In this episode, Meg and Jill explore the crucial distinction between empathy and compassion, especially in leadership and workplace dynamics. What many consider a strength can quietly lead to burnout, resentment, and disempowerment when left unchecked.
They unpack how empathy saturates the nervous system, while compassion creates clarity, boundaries, and true support. This conversation is especially relevant for leaders, managers, caregivers, and recovering people-pleasers.
They explore:
• Why empathy and compassion are not interchangeable
• How empathy leads to emotional saturation
• Compassion as care without carrying
• The difference between caregiving and caretaking
• How empathy can unintentionally disempower others
• Compassion as an empowerment tool
• Supporting employees without absorbing their struggles
• Asking better questions instead of making assumptions
• Leadership through belief and trust
• When empathy is appropriate and when it is not
• The tarp versus sponge metaphor
• Nervous system protection for leaders
• Sustainable emotional presence at work
This episode is practical, timely, and deeply supportive for anyone building teams or holding emotional space for others.
“Empathy is feeling with someone. Compassion is caring for them.”
“When you take it all on, you leave nothing for yourself.”
“Caretaking disempowers. Caregiving supports.”
“You can hold space without carrying weight.”
“Ask what they need instead of assuming.”
“Be a tarp, not a sponge.”
“Compassion protects everyone involved.”
Your reflections and lived experiences mean so much to us.
If this episode resonates, please share it, leave a review, or reach out.
Connect with Jillian
Website:https://trellissuite.com/
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillian-pezet-trellis/
Email: jillianp@trellissuite.com
Connect with Meg
Website:www.profoundwellness.net
Email: meg@profoundwellness.net
Facebook: facebook.com/megan.fikse
Instagram: instagram.com/m.laidlaw
Resources Mentioned
