-below-the-surface/

In this solo episode of Leading Below the Surface, LaTonya Wilkins explores one of the most overlooked leadership superpowers: deep, intentional listening. In a world full of fear, anxiety, and change, most leaders are struggling to hear—and be heard.Drawing from a powerful real-life coaching session, LaTonya introduces two frameworks that will help you lead with empathy and clarity:• P2P (Person-to-Person) Listening• P2B (Person-to-Belonging) ListeningWhether you’re leading a team, navigating personal growth, or building trust, this episode will help you tune in, reflect, and create deeper human connection.What You’ll Learn:Why listening is harder—and more essential—than everWhat fear has to do with our inability to listenThe difference between P2P and P2B listeningHow to listen with multiple sensesReal tactics to become a better listener todayA journal prompt to help you reflect and grow🔗 Learn more about Coaching Below the Surface:https://changecoaches.io/coaching-below-the-surface/📲 Connect on LinkedIn:Change Coaches: https://www.linkedin.com/company/change-coachesLaTonya Wilkins: https://www.linkedin.com/in/latonyawilkins/

In this episode of the Leading Below the Surface podcast, host LaTonya Wilkins sits down with Mel Milloway—servant leader, learning experience designer, and Co-Founder of This Side Up—to explore how AI and emerging learning technologies are reshaping leadership, learning, and performance.Mel shares how leaders and learning professionals can stay ahead of the curve by upskilling with digital tools, human-centered design, and experimentation. They discuss practical ways to think differently about learning tech, the importance of lifelong curiosity, and how the role of learning teams is shifting in real time.Whether you’re in L&D, leading teams, or just curious about how AI is reshaping work, this conversation will help you reimagine what it means to lead and learn today.Guest Bio:Mel Milloway is a people leader and learning experience designer with over 14 years in corporate learning. She’s led high-impact programs at Amazon and Miro, and champions innovative approaches including xAPI, UX/UI, and servant leadership. Mel publishes a newsletter on LinkedIn called This Side Up, where she shares videos, frameworks, and practices from the frontlines of modern learning.📍 Learn more about Mel:https://melmilloway.github.io/abouthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/melmilloway/🙏🏾 Please share this episode if it resonates with you, or if you know someone who’s navigating these shifts in learning and leadership. 🔗 Stay connected:Change Coaches: https://www.changecoaches.ioChange Coaches on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/change-coachesLaTonya Wilkins on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/latonyawilkins/Leading Below the Surface: https://www.leadingbelowthesurface.comCoaching Below the Surface: https://changecoaches.io/coaching-below-the-surface/

In this enlightening dialogue, LaTonya and Austin explore how outdated societal expectations have impacted men’s well-being, relationships, and leadership effectiveness. Austin shares his journey from corporate consulting to coaching men of color and explains why spaces like The Man Cave are essential today. The conversation digs into topics like emotional regulation, stonewalling, unconscious beliefs around money and sex, and how redefining masculinity can transform not just men’s lives but our broader communities.All people, regardless of gender, possess both masculine and feminine energy; understanding this dynamic is key to leadership and well-being.Emotional suppression—especially among Black men—has deep roots and real consequences in leadership and relationships.“Stonewalling” is a common emotional response for men, often misunderstood; awareness and breathwork can create breakthroughs.Men often link their self-worth to money, success, and sex—but these are societal stories that must be unlearned.The Man Cave provides a powerful community for men of color to be vulnerable, seen, and emotionally accountable.If you're passionate about coaching across gender and race, or curious about how masculinity is evolving in today's world, this conversation goes far beneath the surface.Key Insights:👉 Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and tap the NOTIFICATION BELL for more episodes that challenge outdated leadership norms.Connect with us: Email us at ⁠info@changecoaches.io⁠Learn more about ⁠Change Coaches⁠ (changecoaches.io)Learn more about Coaching Below the Surface (https://changecoaches.io/coaching-below-the-surface/)Follow LaTonya on ⁠LinkedIn⁠ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/latonyawilkins/)Follow Change Coaches on ⁠LinkedIn⁠ (https://www.linkedin.com/company/82310593)For More on the Book ⁠Leading Below the Surface (leadingbelowthesurface.com)And, if you loved this episode, please rate and share it!More About AustinMy name is Richard Austin Walker and I am a man who shows the fuck up. I lead with truth and love. I empower responsibility and possibility.My practice is a reflection of my commitment to self-actualization and serving my mission in rasing the standard of masculinity for men of color. I support BIPOC men to own their truth, own the impact of their leadership, and choose the responsibility of owning all aspects of their lived experiences. I offer 1:1 coaching, men's groups, a variety of leadership development workshops, and partner with select organizations to empower a culture of leadership. I value building relationships with other men who embody their truth and choose to be leaders. I host a weekly men's call for BIPOC leaders to be responsible for how they show up in the world. Each week we explore a monthly theme that is relevant for men of color. The Man Cave is a space for brotherhood, vulnerability, and authentic expression in service to being powerful models of grounded, open-hearted masculine leaders. If you want to drop into our conversation, please fill out our applicationInterested in a BIPOC men's community? Complete The Man Cave Interest form to engage. We meet Monday's at 12 PM ET and Thursday's at 6 PM ET. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScRTGX85d500k_3uJQJNqWrWw2bOsvQHaC6ZRU6y34HalaB2w/viewform BIPOC men's retreat this Fall, October 23 - 26, 2025 in James Creek, PA. Learn more at the Leadership Intensive Retreat webpage. https://www.austinwalkercoaching.com/new-leadership-intensive-retreat #RedefiningMasculinity #CoachingMenOfColor#InclusiveLeadership #EmotionalIntelligence #LeadingBelowTheSurface

In this episode, we feature a special webinar recording where LaTonya Wilkins, award-winning executive coach and author, introduces Coaching Below the Surface, an ICF-approved coach training program launching in July 2025. This initiative outlines a fresh approach to coaching, emphasizing connection across differences and creating psychological safety in coaching relationships.In Episode 49, we dive into a comprehensive introduction of Coaching Below the Surface, a groundbreaking ICF-approved coach training program designed to help coaches navigate the complexities of our VUCA (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, Ambiguous) world. LaTonya explores how this program prepares coaches to work effectively across differences, focusing on the importance of psychological safety for both coaches and clients. The presentation also introduces the REAL leadership model (Relatable, Equitable, Aware, and Loyal) and how this unique framework addresses the diverse needs of today's coaching landscape.Key Insights:Connecting Across Differences: The program highlights the need for coaches to connect with clients across diverse perspectives and challenges, addressing the complexity of the VUCA world.Psychological Safety: Coaches must create "dual psychological safety"—ensuring safety for both themselves and their clients—to foster authentic, effective coaching interactions.KPE (Knowledge, Perspectives, and Experiences): The program introduces KPE as the foundation for understanding the unique differences that coaches and clients bring to the relationship.The REAL Model: This coaching approach is rooted in the REAL model, which stands for Relatable, Equitable, Aware, and Loyal, helping coaches navigate diverse client needs.Understanding Gen Z: Gen Z’s unique challenges are highlighted as a key focus, positioning them as one of the top leadership issues in today’s coaching landscape.Cohort-Based Learning: Participants will engage in a cohort-based environment, fostering psychological safety, belonging, and "coaching joy."Outcomes for Coaches: By joining the program, participants can expect tangible outcomes: more clients, improved ratings, and an overall improvement in their coaching practice.The Importance of Coaching Now: The program underscores that this is a pivotal time for coaches to make a significant impact in today’s complex workplace.To learn more about the Coaching Below the Surface program, click here.0:00 - Introduction and Welcome to the Webinar2:15 - Overview of Leading Below the Surface Philosophy4:30 - Understanding the VUCA World (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, Ambiguity)7:45 - Defining Wicked Problems in Today's Leadership Landscape10:20 - How Traditional Coaching Falls Short in Complex Environments13:40 - Introduction to Coaching Below the Surface Framework16:55 - Key Preparation Strategies for Effective Coaching20:10 - The Power of Listening Beyond Words23:35 - Navigating Difficult Conversations with Empathy27:50 - Practical Coaching Tools for VUCA Environments32:15 - Case Studies: Successful Below the Surface Coaching36:40 - Q&A Session with Webinar Participants41:05 - Information About the ICF-Accredited Coach Training Program44:30 - Next Steps and How to Connect Further47:15 - Closing Remarks and Thank YouConnect with us: Email us at ⁠info@changecoaches.io⁠Learn more about ⁠Change Coaches⁠ (changecoaches.io)Learn more about Coaching Below the Surface (https://changecoaches.io/coaching-below-the-surface/)Follow LaTonya on ⁠LinkedIn⁠ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/latonyawilkins/)Follow Change Coaches on ⁠LinkedIn⁠ (https://www.linkedin.com/company/82310593)For More on the Book ⁠Leading Below the Surface (leadingbelowthesurface.com)And, if you loved this episode, please rate and share it!

Is your mindset feeling off, but you don't really know why? In this episode, LaTonya Wilkins shares 8 actionable ways to upgrade your leadership mindset and thrive in today's rapidly changing world. She dives into the importance of self-awareness and emotional intelligence, exploring how recognizing triggers and managing emotions can guide decisions and improve relationships.LaTonya also discusses the significance of cultivating a growth mindset and building resilience in the face of uncertainty. By sharing personal stories and practical strategies, she aims to help listeners adapt to change and lead with calm and clarity. Throughout the episode, she emphasizes the importance of trusting oneself and making confident decisions while fostering a sense of purpose and committing to long-term success.Join LaTonya as she navigates the complexities of leadership in today's times. Whetheryou are looking to enhance your well-being or improve your leadership skills, this episode is packed with insights that can transform their mindset. For more resources, visit changecoaches.io or email info@changecoaches.io.Inventory of Links:Resources from Today’s EpisodeLearn more about Our ICF-Approved Coach and Leadership Training Program: https://changecoaches.io/2025-coaching-below-the-surface/Connect with us: Email us at ⁠info@changecoaches.io⁠Learn more about ⁠Change Coaches⁠ (changecoaches.io)Follow LaTonya on ⁠LinkedIn⁠ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/latonyawilkins/)Follow Change Coaches on ⁠LinkedIn⁠ (https://www.linkedin.com/company/82310593)For More on the Book ⁠Leading Below the Surface (leadingbelowthesurface.com)And, if you loved this episode, please rate and share it!

Join me, LaTonya Wilkins, on the Leading Below the Surface podcast as I chat with Sabrina Creighton, a Change Coaches Coach partner, about navigating unexpected life changes, including divorce and personal growth. In this episode, we delve into the challenges of dealing with grief, managing transitions, and the importance of community support. We share personal stories, tools, and resources to help you thrive and find resilience, no matter what life throws your way.In this episode, Sabrina and I discuss: Dealing with loss and grief Working through childhood traumas The impact of divorce on personal identity The importance of community and support systems Redesignating your life after major shifts Empathizing with yourself and practicing self-care Pruning relationships and focusing on your rootsTimestamps: 00:00:00 - Introduction to Change Coaches 00:00:48 - Episode introduction: Unexpected Life Changes 00:01:43 - Welcoming Sabrina Creighton 00:02:47 - Sabrina's Journal Company and living her best life 00:04:48 - Internal vs. External storms 00:06:42 - Building a protective force field 00:10:32 - Stories of life shifts 00:11:05 - Sabrina's experience with her mother's cancer and passing 00:15:27 - Sharing experiences with loss 00:20:16 - Working through childhood traumas 00:22:29 - Mothers' legacies 00:27:59 - Doors opening 00:29:46 - Unexpected divorce 00:34:30 - Losing yourself in relationships 00:38:06 - Unexpected separations/divorces 00:38:57 - Resources: Necessary Endings 00:41:34 - The tree analogy 00:44:17 - The importance of community 00:44:46 - Therapy and life design 00:50:55 - Final thoughts and sharing the podcastResources Mentioned: Book: Necessary Endings by Henry Cloud Book: Conscious Uncoupling by Katherine Woodward Thomas Book: Let Them by Mel RobbinsConnect with Sabrina: Coaching Company: Sabrina Creighton LLC Pen & Purpose Journal https://penandpurposejournalco.com/ Pen & Purpose LinkedIn Pen & Purpose Instagram Connect with LaTonya and Change Coaches: Website: Changecoaches.io Email: info@changecoaches.io Follow LaTonya on⁠LinkedIn⁠ Follow Change Coaches on⁠LinkedIn⁠ For More on the Book⁠Leading Below the SurfaceIf you found this episode helpful, please share it with others and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Thank you for listening!