Leadership in Real Life - Raw Stories of Leading and Learning for the Everyday Manager

Ep 31: Emotional Intelligence and Why Workplaces Make Us Weird

Work makes us weird — and I think that’s actually okay. Ever feel like your workplace brings out your inner chaos? You're not alone, and surprisingly, it’s totally human. Drop a 💡 if you've ever overthought a simple Slack message or second-guessed your tone in an email. Most of us carry personal baggage into work — stressed, tired, overwhelmed — and it affects how we show up. Your emotional state influences your team more than you think. Acknowledging your feelings and giving yourself a "do-over" can transform your leadership — and your own peace of mind. Remember, showing vulnerability is powerful, not weak.What’s one small way you can be kinder to yourself today? *P.S. We’re all just imperfect humans trying our best. Let’s give ourselves grace.* #EmotionalIntelligence #LeadershipTips #WorkplaceWellness #SelfGrowth #MentalHealthMatters

Ep. 30 Empowering Leadership: The Art of Letting Go

Erika Taylor-Beck discusses the common misconception among new managers that they are helping their teams by doing the work for them. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining clear roles and responsibilities, the dangers of enabling learned helplessness, and the need for leaders to empower their teams rather than rescue them. The discussion covers strategies for effective leadership, including clarifying ownership, coaching, and creating systems that promote accountability and productivity. Need help managing a team more effectively? Go to: https://authenticfoundations.podia.com [https://authenticfoundations.podia.com] Use code PODCAST10 for 10% any coaching or courses.

Ep. 29 One-on-One Meetings

In this conversation, Erika Taylor-Beck discusses the significance of one-on-one meetings between managers and employees. She emphasizes the need for regular, structured meetings to build trust, provide feedback, and support employee development. Erika shares best practices for conducting effective one-on-ones, including setting a recurring schedule, documenting conversations, and balancing constructive and positive feedback. She also highlights the importance of understanding individual employee needs and the role of one-on-ones in the annual review process. Need help with your 1:1s or any other management tasks? Go to https://authenticfoundations.podia.com [https://authenticfoundations.podia.com] Use code: PODCAST10 to get 10% off any courses or coaching

Ep. 28 Importance of Reverse Shadowing and Getting Different Perspectives

In this conversation, Erika Taylor-Beck discusses the concept of reverse shadowing and its significance for leaders. She emphasizes the need for leaders to understand their team's day-to-day challenges and dynamics, advocating for a more engaged and empathetic leadership style. By spending time with team members and asking the right questions, leaders can build trust, improve communication, and effectively advocate for their team's needs, ultimately fostering a positive workplace culture. https://authenticfoundations.podia.com [https://authenticfoundations.podia.com]

Ep. 27 Lessons in Leadership: Accountability and Expectations

In this conversation, Erika Taylor-Beck discusses the critical role of accountability in leadership, using personal anecdotes and professional insights to illustrate how leaders must take ownership of their team's performance. She emphasizes the importance of setting clear expectations and standards, both in personal situations, like dog training, and in professional environments. The discussion highlights the need for leaders to reflect on their own actions and the culture they create, ultimately recognizing that what they tolerate in behavior can perpetuate issues within their teams.