Leading with Heart: Emotional Intelligence and the Art of Change

In this transformative episode of the Entrusted to Lead podcast, Danita engages in a profound discussion with Ben Arendt, founder of Depth Charge Consulting, on the role of emotional intelligence in effective leadership and workplace dynamics. Ben, who transitioned from a career at the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), CEB, and Gartner, opens up about his journey to becoming a strong advocate for emotional intelligence and previews his book, where he reimagines career management through an emotional lens. Together, Danita and Ben delve into how understanding and embracing emotions can reshape both individual and organizational growth.

Key takeaways include:

• Emotional Intelligence in Leadership: Ben shares how emotional awareness, empathy, and humility can unlock potential within teams, foster collaboration, and transform leadership effectiveness. By cultivating emotional intelligence, leaders create psychologically safe spaces that inspire loyalty, reduce turnover, and drive productivity.

• Work-Life Balance for Working Parents: Through relatable examples, Ben and Danita explore the challenges faced by working parents, highlighting the need for flexible work environments that support both professional and family roles. Ben draws parallels between parenting and leadership, illustrating how the patience, humility, and resilience learned in family life can enhance a leader’s approach in the workplace.

• Navigating Organizational Change: The episode dives into the emotional aspects of change management, comparing it to the grieving process, where people need time, understanding, and trust to adapt. Ben emphasizes that leaders who recognize and support these emotional needs build stronger teams capable of navigating change with confidence and trust.

• Building Trust and Psychological Safety: Ben’s experiences from his military career provide a unique perspective on the importance of trust and psychological safety in driving positive change. He shares stories that illustrate how self-aware leaders who are committed to emotional transparency can create environments where individuals feel safe to contribute, innovate, and grow.

Through candid stories and powerful insights, this episode underscores the essential role of emotional intelligence in professional settings, illustrating how self-aware, authentic leadership can impact not only workplace culture but also personal fulfillment. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the deeper facets of leadership, from aspiring leaders and HR professionals to seasoned executives and working parents seeking a balanced approach to success.

Find out more about Ben: https://depthchargeconsulting.com/about/

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