“Being an empathetic leader… knowing who your people are, really caring about them, leading with understanding versus judgment is so critical.” 

“If you want to be treated well and given opportunities and, you know, have people invest in you and all those kinds of things, then you got to be willing to do that yourself.”

“Vulnerability is not a bad thing. It's actually just showing that you're human and showing your humanness.”

Episode summary |

In this conversation, Shannon Cassidy and Susan Chapman Hughes explore the themes of generosity and empathy in leadership. They discuss the importance of aligning organizational vision and mission, the role of empathetic leadership in fostering a positive work environment, and the necessity of authenticity and vulnerability in leaders. The conversation also touches on the significance of empowering decision-making within organizations, navigating conflict, and the impact of AI on leadership and personal growth.

R.O.G. Takeaway Tips |

• Generosity at work is about giving time and respect.
• Alignment in organizations requires clarity in roles and decision-making.
• Empathetic leadership is essential for modern organizations.
• Authenticity and vulnerability are key traits of generous leaders.
• Conflict can be healthy and necessary for growth.
• Leaders should empower their teams to make decisions.
• Disruption is necessary for innovation and growth.
• AI can enhance personal and professional efficiency.
• Feedback is crucial for leadership development.
• Asking for help is a strength, not a weakness.

Chapters | 

00:00 The Power of Generosity in Leadership

02:59 Aligning Vision and Mission in Organizations

05:38 The Importance of Empathetic Leadership

09:44 Defining Generous Leadership

12:56 Authenticity and Vulnerability in Leadership

18:10 Navigating Change and Disruption

23:02 Empowering Decision-Making in Organizations

26:03 Leveraging AI for Personal and Professional Growth

Guest Bio |

Susan Chapman-Hughes is an accomplished global executive and Fortune 500 public board director with extensive executive leadership and transformation experience across the Financial Services, Technology, and Real Estate sectors. As a public board director, she has led Compensation and Audit Committees for both pre-IPO and established companies in the Technology/SaaS, Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG), and Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) industries.

Her operational expertise includes serving in multiple executive roles, including EVP, COO, and CAO, where she has successfully led P&L turnarounds as well as digital, data, and operational transformations. Susan is known as a connected leader with a down-to-earth style, who builds trust, fosters collaboration, and energizes teams.

A growth-focused executive, she is highly skilled at leading both large-scale and emerging organizations across the globe. As an innovative leader of positive transformation, Susan is passionate about aligning organizations with their core missions and values. She champions a people-centered leadership approach that is inclusive, empowering, and energizing for all stakeholders.

Bridge Between Resources:

• 5 Degree Change Course
• Free N.D.I. Network Diversity Index 
• Free Generosity Quiz 

Credits: Susan Chapman Hughes, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc.

Coming Next: Please join us next week, Episode 243, Special Guest, Kenon Chen.