In this inspiring episode of the UpliftHER Leadership Series on the Self-Care Goddess Podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Carolyn Tong—Manager of Health, Wellness & Human Resources at the Region of Peel, and a passionate advocate for psychological safety and well-being in the workplace.
Our conversation was an illuminating journey into what it truly means to build healthy, thriving organizations—where empathy, authenticity, and humanity are at the heart of leadership. Carolyn’s story, from growing up as a Chinese woman in South Africa to leading wellness strategy in Canada, is a beautiful testament to resilience, empathy, and purpose-driven leadership.
Here’s what we explored in this powerful and heartfelt conversation:
✅ The evolution of workplace wellness—from isolated programs to system-wide psychological safety ✅ How empathy, curiosity, and listening create safer, more inclusive work cultures ✅ Preventing burnout through boundaries, shared responsibility, and leadership readiness ✅ Why authenticity and self-awareness are cornerstones of resilient leadership ✅ The connection between mental, physical, and emotional health at work ✅ How feminine and masculine energy can harmonize to elevate leadership ✅ Redefining work-life balance through integration, compassion, and flexibility
Carolyn reminds us that wellness at work begins with self-knowledge and shared humanity. Her wisdom offers a fresh, hopeful perspective on the future of leadership—one grounded in empathy, authenticity, and collective care.
✨ Take a deep breath. True leadership starts from within.
If you’d like to connect with Carolyn or learn more about her work:
🔗 Carolyn Tong — LinkedIn Profile LinkedIn
🎙️ Tune in, reflect, and share this episode with a leader who’s ready to create a culture of care, safety, and authenticity.
Through my 6 Pillars of Self-Care and B.R.E.A.T.H.E. Method, I help you reset your nervous system, release stress, and realign with the life you were meant to live. 🌬️ Expect guided breathwork, mindset shifts, and rituals for a healthier body, mind, and spirit.
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