EPISODE · Feb 9, 2026 · 18 MIN
Clarity as a Safety Cue
from Returning to Us · host Lauren Spigelmyer & Jessica Doering
Lauren explores why clarity is one of the most powerful safety cues a leader can offer in high-pressure systems. Rather than micromanagement, clear expectations help regulate the nervous system by creating predictability, reducing rumination, and allowing people to think, decide, and perform more effectively.This episode also examines the cost of ambiguity, from burnout to disengagement, and offers guidance on providing clarity without over-detailing. Lauren invites leaders to reflect on where clearer structure could support greater psychological safety and sustainability at work. Sign up for the University of Pennsylvania Behavior Breakthrough Accredited CourseLearn about the Staff Sustainability System a proven system to reduce burnout at the rootOther related resources from Five Ives: Blog Post: Why Traditional Employee Wellness Programs Fail (And What Works Instead)Survive Mode: Recognizing When Your Organization is in CrisisWhat are the Five Ives?Podcast:When Leaders Become the StressorEpisode 2: Authority Without FearEpisode 1: What Stress Does to Decision MakingThe Pause Between Now and NextLeading From a Regulated CoreDesigning Rhythms that RegulateWhen Culture DysregulatesGrowth & Feedback Without FearOnboarding as Co-RegulationPolicy as a Nervous SystemWhy Women in Leadership MicromanageThe Regulated Organization: What it Means to be a Regulated OrganizationRetain: Sustaining Staff, Culture, and CapacityReset: Moving from Relief to Real TransformationOur Online Programs: Behavior BreakthroughPolicing Under PressureBoard Governance TrainingUniversity of Pennsylvania Behavior Breakthrough Accredited CourseSubscribe to our mailing list and find out more about Stress, Trauma, Behavior and the Brain!Check out our Facebook Group – Five Ives!Five Ives Website websiteThe Behavior Hub blogIf you’re looking for support as you grow your organization’s capacity for caring for staff and the community, we would love to be part of that journey. Schedule a free discovery call and let us be your guideAs an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
What this episode covers
Lauren explores why clarity is one of the most powerful safety cues a leader can offer in high-pressure systems. Rather than micromanagement, clear expectations help regulate the nervous system by creating predictability, reducing rumination, and allowing people to think, decide, and perform more effectively. This episode also examines the cost of ambiguity, from burnout to disengagement, and offers guidance on providing clarity without over-detailing. Lauren invites leaders to reflect on whe...
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Clarity as a Safety Cue
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