đȘ Episode Summary
What happens in that moment after someone says something that hits you wrong?
Before the judgment, before the reactionâthereâs a pause. And in that pause lies the possibility for understanding.
In this episode of Space to Lead, David LeBlanc explores the power of language, how certain wordsâlike âsissyââcarry history and emotion, and how our reactions often reveal as much about us as they do about the word itself.
This is a conversation about words as both weapons and bridges, about sensitivity and awareness, and about the practice of pausing before we decide whatâs right, wrong, or off-limits.
In This Episode
- The story behind why a single word in a previous episode stayed with David
- How language carries history, identity, and emotion
- The psychology of reactionâwhatâs happening in your body when a word triggers you
- How to pause and reflect before judgment
- Why curiosity, not censorship, builds understanding
- What leaders, coaches, and teams can learn about communication through awareness of language
Key Takeaways
- Words are never neutralâthey live in relationship and context.
- Our reactions are often shaped by memory, identity, and experience.
- The pause between stimulus and response is where reflection and growth happen.
- True inclusion isnât just about policing languageâitâs about staying open to dialogue and difference.
- When we replace judgment with curiosity, we open the door to empathy.
Reflective Prompts for Listeners
- What words have power for you?
- When you react strongly to something someone says, what might that be telling you about your story?
- How can you create more space to pause, reflect, and respond rather than react?
Connect & Explore
đïž Episode Quote
âMaybe the answer isn't in making a list of forbidden words - maybe it's in practicing curiosity.â
đ” Credits
- Host: David LeBlanc
- Produced by: LeBlanc Leadership Group â The LIVE. LEARN. GROW. Company
- Find more at: The Space to Lead Podcast
