Feeling like your team is exhausted by constant change? You're not alone. In this episode of the Strong Leader Serve podcast, we delve into strategies for leading through change with empathy and clarity. Learn five practical ways to help your team navigate change fatigue, from maintaining clarity to managing energy and fostering connections. This episode draws on insights from psychology, neuroscience, and behavioral economics, offering actionable tips for mid-level and senior leaders. Get ready...
Jun 25, 2025•14 min
Why is delegation so difficult—even when we know it’s essential to leadership? In this episode, we explore the hidden emotional and cognitive barriers that keep leaders stuck in doing instead of leading. You’ll learn why delegation isn’t just a task shift, but a mindset shift—and how redefining success can unlock growth for both you and your team. Plus, hear a real-world story that shows why the discomfort of delegating is worth it. Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/teri-m-schmidt...
Jun 18, 2025•13 min
In this episode, we explore the leadership skill most of us avoid: difficult conversations. You'll learn the mindset shifts that help you move from avoidance to courage, practical techniques to navigate tough talks with clarity and care, and the ripple effect these conversations can have on trust, team culture, and your own confidence. This episode also kicks off a 4-part series leading into the Leadership Build Series —a hands-on group learning experience using LEGO® Serious Play®. Full details...
Jun 11, 2025•16 min
Have you ever received feedback that felt like a personal attack, even when you knew it shouldn’t be? In this episode, Teri Schmidt shares a vulnerable story from her own life and reveals why our brains react defensively when our ideas feel tied to our identity. Discover the neuroscience behind this reaction, learn powerful tools to create distance between who you are and what you believe, and hear how LEGO® Serious Play® can actually make feedback feel less threatening. Listen to unlock fresh s...
Jun 04, 2025•9 min
What if leadership wasn’t about having the right answers, but about asking better questions? In this episode, Dr. Joel Pérez shares how cultural humility—not just cultural competency—can transform how we lead, build inclusive teams, and create lasting organizational change. We explore why humility is a leadership strength, how to move beyond perfectionism, and what it takes to lead with curiosity in today’s complex world. Resources: Download the first chapter of Dear White Leader: How to Achieve...
May 28, 2025•44 min
When it comes to leadership, efficiency isn’t always the goal—especially if it means leaving people out of the process. In this episode, CNN Hero and Sleep in Heavenly Peace founder Luke Mickelson shares how “inefficiency by design” became a powerful strategy for building both beds and belonging. We explore what it means to lead through service, why volunteer experience matters as much as the mission, and how to turn purpose into action—one meaningful step at a time. Resources : Sleep in Heavenl...
May 21, 2025•44 min
Ever wonder if squeezing every ounce of efficiency from your team could actually leave you vulnerable when the unexpected strikes? In this episode, Teri welcomes back Tom Geraghty for a candid look at the critical—and often overlooked—tension between efficiency and resilience. Together, they unpack why hyper-optimization can lead to burnout and brittleness, and share practical strategies for leaders to build adaptability into their teams without sacrificing results. Resources : Tom's website: ht...
May 14, 2025•37 min
Are you a leader who wants to rest—but finds yourself reaching for one more task instead? In this episode, we explore why high-achieving, compassionate leaders struggle to truly unplug, even when they think they’re resting. You’ll learn the neuroscience behind this pattern—and how to shift from constant doing to genuine restoration. Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/teri-m-schmidt/ Get 1-on-1 leadership support from Teri here: https://www.strongleadersserve.com/coaching Set up an ...
May 07, 2025•9 min
Building a diverse team doesn't automatically lead to better performance — and without the right environment, it can even create new challenges. In this episode, Teri is joined again by leadership and team performance expert Henrik Bresman to explore why psychological safety is the key to unlocking the true potential of diverse teams. We’ll also discuss practical steps leaders can take to foster belonging, innovation, and resilience in today’s uncertain environments. Resources : Episode 174: Tea...
Apr 30, 2025•35 min
Have you ever held back from asking a question or saying "no" because you were afraid it might insinuate that your boss isn’t competent, credible, or caring? That fear—known as insinuation anxiety —can keep even the most skilled leaders from speaking up when it matters most. In this episode, we explore why managing up is emotionally tricky and how to ask tough questions without compromising trust. Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/teri-m-schmidt/ Get 1-on-1 leadership support from...
Apr 23, 2025•9 min
If we're not in leadership for the title, how do we effectively face the challenges that come with transitioning into and through different levels of positional authority? In this episode, we talk through the main challenges faced by compassionate, driven leaders in these situations and provide practical ideas for addressing them. Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/teri-m-schmidt/ Get 1-on-1 leadership support from Teri here: https://www.strongleadersserve.com/coaching Set up an in...
Apr 16, 2025•13 min
What if holding someone accountable is one of the most caring things you can do as a leader? Listen for practical tips to shift accountability from control to care. Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/teri-m-schmidt/ Get 1-on-1 leadership support from Teri here: https://www.strongleadersserve.com/coaching Set up an intro call with Teri: https://calendly.com/terischmidt/discoverycall...
Apr 09, 2025•12 min
Do you sometimes struggle to build trusting relationships in your workplace, especially with the distance of remote and hybrid work? You're not alone. In this episode, I talked with MIT Professor Deborah Ancona about the essential skills of inquiry, advocacy, and connecting that leaders can use to foster trust inside and outside their organizations. Discover the power of balancing these skills in a distributed leadership model, and learn practical steps to cultivate strong external networks. Lis...
Apr 02, 2025•44 min
Are you finding it tough to lead remote teams with both compassion and efficiency? In this episode of Strong Leaders Serve, Teri Schmidt dives into the challenges leaders face in remote and hybrid environments, discussing the balance between driving results and maintaining empathetic connections. Explore the neuroscience that influences our approach to leadership and gather actionable strategies to enhance team cohesion from afar. Get tips to make meaningful connections while fostering productiv...
Mar 26, 2025•14 min
Are you ready to discover the secrets behind successful team dynamics in a world where traditional structures are rapidly evolving? In this episode of Strong Leaders Serve, Teri Schmidt talks with INSEAD Professor Henrik Bresman to explore the concept of X Teams and how embracing external engagement is crucial for high-performing teams amidst these transitions. Professor Bresman highlights how leaders can create a balanced environment of internal cohesion and external exploration to adapt and th...
Mar 19, 2025•42 min
Do you feel torn between being a compassionate leader and driving business results? You’re not alone. Listen as we unveil the CARE model—a practical guide to leading with both heart and head. Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/teri-m-schmidt/ Get 1-on-1 leadership support from Teri here: https://www.strongleadersserve.com/coaching Set up an intro call with Teri: https://calendly.com/terischmidt/discoverycall...
Mar 07, 2025•8 min
Do you feel stuck in your efforts to make positive changes in your leadership? Your brain's drive to save energy may be to blame. Join Teri Schmidt and Ursula Pottinga as they discuss how your brain can get in the way of change and what to do about it. Resources : Ursula's LinkedIn BE Above Leadership Profound Growth (Ursula's website and podcast) Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/teri-m-schmidt/ Get 1-on-1 leadership support from Teri here: https://www.strongleadersserve.com/coac...
Feb 19, 2025•43 min
Leading in a way that meets the demands for fast results at the same time as you develop those around you is not easy. In this episode, host Teri Schmidt kicks off the new season in which she will be diving into the paradoxes of strong leadership and how to balance achieving results with genuinely caring for your team. From dealing with a stifling workload and disconnection to mastering delegation and difficult conversations, this season will deliver with insights that dig deeper than your avera...
Feb 12, 2025•10 min
Are you someone who always has the best intentions of reflecting before starting a new year, but often gets stuck in the holiday/end-of-year busy-ness instead? If so, this short season-finale episode with a simple challenge is for you. Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/teri-m-schmidt/ Get 1-on-1 leadership support from Teri here: https://www.strongleadersserve.com/coaching Set up an intro call with Teri: https://calendly.com/terischmidt/discoverycall...
Dec 18, 2024•5 min
Ever wondered how you can lead with both strength and compassion in an unpredictable world? In one of Teri's favorite conversations of the podcast, she chatted with Patrick Boland, a leadership consultant who’s blending ancient wisdom, scientific research, and the work of contemplative leader, Richard Rohr. We're breaking down the power of contemplative leadership—perfect for those compassionate, driven leaders feeling the weight of today's complexities. Key Takeaways: Challenge the Narrative of...
Dec 04, 2024•52 min
If you're in the US, Happy Thanksgiving! I am grateful for you! We want to hear from you AND we'll reward you for it. Listen for the details and a tip to make this year's Thanksgiving dinner conversation go a little more smoothly. Remember, send your email to teri@strongleadersserve.com with the subject line "Workplace Listening." Resources: Episode 137: The Most Important Collaboration Skill for Work & Life Oscar Trimboli's website Oscar's podcast: Deep Listening Connect on LinkedIn: https:...
Nov 27, 2024•3 min
Supporting people leaders isn't just a nice-to-have; it's an economic imperative for thriving teams and successful organizations. On this episode we're chatting with Cheryl Fields Tyler, founder of Blue Beyond Consulting, about their groundbreaking research report, "Winning on the People Side of Business." Learn how to balance high expectations with deep trust, support your mid-level managers, and redefine well-being beyond just surface-level perks. Plus, discover why feedback and communication ...
Nov 20, 2024•40 min
Leadership can be isolating...but it doesn't need to be. In this behind-the-scenes episode of Strong Leaders Serve, Teri shares her top piece of advice for leaders: stop trying to do it all alone. Lauren and Teri also discuss the origin story of Strong Leaders Serve's definition of leadership, common misconceptions that Teri sees among leaders, and the value of community in helping leaders thrive. Discover how meaningful connections are crucial for resilience, growth, and adaptability in leaders...
Nov 13, 2024•35 min
Ever wondered how to lead a globally distributed team with empathy and grace? In this episode of Strong Leaders Serve, Teri Schmidt chats with Tammy Klotz about her incredible journey from overcoming resistance as a leader to transforming underperforming teams across different time zones. Tammy shares her impactful stories, actionable insights, and even dives into how being a single mom shaped her leadership style. Tune in to explore the human-centered approach that can elevate your leadership g...
Nov 06, 2024•31 min
For women to achieve workplace equity, men's wellbeing is important. Curious about how women leaders can help men thrive at work? In today’s episode, Moe Carrick shares powerful insights on fostering male-to-male support, shifting emotional expectations, and creating inclusive, emotionally intelligent workplaces. Join us to learn how these strategies can elevate both genders to new leadership heights. Resources : Moementum website (access free resources like the 5-minute People and Culture Pulse...
Oct 30, 2024•45 min
Skeptical about how spiritual intelligence can really benefit business? In this episode of Strong Leaders Serve, Teri Schmidt chats with Yosi Amram about the power of spiritual intelligence—an ability to embody virtues like gratitude, trust, and purpose—in leadership. Discover how higher spiritual intelligence in leaders correlates with better team morale, lower turnover, and improved financial results. Yosi shares his transformational journey from high-stress corporate life to becoming a leader...
Oct 16, 2024•43 min
When was the last time you intentionally chose to push through discomfort to achieve a meaningful goal? If you're thinking, "Isn’t that part of leadership every day?"—then we're on the same page! But how often do you actually pause to assess those choices, anticipate the challenges ahead, and develop strategies to stay on track? In this episode, I share the conversation I had with Greg McDonough on his podcast, the Chief Endurance Officer, where I share how an endurance mindset has shaped both m...
Oct 02, 2024•35 min
Do you feel the urge to simplify your life and leadership while still achieving impactful outcomes? Our guest today, Glen Van Peski, founder of Gossamer Gear, provides a way to do that, utilizing lessons learned through ultralight backpacking. Glen shares his unique leadership approach, emphasizing the power of vulnerability, the importance of prioritizing team well-being, and the priceless value of building genuine relationships. He reveals how taking less can lead to a more significant impact,...
Sep 18, 2024•45 min
Do you get frustrated by how slowly decisions are made at work? Our guest today has a solution for this AND practical insights from his newly released book "Your Grass is Greener" on finding joy in your work journey and boosting productivity, even in tough environments. Resources : Bonus Clip: How Imposter Syndrome Can Be a Superpower Get Jason's book: Your Grass is Greener Jason's Newsletter for How to Work Smarter Connect with Jason on LinkedIn Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/...
Sep 04, 2024•47 min
Do you sometimes feel like the empathy at work pendulum has swung too far in one direction? Like people are starting to take advantage of caring leaders? Today's guest, Maria Ross, addresses that feeling head on in her upcoming book, The Empathy Dilemma: How Successful Leaders Balance Performance, People, and Personal Boundaries. In our conversation, she'll unpack the five foundational pillars of empathetic leadership that she identified through extensive research and interviews. We'll discuss h...
Aug 21, 2024•43 min
