The Leading Below the Surface Podcast with LaTonya Wilkins

In this insightful episode of the The Leading Below the Surface Podcast, host LaTonya Wilkins chats with Loren Sanders, author of Empathy is Not a Weakness. Loren shares about her transformative work with empathy as well as providing tips and tricks as you approach conference season; how to strategize, maximize learnings, and the value of building your network.  Resources from today's episode: -Change Coaches Guide to Create Psychological Safe Conversations Across Differences -Change Coaches Newsletter -Connect with Loren on LinkedIn -Loren's Website Connect with us:  Email us at info@changecoaches.io Learn more about Change Coaches  Follow LaTonya on LinkedIn  Follow Change Coaches on LinkedIn  For More on the Book Leading Below the Surface

In this episode, host LaTonya Wilkins takes a dive deep into the transformative concept of joy with Dr. Pamela Larde! Dr. Pamela Larde is a leading expert on the psychology of joy. She has dedicated her career to exploring the nuances of joy, contrasting it with happiness, and understanding its significance across diverse populations. Together, LaTonya and Dr. Larde explore the profound differences between joy and happiness, uncovering how joy serves as a vital state of being that transcends external circumstances. Dr. Larde shares powerful anecdotes from her research, including the resilience of military veterans and college students in their pursuit of joy. The emergence of the #BlackJoy movement during the 2020 protests serves as a poignant example of how joy can flourish even in difficult times. Dr. Larde's innovative concept of joy resilience highlights the ability to maintain joy as a survival strategy, making her insights invaluable for anyone looking to enhance their well-being. Resources from today's episode: -Change Coaches Guide to Create Psychological Safe Conversations Across Differences -Change Coaches Newsletter -Dr. Pamela Larde LinkedIn -Get the "Joyfully Single" book!  -Dr. Pamela Larde's Instagram Connect with us:  Email us at info@changecoaches.io Learn more about Change Coaches  Follow LaTonya on LinkedIn  Follow Change Coaches on LinkedIn  For More on the Book Leading Below the Surface

In this episode, host LaTonya WilkinsI dives into the complexities of navigating workplace tensions that arise during the U.S. elections. She shares insights on the importance of communication, understanding diverse perspectives, and creating a supportive environment for all employees. Drawing from personal experiences during a recent trip to Europe, LaTonya reflects on historical divisions and the current political climate, equipping leaders with practical coaching prompts to address tensions and promote well-being. In this episode you will take away three coaching prompts that you can use to navigate the upcoming election. Resources from today's episode: -Change Coaches Guide to Create Psychological Safe Conversations Across Differences -Change Coaches Newsletter Connect with us:  Email us at info@changecoaches.io Learn more about Change Coaches  Follow LaTonya on LinkedIn  Follow Change Coaches on LinkedIn  For More on the Book Leading Below the Surface

Host, LaTonya Wilkins dives into the enduring relevance of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in the workplace, exploring how recent political events and workplace dynamics have shaped DEI initiatives. She discusses the impact of generational diversity, the importance of equitable practices, and the necessity of reframing DEI discussions to foster understanding and engagement among employees. DEI is not merely a trend; it is a critical component of organizational culture and effectiveness. Resources from today's episode: -Change Coaches Guide to Create Psychological Safe Conversations Across Differences Connect with us:  Email us at info@changecoaches.io Learn more about Change Coaches  Follow LaTonya on LinkedIn  Follow Change Coaches on LinkedIn For More on the Book Leading Below the Surface

In this solo episode, host LaTonya Wilkins celebrates the one year anniversary of The Leading Below the Surface Podcast and showcases the top three episodes from this last year. LaTonya then dives into the updates on the State of DEI and what has shifted. Find out what the new trends are and how to incorporate them into your day-to-day.  Resources from today's episode: -Change Coaches Guide to Create Psychological Safe Conversations Across Differences Connect with us:  Email us at info@changecoaches.io Learn more about Change Coaches  Follow LaTonya on LinkedIn  Follow Change Coaches on LinkedIn For More on the Book Leading Below the Surface

Join host, LaTonya Wilkins, as she welcomes guest, Navid Nazemian, author of "Mastering Executive Transitions,". In this insightful episode, Navid shares strategies for overcoming the 40% failure rate of executive appointments within 18 months due to people, culture, and political challenges. Explore the importance of soft skills, the impact of biases like affinity bias, and the crucial role of structured organizational support, including aligning expectations, facilitating stakeholder meetings, and cultural familiarization. Tips from Today's Episode: -Prioritize soft skills and self-awareness to navigate people, culture, and politics challenges during transitions. -Implement structured organizational support, including aligning expectations, facilitating stakeholder meetings, and cultural familiarization. -Provide transition coaching and tie support to job levels to eliminate biases and ensure successful executive transitions. Resources from today's episode: -Change Coaches Guide to Create Psychological Safe Conversations Across Differences -Navid’s LinkedIn -Navid's Book “Mastering Executive Transitions: The Definitive Guide” Connect with us:  Email us at info@changecoaches.io Learn more about Change Coaches  Follow LaTonya on LinkedIn  Follow Change Coaches on LinkedIn  For More on the Book Leading Below the Surface

In this episode of the Leading Below the Surface podcast, host LaTonya Wilkins interviews Kelly Campbell on the topic of "Healing to Lead." Kelly shares insights from her book, "Heal to Lead," discussing trauma, consciousness, and regenerative leadership. The conversation delves into personal healing journeys, the importance of radical responsibility, and the power of generative leadership. Kelly also touches on the concept of "The Great Remembering" and the significance of giving and receiving in the healing process. Join LaTonya and Kelly as they explore the transformative power of healing and its impact on leadership. Discover practical tips for those starting their healing journey and insights for those feeling stuck in their progress. Don't miss this enlightening discussion on finding connection, curiosity, and growth in the midst of personal and societal challenges. Tips from Today's Episode: -Start with self-awareness and seek out trauma integration modalities -Embrace vulnerability and lead with compassion -Foster curiosity and openness to new healing practices Resources from today's episode: -Change Coaches Guide to Create Psychological Safe Conversations Across Differences Book: https://klcampbell.com/heal-to-lead-book/ Website: https://klcampbell.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelly.l.campbell LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellylcampbell/ Substack: https://kellylcampbell.substack.com/ Leadership Quiz: https://klcampbell.com/leadership/ Healing Resources: https://myhealingmenu.com  Connect with us:  Email us at info@changecoaches.io Learn more about Change Coaches  Follow LaTonya on LinkedIn  Follow Change Coaches on LinkedIn  For More on the Book Leading Below the Surface

In this insightful discussion, host LaTonya Wilkins welcomes queer coach and speaker Tara Robertson as she shares her journey of embracing her identity as a mixed-race, queer woman. She highlights the power of intergenerational LGBTQ+ communities, the resilience born from adversity, and the importance of celebrating queer joy. Tara offers a fresh perspective on allyship, encouraging listeners to focus on "being" rather than checklists. The conversation provides actionable takeaways for living authentically and increasing joy in daily life. Tips from Today's Episode: -Reflect on moments when you felt truly authentic and joyful, and identify the essence of those experiences as your "superpowers." -During Pride Month, focus on "being" an ally through curiosity, advocacy, and openness, rather than simply following a list of actions. -Increase your authenticity and joy by 10% each day through small, intentional acts that align with your true self. Resources from today's episode: -Tara's LinkedIn -Change Coaches Guide to Create Psychological Safe Conversations Across Differences Connect with us:  Email us at info@changecoaches.io Learn more about Change Coaches  Follow LaTonya on LinkedIn  Follow Change Coaches on LinkedIn  For More on the Book Leading Below the Surface

In this episode of The Leading Below the Surface Podcast, LaTonya Wilkins welcomes Rebecca Paradiso de Sayu. Rebecca is the founder of the Institute for Collective Well-being, a non-profit organization based in Madison, Wisconsin, focused on activating a sense of well-being within and among people in organizational settings. In our conversation, we explore how organizations can foster collective well-being through relational practices. Tips from Today's Episode: -Ask where people already see glimpses of well-being in the organization, and build on those moments. -When someone shuts down or becomes defensive, pause to reflect on what that might be telling you about inclusion and well-being. -Suspend the need to know exactly where you're going, and open to the creative process of collective well-being unfolding. Resources from today's episode: -Institute for Collective Wellbeing -Rebecca’s LinkedIn -Change Coaches Guide to Create Psychological Safe Conversations Across Differences Connect with us:  Email us at info@changecoaches.io Learn more about Change Coaches  Follow LaTonya on LinkedIn  Follow Change Coaches on LinkedIn  For More on the Book Leading Below the Surface

In this candid episode, LaTonya Wilkins, founder of Change Coaches and author of Leading Below the Surface, shares her personal mental health journey and a three-step process to increase mental health in the workplace. Through vulnerable storytelling, she explores significant tramas she has faced in life, and describes how she navigated these experiences through mental health awareness, healing, and expansion. She also discusses how people can reflect on her experiences, encourage storytelling, and apply the three-step process to create more mental health in the workplace. Tips from Today's Episode: -Create Awareness: Create safe spaces for employees to share their personal stories and experiences related to mental health. This fosters empathy, awareness, and connectedness within the organization. -Establish Healing Circles: Implement structured or informal "healing circles" where employees can express their fears, concerns, or challenges. This can create a sense of community within your organization. -Foster Acceptance and Expansion: Embrace the idea of "expansion" or exploring possibilities for growth and personal development. Resources from today's episode: -Change Coaches Guide to Create Psychological Safe Conversations Across Differences -How to Support Employees During Times of Distress Connect with us:  Email us at info@changecoaches.io Learn more about Change Coaches  Follow LaTonya on LinkedIn  Follow Change Coaches on LinkedIn  For More on the Book Leading Below the Surface

In this episode of The Leading Below the Surface Podcast, we're diving deep into the concept of psychological safety. Host, LaTonya Wilkins, is joined by an extraordinary guest, Elisa Glick. Dr. Elisa Glick is a DEIB practitioner and thought leader who is passionate about building cultures where everyone can thrive. An award-winning educator and author, Dr. Glick is the first openly gay faculty member specializing in queer studies to be tenured at the University of Missouri, where she is Associate Professor Emerita. Join us as Elisa Glick shares her insights on leveraging vulnerability, active listening, and boundary-setting to champion psychological safety and inclusion in any setting. Discover how to lead courageously and create spaces where difficult conversations can lead to meaningful change. Tips from Today's Episode: -Embrace vulnerability: Sharing personal stories and challenges can humanize leaders, making it easier for others to open up. -Listen actively: Prioritize understanding over responding, and approach conversations with the intent to learn. -Set clear boundaries: Establish and communicate the rules of engagement to ensure respectful and productive discussions. Resources from today's episode: -elisaglick.com -Elisa’s LinkedIn -Change Coaches Guide to Create Psychological Safe Conversations Across Differences Connect with us:  Email us at info@changecoaches.io Learn more about Change Coaches  Follow LaTonya on LinkedIn  Follow Change Coaches on LinkedIn For More on the Book Leading Below the Surface

LaTonya Wilkins, a renowned executive coach and the host of the Leading Below the Surface podcast, takes us on a deep-dive exploration of psychological safety in the workplace. With a rich background in fostering inclusive environments and her expertise as an executive coach, LaTonya shares invaluable insights on creating spaces where everyone feels safe to express themselves. In this solo episode, she focuses on the foundational aspects of psychological safety, emphasizing its critical role in facilitating open, honest, and productive conversations across differences. Tips from Today's Episode: -Understand what psychological safety and belonging truly mean and why they are critical for effective communication. -Assess personal and collective levels of psychological safety before engaging in potentially challenging conversations. -Learn and apply techniques to create a safe environment that encourages candid dialogue without fear of retribution or humiliation. -Develop a concrete action plan to approach conversations with intentionality, ensuring that all parties feel valued, heard, and respected. Resources from today's episode: -Change Coaches Guide to Create Psychological Safe Conversations Across Differences Connect with us:  Email us at info@changecoaches.io Learn more about Change Coaches  Follow LaTonya on LinkedIn  Follow Change Coaches on LinkedIn  For More on the Book Leading Below the Surface

Host LaTonya Wilkins welcomes special guest, Rhodes Perry, a celebrated author and influential community builder to the podcast. Rhodes has made significant strides in fostering inclusive environments both in and out of the workplace. With a rich background that includes working in the White House and the Department of Justice, Rhodes has been featured in numerous publications for his groundbreaking work. His best-selling books, "Belonging at Work" and "Imagine Belonging," alongside his creation of the Belonging Circle, showcase his commitment to building communities where everyone feels they belong. In this episode of The Leading Below the Surface Podcast, we sit down with Rhodes to discuss the importance of visibility and inclusion for transgender individuals in the workplace and beyond. Tips from Today's Episode: -Encourage Exposure and Education: Increase your exposure to transgender communities and educate yourself and your team on transgender experiences and challenges. Utilize resources like the 2022 US Trans Survey to dispel myths and understand the realities of transgender lives. -Challenge Misinformation: Actively challenge misinformation when you encounter it. Simple questions like "Where did you hear that?" can prompt reflection and encourage more accurate understanding and discussions. -Reflect on Personal Gender Experiences: Encourage your team to reflect on their own experiences with gender and how societal expectations have impacted them. This can foster empathy and a deeper understanding of the need for gender inclusivity and expression freedom. Resources from today's episode: -Link 2022 US Trans Survey -Link to "Belonging at Work" the book -rhodesperry.com Connect with us:  Email us at info@changecoaches.io Learn more about Change Coaches  Follow LaTonya on LinkedIn  Follow Change Coaches on LinkedIn For More on the Book Leading Below the Surface

Ellen Taaffe, a former Fortune 50 senior executive turned board director, professor, leadership coach, and author, joins host, LaTonya Wilkins, on The Leading Below the Surface Podcast. Beyond her corporate achievements, Ellen's impactful work as an author, particularly with her book "The Mirrored Door: Break Through the Hidden Barrier that Locks Successful Women in Place," is a vital resource for women navigating the complexities of the workplace. In this conversation, LaTonya and Ellen dissect the challenges and strategies for women's advancement in the workplace. Specifically, they cover the concept of “The Mirrored Door”, how leaders can support women, as well as five tips to propel women forward. Tips from Today's Episode: -How to encourage women to raise their hands for new opportunities before they feel completely “ready.” -How to help women see the potential that they have. -Effective ways to deliver feedback – especially to women. Resources from today's episode: https://ellentaaffe.com/ Ellen's LinkedIn  The Mirrored Door Workbook Connect with us:  Email us at info@changecoaches.io Learn more about Change Coaches  Follow LaTonya on LinkedIn  Follow Change Coaches on LinkedIn  For More on the Book Leading Below the Surface

Erin Corine Johnson (also known as The Identity & Belonging Coach) an award-winning artist, creative founder, and international community organizer, joins LaTonya Wilkins this Black History Month on the Leading Below the Surface podcast. In their conversation, LaTonya and Erin explore reparations. In addition to discussing what reparations are, they discuss common misconceptions, and how to overcome these both individually and within organizations. They end with an actionable framework that can be applied in our everyday lives.  Tips from Today's Episode: -There are things that you may already be doing to support a reparations mindset. -You don’t have to be a large organization to make a difference. - How to apply a reparations mindset in everyday life. Resources from today's episode: -Erin’s LinkedIn -holamagnolia.com -https://ko-fi.com/holamagnolia Connect with us:  Email us at info@changecoaches.io Learn more about Change Coaches  Follow LaTonya on LinkedIn  Follow Change Coaches on LinkedIn  For More on the Book Leading Below the Surface

Welcome to Season Two of the Leading Below the Surface podcast, where we kick off with a special episode for Black History Month featuring Mayor Bruce Teague, the first Black LGBTQ+ mayor of Iowa City, Iowa. In our conversation, we discuss the challenges of leading a diverse community in today's polarized world, Mayor Teague's approach to navigating difficult conversations and decisions, and the role that empathy, understanding, and open communication play in fostering a community that values diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Mayor Teague’s story is a powerful testament to the impact that below the surface leadership can have on a community and beyond. Tips from Today's Episode: -Create space and foster an environment for others to bring their full authentic selves. -Bring empathy, and a clear message when approaching a challenging conversation. -Co-create a path forward when addressing deficiencies or differences of opinions. Resources from today's episode: LBTS Blog: When being labeled “the first” detracts from genuine belonging Connect with us:  Email us at info@changecoaches.io Learn more about Change Coaches  Follow LaTonya on LinkedIn  Follow Change Coaches on LinkedIn  For More on the Book Leading Below the Surface

In episode 18 of the Leading Below the Surface podcast, host LaTonya Wilkins interviews special guest Amy Yip. Amy shares her experiences as a former corporate professional at companies like Clorox, Booz Allen, and Google, and discusses her decision to leave her job to travel and volunteer in Ghana with her husband. Amy's book, "Unfinished Business: Breaking Down the Great Wall Between Adult Child and Immigrant Parents," is a central topic of discussion. The book explores the relationship between children of immigrants and their parents, particularly within Asian American communities. The podcast also addresses three myths surrounding Asian American immigrants in corporate America.  Tips from Today's Episode: -It’s all about practice -Go on a “no” diet -Be clear on what your boundaries are **Listen in to learn more about how to put these tips into practice. Resources from today's episode: -Amy’s book, Unfinished Business: Breaking Down the Great Wall Between Adult Child and Immigrant Parents -Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amycyip & https://www.facebook.com/amyyipcoaching  -LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amycyip & https://www.linkedin.com/company/amyyipcoaching  -Instagram: @amyyipcoaching -Website: https://amyyipcoaching.com  Connect with us:  Email us at info@changecoaches.io Learn more about Change Coaches  Follow LaTonya on LinkedIn  Follow Change Coaches on LinkedIn  For More on the Book Leading Below the Surface

Host LaTonya Wilkins discusses the challenges faced by Black women in leadership roles, particularly focusing on the concept of the "glass cliff" and its impact on Dr. Claudine Gay, Harvard's first Black woman president. The episode also discusses several other examples of Black women who have been pushed off this cliff after being hired to lead during difficult times (Rosalind Brewer at Walgreens Boots Alliance, and Nataki Garrett at Oregon Shakespeare Festival) as well as how labeling “the first” can detract from genuine belonging. Finally, LaTonya wraps up with 3 actionable tips to avoid the “glass cliff” in your organization.  Tips from Today's Episode: -Call it Out: Address situations directly. -See Something, Say Something: Be observant in your workplace; if you notice discriminatory behavior, bring it up with your team or management. -Focus on Structures and Systems: Work towards creating sustainable change by addressing systemic issues within organizations rather than just pointing fingers. Resources from today's episode: -Leading Below the Surface Monthly Newsletter: When being labeled “the first” detracts from genuine belonging -DEI in 2024 Connect with us:  Email us at info@changecoaches.io Learn more about Change Coaches  Follow LaTonya on LinkedIn  Follow Change Coaches on LinkedIn  For More on the Book Leading Below the Surface

In this episode, LaTonya Wilkins welcomes change management expert, Oneka Jefferson-Cornelius. Oneka is a seasoned Talent & Organization Effectiveness Executive with diverse experience in HR, Employee Onboarding, Change Management, Communications, Learning, Talent Management, Mentoring, Leadership Development, and Workforce Transformation. Her expertise leverages over 15 years in internal and management consulting built on deep cross-functional workforce experience within the Financial Services, Contact Center, Utilities, Communication & High Tech, IT, and Food & Beverage industries. Oneka and LaTonya discuss how to approach change management, how to navigate ambiguity, where change fails, and clear steps to address barriers of change from an organizational perspective. This episode ends with three actionable steps you can apply in your workplace to create REAL change.  Tips from Today's Episode: -Lead with conversation  -Be willing to pivot  -Stick to the strategy Resources from today's episode: Connect with Oneka! Change. Leader: The changes you need to make first Connect with us:  Email us at info@changecoaches.io Learn more about Change Coaches  Follow LaTonya on LinkedIn  Follow Change Coaches on LinkedIn  For More on the Book Leading Below the Surface

In this episode, LaTonya Wilkins offers three coaching prompts to close the year strong. She also explores questions we often forget to ask ourselves at the end of the year. The episode wraps with meaningful tips to end 2023 and start 2024 on a positive note. Tips from Today's Episode: -Explore what motivates you. -Avoid extremes and negativity bias.  -Start less, continue more.  Resources from today's episode: -Leading Below the Surface Accelerator -Leading Below the Surface LinkedIn Newsletter Connect with us:  Email us at info@changecoaches.io Learn more about Change Coaches  Follow LaTonya on LinkedIn  Follow Change Coaches on LinkedIn  For More on the Book Leading Below the Surface