Leading with Trauma: Empowering Leadership for Trauma Survivors

In this insightful episode of 'Your Trauma-Wise Career Guide,' host Cyndi Bennett dives into the often overlooked intersection of trauma and leadership. Cyndi, a trauma survivor and informed career coach, alongside returning guest Holly Dillon, explores how trauma history can shape and influence leadership styles. They discuss the unique strengths and challenges trauma survivors bring to leadership roles, such as resilience and empathy, as well as potential pitfalls like micromanaging and people-pleasing. 

The conversation covers critical topics including how to recognize when trauma is affecting leadership, ways to build self-awareness around trauma triggers, and practical advice for new leaders navigating their roles while honoring their healing journey. Cyndi and Holly share personal anecdotes, practical tips, and strategies to help trauma survivors turn their experiences into leadership superpowers, emphasizing the importance of self-care, regulation, and building trust within teams. Tune in to learn how your trauma history can be a powerful asset in your leadership journey.

00:00 Introduction: The Untold Side of Leadership
00:51 The Strengths and Challenges of Trauma Survivors in Leadership
01:45 A New Conversation: Leading While Healing
02:20 Welcome to Your Trauma-Wise Career Guide
03:08 Interview with Holly Dillon: Managing with Trauma
04:04 Recognizing Trauma's Impact on Leadership
09:44 Common Trauma Responses in Leadership
16:44 Developing Self-Awareness and Regulation Tools
20:40 Building Trust and Support Systems
25:45 Taking a Leave of Absence: A Personal Story
28:25 The Importance of Self-Care for Leaders
29:11 Communicating Your Absence to Your Team
31:22 Advocating for Your Needs Before Burnout
33:49 Fact or Fiction: Assessing Leadership Concerns
38:46 Curiosity in Leadership
40:10 Advice for New Trauma Survivor Leaders
42:17 Setting Boundaries as a Leader
45:23 Regulation and Co-Regulation in Leadership
52:17 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

When you're ready, here are 3 ways I can help you grow your career journey:

1. Free trauma-informed career development resources from my website! Visit https://www.cyndibennettconsulting.com for always up-to-date tips.
2. Ready to build a fulfilling career with trauma-informed support? Join The Resilient Career Academy Learning Community, where trauma survivors support each other, share resources, and develop career resilience in a safe, understanding environment
3. Ready for personalized trauma-informed career coaching? Explore my range of virtual coaching packages designed for different stages of your career journey. Visit my website to find the right support for where you are now. [Visit my website: https://www.cyndibennettconsulting.com/1-on-1-coaching]

DISCLOSURE: Some links I share might contain resources that you might find helpful. Whenever possible I use referral links, which means if you click any of the links in this video or description and make a purchase we may receive a small commission or other compensation at no cost to you.