Heather McGowan On Rebuilding Connection and Collaboration 7 | 2

Ditch the drama and rebuild connection where it counts. Feeling overwhelmed by workplace polarization, the loneliness epidemic, and the constant whirl of change? You’re not alone—and neither are your teams. On this episode of Radical Candor, Kim and Amy bring in Heather McGowan, future-of-work strategist, to dig into why we’re so divided and distracted at work—and what leaders can actually do about it. Heather gets real about the deeper roots of these challenges, from shifting demographics to technology’s relentless pace, and shares her signature brand of practical, no-nonsense advice for fostering respect, empathy, and collaboration. It’s not about ignoring differences or plastering on a quick fix—it’s about creating the kind of human connections that help teams thrive. Learn how to lead with intention, listen to what’s not being said, and ditch the divide in favor of working better together. Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast. Episode Links: Transcript Heather E. McGowan - ImpactEleven | LinkedIn Heather McGowan Navigating the once a century shifts: cultural, social, demographic, technical, and economic Loneliness Epidemic is Leaving Us Distracted and Divided Managing Post-Election 2024 Tension At Work 6 | 43 I Never Thought of It That Way: How to Have Fearlessly Curious Conversations in Dangerously Divided Times Bowling Alone: Revised and Updated: The Collapse and Revival of American Community The Adaptation Advantage: Let Go, Learn Fast, and Thrive in the Future of Work The Empathy Advantage: Leading the Empowered Workforce Loonshots: How to Nurture the Crazy Ideas That Win Wars, Cure Diseases, and Transform Industries Braver Angels The No Asshole Rule Connect: Website Instagram TikTok LinkedIn YouTube Chapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionKim and Amy introduce the episode’s focus on workplace polarization with guest Heather McGowan.(00:02:12) Why We’re DividedThe societal and workplace factors fueling polarization.(00:06:42) Balancing Rights and Income InequalityThe interplay between workplace equity and broader societal trends.(00:09:02) Short-Term Thinking in LeadershipHow short-term decisions undermine long-term organizational health.(00:12:03) Intentional Conversations Across DividesPractical tips for engaging with diverse perspectives meaningfully.(00:16:21) Finding Common Ground at WorkBuilding relationships through shared experiences and lighthearted topics.(00:22:12) Drawing Ethical BoundariesKnowing when to disengage while maintaining openness elsewhere.(00:26:32) The Future of Work and LearningWhy adaptability and continuous learning matter more than ever.(00:33:46) Loneliness in the WorkplaceCombating workplace isolation with intentional connection and empathy.(00:41:27) Embracing Discomfort and CuriosityWhy great leaders lean into questions, not answers.(00:45:53) Radical Candor TipsStart conversations, focus on humanity, and take small steps to connect.(00:49:10) Conclusion Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices