Episodes

  • 394: Inclusion: The Key to Helping Everyone Feel Seen at Work

    394: Inclusion: The Key to Helping Everyone Feel Seen at Work
    Feb 18 2025
    How do you navigate your leadership journey while staying true to yourself? And what happens when you decide to stop waiting for permission and take control of your path? In this Leadership with Heart podcast episode, Heather sits down with Erika Whyte, Vice President and Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Janney Montgomery Scott, LLC. Erika’s story is one of resilience, vision, and unapologetic self-leadership. From her early days in financial services—when professional norms were drastically different—to her current role in shaping a more inclusive and empowering workplace, Erika embodies the power of stepping forward with purpose. She shares how her upbringing, shaped by her mother’s fearless journey from Central America, instilled a go-for-it mindset. We discussed a pivotal moment in her career when she was told to dumb down her language and how she found the courage to reclaim her voice. Erika also talks about the importance of mentorship, advocacy, and showing up for others, and how she ensures young professionals don’t have to navigate the same barriers she faced. This conversation is a powerful reminder that leadership isn’t about waiting—it’s about taking action, owning your power, and bringing others along for the journey. Erika’s insights on seeing people—genuinely seeing them—offer a fresh perspective on how to lead with heart, even in a world that often feels divided. Listen in, and ask yourself: How can I show up today in a way that honors my voice, values, and ability to lead with heart? Ready to step into your power? Grab your copy of The Art of Self-Leadership today. Let’s make this the moment we stop waiting—and start leading. WHEN YOU’RE READY, HERE’S HOW WE CAN HELP: Masterclass and More: https://www.caringleadershiplearning.com/ Engage your people with work culture consulting: https://employeefanatix.com/ Hire Heather to speak to your group: https://www.heatheryounger.com Access free Active Listening On-Demand Webinar: https://heatheryounger.com/webinar/ Access free Art of Caring Leadership resources: https://www.heatheryounger.com/kit Book a consultation or general contact: https://heatheryounger.com/#contact ---------------------------------------------------- For more Leadership Motivational videos, click here to subscribe to my channel: https://www.youtube.com/@heatherryounger Let's connect on social! https://www.facebook.com/HeatherRYounger https://www.linkedin.com/in/heatherryounger/ https://x.com/HeatherRYounger https://www.instagram.com/heatherryoungerofficial/ https://www.youtube.com/c/HeatherRYounger-EmployeeLoyalty-LeadershipExpert ---------------------------------------------------- About Heather R Younger, J.D., CSP Heather R Younger is a highly sought-after speaker, 2x-TEDx speaker, diversity, equity and inclusion strategist, and contributor to leading news outlets. She is also the Founder and CEO of Employee Fanatix, a leading employee engagement and consulting firm. After over 25,000 employee engagement surveys and years of working with organizations to transform employee engagement, here’s what Heather has seen over and over: When you know how to listen, employees will tell you exactly what they need to bring their full selves to work. Book Heather to speak at your event or organization. Visit heatheryounger.com orhttps://www.cmispeakers.com/heather-r-younger. for more details.
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    29 mins
  • 393: ​​Learning to Lead Yourself is the only Path Forward

    393: ​​Learning to Lead Yourself is the only Path Forward
    Feb 11 2025
    What if the biggest barrier to your success wasn’t external—but internal? What if the way you frame challenges, setbacks, and even opportunities determines how far you can go? Today is a special day—February 11th, the official launch of my new book, The Art of Self-Leadership: Discover the Power Within You and Learn to Lead Yourself. This book isn’t just another leadership guide—it’s a call to action for anyone who feels stuck, powerless, or waiting for permission to move forward. Over the years, I’ve had countless conversations with leaders, employees, and organizations, and I’ve noticed a troubling trend: Too many people feel like they’re at the mercy of their circumstances. They feel like passengers in their own careers, waiting for someone else to open doors, create opportunities, or define their next steps. But here’s the truth: You are the driver. You are your own green light. In this episode, I share: ✅ Why I wrote this book now and what self-leadership really means ✅ How victim thinking holds us back—and how to shift out of it faster ✅ The connection between self-leadership and caring leadership ✅ The role of mindset, choice, and personal responsibility in shaping your future ✅ Why waiting for someone else to lead you is the fastest way to give away your power This book is a toolkit—a guide to help you reclaim your power, make better decisions, and move forward with clarity, courage, and conviction. Because the truth is, no one knows what’s best for you more than you do. So today, I invite you to take this journey with me. Let’s learn to lead ourselves first—so we can show up stronger, more confident, and more intentional in every aspect of life. Ready to step into your power? Grab your copy of The Art of Self-Leadership today. Let’s make this the moment we stop waiting—and start leading. WHEN YOU’RE READY, HERE’S HOW WE CAN HELP: Masterclass and More: https://www.caringleadershiplearning.com/ Engage your people with work culture consulting: https://employeefanatix.com/ Hire Heather to speak to your group: https://www.heatheryounger.com Access free Active Listening On-Demand Webinar: https://heatheryounger.com/webinar/ Access free Art of Caring Leadership resources: https://www.heatheryounger.com/kit Book a consultation or general contact: https://heatheryounger.com/#contact ---------------------------------------------------- For more Leadership Motivational videos, click here to subscribe to my channel: https://www.youtube.com/@heatherryounger Let's connect on social! https://www.facebook.com/HeatherRYounger https://www.linkedin.com/in/heatherryounger/ https://x.com/HeatherRYounger https://www.instagram.com/heatherryoungerofficial/ https://www.youtube.com/c/HeatherRYounger-EmployeeLoyalty-LeadershipExpert ---------------------------------------------------- About Heather R Younger, J.D., CSP Heather R Younger is a highly sought-after speaker, 2x-TEDx speaker, diversity, equity and inclusion strategist, and contributor to leading news outlets. She is also the Founder and CEO of Employee Fanatix, a leading employee engagement and consulting firm. After over 25,000 employee engagement surveys and years of working with organizations to transform employee engagement, here’s what Heather has seen over and over: When you know how to listen, employees will tell you exactly what they need to bring their full selves to work. Book Heather to speak at your event or organization. Visit heatheryounger.com orhttps://www.cmispeakers.com/heather-r-younger. for more details.
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    8 mins
  • 392: Compassionate Leadership: Bridging the Gap Between Home and Work

    392: Compassionate Leadership: Bridging the Gap Between Home and Work
    Feb 4 2025

    What does it mean to show up—not just as a leader, but as an advocate for those who rely on us? In this deeply personal and thought-provoking episode, I sit down with Alex Allen, Senior Director of Inclusion and Collaboration at Cisco, to explore how his leadership journey has been shaped by one of the most important roles in his life: being a father to his incredible son, Bryce.

    Alex opens up about a moment that has stayed with him for years—the day he brought Bryce to a company event and was met with a look of disdain from a senior leader. Instead of advocating at that moment, he stayed silent. That experience became a turning point, igniting his commitment to never let that happen again—for his son, himself, and others navigating workplaces where they may not always feel seen or valued.

    Throughout our conversation, Alex shares how raising a child with disabilities reshaped his understanding of resilience, leadership, and the power of proximity—the idea that when we get close to people's lived experiences, we gain insights that can transform how we lead. We discuss the challenges and rewards of embracing authenticity, vulnerability, and courage in leadership and why true inclusion requires action, not just intention.

    We also explore:

    • How personal experiences shape our approach to leadership

    • The importance of advocating for others—even when it's uncomfortable

    • Why the workplace must be a place where people feel they belong

    • How leaders can step up, challenge biases, and create lasting change

    This episode is about owning your narrative, taking risks, and ensuring that the next time we're faced with a choice—to speak up or stay silent—we make the right one.

    Have you ever had a moment where you wish you had spoken up, but didn't? What did you learn from it? Let's talk.
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    46 mins
  • 391: 3 Keys to Self Leadership - A New Model for 2025

    391: 3 Keys to Self Leadership - A New Model for 2025
    Jan 28 2025
    In 2025, focusing on self-leadership is your secret weapon to thriving in a fast-paced, ever-changing world. By mastering self-discipline and leading by example, you’ll inspire your team, build trust, and create a culture of innovation. Watch this video to discover how to step into your full potential and make 2025 YOUR year! WHEN YOU’RE READY, HERE’S HOW WE CAN HELP: Masterclass and More: https://www.caringleadershiplearning.com/ Engage your people with work culture consulting: https://employeefanatix.com/ Hire Heather to speak to your group: https://www.heatheryounger.com Access free Active Listening On-Demand Webinar: https://heatheryounger.com/webinar/ Access free Art of Caring Leadership resources: https://www.heatheryounger.com/kit Book a consultation or general contact: https://heatheryounger.com/#contact ---------------------------------------------------- For more Leadership Motivational videos, click here to subscribe to my channel: https://www.youtube.com/@heatherryounger Let's connect on social! https://www.facebook.com/HeatherRYounger https://www.linkedin.com/in/heatherryounger/ https://x.com/HeatherRYounger https://www.instagram.com/heatherryoungerofficial/ https://www.youtube.com/c/HeatherRYounger-EmployeeLoyalty-LeadershipExpert ---------------------------------------------------- About Heather R Younger, J.D., CSP Heather R Younger is a highly sought-after speaker, 2x-TEDx speaker, diversity, equity and inclusion strategist, and contributor to leading news outlets. She is also the Founder and CEO of Employee Fanatix, a leading employee engagement and consulting firm. After over 25,000 employee engagement surveys and years of working with organizations to transform employee engagement, here’s what Heather has seen over and over: When you know how to listen, employees will tell you exactly what they need to bring their full selves to work. Book Heather to speak at your event or organization. Visit heatheryounger.com orhttps://www.cmispeakers.com/heather-r-younger. for more details.
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    5 mins
  • 390: Unbreakable Trust: How Self-Leadership Transforms Your Connections

    390: Unbreakable Trust: How Self-Leadership Transforms Your Connections
    Jan 21 2025
    Mastering self-leadership is key to building unbreakable trust and strong connections with your team. When you lead with self-awareness, integrity, and consistency, you set the tone for a culture of respect and accountability. By leading yourself well, you inspire your team to do the same, creating a thriving and united force. WHEN YOU’RE READY, HERE’S HOW WE CAN HELP: Masterclass and More: https://www.caringleadershiplearning.com/ Engage your people with work culture consulting: https://employeefanatix.com/ Hire Heather to speak to your group: https://www.heatheryounger.com Access free Active Listening On-Demand Webinar: https://heatheryounger.com/webinar/ Access free Art of Caring Leadership resources: https://www.heatheryounger.com/kit Book a consultation or general contact: https://heatheryounger.com/#contact ---------------------------------------------------- For more Leadership Motivational videos, click here to subscribe to my channel: https://www.youtube.com/@heatherryounger Let's connect on social! https://www.facebook.com/HeatherRYounger https://www.linkedin.com/in/heatherryounger/ https://x.com/HeatherRYounger https://www.instagram.com/heatherryoungerofficial/ https://www.youtube.com/c/HeatherRYounger-EmployeeLoyalty-LeadershipExpert ---------------------------------------------------- About Heather R Younger, J.D., CSP Heather R Younger is a highly sought-after speaker, 2x-TEDx speaker, diversity, equity and inclusion strategist, and contributor to leading news outlets. She is also the Founder and CEO of Employee Fanatix, a leading employee engagement and consulting firm. After over 25,000 employee engagement surveys and years of working with organizations to transform employee engagement, here’s what Heather has seen over and over: When you know how to listen, employees will tell you exactly what they need to bring their full selves to work. Book Heather to speak at your event or organization. Visit heatheryounger.com orhttps://www.cmispeakers.com/heather-r-younger. for more details.
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    7 mins
  • 389: How Unconditional Love Fuels Unstoppable Teams - An Interview with Virginia Klausmeier

    389: How Unconditional Love Fuels Unstoppable Teams - An Interview with Virginia Klausmeier
    Jan 14 2025
    Loving your team unconditionally builds trust, respect, and loyalty, creating an unstoppable environment. When your team feels valued, communication and collaboration thrive, making challenges easier to face. Leading with empathy inspires your team to bring their best every day, building resilience and strength. Keep cheering them on, and watch amazing things unfold! WHEN YOU’RE READY, HERE’S HOW WE CAN HELP: Masterclass and More: https://www.caringleadershiplearning.com/ Engage your people with work culture consulting: https://employeefanatix.com/ Hire Heather to speak to your group: https://www.heatheryounger.com Access free Active Listening On-Demand Webinar: https://heatheryounger.com/webinar/ Access free Art of Caring Leadership resources: https://www.heatheryounger.com/kit Book a consultation or general contact: https://heatheryounger.com/#contact ---------------------------------------------------- For more Leadership Motivational videos, click here to subscribe to my channel: https://www.youtube.com/@heatherryounger Let's connect on social! https://www.facebook.com/HeatherRYounger https://www.linkedin.com/in/heatherryounger/ https://x.com/HeatherRYounger https://www.instagram.com/heatherryoungerofficial/ https://www.youtube.com/c/HeatherRYounger-EmployeeLoyalty-LeadershipExpert ---------------------------------------------------- About Heather R Younger, J.D., CSP Heather R Younger is a highly sought-after speaker, 2x-TEDx speaker, diversity, equity and inclusion strategist, and contributor to leading news outlets. She is also the Founder and CEO of Employee Fanatix, a leading employee engagement and consulting firm. After over 25,000 employee engagement surveys and years of working with organizations to transform employee engagement, here’s what Heather has seen over and over: When you know how to listen, employees will tell you exactly what they need to bring their full selves to work. Book Heather to speak at your event or organization. Visit heatheryounger.com orhttps://www.cmispeakers.com/heather-r-younger. for more details.
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    31 mins
  • 388: AI-Powered Strategies for Leadership Development - an Interview with Rasmus Holst

    388: AI-Powered Strategies for Leadership Development - an Interview with Rasmus Holst
    Jan 7 2025
    AI helps you identify learning gaps, remove obstacles, and provide actionable insights, giving you a major advantage as a business leader. It enhances productivity and keeps you and your team ahead by clearing roadblocks and boosting momentum. Rasmus Holst, CEO of LMS365, shares how learning, engagement, and performance drive high-functioning teams. He also discusses how AI aids development, the value of mentorship, and the importance of embracing unfamiliar roles for collaboration. WHEN YOU’RE READY, HERE’S HOW WE CAN HELP: Masterclass and More: https://www.caringleadershiplearning.com/ Engage your people with work culture consulting: https://employeefanatix.com/ Hire Heather to speak to your group: https://www.heatheryounger.com Access free Active Listening On-Demand Webinar: https://heatheryounger.com/webinar/ Access free Art of Caring Leadership resources: https://www.heatheryounger.com/kit Book a consultation or general contact: https://heatheryounger.com/#contact ---------------------------------------------------- For more Leadership Motivational videos, click here to subscribe to my channel: https://www.youtube.com/@heatherryounger Let's connect on social! https://www.facebook.com/HeatherRYounger https://www.linkedin.com/in/heatherryounger/ https://x.com/HeatherRYounger https://www.instagram.com/heatherryoungerofficial/ https://www.youtube.com/c/HeatherRYounger-EmployeeLoyalty-LeadershipExpert ---------------------------------------------------- About Heather R Younger, J.D., CSP Heather R Younger is a highly sought-after speaker, 2x-TEDx speaker, diversity, equity and inclusion strategist, and contributor to leading news outlets. She is also the Founder and CEO of Employee Fanatix, a leading employee engagement and consulting firm. After over 25,000 employee engagement surveys and years of working with organizations to transform employee engagement, here’s what Heather has seen over and over: When you know how to listen, employees will tell you exactly what they need to bring their full selves to work. Book Heather to speak at your event or organization. Visit heatheryounger.com orhttps://www.cmispeakers.com/heather-r-younger. for more details.
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    35 mins
  • 387: The Art of Self-Leadership Book - Why Self-Leadership Matters

    387: The Art of Self-Leadership Book - Why Self-Leadership Matters
    Dec 31 2024
    Self-leadership is your key to becoming an unstoppable business leader! When you take charge of your growth and actions, you inspire your team and create a culture of focus and accountability. By leading yourself first, you’ll stay resilient, clear, and ready to tackle any challenge—showing everyone how it’s done! WHEN YOU’RE READY, HERE’S HOW WE CAN HELP: Masterclass and More: https://www.caringleadershiplearning.com/ Engage your people with work culture consulting: https://employeefanatix.com/ Hire Heather to speak to your group: https://www.heatheryounger.com Access free Active Listening On-Demand Webinar: https://heatheryounger.com/webinar/ Access free Art of Caring Leadership resources: https://www.heatheryounger.com/kit Book a consultation or general contact: https://heatheryounger.com/#contact ---------------------------------------------------- For more Leadership Motivational videos, click here to subscribe to my channel: https://www.youtube.com/@heatherryounger Let's connect on social! https://www.facebook.com/HeatherRYounger https://www.linkedin.com/in/heatherryounger/ https://x.com/HeatherRYounger https://www.instagram.com/heatherryoungerofficial/ https://www.youtube.com/c/HeatherRYounger-EmployeeLoyalty-LeadershipExpert ---------------------------------------------------- About Heather R Younger, J.D., CSP Heather R Younger is a highly sought-after speaker, 2x-TEDx speaker, diversity, equity and inclusion strategist, and contributor to leading news outlets. She is also the Founder and CEO of Employee Fanatix, a leading employee engagement and consulting firm. After over 25,000 employee engagement surveys and years of working with organizations to transform employee engagement, here’s what Heather has seen over and over: When you know how to listen, employees will tell you exactly what they need to bring their full selves to work. Book Heather to speak at your event or organization. Visit heatheryounger.com orhttps://www.cmispeakers.com/heather-r-younger. for more details.
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    3 mins