In this powerful episode, host Andrew Cohn speaks with Dr. Karen Wilson-Starks, clinical psychologist, executive coach, and host of The Voice of Leadership podcast. With decades of experience, including as an Army psychologist and senior faculty at the Center for Creative Leadership, Dr. Karen shares how deep faith and a spirit of service have shaped her approach to leadership.

Karen opens up about her early struggles to integrate spirituality with psychology and how she became a pioneering voice encouraging others to bring their whole selves, including their spiritual dimension, into the workplace. She reflects on the meaning of eldership as witnessing and blessing, and how modeling peace and presence can be more powerful than words.

Together, Andrew and Karen explore how spiritual grounding, especially her Christian faith, can support leaders through uncertainty, foster inclusive workplaces, and serve as an anchor in turbulent times. Whether it’s leading through riots, coaching executives one-on-one, or mentoring the next generation, Karen’s presence and perspective offer wisdom for leaders of all kinds.

Key Takeaways

• Leadership begins with self-leadership. As Karen says, “You are the instrument of your leadership” — and that instrument needs regular tuning.

• Spirituality adds depth to leadership. Leaders of faith can draw from inner peace, presence, and purpose — even in secular settings.

• Eldership means modeling, mentoring, and blessing. Being an elder is about showing what’s possible and supporting others on their path.

• Peace is contagious. A grounded leader sets the emotional tone for an entire organization.

• Respectful inclusion is essential. Faith-based leadership can be offered with openness and humility, never imposition.

• We influence more than we know. Whether through family, clients, or peers, our presence creates ripples beyond our awareness.

In This Episode:

• [00:00 ] Introduction to eldership and wisdom

• [01:06 ] Welcome to the podcast

• [01:41 ] Introducing Dr. Karen Wilson-Starks

• [05:13 ] Dr. Karen's journey in psychology and spirituality

• [06:14 ] Challenges in combining psychology and spirituality

• [09:55 ] The role of elders in different cultures

• [12:59 ] The importance of role models

• [17:20 ] Spirituality in leadership

• [18:34 ] Integrating faith in professional settings

• [23:57 ] Leveraging faith to lead with peace

• [25:44 ] The CEO's influence on organizational peace

• [26:14 ] Finding personal peace in leadership

• [27:13 ] Jesus as a model for peaceful leadership

• [28:03 ] Modeling peace in the workplace

• [29:26 ] The impact of faith on leadership

• [33:08 ] Changes in workplace spirituality

• [39:30 ] Balancing faith and inclusivity in leadership

• [40:49 ] Practical examples of faith in leadership

• [44:42 ] Conclusion and resources

Resources and Links

Spirituality in Leadership Podcast

• https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/spirituality-in-leadership/id1713365406

Dr. Karen Wilson-Starks

• Podcast: The Voice of Leadership

• Website: https://transleadership.com/

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbX0XrG1TknGthurUMnFXdA

• Email: drkaren@transleadership.com

• Book: Lead Yourself First: The Senior Leader’s Guide to Engaging Your People for Greater Performance and Impact

Andrew Cohn

• Website: https://www.spiritualityinleadership.com/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewcohnusa/

Music: 
Kodiak: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4rURKtnJr3jeHvZ0IVRQCe