Authentic connection - Know yourself grow yourself show yourself with Tanya Spencer

What does it truly mean to lead with authenticity? In this episode, David and Alexandria are joined by Tanya Spencer, former Chief Diversity Officer at GE and now a powerful executive coach helping leaders bring their full selves to work. With over 30 years of experience, Tanya shares her personal leadership journey—from a five-year-old mischief-maker to a C-suite trailblazer—and the lessons she’s learned about showing up as your whole self. Together, they explore:

• Why authentic connection fuels trust, performance, and psychological safety
• How knowing yourself and growing yourself builds the courage to show yourself
• Navigating identity, emotion, and responsibility in leadership
• What to do when fear of “doing it wrong” keeps you stuck
• How empathy, feedback, and curiosity help bridge difference

This episode is packed with wisdom, heart, and real talk about what it takes to lead with both power and vulnerability. Whether you’re early in your career or deep in executive leadership, Tanya’s insights will help you connect more deeply—with yourself and with others. Resources Mentioned:

• VIA Character Strengths
• StrengthsFinder / High5 Test
• Respect Coaching Styles Assessment at OwlHub.com

Want to connect with Tanya?
Visit tanyaespencer.com or find her on LinkedIn @Tanya E. Spencer.