24: Leaders With Heart Strive To Serve First

In this podcast episode, podcast host, Heather R. Younger, J.D., speaks with Heather Heebner, former SVP of HR at Instawares Holding Company about leadership from the unique lens of a human resources executive. Heather shares her perspective on "happy employees", and, instead, focuses on creating an environment that makes people proud to work there and do the work that they do. Heather opens up about an early learning experience with differing communication styles and how she had an awakening after one specific instance that drove her to hold herself and others to a higher standard. She relates stories of leaders who were "in-the-trenches" with their people, and they were much more effective as a result. Heather enlightens listeners on the importance of active listening, serving others first and trusting the silence and allowing others to process what is happening. Her key nugget? Look internally as a leader. Continually development yourself and find people who support you and hold you accountable. This podcast holds a rich conversation about the role HR plays in organizations and as leaders-with or without titles.