The Antidote to Shame, Creating Psychological Safety, and People-First Leadership

5 Key Takeaways:

1. Embrace Vulnerability: Openly sharing personal challenges can dismantle barriers of shame and isolation, encouraging a culture of understanding and empathy within teams. Jennie’s journey with an ADHD diagnosis reveals how embracing vulnerability can transform personal and professional challenges into opportunities for growth and deeper connections within the team.
2. Create No Shame Zones (NSZs): Establishing environments where employees feel safe to be their authentic selves without the fear of judgement to discuss personal and professional challenges can lead to enhanced creativity, reduced stress, and better overall team performance.  
3. You Can Balance People and Projects: People-first leadership isn’t at odds with getting results—in fact, they fuel each other. Invest time in building trust with your team upfront. When deadlines loom or crises arise, they’ll be ready to sprint alongside you because they feel valued and supported.
4. Procrastination Is a Signal, Not a Weakness: Stuck on something? So is everyone else, sometimes. Reframe procrastination as a cue to check in—what’s causing the block? Is it fear, overwhelm, or uncertainty? Managers can help by creating space for “sticky/crunchy points” in meetings. For employees, name what’s holding you back and ask for input from your managers or colleagues.
5. Safety = The Foundation for Change: When people feel secure, they’re more willing to take risks, give honest feedback, and innovate. Build this by listening without judgment, owning your mistakes, and valuing rest and your team’s mental health wins, not just outcomes.

Show Notes:

[00:00:39] Jennie discusses her ADHD diagnosis, the initial feelings of relief mixed with shame, and the impact on her personal and professional life.

[00:03:52] How vulnerability and open communication can be liberating and an antidote to shame.

[00:06:17] How managers can foster environments that encourage openness, helping reduce workplace stigma around mental health.

[00:09:02] Jennie talks about the practical steps to establish No Shame Zones at work.

[00:10:27] Jennie emphasizes the importance of self-awareness in leadership.

[00:14:09] The concept of psychological safety, its importance in team dynamics, and how it can be practically fostered within teams.

[00:22:05] The ways in which leaders can effectively prioritize both team well-being and project demands, ensuring neither is neglected.

[00:25:05] Emphasis on the importance of celebrating small wins and personal growth, fostering a positive and supportive team environment.

[00:27:54] Discussion on the need for flexibility in management, adapting leadership styles to meet the evolving needs of the team and projects.

[00:30:23] Jennie shares her thoughts on how entrepreneurial skills can impact global issues.