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In this insightful episode of Psychotherapy Central, Jennifer Nurick welcomes Sue McDonnell, a seasoned psychotherapist and executive coach, to explore the profound connections between leadership and self-awareness. Sue shares her extensive experience working with executive teams and senior leaders, highlighting how conscious leadership can transform organizational dynamics and foster meaningful change.

Throughout the conversation, Sue delves into the concept of the leadership shadow, emphasizing the significant impact leaders have through their thoughts, words, and actions. She distinguishes between executive coaching and traditional psychotherapy, explaining how coaching focuses on outcome-driven goals and incorporates feedback from multiple stakeholders to enhance accountability and growth.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into Sue’s intuitive approach to coaching, which blends various therapeutic tools to meet the unique needs of each client. The episode also touches on the importance of vulnerability and authentic connection in leadership, the challenges of balancing personal and professional growth, and strategies for overcoming loneliness in today’s fast-paced world.

Sue and Jennifer discuss the lasting effects of COVID-19 on interpersonal relationships and the critical need for community and co-regulation to combat isolation. They explore practical tips for offering and receiving compassionate feedback, managing internal and external self-awareness, and cultivating a supportive environment both personally and professionally.

Whether you’re a leader seeking to enhance your self-awareness or someone interested in the intersection of psychotherapy and executive coaching, this episode offers profound wisdom and actionable strategies to foster transformation and build stronger, more empathetic relationships.

Key Takeaways:

• The impact of leadership behavior on team dynamics and organizational culture.


• Differences and complementary aspects of executive coaching versus psychotherapy.


• The importance of clear, kind, and compassionate feedback in personal and professional growth.


• Strategies for overcoming loneliness and building meaningful community connections.


• Balancing continuous personal development with professional responsibilities.

Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how conscious leadership and self-awareness can drive meaningful change within yourself and your organization.

References:

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  Books:

  
  
  
  
  • Lost Connections by Johann Hari: This book discusses the broader social and cultural factors contributing to depression, offering a perspective beyond the traditional medical model.
  
  
  • Works by Esther Perel: Mentioned in the context of relationships and transitions within marriages, particularly her insights on long-term partnerships and evolving dynamics.
  
  
  • The Art of Gathering by Priya Parker: valuable resource on the importance of community and creating meaningful gatherings
  
  
  
  


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  Websites and Concepts:

  
  
  
  
  • https://www.linkedin.com/in/sue-mcdonnell-91b5983/ - For more information on Sue's work with executive teams and leaders.
  
  
  • Thomas Hübl: Referenced for his expression “I’m feeling you feeling me,” highlighting the importance of attunement and connection in therapeutic work.
  
  
  
  

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