Tactical Empathy

In this conversation, Erin chats with Matthew Stafford, he shares his transformative journey from a concrete business owner to an e-commerce expert, emphasizing the importance of empathy in leadership. He discusses how personal experiences shaped his understanding of empathy and the role it plays in effective communication and relationships. Matthew also explores the impact of dark retreats on his self-awareness and emotional intelligence, offering practical tips for cultivating empathy in everyday life. Today on Tactical Empathy: * Matthew transitioned from a concrete business to e-commerce. * Empathy involves understanding others without projecting your own thoughts. * Practicing self-love is crucial for developing empathy for others. * Entrepreneurs often carry trauma that affects their business. * Feeling your feelings is more important than thinking them. * A simple mirror exercise can enhance self-acceptance. * Matthew plans to create intimate experiences for entrepreneurs to connect deeply. Connect with Matthew: * Website: https://buildgrowscale.com/ [https://buildgrowscale.com/] * Website: https://x.com/BuildGrowScale [https://x.com/BuildGrowScale] * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/matthewjacobstafford [https://www.facebook.com/matthewjacobstafford] * LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewstafforddotcom [https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewstafforddotcom] * Dark Retreat: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1l6o0TGlhY135_bciwUF5KM0uVgyRqyJEHpp1qKEqCps/edit?tab=t.0#heading=h.joo7evut8w1m [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1l6o0TGlhY135_bciwUF5KM0uVgyRqyJEHpp1qKEqCps/edit?tab=t.0#heading=h.joo7evut8w1m] 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/ [https://www.insideoutempathy.com/] This show was produced by ELF Solutions Inc [https://www.erinthorp.ca].

In this episode, Erin explores the complex emotions surrounding guilt, particularly as we transition into new routines in September. She distinguishes between healthy guilt, which can motivate personal growth, and unhealthy guilt, which can lead to shame and stagnation. Through personal anecdotes and practical insights, Erin emphasizes the importance of empathy—both for ourselves and others—as a tool to navigate guilt effectively. She encourages listeners to practice discernment over judgment when feeling guilty, using it as an opportunity for reflection and growth rather than a source of shame. Today on Tactical Empathy: * September feels like a fresh start for many. * Guilt can stem from various sources, including personal values. * Healthy guilt motivates us to align with our best selves. * Unhealthy guilt can arise from setting boundaries or saying no. * Guilt can quickly spiral into shame if left unchecked. * Empathy is crucial in preventing guilt from becoming shame. * Self-empathy helps us navigate feelings of guilt. * Discernment allows us to understand the source of our guilt. * Guilt can serve as a signal for personal growth. * Meeting guilt with empathy empowers us to choose our responses. 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/ [https://www.insideoutempathy.com/] * Sign up for “The E in the Room” Newsletter: www.erinthorp.ca/resources This show was produced by ELF Solutions Inc [https://www.erinthorp.ca].

Part 3 of the 3-part grief series concludes with Erin, Christine and Kristen discussing the multifaceted nature of grief, emphasizing its individual experience and the concept of disenfranchised grief. They discuss the impact of loss on identity and roles, the challenges of navigating grief in personal and professional life, and the societal pressures surrounding grief timelines. They highlight the importance of effective communication, remembrance, and normalizing conversations about grief. The discussion also touches on the difficulties of preparing for grief and the various resources available to support individuals in their grieving process. Ultimately, the speakers convey that grief and joy can coexist, and it is essential to honor one's unique journey through loss. Today on Tactical Empathy: * Grief is an individual experience, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. * Disenfranchised grief refers to losses that are not socially recognized, making it harder for individuals to grieve. * Loss of identity and roles can be as significant as losing a loved one. * Grief does not follow a timeline; it is a personal journey that varies for everyone. * The second year of grief can often be more challenging than the first due to a lack of support. * Communicating support effectively is crucial; avoid common phrases like 'I'm sorry' and instead acknowledge the pain. * Remembering and sharing stories about the deceased can help keep their memory alive. * Normalizing conversations about grief can help individuals feel less isolated in their experiences. * Preparing for grief is difficult, but having open conversations about loss can help. * There are many resources available, including books, podcasts, and support groups, to help navigate grief. Connect with Christine: * LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christine-mack-granger/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/christine-mack-granger/] Connect with Kristen: * Website: www.kris10fitness.ca [https://www.kris10fitness.ca/] * Facebook: kris10fitness [https://www.facebook.com/kris10fitness] * Instagram: kris10fitness.ca [https://www.instagram.com/kris10fitness.ca/] 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/ [https://www.insideoutempathy.com/] This show was produced by ELF Solutions Inc [https://www.erinthorp.ca].

In part 2 of our 3-part series on grief, Erin and Kristen explore the profound themes of empathy, grief, and the importance of support systems during challenging times. Kristen shares her personal journey through grief after the loss of her husband, emphasizing the significance of compassion for oneself and others. They discuss the impact of words, the difference between sympathy and empathy, and the necessity of finding joy in everyday moments. Kristen offers valuable advice for those navigating grief, highlighting the importance of connection and authenticity in relationships. Today on Tactical Empathy: * Empathy and compassion are intertwined concepts. * Grief is a universal experience that everyone will face. * Having a strong support system is crucial during times of grief. * It's okay to do less and just get by during tough times. * Finding joy in ordinary moments can help navigate grief. * Communication is key in expressing needs during grief. * Sympathy often drives disconnection, while empathy fosters connection. * People often don't know what they need when grieving. * Comparison can diminish joy and connection. * Showing up authentically, even at 50%, is still valuable. Connect with Kristen: * Website: www.kris10fitness.ca [https://www.kris10fitness.ca/] * Facebook: kris10fitness [https://www.facebook.com/kris10fitness] * Instagram: kris10fitness.ca [https://www.instagram.com/kris10fitness.ca/] 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/ [https://www.insideoutempathy.com/] This show was produced by ELF Solutions Inc [https://www.erinthorp.ca].

In part 1 of our 3-part series on grief, Erin and Christine discuss the complexities of grief and the importance of empathy in supporting individuals who are grieving, particularly in the workplace. Christine shares her personal experiences with grief and highlights common misconceptions about the grieving process. They explore how grief manifests in different ways, the impact of unresolved grief, and the role of leaders in creating a supportive environment for grieving employees. The discussion emphasizes the need for open communication, understanding, and the importance of acknowledging loss to foster a compassionate workplace culture. Today on Tactical Empathy: * Empathy involves meeting people where they are. * Grief can stem from various types of loss, not just death. * There is no set timeline for grief; it is a personal journey. * Grief can manifest differently in the workplace depending on the individual. * Acknowledging a person's loss can help them feel supported. * Leaders should create a culture that allows for open discussions about grief. * It's important to check in with grieving employees regularly. * Language matters; saying 'I don't know what to say, but I'm here' can be comforting. * Grief can be a lonely experience, and support is crucial. * Remembrance of the deceased can help the grieving process. Connect with Christine: * LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christine-mack-granger/ 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/ [https://www.insideoutempathy.com/] This show was produced by ELF Solutions Inc [https://www.erinthorp.ca].