In this conversation, Erin chats with Jason as he shares his leadership journey, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, empathy, and vulnerability in effective leadership. He reflects on transformative moments in his life that shaped his understanding of leadership and the necessity of emotional intelligence in navigating corporate environments, especially during restructuring. The discussion highlights practical strategies for building empathy and connection within teams, underscoring the significance of intentionality in leadership practices.

Today on Tactical Empathy:

• Leadership begins with self-awareness and personal growth.
• Transformative experiences can redefine one's leadership style.
• Empathy is essential for building trust in teams.
• Vulnerability fosters deeper connections among team members.
• Corporate restructuring requires emotional intelligence from leaders.
• Regular one-on-ones are crucial for team trust and connection.
• Creating space for emotions is vital during organizational changes.
• Self-care practices enhance a leader's ability to empathize.
• Empathy is a skill that can be developed over time.
• Intentionality in leadership practices leads to more effective teams.

Connect with Jason:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-donkersgoed/

Connect with Erin:

• Instagram: @elthorp 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-thorp-speaker/
• Website: www.erinthorp.ca 
• Inside Out Empathy Free Chapter: https://www.insideoutempathy.com/free-chapter/
• Sign up for “The E in the Room” Newsletter: https://www.erinthorp.ca/newsletter/

This show was produced by ELF Solutions Inc. 

In part 3 of this 4-part series, Erin discusses the significance of creative expression as a means to reclaim empathy and restore personal capacity. She emphasizes that creative expression is not about artistic talent or production but rather about engaging in activities that bring joy and presence. Through various examples, Erin illustrates how creative practices can help individuals reconnect with themselves, reduce stress, and foster a sense of safety and well-being. The conversation also highlights the importance of allowing oneself to create without the pressure of performance or outcome, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling and empathetic life.

Today on Tactical Empathy:

• Creative expression is not about being artistic.
• It allows us to express emotions and complete the stress cycle.
• Engaging in creative activities can signal safety to our bodies.
• Creative expression helps reduce anxiety and overwhelm.
• It's important to differentiate between necessity and creativity.
• Creative activities can be restorative and deeply restful.
• We should allow ourselves to create without the pressure of production.
• Creative expression can help us reconnect with ourselves.
• Engaging in creativity can enhance empathy for ourselves and others.
• It's essential to practice creative expression regularly for personal growth.

Connect with Erin:

• Instagram: @elthorp 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-thorp-speaker/
• Website: www.erinthorp.ca 
• Inside Out Empathy Free Chapter: https://www.insideoutempathy.com/free-chapter/
• Sign up for “The E in the Room” Newsletter: https://www.erinthorp.ca/newsletter/

This show was produced by ELF Solutions Inc.

In this conversation, Erin and Jordan Dellinger explore the complexities of empathy, particularly in leadership roles. Jordan shares his journey of writing his book, 'Congratulations, You Feel Everything,' which aims to help empaths navigate their emotions sustainably. They discuss the challenges leaders face in practicing empathy, the importance of self-awareness, and the personal experiences that shaped their understanding of emotional intelligence. The conversation emphasizes the need for empathy in professional settings and offers practical tools for developing this essential skill.

Today on Tactical Empathy:

• Empathy is the ability to understand and feel what someone is experiencing without losing yourself.
• Leadership often prioritizes control and efficiency over emotional connection.
• Self-awareness is crucial for practicing empathy effectively.
• Empaths can feel overwhelmed by their emotions if not managed properly.
• Writing can be a therapeutic tool for processing emotions.
• Creating a toolkit for empaths can help manage emotional burdens.
• It's important to communicate openly about one's emotional state.
• Empathy can be developed and strengthened over time.
• Caring deeply for others should not come at the expense of self-care.
• Leaders can benefit from learning how to integrate empathy into their leadership style.

Connect with Jordan:

• Website: https://jordanfeelseverything.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordandellinger/

Connect with Erin:

• Instagram: @elthorp 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-thorp-speaker/
• Website: www.erinthorp.ca 
• Inside Out Empathy Free Chapter: https://www.insideoutempathy.com/free-chapter/
• Sign up for “The E in the Room” Newsletter: https://www.erinthorp.ca/newsletter/

This show was produced by ELF Solutions Inc.

Apple Summary:

In part 2 of this 4-part series, Erin discusses the importance of emotional expression in the healing process from burnout. She emphasizes that burnout is not just a result of a busy schedule but also stems from unexpressed emotions. The conversation explores how acknowledging and expressing emotions can help close the stress cycle, leading to a restoration of capacity and empathy. Erin shares practical strategies for emotional expression and highlights the significance of recognizing feelings like resentment as signals for self-care.

Today on Tactical Empathy:

• Burnout is a result of both physical and emotional exhaustion.
• Emotional expression is crucial for healing from burnout.
• Unexpressed emotions can lead to feelings of numbness and irritability.
• Journaling and talking to trusted friends can aid emotional expression.
• Resentment can signal a need for self-care and prioritization.
• Emotions should be acknowledged without judgment or suppression.
• Curiosity about our emotions can lead to better understanding and action.
• Expressing emotions helps close the stress cycle in our bodies.
• It's important to take responsibility for our emotional health.
• Practicing tactical empathy can enhance our relationships and self-awareness.

Connect with Erin:

• Instagram: @elthorp 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-thorp-speaker/
• Website: www.erinthorp.ca 
• Inside Out Empathy Free Chapter: https://www.insideoutempathy.com/free-chapter/
• Sign up for “The E in the Room” Newsletter: https://www.erinthorp.ca/newsletter/

This show was produced by ELF Solutions Inc.

In this conversation, Erin and Wendy discuss Wendy's journey through career transitions, the importance of coaching, and the role of empathy in leadership and parenting. Wendy shares her experiences of working with Erin over the years, highlighting the significance of holding space for oneself and others, and how this practice has influenced her personal and professional life. They explore the challenges of leadership without a formal title, the tools that have aided Wendy's growth, and the lessons learned from difficult experiences. The conversation concludes with reflections on the evolving nature of careers and the importance of aligning with one's values.

Today on Tactical Empathy:

• Wendy has been a customer success manager for a project consulting company.
• The coaching journey began during COVID when Wendy sought career guidance.
• Holding space is crucial for personal and professional growth.
• Empathy plays a significant role in leadership and parenting.
• Leadership can exist without a formal title.
• Tools like SL2 and mental fitness have been impactful for Wendy.
• Learning from challenges is essential for growth.
• Personal and professional lives are interconnected.
• It's okay to change career paths as values evolve.
• Self-empathy is important during transitions.

Connect with Wendy:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendy-fortna-41ab0b33/

Connect with Erin:

• Instagram: @elthorp 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-thorp-speaker/
• Website: www.erinthorp.ca 
• Inside Out Empathy Free Chapter: https://www.insideoutempathy.com/free-chapter/
• Sign up for “The E in the Room” Newsletter: https://www.erinthorp.ca/newsletter/

This show was produced by ELF Solutions Inc.

In this episode, Erin explores the concept of burnout, particularly in relation to empathy. She discusses how burnout is often misunderstood and emphasizes the importance of completing the stress cycle to regain empathy. The conversation highlights the significance of body work, physical movement, and self-care practices in managing burnout and maintaining emotional capacity. Erin introduces a four-part series on burnout, starting with body work and its role in stress management, and sets the stage for future discussions on emotional expression, creative expression, and rest.

Today on Tactical Empathy:

• Burnout is often an unfinished stress cycle.
• Empathy can weaken if not practiced on oneself.
• Physical movement is essential to complete the stress cycle.
• Stressors can keep our bodies in a state of fight or flight.
• Body work practices help in managing stress and burnout.
• Regular exercise can significantly improve mental clarity.
• Energy work and somatic practices are beneficial for emotional health.
• Self-care is not a luxury; it's a necessity for empathy.
• Recognizing stress is the first step, but action is required to resolve it.
• You are not alone in feeling overwhelmed or burnt out.

Connect with Erin:

• Instagram: @elthorp 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-thorp-speaker/
• Website: www.erinthorp.ca 
• Inside Out Empathy Free Chapter: https://www.insideoutempathy.com/free-chapter/
• Sign up for “The E in the Room” Newsletter: https://www.erinthorp.ca/newsletter/

This show was produced by ELF Solutions Inc.

In this episode of Tactical Empathy, Erin reflects on her journey of self-understanding and the importance of empathy in leadership. She emphasizes the need for self-reflection and the challenges of self-judgment, while encouraging listeners to build their capacity for empathy both for themselves and others. The episode serves as a reminder that empathy is a foundational skill for effective leadership and personal growth.

Today on Tactical Empathy:

• Empathy is about understanding oneself and others.
• Self-empathy is often the hardest part of leadership.
• Taking time for self-reflection can lead to powerful insights.
• We are our own harshest critics, which hinders self-understanding.
• Understanding ourselves is a lifelong journey.
• Empathy is a muscle that needs to be exercised regularly.
• Self-judgment can prevent us from leading effectively.
• The journey of self-discovery is not linear but spiral.
• Each experience provides new information for self-understanding.
• Empathy is the foundation for effective leadership.

Connect with Erin:

• Instagram: @elthorp 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-thorp-speaker/
• Website: www.erinthorp.ca 
• Inside Out Empathy Free Chapter: https://www.insideoutempathy.com/free-chapter/
• Sign up for “The E in the Room” Newsletter: https://www.erinthorp.ca/newsletter/

This show was produced by ELF Solutions Inc.

In this final episode of 2025, Erin reflects on the importance of empathy, self-care, and setting boundaries. She discusses her personal struggles with over-empathizing and the resulting feelings of resentment. Erin emphasizes the need for self-empathy and radical honesty, encouraging listeners to recognize their own emotions and needs. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to practice self-care and reflect on their experiences as they move into the new year.

Today on Tactical Empathy:

• Empathy is a leadership tool that requires self-awareness.
• Resentment can be an early warning signal for personal boundaries.
• Over-empathizing can lead to feelings of being unsupported and resentful.
• Setting healthy boundaries is essential for personal well-being.
• Self-empathy is often the hardest type of empathy to practice.
• Radical honesty with oneself is crucial for emotional health.
• Ignoring emotional signals can lead to burnout and disconnection.
• Practicing discernment helps in setting healthy boundaries.
• It's important to recognize when you're giving more than you receive.
• Self-care is not selfish; it's necessary for effective leadership.

Connect with Erin:

• Instagram: @elthorp 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-thorp-speaker/
• Website: www.erinthorp.ca 
• Inside Out Empathy Free Chapter: https://www.insideoutempathy.com/free-chapter/
• Sign up for “The E in the Room” Newsletter: https://www.erinthorp.ca/newsletter/

This show was produced by ELF Solutions Inc.

In this episode of Tactical Empathy, we flipped the script! A client, Adriana Mercader interviews Erin, exploring the profound impact of empathy in personal and professional relationships. Erin shares her journey of understanding empathy, the importance of self-awareness, and how empathy can transform leadership and team dynamics. The conversation delves into the challenges of self-empathy, the distinction between empathy and sympathy, and practical steps to navigate feelings and burnout. Erin emphasizes the need for genuine connection and understanding in all aspects of life, encouraging listeners to embrace their emotions and foster empathy within themselves and their teams.

Today on Tactical Empathy:

• Empathy starts with understanding ourselves.
• The hardest part of work is often relationships.
• We practice what we are, not what we pretend to be.
• Feelings are our internal GPS system.
• Empathy is not about fixing others' problems.
• Self-empathy is crucial for personal growth.
• Leaders can inspire change through understanding.
• Burnout can be addressed by allowing ourselves to feel.
• Empathy requires self-responsibility and accountability.
• Transformation happens when teams engage in tough conversations.

Connect with Adriana:

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/adriana-mercader-7350318

Connect with Erin:

• Instagram: @elthorp 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-thorp-speaker/
• Website: www.erinthorp.ca 
• Inside Out Empathy Free Chapter: https://www.insideoutempathy.com/free-chapter/
• Sign up for “The E in the Room” Newsletter: https://www.erinthorp.ca/newsletter/

This show was produced by ELF Solutions Inc. 

In this episode, Erin explores the themes of leadership and inclusion, particularly for women in traditionally male-dominated fields. Through personal anecdotes and reflections on recent conferences, she emphasizes the importance of empathy, the need for systemic change, and the dual responsibility of both individuals and organizations to foster an inclusive environment. Erin shares insights on how lived experiences can drive meaningful conversations and the necessity of creating spaces where truth can surface, ultimately leading to more effective leadership.

Today on Tactical Empathy:

• Inclusion should feel like the rule, not the exception.
• Personal experiences shape our understanding of leadership.
• Empathy is a powerful tool in navigating tough conversations.
• Women in leadership need spaces that validate their experiences.
• Systemic change requires both individual and collective action.
• Lived experiences should be treated as expertise.
• Creating conditions for truth is essential in leadership.
• Leadership is about understanding emotions and boundaries.
• The importance of sponsorship over mentorship in career advancement.
• Small shifts in language can lead to significant cultural changes.

Connect with Erin:

• Instagram: @elthorp 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-thorp-speaker/
• Website: www.erinthorp.ca 
• Inside Out Empathy Free Chapter: https://www.insideoutempathy.com/free-chapter/
• Sign up for “The E in the Room” Newsletter: https://www.erinthorp.ca/newsletter/

This show was produced by ELF Solutions Inc.