About the Episode:
In this episode, my guest, Anne Phibbs, Founder of Strategic Diversity Initiatives, discusses what it takes to be a good leader, and the characteristics a good leader possesses. Anne states that good leaders don’t view themselves as being in a position of power or what kind of job they have. Instead, they possess strong emotional intelligence that allows them to build and maintain healthy and positive relationships with others in order to lead. Good leaders also have high self-awareness and know when to step back from their work to allow others to step into the space of leadership so that they can recharge. Good leaders develop others to become the next generation of leaders, and they do this by empowering and guiding others through their own leadership journey.
As we’re faced with the current pandemic, it reminds us that there are certain things in life we can’t control; what we can control, however, is our own attitudes and understanding of the things that affect us—good leaders know this. Good leaders anticipate change and often ask themselves the question, “How will I adapt to change when it comes and how will I stay ahead of the game?” Moreover, good leaders stand tall in the face of adversity. They take risks, lean on vulnerability, and lead whole-heartedly while owning their truth. They tell stories to authentically connect with the humanity in us because at the core of their existence, good leaders believe in making a positive impact in others and creating a just world for all.
About the Guest:
Anne Phibbs, PhD is Founder and President of Strategic Diversity Initiatives. In this role, she helps organizations move their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts forward with training, consultation, audits, assessments, and strategic planning. Anne directed LGBTQ offices at both Metropolitan State University and the University of Minnesota. She also served as Director of Education in the Office for Equity and Diversity at the University of Minnesota, where she built a DEI leadership program centered around emotional intelligence. Anne earned her PhD in Philosophy and Feminist Studies from the University of Minnesota and lives in Minneapolis.