Going to the Balcony: A New Perspective Ep. 5

In this episode, Danielle sits down with Jeremy May, executive coach and President of the International Coaching Federation Maryland chapter, to explore the intersection of curiosity, unconscious bias, and conscious leadership. What begins as a conversation about coaching quickly moves into a deeper reflection on judgment, faith, identity, and the courage it takes to examine our own belief systems. Jeremy shares how his religious upbringing shaped his early worldview and how practicing curiosity helped him confront internal bias and expand his perspective. Together, they unpack what it means to “go to the balcony” in tense moments, how privilege and identity influence how passion is perceived, and why curiosity is essential to building trust across difference. In a time when polarization can narrow our thinking, this conversation invites leaders to slow down, ask better questions, and engage culture with humility and accountability.If you have ever felt defensive in a difficult conversation, judged for your perspective, or unsure how to bridge differences without abandoning your values, this episode will resonate. Curiosity is not about giving up your stance. It is about deepening your awareness so you can lead with integrity instead of reaction. You will walk away with practical ways to manage emotion, challenge bias, and stay grounded when conversations get hard.Guest BioJeremy May is an executive coach and leadership development facilitator with over eight years of experience supporting leaders and teams. He currently serves as President of the International Coaching Federation Maryland chapter, where he helps cultivate a strong coaching community rooted in growth and connection. Jeremy’s background includes frontline leadership in banking and extensive facilitation in areas such as unconscious bias and inclusive leadership. His work centers on conscious leadership, emotional intelligence, and the transformative power of curiosity.What You’ll LearnHow to recognize judgment in yourself without shame and turn awareness into intentional actionA practical framework for “going to the balcony” to gain perspective in emotionally charged momentsWhy curiosity is essential to addressing unconscious bias and expanding your worldviewHow identity and privilege shape how passion and emotion are perceived in professional spacesA powerful shift from making statements to asking questions when inviting others into growthResources MentionedInternational Coaching FederationListen to Jeremy's TEDx talk, Apathy to Advocacy: Embracing a World of Equity and Inclusion