3 Simple Steps to Lead with Empathy

Episode 158 of the The Courageous Leaders Podcast podcast, hosted by Joanna Howes, titled "3 Simple Steps to Lead with Empathy" was published on June 12, 2025 and runs 6 minutes.

June 12, 2025 ·6m · The Courageous Leaders Podcast

0:00 / 0:00

Summary

Many leaders still see empathy as a weakness. This is shortsighted as empathy is one of the most powerful skills to drive trust, performance, and real connection. In this episode, I explain what it means to lead with empathy and share three practical ways to integrate it into your leadership today. You’ll learn how empathy shifts behaviour, strengthens accountability, and builds a culture where people feel seen, safe, and motivated to give their best We Cover: 01:03 – What empathy in ...

Episode Description

Many leaders still see empathy as a weakness.

This is shortsighted as empathy is one of the most powerful skills to drive trust, performance, and real connection.

In this episode, I explain what it means to lead with empathy and share three practical ways to integrate it into your leadership today. You’ll learn how empathy shifts behaviour, strengthens accountability, and builds a culture where people feel seen, safe, and motivated to give their best

We Cover:
01:03 – What empathy in leadership really means

01:39 – Real story: How one CEO shifted outcomes with one question

02:24 – Why empathy is often misunderstood as “going soft”

03:14 – Leadership shift: Empathy as a strategy, not sentiment

03:41 – Tip #1: Always start with empathy

04:22 – Tip #2: How to practice active listening

05:02 – Tip #3: Check in regularly, beyond the task list

05:39 – Final thoughts: Why empathy is good for performance and for you

Don’t miss out on this powerful episode.

👍 Stay inspired by joining our YouTube community! Click the link, hit the subscribe button, leave a comment, and never miss an episode. Your support helps us empower courageous leaders like you!
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2kZ-x8fDHKEVb222qpQ_NQ

🚀 Elevate Your Leadership:
Book a call for transformative leadership and team coaching:
Website: https://thechangecreators.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joannahowes/

→ Join our newsletter for courageous leadership insights and advice.
👉 Subscribe here: https://the-change-creators.kit.com/1a5f3c9e54