DeeDee Fisher: STEM Leadership | From Tension to Intentional Communication - 050

In this episode of Lunch with Leaders, host Adaeze Iloeje-Udeogalanya⁠⁠ sits down with leadership expert DeeDee Fisher to unpack the CPL Framework.As a TEDx speaker and leadership strategist, Adaeze guides a conversation focused on Compassion, Process, and Learning to help leaders in STEM amplify their visibility and influence.The discussion centers on emotional intelligence in 2026, offering practical strategies to handle high-stakes communication, reduce workplace friction, and cultivate a leadership mindset grounded in self-awareness and proactive empathy.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deedee.fisher/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@deedeefishercplWebsite: deedeefisher.com Timestamps00:26 – Introduction to Lunch with Leaders and guest DeeDee Fisher.02:44 – Breaking down the CPL Framework: Compassion, Process, and Learning.07:20 – The Harvard Story: How assumptions stall progress.09:34 – Applying Emotional Intelligence to high-stakes meetings.15:30 – The power of asking: "How did you get there?" to start a dialogue.30:17 – DeeDee’s origin story: Lessons from rural Idaho to global consulting.36:54 – Actionable advice: Interviewing your circle for self-awareness.48:51 – Closing remarks and how to connect with the guest.FAQsWhat is the CPL Framework? It stands for Compassion, Process, and Learning. It’s a method to pause reactions and choose a more constructive path.How do I handle a non-responsive email? Practice compassion. Instead of assuming negativity, consider neutral or positive reasons for the delay to save your emotional energy.Why is self-awareness critical for STEM leaders? It allows you to identify your "magic sauce"—the unique value you bring that you might otherwise take for granted.Action StepsCatch the Reaction: The next time you feel tension, stop and tell yourself a compassionate story about the situation, even if you aren't sure it's true yet.Define the Outcome: Before your next high-stakes meeting, write down the desired outcome for both yourself and the other party.The Magic Sauce Interview: Ask three trusted colleagues or friends, "What do you think is my unique contribution to the world?"Practice the "Mantra": Use the phrase "I never thought of it that way" to shift from a defensive stance to a curious one.Audit Your Dialogue: Notice if you are making "POV statements" or actually engaging in a dialogue that includes the "why."