Daphna Horowitz - Navigating Crisis and Evolving Leadership

Cathleen and Claire Chandler explore the vital role of aligning personal talents with professional roles, the necessity of setting boundaries for energy management, and the profound impact of mindset on leadership capacity. Together, they unpack Claire's journey from overcoming the skepticism that greeted her career transition to the liberation she felt as she embraced her true path. For those who have ever felt confined by corporate norms or struggled with the transition into a management role, Claire's insights into authenticity and vulnerability are a must-listen.

 

They also discuss the challenges HR departments face as they shift from traditional roles to become the architects of company culture, and how they can support leaders in this transformative time. Prepare to be moved by Claire's touching experiences and the wisdom she's gathered on her journey from the corporate world to advising executives on how to retain their best talent during expansions through her "growth on purpose" methodology. This isn't just a conversation - it's a masterclass in becoming the leader you were meant to be.

 

 

Episode Timeline: 

 

00:00 Introduction

08:25 Organisations improving inclusion, but need broader acceptance.

11:33 Recognise blind spots, create capacity for growth.

17:49 First boss shaped career boundaries early on.

21:50 Authenticity and vulnerability are key to effective leadership.

30:47 Engaged audience through unexpected interaction, transformed career.

36:23 Overcoming fear to be authentic and passionate.

39:39 Cancer was a gift, motivated change.

44:10 Transitioning into a leadership position, faced resistance, but persisted.

52:41 Understanding the "why" of business success.

55:56 Reevaluate roles, schedules, and capacity for productivity.

01:02:06 HR must create capacity, find future talent.

01:05:27 True inclusion in problem-solving creates workforce fulfilment.

Key Takeaways: 

• Navigating organisational expansion with purpose.

• Harnessing "limitless talent" to drive success.

• Redefining leadership with vulnerability and authenticity.

 

ABOUT CLARE CHANDLER

 

President and Founder of Talent Boost, Claire Chandler specializes in aligning HR and

business leaders so they can deliver strategic outcomes... both today and in the future. She taps into over 25 years of experience in people leadership, human resources, and business ownership to help leadership teams work together more effectively in less time, with less cultural resistance, so they can accelerate their business growth. She has broad-based expertise in

management team due diligence, organizational design, acquisition integration and onboarding,

strategic planning, executive coaching, and performance acceleration.Claire holds a certificate in strategic HR leadership from Cornell’s School of Industrial and Labor Relations, a master’s degree from the New Jersey Institute of Technology, and a bachelor’s degree from Fairfield University. She has appeared as a guest on over 100 podcasts and is the author of several books on leadership and business strategy.

 

Connect with Claire:

Website: https://www.clairechandler.net/

 

Social Media Links:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clairechandlersphr/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Claire_Talent

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/talentboostllc

 

Connect: 
 

Find | Cathleen O’Sullivan 

Business: cathleenmerkel.com  

Email: cmc@cathleenmerkelcoaching.com 

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/cathleen-merkel-2b0991151 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/cathleenmerkel 

Twitter: twitter.com/CathleenMerkel7 

 

 

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Join Cathleen as she delves into the art of communication and connection with the remarkable Laura Crandall. Renowned for her expertise in fostering communication and human connection within the corporate framework. Laura is a communications expert and the author of Working with Humans.

In this riveting conversation, they unpack the art of active listening, the magic of managing with lightheartedness, and the significance of honing those all-too-often undervalued fundamental social skills in the workplace.

They explore the transformative power of simply being present and how mastering the basics, such as direct communication, can alleviate misunderstandings and bolster trust. So, whether you’re a seasoned leader or just starting, get ready to dive deep into what it means to navigate the complexities of the workplace with empathy, clarity, and a touch of humour.

 

Episode Timeline: 

 

• 11:21 Book discusses essential skills for human interaction.

• 19:56 Leadership requires empathy, influence, mentoring, and manners.

• 25:47 Value time, courtesy, and foundational behaviors.

• 30:32 Reexamining priorities and reclaiming social interactions.

• 35:59 Acknowledge issues, find humour, and encourage open communication.

• 38:44 Leveraging energy and playfulness for work success.

• 47:05 Key questions to consider for effective communication.

• 49:59 Prioritise relationships, not just shiny new tools.

• 58:11 Focus on the process, not just output.

• 01:01 Living in alignment with your values is important.

• 01:06 Balancing academic rigour with self-confidence and authenticity.

• 01:14 Helping leaders understand and change problematic behaviour.

• 01:16 Expertly navigating difficult conversations by building foundations.
  

 

Key Takeaways: 

• The Power of Presence. Both Laura and Cathleen advocate for the importance of being wholly present in conversations, affirming that active listening is integral to saving time, uncovering essential details, and deepening relationships.

• Back to Basics. Good workplace communication is paralleled with an excellent Italian meal; it's about high-quality fundamental ingredients like manners, acknowledgment, and showing genuine interest in others that build trust and create a positive environment.

• Humanity in Leadership. Embracing your true self, incorporating playfulness, and acknowledging personal and others’ successes can lead to a more fulfilling and productive work culture, countering the stress of performance pressures.

 

ABOUT LAURA CRANDALL:

Laura Crandall founded her management consulting firm, Slate Communication, in 2009. For over thirty years, she has worked in and consulted with industries that include manufacturing, journalism, hospitality, and academia; fifteen of those years were spent managing teams. Her work is dedicated to helping people within organizations discover and develop foundational management and communication skills—the background skills we assume everyone has, but rarely discuss. In her new book, Working With Humans, Laura shares the essential but generally ignored tools needed to communicate, manage, and lead with the quality that most workplaces are lacking: humanity. Laura earned her master’s degree from Harvard Graduate School of Education, where she studied cognitive neuroscience and organizational behavior.

 

Website: https://lauracrandall.com/ 

Book: https://workingwithhumans.com/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauracrandalledm/ 

 

Connect: 
 

Find | Cathleen O’Sullivan 

Business: www.cathleenmerkel.com    

Email: cmc@cathleenmerkelcoaching.com  

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/cathleen-merkel-2b0991151  

Instagram: www.instagram.com/cathleenmerkel  

Twitter: twitter.com/CathleenMerkel7   

 

 

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In this episode, Cathleen O’Sullivan chats with the remarkable Beth Knight, a leader in the sustainability sector and recent recipient of the Great British Business Woman of the Year Award. We delve deep into the seismic shifts across the global economy and the significant role consumers and leaders play in catalysing change. We also discuss the dilemmas of overconsumption exacerbated during pivotal life moments. Beth presents her unique insights into how psychology and advertising coerce buyer behaviour and what can be done to change it. She also recounts her conscious departure from Amazon to pursue a portfolio career that aligns with her core values, influencing sectors like sustainable tourism and spreading her wings into roles that support children's welfare and refugee aid, a testament to her undying commitment to social impact. Let's explore the world of Beth Knight, where leadership isn't just about business acumen, but about integrity, empathy, and the pursuit of positive lasting change.

 

Episode Timeline: 

 

• 10:14 Amazon's pandemic relief and education support program.

• 14:06 Colleague’s trust led to successful mobilisation efforts.

• 19:32 Took bold leap, relocated to Kenya.

• 32:32 Misunderstood my romanticised idea of smuggling.

• 36:02 Embracing community and navigating uncomfortable situations.

• 42:36 Navigating raising a boy in today's world.

• 46:53 Parenting is hard, support network is crucial.

• 53:18 Family, role models, kindness, hustle, upbringing, heritage.

• 54:59 Parents juggle full-time work and family responsibilities.

• 01:05 Consumer power can drive economic change.

• 01:08 Reflecting on consumerism and the power of branding.

• 01:12 Multiple job titles, same focus: responsible leadership.

 

Key Takeaways: 

• Sustainability in Leadership:  Beth underscores the importance of leaders who not only drive strategy but also foster regenerative practices. Her journey from working at Amazon exemplifies a conscious shift towards impactful work that aligns with one's values.

• Individual Impact on Economy: Our conversation highlighted how personal choices, especially during pivotal times of life such as early motherhood or global crises like the COVID pandemic, shape market demands. The role of consumers is potent and pivotal in advocating for a shift towards sustainability.

• Adapting to Change: Beth’s candid story of moving her family to Kenya provides insight into embracing cultural changes and redefining identity. Such experiences can deeply influence leadership style and personal growth, reinforcing the value of adaptability and community.

 

ABOUT BETH KNIGHT

Beth Knight is a leading figure in social impact and sustainability with over fifteen years' experience in purpose-led business transformation. Named 'Great British Businesswoman of the Year' in 2022, her expertise spans tech-for-good, sustainable development and impact investing. Beth is a frequent speaker, advisor and coach on mobilising the private sector around climate change, social justice and upskilling on sustainability. She is a Senior Associate and Head Tutor at the University of CambridgeInstitute of Sustainability Leadership ('CISL') and holds non-executive positions - ranging from Department for Culture Media & Sports ('DCMS') British Tourism Authority, to Chair of Save the Children’s corporate advisory board, to Tech Domain Expert for Carbon13’s venture builder. Beth's held roles at Amazon, EY and Accenture. She was also a trailblazer of the UK's Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability Apprenticeship standard.

 

Connect:

Website: www.sustainableleaders.ltd

Social Media Links:

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/beth-knight/

Twitter: twitter.com/bethzknight

Facebook: www.facebook.com/bethzknight/

Pinterest: www.pinterest.co.uk/bethzknight/

Instagram: www.instagram.com/bethzknight/

 

Connect: 
 

Find | Cathleen O’Sullivan 

Business: cathleenmerkel.com  

Email: cmc@cathleenmerkelcoaching.com 

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/cathleen-merkel-2b0991151 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/cathleenmerkel 

Twitter: twitter.com/CathleenMerkel7 

 

 

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In today's thought-provoking discussion, our host, Cathleen O'Sullivan, and guest Daphna Horowitz delve into the profound impact of chaos and conflict on personal growth and leadership. Dialling in from Israel amidst the crisis and war, Daphna shares her insights on the evolving meaning of leadership in these unsettling times. 

 

The conversation navigates through the significance of self-awareness, authentic connections, and the power of unity during times of adversity. Together, they unravel the complexities of identity, the need for mutual understanding, and the pursuit of meaningful connections. 

 

Tune in as they explore navigating challenging times,  the essential role of self-coaching in times of crisis, self-care, and the impact of social media on mental well-being. 

 

Episode Timeline: 

 

• [00:01] Embracing mutual understanding, open-mindedness, and peaceful action.

• [05:09] Learn and gain different leadership insights globally.

• [10:33] Challenges to humanity, polarisation, leadership, and violence.

• [16:53] The Israeli community unites and demonstrates extraordinary leadership.

• [23:48] Jumping to conclusions, being curious, personal perspective.

• [31:16] Overwhelming support from old colleagues and clients.

• [34:44] Embracing support, connecting, and finding purpose.

• [41:51] Reflect on identities, and connect on a deeper level.

• [43:52] Self-awareness and balance are key to leadership.

• [49:51] Surprising benefits of the intuitive group writing process.

• [57:20] Reducing social media, prioritising mental well-being.

• [01:00] Try new things to find your passion.

• [01:11] Leaders make decisions daily for alignment and contribution.

Key Takeaways: 

• Embracing Chaos: The importance of embracing chaos as an opportunity for personal growth and asking oneself, "Who am I?" and "What do I need?" to navigate challenging situations.

• Personal Clarity and Contribution: Understanding oneself and making decisions that align with personal identity and contribution to the world, while also seeking support and building a strong support network.

• Balance and Mindful Decision-Making: Striving for balance in saying "yes" to new experiences and adventures, while also being mindful of not taking on too much.

 

Daphna Horowitz is a sought-after CEO Coach, MCC, and trusted advisor, working with clients around the globe, to create the extraordinary and build future leaders in their business. Working as an actuary at Director level in a large consulting firm, she learned the importance of developing a leadership mindset that takes you from being an expert top performer to extraordinary leader. She has a keen understanding of what it takes to lead a business and teams in a complex, ever-changing environment and provides a practical approach to leadership. When she’s not helping leaders master their mindset and elevate their business, you’ll find her in her favorite places - hosting her podcast, Leadership Live with Daphna Horowitz, writing articles for Forbes Coaches Council, and raising three kids with her loving husband.

Connect with Daphna:

Website: https://daphnahorowitz.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daphnahorowitz/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/daphnahorowitzleaders

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/daphna.horowitz.9 

Buy Daphna’s book: Weekly Habits for Extraordinary Leaders

 

Connect:
 

Find | Cathleen O’Sullivan  

Business: cathleenmerkel.com   

Email: cmc@cathleenmerkelcoaching.com  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathleen-merkel/ 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/legendary_leaders_cathleenos 

 

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In today's episode, Cathleen discusses the critical role of direct communication and empathy in leadership. Drawing from her own experiences and interactions, she emphasises the need for open and honest communication that avoids causing harm. Empathy, she argues, is essential for understanding others' emotions and perspectives, leading to increased engagement and innovation in the workplace. She shares techniques for effective communication, conflict management, and fostering trust in the workplace. Listen to the episode to learn more about practical strategies for balancing directness and empathy in your communication.

Listen here to learn more.

 

Episode Timeline: 

• [00:01] Reflecting on communication and authenticity in conversations.

• [04:55] Empathy is key in human connections..

• [11:43]  Practice silence, and find common ground in communication.

• [17:09]  Authenticity, honesty, openness, respect, connection, mindfulness

• [18:45]  Connect virtually, understand and support your team.

• [23:32]  Managing emotions, empathy and resolving conflicts effectively.

• [24:43]  Conflict is disagreement and tension, which must be resolved.

• [31:08]  Listen actively, interrupt thoughtfully, enhance communication.

• [32:43]  Empower through active listening, honesty, and empathy.

• [36:24]  Manage emotions, communicate directly, and foster empathy.

Key Takeaways: 

• Understanding and anticipating others' reactions is essential for effective communication, particularly in moments of conflict. Taking a moment to consider our words and actions can lead to more positive outcomes.

• Emotions often play a significant role in workplace conflict. Learning to manage and detach from these emotions can help create boundaries and help us work towards resolution in a constructive manner.

• Building trust, fostering openness, and engaging in meaningful dialogue are crucial elements in resolving conflicts. Active listening and empathy go a long way in creating a safe and inclusive environment where disagreements can be addressed constructively.

Connect:
 

Find | Cathleen O’Sullivan 

Business: cathleenmerkel.com  

Email: cmc@cathleenmerkelcoaching.com 

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/cathleen-merkel-2b0991151 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/cathleenmerkel 

Twitter: twitter.com/CathleenMerkel7 

 

 

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In this episode, we're joined by the insightful Kurt Uhlir, a widely recognised marketer and operator, known for his expertise in scaling businesses and leading high-growth companies. 

Together, Cathleen and Kurt delve into the importance of understanding customer avatars, the evolution of leadership styles, and the impact of fostering a safe and open environment within organisations. They explore Kurt's personal journey, from his early entrepreneurial ventures to his awakening as a leader, shedding light on pivotal moments that compelled him to re-evaluate his approach to leadership. Join us as we uncover the keys to effective leadership, the nuances of servant leadership, and the power of creating a workplace where every team member feels valued and heard. 

Listen to learn more.

 

Episode Timeline: 

• [10:23] Google seeks quality content for profit and efficiency.
• [20:01] Seeking praise led to destructive behaviour patterns.
• [24:07] Leaders must prioritise long-term growth and empathy.
• [29:51] Worked hard, succeeded, felt lonely, and unrecognised.
• [36:05] Struggle with servant leadership books lacking business focus.
• [38:16] CEO's book discusses servant leadership, and overcoming challenges.
• [46:13] Confidential relationship established for fact-based insights.
• [51:01] Encouraging healthy confrontation in team meetings.
• [53:05] Emphasising imperfection, iteration and healthy confrontation.
• [01:02] Companies struggle with hiring marketing officers explained.
• [01:04] Diversity in avatars causes marketing dissonance.
• [01:11] Sales team is limited in changing presentation content.
• [01:15] AI assists in converting knowledge for clients.

 

 

Key Takeaways: 

• Customer Avatars & Servant Leadership: Kurt emphasises the need for unified customer avatars and discusses the transformation in his leadership style from autocratic to servant leadership.
• Creating a Safe Environment for Team Dialogue: The episode explores how leaders can foster healthy confrontational conversations, creating an environment where team members feel comfortable addressing potential issues.
• Personal Growth & Intentional Time Management: Kurt shares the impact of personal experiences on his leadership journey and highlights the importance of intentional time management for personal and professional growth.

 

About Kurt Uhlir: 

Kurt is a globally-recognized 10x marketer, operator, and speaker. He has built and run early-stage companies as well as those over $500M in annual revenue, assembled teams across six continents, been part of the small team leading an IPO ($880M), and participated in dozens of acquisitions. His unique experience being inside hundreds of high-growth companies with the opportunity to analyse, scale, make changes of leadership, and oversee operations has labeled him “the king of scaling businesses”.

 

 

Connect with Kurt:

Social Media Links: 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kurtuhlir

https://www.twitter.com/kurtuhlir

https://www.facebook.com/kurt.uhlir

https://www.pinterest.com/kurtuhlir/

https://www.instagram.com/kurtuhlir/

 

 

Find out more: https://exprealty.com/

Download Kurt’s free gift: https://kurtuhlir.com/podcastgift/

 

 

Connect:
 

Find | Cathleen O’Sullivan 

Business: cathleenmerkel.com  

Email: cmc@cathleenmerkelcoaching.com 

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/cathleen-merkel-2b0991151 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/cathleenmerkel 

Twitter: twitter.com/CathleenMerkel7 

 

 

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Get ready for an insightful and inspiring conversation with our host Cathleen O’Sullivan that will leave you with a fresh perspective on burnout and leadership, leading with resilience, and the true meaning of success.

 

In episode 135 of Legendary Leaders, our guest is Julie Bee, a renowned burnout strategist and author passionate about helping entrepreneurs navigate business ownership challenges while prioritising their overall well-being. 

 

Julie shares invaluable advice on recognising and addressing burnout in the world of entrepreneurship, emphasising the importance of building support systems, avoiding misleading advertising, and redefining what being successful means.

 

Ready to learn more? 

 

Episode Timeline: 

 

• [07:00] Hospital stay led to reflection, and burnout discussion.

• [15:27] Recognise burnout

• [18:51] Indications of struggling with mental wellness.

• [23:49] Summer 2021: Burnout led to helpful book.

• [28:23] Prioritised self-care and clear busy schedule.

• [32:55] Not showing up annoys me, I communicate.

• [37:44] Establish regular sleep routine, avoid alcohol.

• [43:09] Business owner's success relies on support network.

• [55:09] Define success beyond goals and business achievements.

• [01:17] Address burnout before tackling business initiatives.

• [01:29] Plan to prevent burnout during holiday season  

 

Key Takeaways: 

• Understanding Individual Paths: Julie emphasises the importance of allowing people to figure things out for themselves and not expecting a quick fix.

• Effective Outsourcing: We highlight the significance of treating freelancers from platforms like Upwork as part of the team.

• Mutual Commitment and Loyalty: Julie and I discuss the crucial need for structured onboarding processes and testing potential hires.

About Julie Bee: 

Julie Bee isn’t just an award-winning entrepreneur – she’s been dubbed the “small business fixer" by her clients and peers. With over 15 years in the entrepreneurial field, Julie has solidified her reputation as a dynamic consultant, a riveting speaker, and a leader who sheds light on the darker side of business ownership. Whether it's reshaping workplace cultures or empowering leaders, her influence proves game-changing for those who collaborate with her.

 

Connect with Julie:

Social Media Links:
https://twitter.com/thejuliebee 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejuliebee/ 

https://www.instagram.com/thejuliebee_/ 

 

Julie has two freebies to offer - 30 Ways to Say No for Business Owners or 5 Cost-Effective Roles to Outsource on Upwork: 

https://pages.thejuliebee.com/30waysno 

https://pages.thejuliebee.com/5rolestooutsource 

 

Book recommendation: https://a.co/d/6aRIgla  

Connect:
 

Find | Cathleen O’Sullivan 

Business: www.cathleenmerkel.com    

Email: cmc@cathleenmerkelcoaching.com  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathleen-merkel/ 

Instagram: @legendary_leaders_cathleenos 

 

 

 

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