Tactical Empathy

Part 2: Restoring Capacity & Reclaiming Empathy

Apple Summary: In part 2 of this 4-part series, Erin discusses the importance of emotional expression in the healing process from burnout. She emphasizes that burnout is not just a result of a busy schedule but also stems from unexpressed emotions. The conversation explores how acknowledging and expressing emotions can help close the stress cycle, leading to a restoration of capacity and empathy. Erin shares practical strategies for emotional expression and highlights the significance of recognizing feelings like resentment as signals for self-care. Today on Tactical Empathy: * Burnout is a result of both physical and emotional exhaustion. * Emotional expression is crucial for healing from burnout. * Unexpressed emotions can lead to feelings of numbness and irritability. * Journaling and talking to trusted friends can aid emotional expression. * Resentment can signal a need for self-care and prioritization. * Emotions should be acknowledged without judgment or suppression. * Curiosity about our emotions can lead to better understanding and action. * Expressing emotions helps close the stress cycle in our bodies. * It's important to take responsibility for our emotional health. * Practicing tactical empathy can enhance our relationships and self-awareness. Connect with Erin: * Instagram: @elthorp [https://www.instagram.com/elthorp/]  * LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-thorp-speaker/ * Website: www.erinthorp.ca [https://www.erinthorp.ca/]  * Inside Out Empathy Free Chapter: https://www.insideoutempathy.com/free-chapter/ [https://www.insideoutempathy.com/free-chapter/] * Sign up for “The E in the Room” Newsletter: https://www.erinthorp.ca/newsletter/ [https://www.erinthorp.ca/newsletter/] This show was produced by ELF Solutions Inc [https://www.erinthorp.ca].

From Climbing to Choosing: One Leader’s Journey Through Change with Wendy Fortna

In this conversation, Erin and Wendy discuss Wendy's journey through career transitions, the importance of coaching, and the role of empathy in leadership and parenting. Wendy shares her experiences of working with Erin over the years, highlighting the significance of holding space for oneself and others, and how this practice has influenced her personal and professional life. They explore the challenges of leadership without a formal title, the tools that have aided Wendy's growth, and the lessons learned from difficult experiences. The conversation concludes with reflections on the evolving nature of careers and the importance of aligning with one's values. Today on Tactical Empathy: * Wendy has been a customer success manager for a project consulting company. * The coaching journey began during COVID when Wendy sought career guidance. * Holding space is crucial for personal and professional growth. * Empathy plays a significant role in leadership and parenting. * Leadership can exist without a formal title. * Tools like SL2 and mental fitness have been impactful for Wendy. * Learning from challenges is essential for growth. * Personal and professional lives are interconnected. * It's okay to change career paths as values evolve. * Self-empathy is important during transitions. Connect with Wendy: * LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendy-fortna-41ab0b33/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendy-fortna-41ab0b33/] Connect with Erin: * Instagram: @elthorp [https://www.instagram.com/elthorp/]  * LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-thorp-speaker/ * Website: www.erinthorp.ca [https://www.erinthorp.ca/]  * Inside Out Empathy Free Chapter: https://www.insideoutempathy.com/free-chapter/ [https://www.insideoutempathy.com/free-chapter/] * Sign up for “The E in the Room” Newsletter: https://www.erinthorp.ca/newsletter/ [https://www.erinthorp.ca/newsletter/] This show was produced by ELF Solutions Inc [https://www.erinthorp.ca].

Part 1 - Restoring Capacity & Reclaiming Empathy

In this episode, Erin explores the concept of burnout, particularly in relation to empathy. She discusses how burnout is often misunderstood and emphasizes the importance of completing the stress cycle to regain empathy. The conversation highlights the significance of body work, physical movement, and self-care practices in managing burnout and maintaining emotional capacity. Erin introduces a four-part series on burnout, starting with body work and its role in stress management, and sets the stage for future discussions on emotional expression, creative expression, and rest. Today on Tactical Empathy: * Burnout is often an unfinished stress cycle. * Empathy can weaken if not practiced on oneself. * Physical movement is essential to complete the stress cycle. * Stressors can keep our bodies in a state of fight or flight. * Body work practices help in managing stress and burnout. * Regular exercise can significantly improve mental clarity. * Energy work and somatic practices are beneficial for emotional health. * Self-care is not a luxury; it's a necessity for empathy. * Recognizing stress is the first step, but action is required to resolve it. * You are not alone in feeling overwhelmed or burnt out. Connect with Erin: * Instagram: @elthorp [https://www.instagram.com/elthorp/]  * LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-thorp-speaker/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-thorp-speaker/] * Website: www.erinthorp.ca [https://www.erinthorp.ca/]  * Inside Out Empathy Free Chapter: https://www.insideoutempathy.com/free-chapter/ [https://www.insideoutempathy.com/free-chapter/] * Sign up for “The E in the Room” Newsletter: https://www.erinthorp.ca/newsletter/ [https://www.erinthorp.ca/newsletter/] This show was produced by ELF Solutions Inc [https://www.erinthorp.ca].

Empathy Starts Here

In this episode of Tactical Empathy, Erin reflects on her journey of self-understanding and the importance of empathy in leadership. She emphasizes the need for self-reflection and the challenges of self-judgment, while encouraging listeners to build their capacity for empathy both for themselves and others. The episode serves as a reminder that empathy is a foundational skill for effective leadership and personal growth. Today on Tactical Empathy: * Empathy is about understanding oneself and others. * Self-empathy is often the hardest part of leadership. * Taking time for self-reflection can lead to powerful insights. * We are our own harshest critics, which hinders self-understanding. * Understanding ourselves is a lifelong journey. * Empathy is a muscle that needs to be exercised regularly. * Self-judgment can prevent us from leading effectively. * The journey of self-discovery is not linear but spiral. * Each experience provides new information for self-understanding. * Empathy is the foundation for effective leadership. Connect with Erin: * Instagram: @elthorp [https://www.instagram.com/elthorp/]  * LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-thorp-speaker/ * Website: www.erinthorp.ca [https://www.erinthorp.ca/]  * Inside Out Empathy Free Chapter: https://www.insideoutempathy.com/free-chapter/ [https://www.insideoutempathy.com/free-chapter/] * Sign up for “The E in the Room” Newsletter: https://www.erinthorp.ca/newsletter/ [https://www.erinthorp.ca/newsletter/] This show was produced by ELF Solutions Inc [https://www.erinthorp.ca].

Navigating Empathy and Boundaries

In this final episode of 2025, Erin reflects on the importance of empathy, self-care, and setting boundaries. She discusses her personal struggles with over-empathizing and the resulting feelings of resentment. Erin emphasizes the need for self-empathy and radical honesty, encouraging listeners to recognize their own emotions and needs. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to practice self-care and reflect on their experiences as they move into the new year. Today on Tactical Empathy: * Empathy is a leadership tool that requires self-awareness. * Resentment can be an early warning signal for personal boundaries. * Over-empathizing can lead to feelings of being unsupported and resentful. * Setting healthy boundaries is essential for personal well-being. * Self-empathy is often the hardest type of empathy to practice. * Radical honesty with oneself is crucial for emotional health. * Ignoring emotional signals can lead to burnout and disconnection. * Practicing discernment helps in setting healthy boundaries. * It's important to recognize when you're giving more than you receive. * Self-care is not selfish; it's necessary for effective leadership. Connect with Erin: * Instagram: @elthorp [https://www.instagram.com/elthorp/]  * LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-thorp-speaker/ * Website: www.erinthorp.ca [https://www.erinthorp.ca/]  * Inside Out Empathy Free Chapter: https://www.insideoutempathy.com/free-chapter/ [https://www.insideoutempathy.com/free-chapter/] * Sign up for “The E in the Room” Newsletter: https://www.erinthorp.ca/newsletter/ [https://www.erinthorp.ca/newsletter/] This show was produced by ELF Solutions Inc [https://www.erinthorp.ca].