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In this episode of Psych Leadership, we dive into the powerful psychological principles behind mentorship and why great mentors focus on developing the whole person—not just their resume. Drawing from leadership theory, organizational psychology, and real-world experience, we explore how effective mentoring fosters resilience, emotional intelligence, and long-term growth. Whether you’re a seasoned leader or new to mentoring, this conversation offers practical insights on how to build trust, empower mentees, and create a lasting impact.
References:
Baker, V. L., Lunsford, L. G., & Pifer, M. J. (2019). Patching up the “leaking leadership pipeline”: Fostering mid-career faculty succession management. Research in Higher Education, 60(6), 823–843. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11162-018-9528-9
Deci, E. L., & Ryan, R. M. (2000). The “what” and “why” of goal pursuits: Human needs and the self-determination of behavior. Psychological Inquiry, 11(4), 227–268. https://doi.org/10.1207/S15327965PLI1104_01
Goleman, D. (2006). Emotional intelligence. Bantam Books.
Vygotsky, L. S. (1978). Mind in society: The development of higher psychological processes (M. Cole, V. John-Steiner, S. Scribner, & E. Souberman, Eds.). Harvard University Press.
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NEW BOOK -- "Tactical Mentoring: A Guide to Unlocking Your Potential" - By Luke UpChurch
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Psych Leadership is a division of Rise Up Academics - A 501(c)(3) focused on building leadership and mentoring opportunities for high school and college students. All proceeds go towards this purpose.
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Leadership isn’t just for the loudest voice in the room. In this episode of PsychLeadership, we challenge the myth that great leaders must be charismatic extroverts and explore the power of introverted leadership. Many of history’s most effective leaders—from Abraham Lincoln to Bill Gates—have been quiet, reflective thinkers who lead through deep listening, strategic thinking, and thoughtful decision-making. Learn how introverts can harness their strengths, build influence, and thrive in leadership roles without changing who they are.
References:
Cain, S. (2012). Quiet: The power of introverts in a world that can’t stop talking. Crown Publishing Group.
Grant, A. M., Gino, F., & Hofmann, D. A. (2011). Reversing the extraverted leadership advantage: The role of employee proactivity. Academy of Management Journal, 54(3), 528–550. https://doi.org/10.5465/amj.2011.61968043
Kahnweiler, J. B. (2013). Quiet influence: The introvert’s guide to making a difference. Berrett-Koehler Publishers.
Riggio, R. E. (2013). Do you have to be an extrovert to be a leader? Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/cutting-edge-leadership/201305/do-you-have-be-extrovert-be-leader
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NEW BOOK -- "Tactical Mentoring: A Guide to Unlocking Your Potential" - By Luke UpChurch
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Psych Leadership is a division of Rise Up Academics - A 501(c)(3) focused on building leadership and mentoring opportunities for high school and college students. All proceeds go towards this purpose.
Want to connect? Email me at [email protected]
Send us Fan Mail
Conflict in the workplace is inevitable, but it doesn’t have to be destructive. In this episode of PsychLeadership, we break down proven techniques from Bullies, Tyrants, and Impossible People to help you navigate conflict with confidence. Learn how to manage difficult personalities, defuse tense situations, and use psychological strategies to turn workplace tension into productive conversations. Whether you’re dealing with a micromanaging boss, a passive-aggressive coworker, or an outright bully, this episode will equip you with the tools to stay composed and in control.
Books Referenced: https://www.amazon.com/Bullies-Tyrants-Impossible-People-Without/dp/140005012X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=16KO2UOVAMXU2&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.QEbLHk54b38_ofQgM6Y9ZY0CEfKcS-f8SiOMV3R2PDLuXTqTde-jZFP8FWiDSwtqyFT828jjBp--omi0-tucdw.U0m1hW6pf2l-r-S0VUul-B9x7Cn81tm0sAbvhKFi-6Q&dib_tag=se&keywords=Bullies+tyrants+and+impossible+people&qid=1741200567&sprefix=bullies+tyrants+and+impossible+people%2Caps%2C143&sr=8-1
References:
• Eddy, B. (2018). BIFF: Quick Responses to High-Conflict People, Their Personal Attacks, Hostile Email, and Social Media Meltdowns. Unhooked Books.
• Goleman, D. (1995). Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ. Bantam Books.
• Lieberman, M. D. (2013). Social: Why Our Brains Are Wired to Connect. Crown.
• Patterson, K., Grenny, J., McMillan, R., & Switzler, A. (2011). Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High. McGraw-Hill Education.
• Scharf, M., & Schweitzer, R. (2007). Bullies, Tyrants, and Impossible People: How to Beat Them Without Joining Them. Crown Business.
• Ury, W. (2015). Getting to Yes with Yourself: How to Get What You Truly Want. Harper Business.
Shares the release of the new book
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NEW BOOK -- "Tactical Mentoring: A Guide to Unlocking Your Potential" - By Luke UpChurch
Available on:
🍎 Apple Books & 📚Kindle
Psych Leadership is a division of Rise Up Academics - A 501(c)(3) focused on building leadership and mentoring opportunities for high school and college students. All proceeds go towards this purpose.
Want to connect? Email me at [email protected]
Send us Fan Mail
Transitioning into a new position presents unique challenges and opportunities. The first three months are instrumental in defining your trajectory within the organization. This episode offers research-backed insights into making impactful first impressions, integrating seamlessly into the company culture, and achieving early wins. Whether you’re stepping into a leadership role or starting anew, these strategies will equip you to make a lasting impact from day one.
References:
Barrick, M. R., Swider, B. W., & Stewart, G. L. (2010). Initial evaluations in the interview: Relationships with subsequent interviewer evaluations and employment offers. Journal of Applied Psychology, 95(6), 1163–1172. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0019918
Paulise, L. (2024). How to make an impact in the first 90 days of your new job. Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/lucianapaulise/2024/04/30/how-to-make-an-impact-in-the-first-90-days-of-your-new-job/
Spielman, M. (2021). Tackle the first 90 days of your next role: A 5-step process for success on the job. Harvard Business School Alumni. https://www.alumni.hbs.edu/careers/blog/post/tackle-the-first-90-days-of-your-next-role-a-5-step-process-for-success-on-the-job
Swider, B. W., Barrick, M. R., & Harris, T. B. (2016). Initial impressions: What they are, what they are not, and how they influence structured interview outcomes. Journal of Applied Psychology, 101(5), 625–638. https://doi.org/10.1037/apl0000077
Watkins, M. (2013). The First 90 Days: Proven Strategies for Getting Up to Speed Faster and Smarter. Harvard Business Review Press.
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NEW BOOK -- "Tactical Mentoring: A Guide to Unlocking Your Potential" - By Luke UpChurch
Available on:
🍎 Apple Books & 📚Kindle
Psych Leadership is a division of Rise Up Academics - A 501(c)(3) focused on building leadership and mentoring opportunities for high school and college students. All proceeds go towards this purpose.
Want to connect? Email me at [email protected]
Send us Fan Mail
Understanding what recruiters and hiring managers look for can make all the difference in a job search. In this episode of PsychLeadership, we dive into the psychology behind hiring decisions, exploring the key traits, skills, and behaviors that stand out in a competitive job market. We’ll discuss the importance of cultural fit, emotional intelligence, and storytelling in interviews, as well as what hiring managers really think when they review resumes. Whether you’re actively job searching or just want to stay prepared for future opportunities, this episode will give you the inside scoop on what it takes to land the job.
<> 'The Laws of Subtraction' by Matthew E May
References:
Business Perspectives. (2020). Recruiter bias in resume screening and job selection. Retrieved from https://www.businessperspectives.org.
Forbes. (2021). 4 cognitive biases that hijack your hiring decisions and how to fix them. Retrieved from https://www.forbes.com.
Jobvite. (2022). The recruiting benchmark report. Retrieved from https://www.jobvite.com.
Kahneman, D. (2011). Thinking, fast and slow. Farrar, Straus, and Giroux.
Sage Journals. (2022). The impact of cognitive biases on hiring decisions. Retrieved from https://journals.sagepub.com.
SHRM. (2021). Recruiters say experience is top factor in applicant evaluation. Retrieved from https://www.shrm.org.
StellaPop. (2023). How recruiters and hiring managers evaluate candidates’ soft skills. Retrieved from https://stellapop.com.
Shares the release of the new book
Support the show
Want to be part of our mission: 👉 Donate Today
NEW BOOK -- "Tactical Mentoring: A Guide to Unlocking Your Potential" - By Luke UpChurch
Available on:
🍎 Apple Books & 📚Kindle
Psych Leadership is a division of Rise Up Academics - A 501(c)(3) focused on building leadership and mentoring opportunities for high school and college students. All proceeds go towards this purpose.
Want to connect? Email me at [email protected]
Send us Fan Mail
Discussing compensation can be daunting, but effectively negotiating your salary is crucial for career advancement. In this episode of PsychLeadership, we delve into the psychological principles that influence salary negotiations. Learn how to overcome common mental barriers, employ evidence-based strategies, and confidently advocate for the compensation you deserve. Whether you’re considering a new job offer or seeking a raise, this episode provides actionable insights to navigate the negotiation process successfully.
References:
American Psychological Association. (2016). Running start… to a great career. APA Services.
American Psychological Association. (n.d.). Salary data and negotiation skills. APA Education and Career Development.
American Psychological Association. (n.d.). Salary negotiation for faculty jobs. APA Education and Career Training.
American Psychological Association. (2014). Will you earn what you’re worth? GradPsych Magazine.
Crothers, L. M., Hughes, T. L., Schmitt, A. J., Theodore, L. A., Bloomquist, A. J., Lipinski, J., & Altman, C. L. (2010).Has equity been achieved? Salary and promotion negotiation practices of a national sample of school psychology university faculty. The Psychologist-Manager Journal, 13(1), 40–59.
Gerhart, B., & Rynes, S. L. (1991). Determinants and consequences of salary negotiations by male and female MBA graduates. Journal of Applied Psychology, 76(2), 256–262.
Kugler, K. G., Reif, J. A. M., Kaschner, T., & Brodbeck, F. C. (2018). Dare to ask in front of others? Women initiating salary negotiations. Group Processes & Intergroup Relations, 21(3), 476–494.
Shares the release of the new book
Support the show
Want to be part of our mission: 👉 Donate Today
NEW BOOK -- "Tactical Mentoring: A Guide to Unlocking Your Potential" - By Luke UpChurch
Available on:
🍎 Apple Books & 📚Kindle
Psych Leadership is a division of Rise Up Academics - A 501(c)(3) focused on building leadership and mentoring opportunities for high school and college students. All proceeds go towards this purpose.
Want to connect? Email me at [email protected]
Send us Fan Mail
In this episode of PsychLeadership, we explore the psychology behind effective annual reviews and how leaders can use these conversations to inspire growth, foster trust, and drive engagement. Learn how to approach annual reviews with empathy, emotional intelligence, and a focus on development, ensuring that feedback is actionable and empowering. We’ll discuss how to balance recognition and constructive criticism, co-create goals, and tie individual contributions to the bigger picture of organizational success. This is your guide to transforming annual reviews from stressful checklists into meaningful dialogues that strengthen team dynamics and drive progress.
REFERENCES:
Servant Leadership:
• Greenleaf, R. K. (1977). Servant leadership: A journey into the nature of legitimate power and greatness. Paulist Press.
• Liden, R. C., Wayne, S. J., Zhao, H., & Henderson, D. (2008). Servant leadership: Development of a multidimensional measure and multi-level assessment. The Leadership Quarterly, 19(2), 161-177.
Emotional Intelligence:
• Goleman, D. (1995). Emotional intelligence: Why it can matter more than IQ. Bantam Books.
• Mayer, J. D., Salovey, P., & Caruso, D. R. (2008). Emotional intelligence: New ability or eclectic traits? American Psychologist, 63(6), 503-517.
Growth Mindset:
• Dweck, C. S. (2006). Mindset: The new psychology of success. Random House.
• Yeager, D. S., & Dweck, C. S. (2012). Mindsets that promote resilience: When students believe that personal characteristics can be developed. Educational Psychologist, 47(4), 302-314.
Equity and Fairness:
• Adams, J. S. (1965). Inequity in social exchange. In L. Berkowitz (Ed.), Advances in experimental social psychology (Vol. 2, pp. 267-299). Academic Press.
• Colquitt, J. A., Conlon, D. E., Wesson, M. J., Porter, C. O., & Ng, K. Y. (2001). Justice at the millennium: A meta-analytic review of 25 years of organizational justice research. Journal of Applied Psychology, 86(3), 425-445.
Authentic Communication:
• Avolio, B. J., Gardner, W. L., Walumbwa, F. O., Luthans, F., & May, D. R. (2004). Unlocking the mask: A look at the process by which authentic leaders impact follower attitudes and behaviors. The Leadership Quarterly, 15(6), 801-823.
• George, B. (2003). Authentic leadership: Rediscovering the secrets to creating lasting value. Jossey-Bass.
Empowerment:
• Conger, J. A., & Kanungo, R. N. (1988). The empowerment process: Integrating theory and practice. Academy of Management Review, 13(3), 471-482.
• Spreitzer, G. M. (1995). Psychological empowerment in the workplace: Dimensions, measurement, and validation. Academy of Management Journal, 38(5), 1442-1465.
Shares the release of the new book
Support the show
Want to be part of our mission: 👉 Donate Today
NEW BOOK -- "Tactical Mentoring: A Guide to Unlocking Your Potential" - By Luke UpChurch
Available on:
🍎 Apple Books & 📚Kindle
Psych Leadership is a division of Rise Up Academics - A 501(c)(3) focused on building leadership and mentoring opportunities for high school and college students. All proceeds go towards this purpose.
Want to connect? Email me at [email protected]
Send us Fan Mail
Change is inevitable, but managing it effectively is a skill every leader must master. In this episode of PsychLeadership, we sit down with Kasey Lightle, who leads Engagement and Retention at a large academic healthcare system. Through her work, she has guided leaders in navigating organizational transformation and driving meaningful change with confidence and compassion.
We’ll discuss the psychology behind resistance to change, strategies for building trust during transitions, and the role of effective communication in fostering alignment. Whether you’re navigating organizational shifts or guiding your team through uncertain times, this episode will provide actionable insights grounded in both academic research and real-world experience.
__Colors Quiz for your team: https://my-personality-test.com/true-colours?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Kotter's 8 Step Process for Leading Change
https://www.kotterinc.com/methodology/8-steps/
References
Goleman, D. (1995). Emotional intelligence: Why it can matter more than IQ. Bantam Books.
Hiatt, J. M. (2006). ADKAR: A model for change in business, government, and our community. Prosci Research.
Kahneman, D., & Tversky, A. (1979). Prospect theory: An analysis of decision under risk. Econometrica, 47(2), 263–291. https://doi.org/10.2307/1914185
Kotter, J. P. (1996). Leading change. Harvard Business Review Press.
Schein, E. H. (2010). Organizational culture and leadership (4th ed.). Jossey-Bass.
Shares the release of the new book
Support the show
Want to be part of our mission: 👉 Donate Today
NEW BOOK -- "Tactical Mentoring: A Guide to Unlocking Your Potential" - By Luke UpChurch
Available on:
🍎 Apple Books & 📚Kindle
Psych Leadership is a division of Rise Up Academics - A 501(c)(3) focused on building leadership and mentoring opportunities for high school and college students. All proceeds go towards this purpose.
Want to connect? Email me at [email protected]
Send us Fan Mail
The colder months can bring more than just frosty weather—they can also bring a wave of low energy, sadness, and disconnection for many people. In this episode of PsychLeadership, we explore the psychological phenomenon of the “winter blues,” diving deep into how to recognize signs of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and depression in yourself and others. With us, please welcome special guest, Donnie Parrish, a friend and colleague with personal experience with all of the topics we are discussing today.
We’ll discuss the psychological and biological causes of winter-related mood changes, from reduced daylight to disrupted routines. More importantly, we’ll provide actionable strategies to combat these challenges, including self-care practices, fostering social connections, and supporting team members or loved ones through tough times.
If you or someone you know struggles with staying motivated and emotionally balanced during winter, this episode offers compassionate insights and practical tools to help you weather the storm.
Need help? https://988lifeline.org/
References:
American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.
Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2023). Preventing suicide: Facts, figures, and prevention strategies. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov
Joiner, T. E. (2005). Why people die by suicide. Harvard University Press.
Rosenthal, N. E., Sack, D. A., Gillin, J. C., et al. (1984). Seasonal affective disorder: A description of the syndrome and preliminary findings with light therapy. Archives of General Psychiatry, 41(1), 72–80. https://doi.org/10.1001/archpsyc.1984.01790120076010
Shares the release of the new book
Support the show
Want to be part of our mission: 👉 Donate Today
NEW BOOK -- "Tactical Mentoring: A Guide to Unlocking Your Potential" - By Luke UpChurch
Available on:
🍎 Apple Books & 📚Kindle
Psych Leadership is a division of Rise Up Academics - A 501(c)(3) focused on building leadership and mentoring opportunities for high school and college students. All proceeds go towards this purpose.
Want to connect? Email me at [email protected]
Send us Fan Mail
A new year brings new opportunities to refocus and realign with your personal and professional goals. But how do you maintain clarity and motivation in a world full of distractions? In this episode of PsychLeadership, we explore the psychological principles behind staying focused and achieving intentional growth.
We’ll discuss the power of mindfulness, the importance of setting meaningful goals, and the role reflection plays in maintaining motivation. You’ll also learn actionable strategies to overcome cognitive overload, embrace intrinsic motivation, and create a sustainable path to success in 2025.
Whether you’re leading a team, growing your career, or pursuing personal development, this episode will provide you with the tools to start the year with purpose and intention.
References:
Amabile, T. M., & Kramer, S. J. (2011). The power of small wins. Harvard Business Review, 89(5), 70–80.
Brown, K. W., & Ryan, R. M. (2003). The benefits of being present: Mindfulness and its role in psychological well-being. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 84(4), 822–848. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-3514.84.4.822
Csikszentmihalyi, M. (1990). Flow: The psychology of optimal experience. Harper & Row.
Dweck, C. S. (2006). Mindset: The new psychology of success. Random House.
Kolb, D. A. (1984). Experiential learning: Experience as the source of learning and development. Prentice Hall.
Locke, E. A., & Latham, G. P. (2002). Building a practically useful theory of goal setting and task motivation: A 35-year odyssey. American Psychologist, 57(9), 705–717. https://doi.org/10.1037/0003-066X.57.9.705
Ryan, R. M., & Deci, E. L. (2000). Self-determination theory and the facilitation of intrinsic motivation, social development, and well-being. American Psychologist, 55(1), 68–78. https://doi.org/10.1037/0003-066X.55.1.68
Tang, Y. Y., Hölzel, B. K., & Posner, M. I. (2015). The neuroscience of mindfulness meditation. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 16(4), 213–225. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrn3916
Vroom, V. H. (1964). Work and motivation. Wiley.
Wigfield, A., & Eccles, J. S. (2000). Expectancy–value theory of achievement motivation. Contemporary Educational Psychology, 25(1), 68–81. https://doi.org/10.1006/ceps.1999.1015
Shares the release of the new book
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Want to be part of our mission: 👉 Donate Today
NEW BOOK -- "Tactical Mentoring: A Guide to Unlocking Your Potential" - By Luke UpChurch
Available on:
🍎 Apple Books & 📚Kindle
Psych Leadership is a division of Rise Up Academics - A 501(c)(3) focused on building leadership and mentoring opportunities for high school and college students. All proceeds go towards this purpose.
Want to connect? Email me at [email protected]
From the publisher's feed
From graduation caps to corner offices, the journey is anything but straightforward. The Psych Leadership Podcast blends real-world leadership experience with the science of human behavior to help…
Whether you’re a recent graduate finding your footing or a seasoned professional looking to lead with greater impact, each episode delivers practical strategies grounded in psychology — from mastering first impressions and building resilience to influencing without authority and shaping your long-term career path.
Host Luke UpChurch, a business leader and psychology graduate, draws from 28+ years in organizational leadership, process improvement, and talent strategy to bring you insights that work in the real world.
Because leadership isn’t just for the people with the title — it’s a mindset, a skillset, and a toolkit you can start using today.
Would these types of insights help your team grow? Consider booking a consultation with Psych Leadership!