Balanced Self

In this episode of the Balanced Self Podcast, host Barbara Fitch welcomes leadership coach and University of Virginia training leader Patty Marbury for a focused conversation on The Foundations of Psychologically Safe Leadership. Together, they explore the early signals that psychological safety is slipping and the practical leadership behaviors that help teams feel safe to speak up, take risks, and bring their full selves to the work. Listeners will gain actionable insight into how leaders can create consistent, open, and trust-driven environments where people thrive

In this episode of Balanced Self, we explore what it truly means to repair trust after a rupture in leadership. Words alone are never enough—so how do leaders transform apologies into meaningful change? Guest Taylor Tagg joins host Barbara Fitch for a thoughtful conversation on accountability, behavioral follow-through, and rebuilding connection with authenticity and alignment. Together, they unpack the signals that show real repair is happening and share practical strategies for re-establishing expectations and boundaries in a way that strengthens relationships rather than strains them. If you’re committed to leading with heart, integrity, and clarity—even in the hard moments—this episode offers the roadmap.

In this episode of Balanced Self, host Barbara Fitch sits down with executive leadership coach Tim Smith for a powerful conversation on The Anatomy of a Genuine Apology in Leadership. Together, they explore what separates performative apologies from meaningful ones, why authenticity matters, and how leaders can repair trust through accountability, empathy, and consistent action. With Tim’s decades of coaching experience and Barbara’s thoughtful, grounding presence, this episode offers practical wisdom for any leader striving to strengthen relationships and foster psychological safety within their team.

In this episode of Balanced Self, host Barbara Fitch sits down with Conswella Moore, to explore how leaders can give feedback that builds rather than breaks trust. Together, they discuss the blind spots leaders often overlook, practical habits that make feedback feel safe instead of scary, and how empathy, curiosity, and consistent communication can transform team culture.

In this episode of Balanced Self, host Barbara Fitch is joined by guest JoEllen Wilkins to explore “Paraphrasing vs. Reacting: Tools for Active Listening.” Together, they unpack how paraphrasing allows us to listen with intention and curiosity rather than simply reacting, and why this shift is essential for building trust, understanding, and stronger connections. Listeners will gain practical tools to move beyond quick responses and into deeper, more meaningful conversations that strengthen both personal and professional relationships.

This solo episode of the Balanced Self Podcast explores the theme “Know Thyself: Using Self-Awareness to Align Your Values, Strengths, and Life Direction.” Barbara Fitch reflects on how leaders can recognize when their actions drift away from their core values, the ways strengths can sometimes become blind spots, and why ongoing self-awareness is essential for authentic leadership. Designed as a reflective conversation, the episode encourages listeners to pause, journal, and apply the insights to their own leadership journey.

In this episode, host Barbara Fitch and guest Russ Cronberg explore how self-awareness and honest feedback can help uncover hidden biases and blind spots. They discuss the real meaning of work–life balance for leaders, the role of curiosity and humility in personal and professional growth, and how embracing feedback can lead to more inclusive and effective teams.

In this episode of The Balanced Self Podcast, host Barbara Fitch is joined by leadership expert John Broschak to explore how emotional intelligence goes beyond self-awareness to strengthen relationships, build trust, and inspire teams. Discover practical insights for leading with empathy, clarity, and connection.

In this episode of Balanced Self, host Barbara Fitch sits down with executive coach Trish Jordan to explore how self-awareness, coaching, and leadership assessments can bridge today’s leadership gap. Together, they unpack why leaders struggle to connect across generations and how intentional reflection and development tools can unlock stronger, more authentic leadership. From personal stories to practical strategies, this conversation offers valuable insights for anyone looking to grow as a leader in a rapidly evolving workplace.

In this episode of Balanced Self, host Barbara Fitch is joined by executive coach Debby Neely to discuss how Millennials are fast-tracking into leadership roles without following traditional career paths. They explore how values-driven leadership, adaptability, and a focus on collaboration are reshaping the workplace. Debby shares insights on how Millennial leaders are challenging old norms and bringing fresh perspectives to organizational growth. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on leading with authenticity, agility, and purpose in today’s evolving world.