Episode 8: The Power of Leading with Listening

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Living in 3D Power, Amber sits down with her daughter, Emma, for a powerful discussion on authentic leadership, the role of listening, and the significance of representation. Through the lens of Women’s History Month, they reflect on the impact of Black women in leadership, the importance of community and sisterhood at professional conferences, and the barriers Black women face in leadership roles.Emma, a 10-year-old with a wisdom beyond her years, shares her perspective on knowing oneself, navigating friendships, addressing bullying in schools, and leading with empathy. This episode challenges listeners to examine their own leadership practices, rethink what it means to truly listen, and consider how creating space for others can shape a more inclusive and empowering future.Key Topics Covered:* The importance of listening in leadership and why it starts with knowing yourself* Women’s History Month & celebrating Black women in leadership* The “Pet to Threat” phenomenon and its impact on Black women in professional spaces* How community and rest fuel sustainable leadership* Emma’s firsthand experiences with leadership, friendship, and confidence-building* Addressing bullying in schools and ensuring a safe, inclusive environment* How leaders can create spaces of belonging and empowermentChapters:01:16 – Women’s History Month & celebrating Black women leaders01:40 – Honoring Black women in school psychology04:11 – Understanding the “Pet to Threat” phenomenon07:15 – The power of community, rest, and support networks11:07 – Emma’s take on leadership: what it means to her12:14 – Friendship, confidence, and stepping into leadership14:39 – How community shapes self-perception and identity24:16 – Emma on bullying and school safety27:42 – Why listening is a leadership skill schools must prioritize27:58 – How to create safe and inclusive learning spaces29:21 – Emma’s vision for what leadership should look like34:05 – Discussing racism in schools & actionable steps38:40 – Final reflections on leadership & the power of listening40:06 – Closing thoughts & resources for self-discoveryCuriosity Card Prompts for Reflection:* Have I ever been in a space where I felt like I was the only one who looked like me? If so, did that make me feel?*  Are there any spaces that I’ve been in that I’d like to be a part of more?* If I could change one thing about how kids feel at school, what would it be?* What makes a school feel like a safe and happy place?* When I think about the future, what kind of leader do I want to be? How do I want to help others?References* Thomas, Kecia & Johnson-Bailey, Juanita & Phelps, Rosemary & Tran, Ny Mia & Johnson, Lindsay. (2013). Women of Color at Midcareer: Going from Pet to Threat. Psychological health of women of color: Intersections, challenges, and opportunities.* The Infuriating Journey From Pet To Threat: How Bias Undermines Black Women At Work* The 3D Power Collective* Amber’s FavoritesConnect with Me* Instagram: Connect with Me:Instagram: @natural_inclinationYoutube: @naturalinclinationTikTok: Amber SessomsLinkedIn: Dr. Amber M. Sessoms, NCSPBluesky: @ambersessoms.bsky.socialFacebook: Natural InclinationWebsite: www.aninclination.comLike, Comment, Share, EngageIf this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who would love these conversations. Engage with the Curiosity Cards and ask the youth in your life about their experiences because you might be surprised by what you learn. Share your thoughts and reflections in the comments or on social media using #LivingIn3DPower. And, don’t forget to subscribe and stay tuned for next week’s conversation!