The Business of Relationships with Tom Hagerty: Why Connection is Your Greatest Leadership Tool

In this insightful episode of Inner Peace, Better Health, host Shreya welcomes Tom Haggerty—author, Jesuit-trained thinker, and relationship strategist—for a powerful conversation on how relationships shape leadership, emotional health, and organizational success. Drawing from his book The Business of Relationships, Tom breaks down why emotional fitness is more than a soft skill—it’s a strategic imperative. From his personal transformation to his work mentoring at-risk youth, Tom offers grounded wisdom on empathy, boundaries, and why “just business” is never just business. About the Guest: Tom Haggerty is a father, grandfather, former executive, and author of The Business of Relationships. With a career spanning public, private, and consulting sectors, Tom blends leadership insight with deep human understanding. Rooted in Jesuit education and critical thinking, he explores how authentic connection—not performance metrics—drives long-term success. Tom now mentors youth and speaks globally on the intersection of emotional intelligence and business leadership. Key Takeaways: Relationships in business are foundational—not optional—and CEOs must model connection from the top. Empathy, when grounded in values, fuels leadership without crossing into burnout or people-pleasing. Prayer and meditation anchor Tom’s daily mindset, building presence and clarity. Healthy skepticism, paired with curiosity, nurtures growth in both personal and professional settings. Saying “no” is an essential act of integrity and alignment in leadership and life. Connect with Tom Haggerty: To learn more about Tom, explore his book The Business of Relationships or reach out via LinkedIn Want to be a guest on Inner Peace, Better Health? DM on PM – Send me a message on PodMatch DM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avik Tune to all our 15 podcasts: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/healthymindbyavik Subscribe To Newsletter: https://healthymindbyavik.substack.com/ Join Community: https://nas.io/healthymind Stay Tuned And Follow Us! •⁠ ⁠YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@healthymind-healthylife • Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/healthyminds.pod • Threads – https://www.threads.net/@healthyminds.pod • Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/podcast.healthymind • LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/reemachatterjee/ | https://www.linkedin.com/in/avikchakrabortypodcaster #podmatch #healthymind #healthymindbyavik #wellness