Are leaders losing trust, not because of poor strategy, but because they’ve misunderstood what empathy requires?
In this special episode, Colleen Rouse interviews Thrive Today co-founder and media host Natalie Born to explore the real meaning and practice of empathetic leadership. They break down what empathy is not, why it’s often confused with weakness, and how it can be the difference between retaining or losing top talent. With a mix of personal stories, generational insights, and scriptural grounding, this conversation guides leaders toward practical tools for connection, feedback, and growth across every age group in today’s workforce.
[00:01 - 05:16] Rethinking the “Coaching Call”
● Why the Thrive Today coaching model creates space for safety and vulnerability
● The importance of merging scripture with life application
● The significance of interactive growth through community dialogue
[05:17 - 10:57] What Empathy Is—and Isn't
● Why empathy differs from sympathy, agreement, or weakness
● How one leader helped Natalie grow by challenging her thinking
● The importance of giving others ownership of their development
[10:58 - 15:39] Understanding the Empathy Gap
● Why most employees and customers feel a lack of empathy
● The impact of neglecting personal connection in the workplace
● Real-world examples of how leaders miss key moments to connect
[15:40 - 20:46] Generational Empathy in Leadership
● Distinctions in how Millennials, Gen Z, Gen X, and Boomers want to be led
● How communication preferences can build or break trust
● Why feedback style must be personalized
[20:47 - 23:31] Building a Legacy Through Empathy
● How empathy affects retention, loyalty, and long-term influence
● Why feedback delivery needs to fit individual preferences
● What kind of leadership legacy you're leaving behind
Quotes:
“Empathy isn’t agreement. It’s not weakness. It’s perspective-taking.” - Natalie Born
“Your leadership legacy is being written every day, whether you're aware of it or not.” - Natalie Born
Connect with Colleen:
Website: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleenrouse
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cwrouse/?hl=en
Follow Thrive Today on Instagram (@thrivetodaywomen) and visit our website at Thrive Today.
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