What does empathy really look like in leadership…and why does it matter more than ever right now?
This week on Mpactful Messages: The Let’s Talk About It Podcast, Mayce DelValle and Missy Washam welcome special guest Ashley King for a thoughtful conversation inspired by this powerful quote from Oprah Winfrey:
“Leadership is about empathy. It is about having the ability to relate to and connect with people for the purpose of inspiring and empowering their lives.”
Together, they talk about what empathy looks like in action, why many leaders value it but struggle to practice it consistently, and how connection, performance, and wellbeing are deeply intertwined. Ashley shares insights from her work with leaders across industries, along with personal perspective shaped by serious health challenges that reshaped how she views leadership, presence, priorities, and people.
This episode explores the tension leaders often feel between holding high standards and leading with empathy…and why the two are not opposites. The conversation digs into common mistakes leaders make when trying to connect, how empathy influences both employee experience and customer experience, and why empathy is often misunderstood as soft rather than skilled.
The takeaway is clear: empathy does not lower expectations. It raises trust. When people feel seen, heard, and valued, they take more ownership, perform at a higher level, and stay engaged longer. Empathy is not about fixing feelings…it’s about creating environments where people can do their best work.
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Books by Mayce and Missy:
Unstoppable, A 40-Day Devotional for Women to Lead with Confidence and Purpose: https://unstoppabledevo.com
AND
Built to Lead, A 40-Day Devotional for Hard-Working Leaders: https://builttoleadbook.com
Click here to watch the short video to learn about Leadership Collective, the exclusive 12-week coaching program offered by Mayce and Missy.
Credits:
Mpactful Messages: The Let’s Talk About It Podcast is hosted by Mayce DelValle (@maycedelvalle) and Missy Washam (@missywasham).
Special Guest: Ashley King (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyelayneking/)
Edited by Brandon Manzano.
