Welcome back to Lead with Kindness, your go-to podcast for transforming workplaces through compassion and well-being. In this episode, host Helen Rimmer sits down with Nicky McCrudden, a renowned expert in leadership and learning, to delve into the power of compassionate leadership.

Guest Bio: Nicky McCrudden, founder of the McCrudden Partnership and a PhD candidate at the University of Chichester, brings over 17 years of experience in helping organizations reconnect with learning and enhancing their value. Her current research focuses on developing a more humanistic leadership style among frontline managers.

Episode Highlights:

* Introduction to Nicky McCrudden:

* Nicky's journey into leadership and learning.

* The story of how Nicky transitioned from various roles to discovering her passion for training and leadership.

* The Importance of Early Learning Experiences:

* Reflecting on influential teachers and moments that shaped Nicky's love for learning.

* Founding McCrudden Partnership:

* Nicky shares her motivations and the rewarding experiences of working with diverse organizations and leaders.

* Compassionate Leadership in Action:

* A successful case study of reconnecting an NHS organization with learning and the positive impacts on staff motivation and organizational value.

* Humanistic Leadership Explained:

* Defining humanistic leadership and its importance in modern workplaces.

* Key insights from Nicky’s PhD research on compassion in frontline management.

* Challenges and Solutions:

* Common barriers managers face in adopting compassionate leadership.

* Practical tips on overcoming these challenges and fostering a supportive work environment.

* Communication and Influence:

* Balancing empathy and effective communication in leadership roles.

* Strategies for influencing teams while maintaining compassion.

* Final Advice for Leaders:

* Nicky's top advice for leaders striving to lead with kindness and compassion in today’s challenging work environments.

Key Takeaways:

* Compassionate leadership boosts staff retention, loyalty, and productivity.

* Building trust through compassionate interactions enhances team dynamics.

* Understanding and supporting team members as human beings, not just employees, is crucial for effective leadership.

* Balancing support and performance expectations creates a healthier, more productive workplace.

Call to Action:

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to Lead with Kindness, share it with fellow leaders, and leave us a review. Your feedback helps us grow and inspire more people committed to positive change.

Connect with Us:

* Host: Helen Rimmer

* Guest: Nicky McCrudden

* LinkedIn: Nicky McCrudden

Timestamps:

* [00:00] - Introduction and Welcome

* [00:45] - Nicky McCrudden's Background and Journey

* [01:55] - Influential Teachers and Early Learning Experiences

* [05:00] - Founding the McCrudden Partnership

* [10:45] - Compassionate Leadership in the NHS

* [15:30] - Defining Humanistic Leadership

* [20:10] - Key Findings from Nicky’s Research

* [25:50] - Overcoming Barriers to Compassionate Leadership

* [30:40] - Effective Communication and Influence with Empathy

* [35:15] - Nicky’s Advice for Leaders

* [40:00] - Closing Remarks and Call to Action

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