In this uplifting episode of Thrive Today, host Natalie Born welcomes back bestselling author and researcher Shaunti Feldhahn for a deeply encouraging conversation about the transformative power of kindness. Drawing from her groundbreaking research and her latest writing on the subject, Shaunti reveals how even the smallest acts of kindness can transform relationships, reshape cultures, and revive weary hearts.
Together, Natalie and Shaunti explore what happens when leaders intentionally choose compassion over criticism, and how faith empowers us to lead with grace in a world that often prizes efficiency over empathy.
If you’ve ever doubted whether kindness truly makes a difference, this episode will remind you that genuine kindness isn’t just nice—it’s revolutionary.
[00:01 – 06:50] The Science and Spirit of Kindness
- Shaunti shares her global research journey exploring kindness across organizations and communities.
- Why kindness is not weakness—it’s one of the most powerful leadership tools we have.
- The neuroscience behind kindness and its profound effects on engagement and trust.
[06:51 – 12:40] The Ripple Effect in Leadership
- How one person’s consistent kindness can shift an entire culture.
- The stories behind workplaces that turned around through empathy and grace.
- Why small, intentional acts matter more than grand gestures.
[12:41 – 18:00] Faith, Psychology, and the Human Heart
- How Scripture and science agree: we are designed for kindness.
- The spiritual truth that kindness reflects the heart of God.
- How choosing kindness reshapes our thoughts, emotions, and reactions.
[18:01 – 23:50] Practicing Kindness in Real Time
- How to pause before reacting and choose gentleness instead.
- Daily disciplines that help cultivate a “kindness reflex.”
- Why authentic kindness goes deeper than surface-level niceness.
[23:51 – 28:00] Leadership That Heals
- How kindness restores dignity and unlocks creativity in others.
- The unexpected business and relational outcomes of grace-filled leadership.
- Shaunti’s invitation to each listener: be the one who breaks the cycle of harshness with compassion.
Quotes:
“Kindness isn’t weakness, it’s strength under control.” – Shaunti Feldhahn
“We underestimate how powerful one kind response can be in changing someone’s day or their life.” – Shaunti Feldhahn
“God wired us for kindness because it heals what harshness breaks.” – Shaunti Feldhahn
About Shaunti Feldhahn:
Shaunti Feldhahn is a social researcher, bestselling author, and speaker whose work bridges faith and science to reveal what helps people thrive in relationships and leadership. Known for her bestselling books The Kindness Challenge and For Women Only, Shaunti equips leaders, couples, and organizations with research-backed principles for cultivating connection and compassion in everyday life.
Connect with Shaunti:
🔗 Website: https://www.shaunti.com
🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shauntifeldhahn
Connect with Thrive Today
🌐 Website: https://thrivetoday.com
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