When Words Cross a Line
In this episode of Leadership & Learning with Dr. JBT, Jamie shares two powerful leadership stories — one she wishes she could redo and one she's proud of — both centered around how to handle moments when someone says something inappropriate, rude, or disrespectful in the workplace.
These moments can catch any leader off guard. Do you address it immediately? Do you let it go? What's the right balance between confidence and composure?
Through her honest storytelling, Jamie invites listeners to reflect on their own leadership reactions and discover how humility, curiosity, and calmness can turn tense interactions into opportunities for growth and understanding.
You're not alone. Every leader faces difficult or disrespectful moments, even experienced ones.
Pause before reacting. You don't have to "win" the moment. Sometimes, ending a meeting or taking a break is the most powerful move you can make.
Be comfortable with awkward. Growth and respect often start in uncomfortable conversations.
Stay calm and curious. When emotions run high, choose to listen first. Curiosity disarms defensiveness.
It's not always about you. People's frustration often stems from something deeper — loss, change, or misalignment — not necessarily your leadership.
Ask, "Could it be me?" Humility opens the door to understanding.
When was the last time someone said something disrespectful or hurtful to you at work? How did you respond?
How comfortable are you with awkward silence or resistance in meetings?
What might change if, instead of reacting, you paused to ask, "What's really going on here?"
"You can't control what someone else says or does, but you can control your composure. Sometimes, what sounds like defiance is really disappointment, and what feels like conflict might just be a cry for clarity."
— Dr. Jamie J. Brownlee-Turgeon
If you've ever been caught off guard by a team member's words, this episode will remind you that leadership isn't about being perfect, it's about being prepared to learn.
