The Empathic Leader

This episode’s guest is someone I’ve wanted on the show for a long time — and trust me, it was worth the wait.I’m joined by Art Fromm: podcaster, author, facilitator, speaker, engineer-turned-sales-expert, and truly one of the most multidimensional leaders you’ll ever meet.Art’s career spans engineering, software sales, sales leadership, and enablement — but what makes his journey so compelling is how he brings empathy and perspective-taking front and center into the world of sales. His Seamless Sales Method is built on one simple but powerful truth:In this episode, we talk about:How an engineer learned to thrive in relationship-driven environmentsWhy empathy is the hidden engine behind effective salesWhat discovery really means beyond asking surface-level questionsThe difference between transactional selling and building long-term relationshipsHow perception — of value, of risk, of cost — drives every decisionWhy today’s subscription-driven world demands a deeper level of trust, alignment, and client understandingSubscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader Grab my #1 bestselling book “The Empathic Leader” here: https://a.co/d/8IfKm3M Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 ► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leaderCONNECT WITH ME:► Instagram: @empathyqueen.eq► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy ► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/Connect with Art Fromm:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/artfromm Website:

Today’s conversation is one that stays with you long after it’s over. I’m sitting down with Janik Fauteux — a woman who has lived many lives, worn many hats, and led in more ways than one. From executive vice president in the construction industry, to business development consultant, to entrepreneur, and now host of her own powerful podcast A Woman’s Spark, Janik brings wisdom, vulnerability, and heart to every space she enters.In this episode, we dive deep into self-leadership — the part of leadership most people don’t talk about. Janik shares her journey of resilience, reinvention, and the power of empathy, not just for others but for ourselves. She opens up about caring for her grandmother at the end of her life, creating a business to help seniors downsize, navigating motherhood and chronic pain, and rebuilding her identity after major life transitions.Subscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader Grab my #1 bestselling book “The Empathic Leader” here: https://a.co/d/8IfKm3M Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 ► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leaderCONNECT WITH ME:► Instagram: @empathyqueen.eq► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy ► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/Connect with Janik Fauteux :LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janikfauteux/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janikfauteux/ About Janik:Janik Fauteux is a self-employed business owner and the Executive Vice President of a leading residential and commercial remodeling construction company in Montreal. With a strong background in business development—spanning project management, event management, and...

In this episode, Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller digs into a myth almost all of us have heard: Dr. Melissa breaks down why empathy is not just a trait. It’s also a state you can intentionally build, strengthen, and integrate into your leadership. From the neuroscience behind empathy to the practical habits that make it a repeatable skill, she dives into why empathy might be the most powerful tool you’re not fully using yet.This episode is packed with insight, science, and real world examples including Michael Jordan, childhood social learning, and what separates good leaders from exceptional ones.If you’ve ever wondered whether empathy can be learned, how to strengthen it, or how to use it to navigate leadership more effectively, this episode is for you.► Watch my latest TEDx Talk on “5 steps to start being kinder to yourself” : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IaoXSEWeILo Grab my #1 Amazon Bestselling Book “The Empathic Leader”: https://a.co/d/6mKtblASubscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 ► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leaderCONNECT WITH ME:► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empathyqueen.eq/ ► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy ► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/► About Dr. Robinson-Winemiller:What do empathy and a treadmill have in common? Both need action to deliver results.Quiet quitting. Resenteeism. Post-pandemic stress. AI. Modern leaders face challenges unimaginable in the past, and the pace of change is relentless. The old command-and-control leadership style is obsolete. Leaders today must evolve or risk irrelevance. But leadership now goes beyond dashboards and spreadsheets—so, what’s the answer?Melissa...

In this episode, I sit down with the incredible Jennie Milton (also known as “Adrenajen”) an Australian extreme sports athlete, keynote speaker, bestselling author, and a woman who has literally survived avalanches, polar bear encounters, and brain surgery.Jennie’s story is equal parts unbelievable and deeply grounding. Together, we talk about what fear really is, how our bodies respond to it, and why understanding those responses is the doorway to deeper empathy and stronger leadership.From childhood “scaredy cat” moments to skiing massive mountains in Alaska, Jennie shares how courage is not a personality trait. It’s a skill you build. She breaks down the fight, flight, freeze, and fawn responses in a way every leader needs to hear, and she explains how adrenaline (yes, the same adrenaline that shows up when you're terrified) can become your greatest advantage.Subscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader Grab my #1 bestselling book “The Empathic Leader” here: https://a.co/d/8IfKm3M Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 ► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leaderCONNECT WITH ME:► Instagram: @empathyqueen.eq► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy ► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/Connect with Jennie Milton:Website: https://jenniemilton.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennieadrenajenmiltonspeaker/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adrenajen/ About Jennie:Meet Jennie Milton — widely known as “AdrenaJen” is an Australian extreme sports athlete, bestselling

In this special episode of “The Empathic Leader,” Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller opens up about one of the most transformative experiences of her life — giving her first TEDx Talk on self-empathy and self-judgment.Melissa shares the emotional, vulnerable, and deeply human side of preparing for the red dot — from the nerves of condensing years of research into 12 minutes, to the self-doubt that whispered, “Who am I to be on this stage?”Through it all, she discovered the heart of what she teaches every day: empathy and judgment can’t exist in the same space. This episode is a reflection on that truth — and an invitation to practice self-empathy as the foundation for leading with compassion, courage, and authenticity.If you’ve ever struggled with imposter syndrome, perfectionism, or the fear of being “too much” or “not enough,” this conversation is for you.► Watch my latest TEDx Talk on “5 steps to start being kinder to yourself” : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IaoXSEWeILo Grab my #1 Amazon Bestselling Book “The Empathic Leader”: https://a.co/d/6mKtblASubscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 ► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leaderCONNECT WITH ME:► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empathyqueen.eq/ ► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy ► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/► About Dr. Robinson-Winemiller:What do empathy and a treadmill have in common? Both need action to deliver results.Quiet quitting. Resenteeism. Post-pandemic stress. AI. Modern leaders face challenges unimaginable in the past, and the pace of change is relentless. The old command-and-control...

"Your organization isn’t a machine. It’s a living, breathing organism."In this episode of The Empathic Leader, Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller unpacks a common leadership trap: wanting your organization to “run like a machine.” Sounds great in theory, but people aren’t gears. Machines might be efficient, but they don’t evolve, innovate, or connect  and neither do organizations that forget their humanity.Dr. Melissa breaks down: 💡 The real difference between management and leadership 🌿 Why great leaders see their organizations as organisms, not systems to control 🧠 How empathy and emotional intelligence fuel creativity, loyalty, and innovation 💬 The role of self-empathy in becoming a more human-centered leaderIf you’ve ever felt like a cog in the machine — or want to lead in a way that brings out the best in people — this conversation will shift how you see leadership.Watch my latest TEDx Talk on “5 steps to start being kinder to yourself” : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IaoXSEWeILo Grab my #1 Amazon Bestselling Book “The Empathic Leader”: https://a.co/d/6mKtblASubscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 ► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leaderCONNECT WITH ME:► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empathyqueen.eq/ ► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy ► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/► About Dr. Robinson-Winemiller:What do empathy and a treadmill have in common? Both need action to deliver results.Quiet quitting. Resenteeism. Post-pandemic stress. AI. Modern leaders face challenges unimaginable in the past,...

“Change isn’t failure—it’s transformation.” In this heartfelt and deeply honest conversation, Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller sits down with transformational coach, author, and TEDx speaker Susan Hensley to explore what it really means to navigate life transitions with self-empathy, authenticity, and courage.From careers that shift and identities that evolve, to the messy middle of uncertainty—this episode of The Empathic Leader gets real about the emotional side of leadership and change. Together, Melissa and Susan unpack why self-compassion isn’t weakness but wisdom, and how empathy—especially self-empathy—fuels resilience and authentic connection in both life and leadership.Subscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader Grab my #1 bestselling book “The Empathic Leader” here: https://a.co/d/8IfKm3M Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 ► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leaderCONNECT WITH ME:► Instagram: @empathyqueen.eq► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy ► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/Connect with Susan Hensley:Website: http://susan-hensley.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-hensley-63a4753/ About Susan:Susan Hensley is a transformational coach, speaker, and author who helps people navigate life’s transitions with joy, creativity, and resilience. With decades of experience as a corporate executive, HR leader, and leadership coach, she brings a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities that accompany major life changes. Drawing on her rich background in coaching, HR, and journalism, Susan’s mission is to empower others to...

In this episode of “The Empathic Leader,” Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller sits down with the incredible Olivia Parr-Rud — award-winning author, data scientist turned wisdom coach, and host of “The Amazing Aging” podcast.This conversation is a heartfelt, wisdom-filled deep dive into what it really means to lead with empathy, love, and emotional intelligence — not just in business, but in life. Olivia shares her fascinating journey from corporate data scientist to founder of the Quantum Wisdom Institute, where she helps people transform their life experience into wisdom worth sharing.You’ll hear stories of courage, healing, and transformation — from surviving personal tragedy to redefining leadership through compassion and authenticity. Together, Dr. Melissa and Olivia unpack how “love, empathy, and gratitude” aren’t fluffy buzzwords — they’re powerful tools for building resilient, agile organizations and connected human beings.Subscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader Grab my #1 bestselling book “The Empathic Leader” here: https://a.co/d/8IfKm3M Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 ► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leaderCONNECT WITH ME:► Instagram: @empathyqueen.eq► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy ► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/Connect with Olivia Parr-Rud:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amazing__aging/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/oliviaparrrud/ About Olivia:Olivia Parr-Rud is an award-winning author, radio host, and globally recognized thought leader in data science and business intelligence. With deep...

What if the most powerful leadership strategy wasn’t in another business playbook but inside you all along?In Episode 36 of “The Empathic Leader”, Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller breaks down why empathy isn’t “soft”.  It’s skills-based, data-driven, and results-oriented. She shares real-world stories and hard numbers that show how empathy fuels productivity, innovation, and profit — while also preventing burnout and costly turnover.You’ll learn how empathy can: 💡 Reduce attrition and save your organization thousands 💡 Boost engagement, innovation, and productivity 💡 Build a “know, like, and trust” culture that drives performance 💡 Start with YOU — through practicing self-empathy firstDr. Melissa also shares practical leadership tools like the “60-second curiosity pause,” tracking emotional KPIs, and using empathy as a measurable part of your business strategy.Grab my #1 Amazon Bestselling Book “The Empathic Leader”: https://a.co/d/6mKtblASubscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 ► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leaderCONNECT WITH ME:► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empathyqueen.eq/ ► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy ► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/► About Dr. Robinson-Winemiller:What do empathy and a treadmill have in common? Both need action to deliver results.Quiet quitting. Resenteeism. Post-pandemic stress. AI. Modern leaders face challenges unimaginable in the past, and the pace of change is relentless. The old command-and-control leadership style is obsolete. Leaders today must evolve or risk irrelevance. But leadership now goes beyond dashboards and spreadsheets—so, what’s the answer?Melissa Robinson-Winemiller is the answer....

In this episode, Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller sits down with Jan Raeder. She’s a wellness educator, former martial-arts instructor, and author. They unpack practical tools for self-leadership, resilience, and everyday well-being. Jan walks us through her evidence-based M.O.R.E. Framework (Meaning, Optimism, Relationships, Engagement), explains simple daily practices like the “what went well?” check-in, and shares powerful leadership exercises (including the Gratitude Visit) that build connection, retention, and psychological safety at work.Listeners will discover why self-leadership and self-empathy are the foundation for effective leadership, and how the MORE framework works by showing how Meaning, Optimism, Relationships, and Engagement feed into one another. Jan also shares a fast and practical meeting ritual — ending with “What went well?” and, importantly, the why behind it — as a way to shift energy and focus.She also introduces the Gratitude Visit exercise, a simple yet transformative practice where leaders write and read a note of appreciation that can profoundly impact relationships and morale. Throughout the conversation, Jan highlights how small, evidence-based habits not only reduce chronic stress but also help teams thrive, creating workplaces where empathy and resilience are at the core.Subscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader Grab my #1 bestselling book “The Empathic Leader” here: https://a.co/d/8IfKm3M Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 ► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leaderCONNECT WITH ME:► Instagram: @empathyqueen.eq► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy ► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/Connect with Jan Raeder:Website: https://selfcaresensei.com/ Instagram: a...

What if spotting a great leader was as simple as reading their flags? 🚩⚪💚In Episode 34 of "The Empathic Leader", Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller breaks down the red, beige, and green flags of leadership—signals that reveal how leaders handle critique, communication, generosity, change, and empathy.From toxic patterns that drain teams to green flags that inspire trust and growth, this episode equips you to recognize the signs of strong, empathic leadership—and avoid the pitfalls of poor leadership.Grab my #1 Amazon Bestselling Book “The Empathic Leader”: https://a.co/d/6mKtblASubscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 ► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leaderCONNECT WITH ME:► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empathyqueen.eq/ ► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy ► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/► About Dr. Robinson-Winemiller:What do empathy and a treadmill have in common? Both need action to deliver results.Quiet quitting. Resenteeism. Post-pandemic stress. AI. Modern leaders face challenges unimaginable in the past, and the pace of change is relentless. The old command-and-control leadership style is obsolete. Leaders today must evolve or risk irrelevance. But leadership now goes beyond dashboards and spreadsheets—so, what’s the answer?Melissa Robinson-Winemiller is the answer. With over 20 years of leadership experience, two doctorates (including one focused on empathy in leadership), an MBA, and multiple certifications in change management and DEI, she helps leaders achieve greater profits, retention, productivity, and innovation.Her mission? To elevate leadership through the often-overlooked power of EQ and empathy. As a coach and consultant, Melissa draws on expertise, data-driven insights, and proven results to guide leaders through...

‘Burnout’ isn’t just a buzzword in health care, it’s a crisis. In Episode 33 of "The Empathic Leader" podcast, Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller sits down with registered nurse, entrepreneur, and founder of the Nomadic Nurse Network, Melanie Boulerice.Together, they explore the realities of health care systems in both the U.S. and Quebec, Canada. Plus, the devastating cycle of “do more with less,” and how burnout erodes not only professional well-being but also patient care. Melanie shares her own story of burning out early in her career, why she founded Nomadic Nurse Network, and how she’s building a community of health care professionals dedicated to restoring empathy, balance, and sustainability in the field.Subscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader Grab my #1 bestselling book “The Empathic Leader” here: https://a.co/d/8IfKm3M Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 ► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leaderCONNECT WITH ME:► Instagram: @empathyqueen.eq► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy ► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/Connect with Melanie Boulerice:Website: https://nomadicnursenetwork.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nursemelaniejadeb/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melanie-boulerice/ About Melanie:Melanie Boulerice is a registered nurse, serial entrepreneur, and owner of Nomadic Nurse Network Inc. Based in Montreal as a travel nurse, she is also a passionate advocate for health care professionals navigating the challenges of modern...

Welcome to Episode 32 of “The Empathic Leader” podcast with Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller. In this solo episode, we dive deep into the realities of toxic work environments—what they actually are, how to recognize the signs early, and most importantly, what to do if you find yourself stuck in one.Too often, terms like “toxic workplace” or “gaslighting” are thrown around loosely, but here we take time to define what they truly mean. A toxic work culture isn’t just about having an annoying coworker or an inconvenient policy—it’s a long-term, ongoing environment that damages mental health, physical health, and even personal relationships. From leadership blind spots to cultural misalignment, Dr. Melissa unpacks how these dynamics take root, why they’re so dangerous, and how leaders can use empathy to break the cycle.Grab my #1 Amazon Bestselling Book “The Empathic Leader”: https://a.co/d/6mKtblASubscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 ► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leaderCONNECT WITH ME:► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empathyqueen.eq/ ► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy ► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/► About Dr. Robinson-Winemiller:What do empathy and a treadmill have in common? Both need action to deliver results.Quiet quitting. Resenteeism. Post-pandemic stress. AI. Modern leaders face challenges unimaginable in the past, and the pace of change is relentless. The old command-and-control leadership style is obsolete. Leaders today must evolve or risk irrelevance. But leadership now goes beyond dashboards and spreadsheets—so, what’s the answer?Melissa Robinson-Winemiller is the answer. With over 20 years of leadership experience, two doctorates (including one focused on empathy in...

In the 31st episode of The Empathic Leader podcast, Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller interviews Vandana Puranik—a powerhouse marketer, strategist, and bestselling author who has worked with iconic brands like Johnson & Johnson, Hershey’s, and Campbell’s.Vandana’s story is one of resilience and reinvention. After being diagnosed with breast cancer and facing life-threatening complications—including a coma and acute respiratory distress syndrome—she came out with a renewed perspective on life: to live “limitless,” prioritize self-care, and embrace every moment.Subscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader Grab my #1 bestselling book “The Empathic Leader” here: https://a.co/d/8IfKm3M Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 ► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leaderConnect with Vandana Puranik:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vandana.puranik LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vandanapuranik/ About Vandana:Vandana Puranik is a brainstormer, builder, and brander. With 25+ years of experience as a marketer, innovator, and strategist, she has scaled startups, revived struggling businesses, and driven rapid growth—even boosting an established company by 60% in just one month.Her global career across industries and cultures has given her a deep understanding of human insights, which she transforms into breakthrough ideas. She’s passionate about turning complexity into clarity, clarity into vision, and vision into reality.A USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author and international speaker, Vandana helps growth-minded leaders solve “impossible” problems and unlock limitless success. She is also the founder of Active Ingredients Inc. and a proud Duke University graduate.CONNECT WITH ME:► Instagram: @empathyqueen.eq► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy ► LinkedIn: a...

Empathy isn’t just a buzzword. It’s the glue and accelerant for real business transformation. In Episode 30 of “The Empathic Leader” podcast, Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller shares practical, actionable ways leaders can actually embed empathy into their culture and not just talk about it.From the importance of modeling behavior and being visible to your team, to why empathy sometimes means having the hard conversations, Dr. Melissa pulls back the curtain on what authentic, empathy-driven leadership looks like in action. She also explains why self-awareness is critical, how culture naturally forms when leaders aren’t intentional, and why “nice” and “kind” are not the same thing.Whether you’re leading a team of five or five thousand, this episode will challenge you to reflect, connect, and lead with empathy in a way that inspires loyalty, innovation, and trust.Grab my #1 Amazon Bestselling Book “The Empathic Leader”: https://a.co/d/6mKtblA Subscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 ► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leaderCONNECT WITH ME:► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empathyqueen.eq/ ► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy ► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/► About Dr. Robinson-Winemiller:What do empathy and a treadmill have in common? Both need action to deliver results.Quiet quitting. Resenteeism. Post-pandemic stress. AI. Modern leaders face challenges unimaginable in the past, and the pace of change is relentless. The old command-and-control leadership style is obsolete. Leaders today must evolve or risk irrelevance. But leadership now goes beyond dashboards and spreadsheets—so, what’s the answer?Melissa Robinson-Winemiller is the answer. With over 20 years of leadership experience, two

She Survived the Boston Marathon Bombing, Now She's Changing the Mental Health Landscape After TragedyIn this gripping episode of "The Empathic Leader" podcast, Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller speaks with Manya Chylinski, a survivor of the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing who turned personal trauma into national advocacy.Though Manya walked away without visible injuries, the psychological impact was deep and largely ignored. In this conversation, she opens up about the emotional aftermath, her struggle with invisibility as a trauma survivor, and how that pain became the driving force behind her advocacy.Manya shares how surviving the Boston Marathon bombing led her to advocate for mental health reform, resulting in the Post-disaster Mental Health Response Act of Rep. Ayanna Pressley. She opens up about the emotional toll of being an “invisible” survivor, the power of being believed, and how sharing her story—first anonymously, then on global stages—helped her heal. She and Dr. Melissa also discuss workplace trauma, leadership failures, and why empathy isn’t optional in recovery or leadership.Subscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader Grab my #1 bestselling book “The Empathic Leader” here: https://a.co/d/8IfKm3M Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 ► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leaderCONNECT WITH ME:► Instagram: @empathyqueen.eq► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy ► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/Connect with Manya Chylinski:Website: https://manyachylinski.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mschylinski/ LinkedIn:

In this episode of “The Empathic Leader,” Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller sits down with bestselling author, speaker, and reinvention expert Samantha Kris for an honest, inspiring conversation about the evolution from manager to empathic leader.Samantha shares her unconventional journey. She started from addictions counselor to corporate executive to trusted advisor for impact-driven CEOs. Along the way, she unpacks the pivotal moments that reshaped her leadership style, including the challenges of managing underperforming team members, navigating feedback, and overcoming ego. Together, Melissa and Samantha explore how empathy becomes a practical leadership tool and not just a feel-good value. They dive into the importance of adaptive communication, self-awareness, and building feedback-friendly working cultures.She also reflects on the difference between leading a team versus coaching executives, and how witnessing vulnerability at the top has deepened her capacity for empathy—both toward others and herself.Subscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader Grab my #1 bestselling book “The Empathic Leader” here: https://a.co/d/8IfKm3M Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 ► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leaderCONNECT WITH ME:► Instagram: @empathyqueen.eq► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy ► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/Connect with Samantha Kris:Website: https://www.samanthakris.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samanthakris3/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-kris/ About Samantha:Samantha Kris...

In Episode 27 of "The Empathic Leader" podcast, Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller returns for a powerful solo episode that every leader, team member, and aspiring changemaker should hear.This time, she dives deep into the difference between beige flags and red flags in leadership, borrowing a term often used in dating and applying it insightfully to organizational life.🚩 Red flags are clear warning signs like leaders who weaponize language, resist all forms of critique, or foster manipulative group dynamics. ⚠️ Beige flags, on the other hand, might not seem like a big deal at first but left unchecked, they can quietly erode trust, innovation, and team culture over time.Dr. Robinson-Winemiller breaks down six key behavioral “flags” she’s seen repeatedly in her work with organizations, including:1. How leaders handle feedback and critique2. The language they use (and how they use it)3. Their approach to generosity vs. scarcity4. Resistance or fear around change5. How they use data and analytics6. And whether they treat people equitablyGrab my #1 Amazon Bestselling Book “The Empathic Leader”: https://a.co/d/6mKtblA Subscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 ► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leaderCONNECT WITH ME:► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empathyqueen.eq/ ► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy ► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/► About Dr. Robinson-Winemiller:What do empathy and a treadmill have in common? Both need action to deliver results.Quiet quitting. Resenteeism. Post-pandemic stress. AI. Modern leaders face challenges unimaginable in the past, and the pace of change is relentless....

What really happens when a highly educated person leaves academia—not just in career, but in identity?In this deeply reflective episode, Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller sits down with executive coach, leadership mentor, and founder of The PhD Academy, Don Beck, to unpack the emotional and cultural dissonance that comes with transitioning from the ivory tower to industry, leadership, and a more human-centered world of work.Don shares powerful insights from his own journey—from academia to high-level executive and nonprofit leadership—and the work he now does helping PhDs reframe their identities, expand their leadership potential, and bridge the gap between scholarly rigor and practical impact.Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 ► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leaderSubscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader CONNECT WITH ME:► Instagram: @empathyqueen.eq► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy ► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/Connect with Don Back:Website: https://www.phdcareeracademy.com/about/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/don-back/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/don.back.5851127 About Don:Don Back, PhD, MBA is an executive coach, leadership mentor, and founder of The PhD Academy. After starting his career in academia—with a PhD, postdoc experience, and a faculty position—Don realized the traditional path no longer aligned with his passion for meaningful, applied work. Leaving academia was both isolating and eye-opening, revealing how unprepared most PhDs are for career transitions.Since then, Don has built a dynamic career across industry, venture capital, and innovation leadership. He’s helped launch startups, advised...

This episode marks the third and final part of our special 3-part series diving into the heart of the book ‘The Empathic Leader’ which officially launched at #1 on Amazon last week! In this series finale, Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller walks us through Chapter 10 of the book, unpacking a critical framework for evaluating empathy in leadership: beige flags vs. red flags; why knowing the difference could change your workplace (and well-being) forever.Whether you're a leader, a middle manager, or an employee trying to navigate a complex work culture, this episode is packed with hard truths, honest reflections, and actionable insight.You’ll learn how to recognize early warning signs in leadership behavior, and why hearing “we’re like family” during a job interview might be more of a flag than a feature. We also explore what real psychological safety looks like and what happens when it’s missing. Most importantly, you’ll see how empathy isn’t just about being nice. It's a strategic skill that can be learned, practiced, and used to build healthier teams and more sustainable leadership.If you've ever ignored your gut at work, struggled to feel safe in your role, or wanted to lead with more impact and less exhaustion…this conversation is for you.‘The Empathic Leader’ BOOK IS OUT NOW! https://www.amazon.com/Empathic-Leader-Transforms-Leadership-Productivity-ebook/dp/B0F44JLV5R Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 ► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leaderSubscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader CONNECT WITH ME:► Instagram: @empathyqueen.eq► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy ► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/► About Dr. Robinson-Winemiller:What do empathy and a treadmill have in common? Both need action to deliver results.Quiet quitting. Resenteeism. Post-pandemic stress. AI. Modern leaders face challenges unimaginable