Leading Through Hard Things with Katharine Manning | #22

Leading Through Hard Things with Katharine Manning | #22

What if the way we respond to someone's hardest moment could change how they heal, trust, and show up at work? In this powerful conversation, Christine sits down with Katharine Manning, CO-Chief Executive Officer, SEW.ai [http://sew.ai/], trauma-informed leadership expert, author, and former Senior Attorney Advisor at the U.S. Department of Justice, to explore how we can communicate with more compassion, calm, and confidence during difficult moments. Drawing from her work with victims in some of the most high-profile cases in recent history, Katharine shares why people in crisis often need the same simple things: acknowledgment, information, choice, and support. Together, they explore how trauma shows up in the workplace, why leaders do not need to be therapists to respond with empathy, and how psychological safety is built when people feel seen, heard, and supported. They also discuss why hard moments can become powerful opportunities to build trust, loyalty, and stronger workplace cultures. In this episode: * Why acknowledgment can be one of the most powerful forms of support * How trauma impacts communication, trust, and performance at work * Why leaders do not need to be therapists to respond with compassion * The connection between psychological safety and team success * How to support employees without trying to "fix" everything * Why hard moments can build lasting loyalty and deeper trust * How empathy, language, and listening create healthier workplaces Whether you are leading a team, supporting a colleague, navigating a crisis, or simply trying to become a better communicator, this episode is a reminder that people do not always need perfect answers. Sometimes they need to be seen, heard, and supported with calm, compassion, and humanity.

The Leadership Skill Everyone Misses with Michael O'Donnell | #21

What if the secret to thriving in the age of AI has nothing to do with technology at all? In this episode, Christine sits down with tech executive and SCW Co-CEO Michael O'Donnell for a powerful conversation about leadership, human connection, and what it really takes to build trust in high-pressure environments. From growing up around hair salon conversations and early computers to leading massive digital transformation initiatives, Michael shares the unexpected experiences that shaped his people-first approach to business. Together, they unpack why the best leaders listen deeply, mentor intentionally, and resist the urge to always "save the day." They also explore how AI is changing the workforce and why empathy, curiosity, and context matter more than ever. In this episode, you'll learn: • Why understanding people is the foundation of great leadership • The hidden danger of leaders solving every problem themselves • How curiosity and hard work can outperform raw talent If you've ever struggled with difficult conversations, career growth, or leading through uncertainty, this episode will leave you thinking differently about success and the human side of innovation.

Be Who You Came To Be with Tara Renze | #20

What if the life you truly want is waiting on the other side of permission? In this powerful conversation, Christine sits down with author, speaker, and emotional intelligence expert Tara Renze to unpack the idea that changed her life: "Be who you came to be." From leaving a successful corporate career to chasing childhood dreams and helping others uncover their "butterfly goals," Tara shares how self awareness, courage, and imperfect action can unlock a more fulfilling life. Together, they explore how identity evolves over time, why so many high achievers feel stuck, and how emotional intelligence may become the most important skill in the age of AI. In this episode: * Why most people live in the "permission gap" * How butterfly goals create confidence, growth, and connection * The surprising power of imperfect action * Why emotional intelligence matters more than ever * How to stop living for other people's expectations Whether your dream is writing a book, growing a tomato garden, learning to surf, or simply reconnecting with yourself, this episode is a reminder that transformation does not have to start with a giant leap. Sometimes it starts with one honest step toward the person you were always meant to become.

From Scientist to Safety Influencer with Cathy Pedrayes | #19

What if the key to protecting your family was hiding in plain sight? In this episode, Christine Miles sits down with Cathy Pedrayes, a former environmental scientist turned trusted safety advocate with millions of followers. Cathy shares how her career evolved from inspecting physical environments for hidden dangers to helping families navigate modern-day safety risks—especially in the digital world. Together, they explore how awareness, education, and simple shifts in thinking can empower parents to protect what matters most. In this episode, you'll learn: - How Cathy transformed her scientific background into a powerful platform for family safety - Why everyday environments—both physical and digital—pose unseen risks - Practical ways parents can stay informed and proactive without feeling overwhelmed If you've ever wondered how to better safeguard your home, your kids, and your peace of mind, this conversation is for you. Connect with Cathy Pedrayes: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themomsfriend TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@themomsfriend Website: https://www.themomsfriend.com Connect with Christine Miles: Website: https://thelisteningpath.com

The Leadership Skill No One Teaches: How Listening Changes Everything | # 18

On this episode of Shine a Light, host Christine Miles sits down with Nolan Hout, SVP of Growth at InfoPro Learning, to unpack how curiosity, calm decision-making, and deep listening shape exceptional leaders. From his early experiences navigating education gaps and confronting bias, to building scalable learning strategies for global organizations, Nolan shares how understanding people—not just processes—drives real impact. Together, they explore why many leaders mistake action for effectiveness, how emotional intelligence shows up in everyday conversations, and why slowing down may be the fastest way forward in today's AI-driven world. Key Takeaways * Listening is a leadership superpower: Not just hearing words, but actively seeking meaning and understanding. * Doing less can achieve more: Strategic restraint often outperforms reactive decision-making. * Curiosity fuels connection: Great leaders ask better questions—and stay open to perspectives different from their own. * Empathy can be learned: You don't need to feel everything to understand others—you need the tools to truly listen. If leadership is about unlocking potential, then it starts with one simple shift: choosing to understand before being understood. Lean in, listen deeper—and watch everything change. Host Christine Miles | https://thelisteningpath.com