In Episode 36 of “The Empathic Leader”, Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller breaks down why empathy isn’t “soft”.  It’s skills-based, data-driven, and results-oriented. She shares real-world stories and hard numbers that show how empathy fuels productivity, innovation, and profit — while also preventing burnout and costly turnover.

You’ll learn how empathy can:

💡 Reduce attrition and save your organization thousands

💡 Boost engagement, innovation, and productivity

💡 Build a “know, like, and trust” culture that drives performance

💡 Start with YOU — through practicing self-empathy first

Dr. Melissa also shares practical leadership tools like the “60-second curiosity pause,” tracking emotional KPIs, and using empathy as a measurable part of your business strategy.

Grab my #1 Amazon Bestselling Book “The Empathic Leader”: https://a.co/d/6mKtblA

Subscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader

Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:

► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 

► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg

► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leader

CONNECT WITH ME:

► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empathyqueen.eq/ 

► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy 

► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/

► About Dr. Robinson-Winemiller:

What do empathy and a treadmill have in common? Both need action to deliver results.

Quiet quitting. Resenteeism. Post-pandemic stress. AI. Modern leaders face challenges unimaginable in the past, and the pace of change is relentless. The old command-and-control leadership style is obsolete. Leaders today must evolve or risk irrelevance. But leadership now goes beyond dashboards and spreadsheets—so, what’s the answer?

Melissa Robinson-Winemiller is the answer....]]>What if the most powerful leadership strategy wasn’t in another business playbook but inside you all along?

In Episode 36 of “The Empathic Leader”, Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller breaks down why empathy isn’t “soft”.  It’s skills-based, data-driven, and results-oriented. She shares real-world stories and hard numbers that show how empathy fuels productivity, innovation, and profit — while also preventing burnout and costly turnover.

You’ll learn how empathy can:

💡 Reduce attrition and save your organization thousands

💡 Boost engagement, innovation, and productivity

💡 Build a “know, like, and trust” culture that drives performance

💡 Start with YOU — through practicing self-empathy first

Dr. Melissa also shares practical leadership tools like the “60-second curiosity pause,” tracking emotional KPIs, and using empathy as a measurable part of your business strategy.

Grab my #1 Amazon Bestselling Book “The Empathic Leader”: https://a.co/d/6mKtblA

Subscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader

Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:

► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 

► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg

► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leader

CONNECT WITH ME:

► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empathyqueen.eq/ 

► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy 

► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/

► About Dr. Robinson-Winemiller:

What do empathy and a treadmill have in common? Both need action to deliver results.

Quiet quitting. Resenteeism. Post-pandemic stress. AI. Modern leaders face challenges unimaginable in the past, and the pace of change is relentless. The old command-and-control leadership style is obsolete. Leaders today must evolve or risk irrelevance. But leadership now goes beyond dashboards and spreadsheets—so, what’s the answer?

Melissa Robinson-Winemiller is the answer. With over 20 years of leadership experience, two doctorates (including one focused on empathy in leadership), an MBA, and multiple certifications in change management and DEI, she helps leaders achieve greater profits, retention, productivity, and innovation.

Her mission? To elevate leadership through the often-overlooked power of EQ and empathy. As a coach and consultant, Melissa draws on expertise, data-driven insights, and proven results to guide leaders through today’s complexities.

► Disclaimer:

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide professional, medical, or clinical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional or licensed provider with any specific and personal questions you may have regarding personal or professional concerns.

Jan walks us through her evidence-based M.O.R.E. Framework (Meaning, Optimism, Relationships, Engagement), explains simple daily practices like the “what went well?” check-in, and shares powerful leadership exercises (including the Gratitude Visit) that build connection, retention, and psychological safety at work.

Listeners will discover why self-leadership and self-empathy are the foundation for effective leadership, and how the MORE framework works by showing how Meaning, Optimism, Relationships, and Engagement feed into one another. Jan also shares a fast and practical meeting ritual — ending with “What went well?” and, importantly, the why behind it — as a way to shift energy and focus.

She also introduces the Gratitude Visit exercise, a simple yet transformative practice where leaders write and read a note of appreciation that can profoundly impact relationships and morale. Throughout the conversation, Jan highlights how small, evidence-based habits not only reduce chronic stress but also help teams thrive, creating workplaces where empathy and resilience are at the core.

Subscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader

Grab my #1 bestselling book “The Empathic Leader” here: https://a.co/d/8IfKm3M

Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:

► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 

► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg

► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leader

CONNECT WITH ME:

► Instagram: @empathyqueen.eq

► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy 

► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/

Connect with Jan Raeder:

Website: https://selfcaresensei.com/ 

Instagram: In this episode, Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller sits down with Jan Raeder. She’s a wellness educator, former martial-arts instructor, and author. They unpack practical tools for self-leadership, resilience, and everyday well-being. 

Jan walks us through her evidence-based M.O.R.E. Framework (Meaning, Optimism, Relationships, Engagement), explains simple daily practices like the “what went well?” check-in, and shares powerful leadership exercises (including the Gratitude Visit) that build connection, retention, and psychological safety at work.

Listeners will discover why self-leadership and self-empathy are the foundation for effective leadership, and how the MORE framework works by showing how Meaning, Optimism, Relationships, and Engagement feed into one another. Jan also shares a fast and practical meeting ritual — ending with “What went well?” and, importantly, the why behind it — as a way to shift energy and focus.

She also introduces the Gratitude Visit exercise, a simple yet transformative practice where leaders write and read a note of appreciation that can profoundly impact relationships and morale. Throughout the conversation, Jan highlights how small, evidence-based habits not only reduce chronic stress but also help teams thrive, creating workplaces where empathy and resilience are at the core.

Subscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader

Grab my #1 bestselling book “The Empathic Leader” here: https://a.co/d/8IfKm3M

Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:

► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 

► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg

► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leader

CONNECT WITH ME:

► Instagram: @empathyqueen.eq

► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy 

► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/

Connect with Jan Raeder:

Website: https://selfcaresensei.com/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/selfcaresenseijraeder/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jan-raeder-48799b26/

About Jan:

Jan Rader is a wellbeing educator, speaker, and author dedicated to helping individuals and organizations thrive. Through her signature M.O.R.E. framework — Meaning, Optimism, Relationships, and Engagement — she equips people with practical, evidence-based tools to build resilience, lead with purpose, and live well.

With more than 30 years of experience in martial arts, positive psychology, and behavior change, Jan brings a unique perspective to wellbeing. She believes wellness is an active, deeply personal process shaped by culture, tradition, and psychology and that everyone is capable of living their best life.

A proud national gold medalist in AAU Karate, Jan also earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in wellbeing education in just four years, beginning with only 19 credits. Her journey reflects her belief that transformation happens when we push beyond our perceived limits.

As the “Self-Care Sensei,” Jan empowers others to create lives of balance, growth, and fulfillment whether through personalized wellbeing education, transformative keynotes, or her writing.

► About Dr. Robinson-Winemiller:

What do empathy and a treadmill have in common? Both need action to deliver results.

Quiet quitting. Resenteeism. Post-pandemic stress. AI. Modern leaders face challenges unimaginable in the past, and the pace of change is relentless. The old command-and-control leadership style is obsolete. Leaders today must evolve or risk irrelevance. But leadership now goes beyond dashboards and spreadsheets—so, what’s the answer?

Melissa Robinson-Winemiller is the answer. With over 20 years of leadership experience, two doctorates (including one focused on empathy in leadership), an MBA, and multiple certifications in change management and DEI, she helps leaders achieve greater profits, retention, productivity, and innovation.

Her mission? To elevate leadership through the often-overlooked power of EQ and empathy. As a coach and consultant, Melissa draws on expertise, data-driven insights, and proven results to guide leaders through today’s complexities.

► Disclaimer:

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide professional, medical, or clinical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional or licensed provider with any specific and personal questions you may have regarding personal or professional concerns.

In Episode 34 of "The Empathic Leader", Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller breaks down the red, beige, and green flags of leadership—signals that reveal how leaders handle critique, communication, generosity, change, and empathy.

From toxic patterns that drain teams to green flags that inspire trust and growth, this episode equips you to recognize the signs of strong, empathic leadership—and avoid the pitfalls of poor leadership.

Grab my #1 Amazon Bestselling Book “The Empathic Leader”: https://a.co/d/6mKtblA

Subscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader

Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:

► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 

► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg

► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leader

CONNECT WITH ME:

► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empathyqueen.eq/ 

► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy 

► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/

► About Dr. Robinson-Winemiller:

What do empathy and a treadmill have in common? Both need action to deliver results.

Quiet quitting. Resenteeism. Post-pandemic stress. AI. Modern leaders face challenges unimaginable in the past, and the pace of change is relentless. The old command-and-control leadership style is obsolete. Leaders today must evolve or risk irrelevance. But leadership now goes beyond dashboards and spreadsheets—so, what’s the answer?

Melissa Robinson-Winemiller is the answer. With over 20 years of leadership experience, two doctorates (including one focused on empathy in leadership), an MBA, and multiple certifications in change management and DEI, she helps leaders achieve greater profits, retention, productivity, and innovation.

Her mission? To elevate leadership through the often-overlooked power of EQ and empathy. As a coach and consultant, Melissa draws on expertise, data-driven insights, and proven results to guide leaders through...]]>What if spotting a great leader was as simple as reading their flags? 🚩⚪💚

In Episode 34 of "The Empathic Leader", Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller breaks down the red, beige, and green flags of leadership—signals that reveal how leaders handle critique, communication, generosity, change, and empathy.

From toxic patterns that drain teams to green flags that inspire trust and growth, this episode equips you to recognize the signs of strong, empathic leadership—and avoid the pitfalls of poor leadership.

Grab my #1 Amazon Bestselling Book “The Empathic Leader”: https://a.co/d/6mKtblA

Subscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader

Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:

► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 

► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg

► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leader

CONNECT WITH ME:

► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empathyqueen.eq/ 

► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy 

► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/

► About Dr. Robinson-Winemiller:

What do empathy and a treadmill have in common? Both need action to deliver results.

Quiet quitting. Resenteeism. Post-pandemic stress. AI. Modern leaders face challenges unimaginable in the past, and the pace of change is relentless. The old command-and-control leadership style is obsolete. Leaders today must evolve or risk irrelevance. But leadership now goes beyond dashboards and spreadsheets—so, what’s the answer?

Melissa Robinson-Winemiller is the answer. With over 20 years of leadership experience, two doctorates (including one focused on empathy in leadership), an MBA, and multiple certifications in change management and DEI, she helps leaders achieve greater profits, retention, productivity, and innovation.

Her mission? To elevate leadership through the often-overlooked power of EQ and empathy. As a coach and consultant, Melissa draws on expertise, data-driven insights, and proven results to guide leaders through today’s complexities.

► Disclaimer:

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide professional, medical, or clinical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional or licensed provider with any specific and personal questions you may have regarding personal or professional concerns.

Together, they explore the realities of health care systems in both the U.S. and Quebec, Canada. Plus, the devastating cycle of “do more with less,” and how burnout erodes not only professional well-being but also patient care. Melanie shares her own story of burning out early in her career, why she founded Nomadic Nurse Network, and how she’s building a community of health care professionals dedicated to restoring empathy, balance, and sustainability in the field.

Subscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader

Grab my #1 bestselling book “The Empathic Leader” here: https://a.co/d/8IfKm3M

Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:

► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 

► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg

► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leader

CONNECT WITH ME:

► Instagram: @empathyqueen.eq

► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy 

► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/

Connect with Melanie Boulerice:

Website: https://nomadicnursenetwork.com/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nursemelaniejadeb/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melanie-boulerice/ 

About Melanie:

Melanie Boulerice is a registered nurse, serial entrepreneur, and owner of Nomadic Nurse Network Inc. Based in Montreal as a travel nurse, she is also a passionate advocate for health care professionals navigating the challenges of modern...]]>‘Burnout’ isn’t just a buzzword in health care, it’s a crisis. In Episode 33 of "The Empathic Leader" podcast, Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller sits down with registered nurse, entrepreneur, and founder of the Nomadic Nurse Network, Melanie Boulerice.

Together, they explore the realities of health care systems in both the U.S. and Quebec, Canada. Plus, the devastating cycle of “do more with less,” and how burnout erodes not only professional well-being but also patient care. Melanie shares her own story of burning out early in her career, why she founded Nomadic Nurse Network, and how she’s building a community of health care professionals dedicated to restoring empathy, balance, and sustainability in the field.

Subscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader

Grab my #1 bestselling book “The Empathic Leader” here: https://a.co/d/8IfKm3M

Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:

► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 

► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg

► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leader

CONNECT WITH ME:

► Instagram: @empathyqueen.eq

► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy 

► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/

Connect with Melanie Boulerice:

Website: https://nomadicnursenetwork.com/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nursemelaniejadeb/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melanie-boulerice/ 

About Melanie:

Melanie Boulerice is a registered nurse, serial entrepreneur, and owner of Nomadic Nurse Network Inc. Based in Montreal as a travel nurse, she is also a passionate advocate for health care professionals navigating the challenges of modern medicine.

Through her work, Melanie shines a light on the realities of burnout and the role empathy plays in preventing it, sparking conversations that too often get overlooked. She uses her podcast and community platform to bring people together—nurses, doctors, and other health care professionals who are experiencing burnout or seeking a supportive space to heal and rebuild.

Driven by a mission to transform health care culture, Melanie blends her frontline experience with entrepreneurial vision to create connection, awareness, and solutions for those who give so much of themselves in service of others.

► About Dr. Robinson-Winemiller:

What do empathy and a treadmill have in common? Both need action to deliver results.

Quiet quitting. Resenteeism. Post-pandemic stress. AI. Modern leaders face challenges unimaginable in the past, and the pace of change is relentless. The old command-and-control leadership style is obsolete. Leaders today must evolve or risk irrelevance. But leadership now goes beyond dashboards and spreadsheets—so, what’s the answer?

Melissa Robinson-Winemiller is the answer. With over 20 years of leadership experience, two doctorates (including one focused on empathy in leadership), an MBA, and multiple certifications in change management and DEI, she helps leaders achieve greater profits, retention, productivity, and innovation.

Her mission? To elevate leadership through the often-overlooked power of EQ and empathy. As a coach and consultant, Melissa draws on expertise, data-driven insights, and proven results to guide leaders through today’s complexities.

► Disclaimer:

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide professional, medical, or clinical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional or licensed provider with any specific and personal questions you may have regarding personal or professional concerns.

Too often, terms like “toxic workplace” or “gaslighting” are thrown around loosely, but here we take time to define what they truly mean.

A toxic work culture isn’t just about having an annoying coworker or an inconvenient policy—it’s a long-term, ongoing environment that damages mental health, physical health, and even personal relationships.

From leadership blind spots to cultural misalignment, Dr. Melissa unpacks how these dynamics take root, why they’re so dangerous, and how leaders can use empathy to break the cycle.

Grab my #1 Amazon Bestselling Book “The Empathic Leader”: https://a.co/d/6mKtblA

Subscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader

Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:

► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 

► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg

► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leader

CONNECT WITH ME:

► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empathyqueen.eq/ 

► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy 

► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/

► About Dr. Robinson-Winemiller:

What do empathy and a treadmill have in common? Both need action to deliver results.

Quiet quitting. Resenteeism. Post-pandemic stress. AI. Modern leaders face challenges unimaginable in the past, and the pace of change is relentless. The old command-and-control leadership style is obsolete. Leaders today must evolve or risk irrelevance. But leadership now goes beyond dashboards and spreadsheets—so, what’s the answer?

Melissa Robinson-Winemiller is the answer. With over 20 years of leadership experience, two doctorates (including one focused on empathy in...]]>Welcome to Episode 32 of “The Empathic Leader” podcast with Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller. In this solo episode, we dive deep into the realities of toxic work environments—what they actually are, how to recognize the signs early, and most importantly, what to do if you find yourself stuck in one.

Too often, terms like “toxic workplace” or “gaslighting” are thrown around loosely, but here we take time to define what they truly mean.

A toxic work culture isn’t just about having an annoying coworker or an inconvenient policy—it’s a long-term, ongoing environment that damages mental health, physical health, and even personal relationships.

From leadership blind spots to cultural misalignment, Dr. Melissa unpacks how these dynamics take root, why they’re so dangerous, and how leaders can use empathy to break the cycle.

Grab my #1 Amazon Bestselling Book “The Empathic Leader”: https://a.co/d/6mKtblA

Subscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader

Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:

► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 

► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg

► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leader

CONNECT WITH ME:

► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empathyqueen.eq/ 

► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy 

► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/

► About Dr. Robinson-Winemiller:

What do empathy and a treadmill have in common? Both need action to deliver results.

Quiet quitting. Resenteeism. Post-pandemic stress. AI. Modern leaders face challenges unimaginable in the past, and the pace of change is relentless. The old command-and-control leadership style is obsolete. Leaders today must evolve or risk irrelevance. But leadership now goes beyond dashboards and spreadsheets—so, what’s the answer?

Melissa Robinson-Winemiller is the answer. With over 20 years of leadership experience, two doctorates (including one focused on empathy in leadership), an MBA, and multiple certifications in change management and DEI, she helps leaders achieve greater profits, retention, productivity, and innovation.

Her mission? To elevate leadership through the often-overlooked power of EQ and empathy. As a coach and consultant, Melissa draws on expertise, data-driven insights, and proven results to guide leaders through today’s complexities.

► Disclaimer:

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide professional, medical, or clinical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional or licensed provider with any specific and personal questions you may have regarding personal or professional concerns.

Vandana’s story is one of resilience and reinvention. After being diagnosed with breast cancer and facing life-threatening complications—including a coma and acute respiratory distress syndrome—she came out with a renewed perspective on life: to live “limitless,” prioritize self-care, and embrace every moment.

Subscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader

Grab my #1 bestselling book “The Empathic Leader” here: https://a.co/d/8IfKm3M

Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:

► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 

► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg

► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leader

Connect with Vandana Puranik:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vandana.puranik 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vandanapuranik/ 

About Vandana:

Vandana Puranik is a brainstormer, builder, and brander. With 25+ years of experience as a marketer, innovator, and strategist, she has scaled startups, revived struggling businesses, and driven rapid growth—even boosting an established company by 60% in just one month.

Her global career across industries and cultures has given her a deep understanding of human insights, which she transforms into breakthrough ideas. She’s passionate about turning complexity into clarity, clarity into vision, and vision into reality.

A USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author and international speaker, Vandana helps growth-minded leaders solve “impossible” problems and unlock limitless success. She is also the founder of Active Ingredients Inc. and a proud Duke University graduate.

CONNECT WITH ME:

► Instagram: @empathyqueen.eq

► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy 

► LinkedIn: In the 31st episode of The Empathic Leader podcast, Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller interviews Vandana Puranik—a powerhouse marketer, strategist, and bestselling author who has worked with iconic brands like Johnson & Johnson, Hershey’s, and Campbell’s.

Vandana’s story is one of resilience and reinvention. After being diagnosed with breast cancer and facing life-threatening complications—including a coma and acute respiratory distress syndrome—she came out with a renewed perspective on life: to live “limitless,” prioritize self-care, and embrace every moment.

Subscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader

Grab my #1 bestselling book “The Empathic Leader” here: https://a.co/d/8IfKm3M

Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:

► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 

► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg

► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leader

Connect with Vandana Puranik:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vandana.puranik 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vandanapuranik/ 

About Vandana:

Vandana Puranik is a brainstormer, builder, and brander. With 25+ years of experience as a marketer, innovator, and strategist, she has scaled startups, revived struggling businesses, and driven rapid growth—even boosting an established company by 60% in just one month.

Her global career across industries and cultures has given her a deep understanding of human insights, which she transforms into breakthrough ideas. She’s passionate about turning complexity into clarity, clarity into vision, and vision into reality.

A USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author and international speaker, Vandana helps growth-minded leaders solve “impossible” problems and unlock limitless success. She is also the founder of Active Ingredients Inc. and a proud Duke University graduate.

CONNECT WITH ME:

► Instagram: @empathyqueen.eq

► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy 

► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/

► About Dr. Robinson-Winemiller:

What do empathy and a treadmill have in common? Both need action to deliver results.

Quiet quitting. Resenteeism. Post-pandemic stress. AI. Modern leaders face challenges unimaginable in the past, and the pace of change is relentless. The old command-and-control leadership style is obsolete. Leaders today must evolve or risk irrelevance. But leadership now goes beyond dashboards and spreadsheets—so, what’s the answer?

Melissa Robinson-Winemiller is the answer. With over 20 years of leadership experience, two doctorates (including one focused on empathy in leadership), an MBA, and multiple certifications in change management and DEI, she helps leaders achieve greater profits, retention, productivity, and innovation.

Her mission? To elevate leadership through the often-overlooked power of EQ and empathy. As a coach and consultant, Melissa draws on expertise, data-driven insights, and proven results to guide leaders through today’s complexities.

► Disclaimer:

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide professional, medical, or clinical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional or licensed provider with any specific and personal questions you may have regarding personal or professional concerns.

From the importance of modeling behavior and being visible to your team, to why empathy sometimes means having the hard conversations, Dr. Melissa pulls back the curtain on what authentic, empathy-driven leadership looks like in action. 

She also explains why self-awareness is critical, how culture naturally forms when leaders aren’t intentional, and why “nice” and “kind” are not the same thing.

Whether you’re leading a team of five or five thousand, this episode will challenge you to reflect, connect, and lead with empathy in a way that inspires loyalty, innovation, and trust.

Grab my #1 Amazon Bestselling Book “The Empathic Leader”: https://a.co/d/6mKtblA

Subscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader

Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:

► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 

► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg

► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leader

CONNECT WITH ME:

► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empathyqueen.eq/ 

► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy 

► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/

► About Dr. Robinson-Winemiller:

What do empathy and a treadmill have in common? Both need action to deliver results.

Quiet quitting. Resenteeism. Post-pandemic stress. AI. Modern leaders face challenges unimaginable in the past, and the pace of change is relentless. The old command-and-control leadership style is obsolete. Leaders today must evolve or risk irrelevance. But leadership now goes beyond dashboards and spreadsheets—so, what’s the answer?

Melissa Robinson-Winemiller is the answer. With over 20 years of leadership experience, two]]>Empathy isn’t just a buzzword. It’s the glue and accelerant for real business transformation. In Episode 30 of “The Empathic Leader” podcast, Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller shares practical, actionable ways leaders can actually embed empathy into their culture and not just talk about it.

From the importance of modeling behavior and being visible to your team, to why empathy sometimes means having the hard conversations, Dr. Melissa pulls back the curtain on what authentic, empathy-driven leadership looks like in action. 

She also explains why self-awareness is critical, how culture naturally forms when leaders aren’t intentional, and why “nice” and “kind” are not the same thing.

Whether you’re leading a team of five or five thousand, this episode will challenge you to reflect, connect, and lead with empathy in a way that inspires loyalty, innovation, and trust.

Grab my #1 Amazon Bestselling Book “The Empathic Leader”: https://a.co/d/6mKtblA

Subscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader

Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:

► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 

► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg

► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leader

CONNECT WITH ME:

► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empathyqueen.eq/ 

► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy 

► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/

► About Dr. Robinson-Winemiller:

What do empathy and a treadmill have in common? Both need action to deliver results.

Quiet quitting. Resenteeism. Post-pandemic stress. AI. Modern leaders face challenges unimaginable in the past, and the pace of change is relentless. The old command-and-control leadership style is obsolete. Leaders today must evolve or risk irrelevance. But leadership now goes beyond dashboards and spreadsheets—so, what’s the answer?

Melissa Robinson-Winemiller is the answer. With over 20 years of leadership experience, two doctorates (including one focused on empathy in leadership), an MBA, and multiple certifications in change management and DEI, she helps leaders achieve greater profits, retention, productivity, and innovation.

Her mission? To elevate leadership through the often-overlooked power of EQ and empathy. As a coach and consultant, Melissa draws on expertise, data-driven insights, and proven results to guide leaders through today’s complexities.

► Disclaimer:

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide professional, medical, or clinical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional or licensed provider with any specific and personal questions you may have regarding personal or professional concerns.

In this gripping episode of "The Empathic Leader" podcast, Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller speaks with Manya Chylinski, a survivor of the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing who turned personal trauma into national advocacy.

Though Manya walked away without visible injuries, the psychological impact was deep and largely ignored. In this conversation, she opens up about the emotional aftermath, her struggle with invisibility as a trauma survivor, and how that pain became the driving force behind her advocacy.

Manya shares how surviving the Boston Marathon bombing led her to advocate for mental health reform, resulting in the Post-disaster Mental Health Response Act of Rep. Ayanna Pressley. She opens up about the emotional toll of being an “invisible” survivor, the power of being believed, and how sharing her story—first anonymously, then on global stages—helped her heal. She and Dr. Melissa also discuss workplace trauma, leadership failures, and why empathy isn’t optional in recovery or leadership.

Subscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader

Grab my #1 bestselling book “The Empathic Leader” here: https://a.co/d/8IfKm3M

Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:

► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 

► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg

► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leader

CONNECT WITH ME:

► Instagram: @empathyqueen.eq

► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy 

► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/

Connect with Manya Chylinski:

Website: https://manyachylinski.com/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mschylinski/ 

LinkedIn:She Survived the Boston Marathon Bombing, Now She's Changing the Mental Health Landscape After Tragedy

In this gripping episode of "The Empathic Leader" podcast, Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller speaks with Manya Chylinski, a survivor of the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing who turned personal trauma into national advocacy.

Though Manya walked away without visible injuries, the psychological impact was deep and largely ignored. In this conversation, she opens up about the emotional aftermath, her struggle with invisibility as a trauma survivor, and how that pain became the driving force behind her advocacy.

Manya shares how surviving the Boston Marathon bombing led her to advocate for mental health reform, resulting in the Post-disaster Mental Health Response Act of Rep. Ayanna Pressley. She opens up about the emotional toll of being an “invisible” survivor, the power of being believed, and how sharing her story—first anonymously, then on global stages—helped her heal. She and Dr. Melissa also discuss workplace trauma, leadership failures, and why empathy isn’t optional in recovery or leadership.

Subscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader

Grab my #1 bestselling book “The Empathic Leader” here: https://a.co/d/8IfKm3M

Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:

► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 

► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg

► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leader

CONNECT WITH ME:

► Instagram: @empathyqueen.eq

► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy 

► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/

Connect with Manya Chylinski:

Website: https://manyachylinski.com/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mschylinski/ 

LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/manyachylinski/ 

About Manya:

Manya Chylinski is a keynote speaker, communications expert, and passionate advocate for mental health awareness. A survivor of the Boston Marathon bombing, Manya turned her personal trauma into a mission to champion psychological recovery and reshape how we approach leadership, empathy, and crisis response.

With a background in writing, research, and marketing, she helps individuals and organizations understand the emotional impact of trauma and build resilience during times of change. Manya has spoken on prominent stages like TEDx and SXSW, and has been featured on CBS, NPR, and in The Boston Globe.

As the catalyst behind the Post-disaster Mental Health Response Act, Manya equips organizations with tools to create compassionate, trauma-informed workplaces—before, during, and after crisis. Her honest, grounded approach inspires audiences to lead with empathy and support healing through visibility and validation.

► About Dr. Robinson-Winemiller:

What do empathy and a treadmill have in common? Both need action to deliver results.

Quiet quitting. Resenteeism. Post-pandemic stress. AI. Modern leaders face challenges unimaginable in the past, and the pace of change is relentless. The old command-and-control leadership style is obsolete. Leaders today must evolve or risk irrelevance. But leadership now goes beyond dashboards and spreadsheets—so, what’s the answer?

Melissa Robinson-Winemiller is the answer. With over 20 years of leadership experience, two doctorates (including one focused on empathy in leadership), an MBA, and multiple certifications in change management and DEI, she helps leaders achieve greater profits, retention, productivity, and innovation.

Her mission? To elevate leadership through the often-overlooked power of EQ and empathy. As a coach and consultant, Melissa draws on expertise, data-driven insights, and proven results to guide leaders through today’s complexities.

► Disclaimer:

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide professional, medical, or clinical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional or licensed provider with any specific and personal questions you may have regarding personal or professional concerns.

Samantha shares her unconventional journey. She started from addictions counselor to corporate executive to trusted advisor for impact-driven CEOs. Along the way, she unpacks the pivotal moments that reshaped her leadership style, including the challenges of managing underperforming team members, navigating feedback, and overcoming ego. 

Together, Melissa and Samantha explore how empathy becomes a practical leadership tool and not just a feel-good value. They dive into the importance of adaptive communication, self-awareness, and building feedback-friendly working cultures.She also reflects on the difference between leading a team versus coaching executives, and how witnessing vulnerability at the top has deepened her capacity for empathy—both toward others and herself.

Subscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader

Grab my #1 bestselling book “The Empathic Leader” here: https://a.co/d/8IfKm3M

Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:

► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 

► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg

► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leader

CONNECT WITH ME:

► Instagram: @empathyqueen.eq

► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy 

► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/

Connect with Samantha Kris:

Website: https://www.samanthakris.com/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samanthakris3/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-kris/ 

About Samantha:

Samantha Kris...]]>In this episode of “The Empathic Leader,” Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller sits down with bestselling author, speaker, and reinvention expert Samantha Kris for an honest, inspiring conversation about the evolution from manager to empathic leader.

Samantha shares her unconventional journey. She started from addictions counselor to corporate executive to trusted advisor for impact-driven CEOs. Along the way, she unpacks the pivotal moments that reshaped her leadership style, including the challenges of managing underperforming team members, navigating feedback, and overcoming ego. 

Together, Melissa and Samantha explore how empathy becomes a practical leadership tool and not just a feel-good value. They dive into the importance of adaptive communication, self-awareness, and building feedback-friendly working cultures.She also reflects on the difference between leading a team versus coaching executives, and how witnessing vulnerability at the top has deepened her capacity for empathy—both toward others and herself.

Subscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader

Grab my #1 bestselling book “The Empathic Leader” here: https://a.co/d/8IfKm3M

Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:

► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 

► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg

► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leader

CONNECT WITH ME:

► Instagram: @empathyqueen.eq

► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy 

► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/

Connect with Samantha Kris:

Website: https://www.samanthakris.com/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samanthakris3/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-kris/ 

About Samantha:

Samantha Kris is a bestselling author, Certified Reinvention Practitioner, and award-winning speaker whose #1 TEDx talk on goal setting continues to inspire leaders around the world. Known for her highly tailored and interactive keynotes, Samantha breaks the mold of traditional speaking by creating experiences that spark real connection and drive meaningful action.

She is a trusted advisor to some of today’s most impact-driven CEOs and thought leaders, supporting them in crafting and delivering powerful speeches and developing strategic communication plans that resonate. Her influence has earned her recognition from Real Leaders magazine as a Top Executive Coach for 2024, and Microsoft named her one of the Leading Speakers to Follow in 2025—alongside names like Mel Robbins.

► About Dr. Robinson-Winemiller:

What do empathy and a treadmill have in common? Both need action to deliver results.

Quiet quitting. Resenteeism. Post-pandemic stress. AI. Modern leaders face challenges unimaginable in the past, and the pace of change is relentless. The old command-and-control leadership style is obsolete. Leaders today must evolve or risk irrelevance. But leadership now goes beyond dashboards and spreadsheets—so, what’s the answer?

Melissa Robinson-Winemiller is the answer. With over 20 years of leadership experience, two doctorates (including one focused on empathy in leadership), an MBA, and multiple certifications in change management and DEI, she helps leaders achieve greater profits, retention, productivity, and innovation.

Her mission? To elevate leadership through the often-overlooked power of EQ and empathy. As a coach and consultant, Melissa draws on expertise, data-driven insights, and proven results to guide leaders through today’s complexities.

► Disclaimer:

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide professional, medical, or clinical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional or licensed provider with any specific and personal questions you may have regarding personal or professional concerns.

This time, she dives deep into the difference between beige flags and red flags in leadership, borrowing a term often used in dating and applying it insightfully to organizational life.

🚩 Red flags are clear warning signs like leaders who weaponize language, resist all forms of critique, or foster manipulative group dynamics.

⚠️ Beige flags, on the other hand, might not seem like a big deal at first but left unchecked, they can quietly erode trust, innovation, and team culture over time.

Dr. Robinson-Winemiller breaks down six key behavioral “flags” she’s seen repeatedly in her work with organizations, including:

1. How leaders handle feedback and critique

2. The language they use (and how they use it)

3. Their approach to generosity vs. scarcity

4. Resistance or fear around change

5. How they use data and analytics

6. And whether they treat people equitably

Grab my #1 Amazon Bestselling Book “The Empathic Leader”: https://a.co/d/6mKtblA

Subscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader

Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:

► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 

► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg

► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leader

CONNECT WITH ME:

► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empathyqueen.eq/ 

► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy 

► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/

► About Dr. Robinson-Winemiller:

What do empathy and a treadmill have in common? Both need action to deliver results.

Quiet quitting. Resenteeism. Post-pandemic stress. AI. Modern leaders face challenges unimaginable in the past, and the pace of change is relentless....]]>In Episode 27 of "The Empathic Leader" podcast, Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller returns for a powerful solo episode that every leader, team member, and aspiring changemaker should hear.

This time, she dives deep into the difference between beige flags and red flags in leadership, borrowing a term often used in dating and applying it insightfully to organizational life.

🚩 Red flags are clear warning signs like leaders who weaponize language, resist all forms of critique, or foster manipulative group dynamics.

⚠️ Beige flags, on the other hand, might not seem like a big deal at first but left unchecked, they can quietly erode trust, innovation, and team culture over time.

Dr. Robinson-Winemiller breaks down six key behavioral “flags” she’s seen repeatedly in her work with organizations, including:

1. How leaders handle feedback and critique

2. The language they use (and how they use it)

3. Their approach to generosity vs. scarcity

4. Resistance or fear around change

5. How they use data and analytics

6. And whether they treat people equitably

Grab my #1 Amazon Bestselling Book “The Empathic Leader”: https://a.co/d/6mKtblA

Subscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader

Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:

► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 

► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg

► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leader

CONNECT WITH ME:

► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empathyqueen.eq/ 

► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy 

► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/

► About Dr. Robinson-Winemiller:

What do empathy and a treadmill have in common? Both need action to deliver results.

Quiet quitting. Resenteeism. Post-pandemic stress. AI. Modern leaders face challenges unimaginable in the past, and the pace of change is relentless. The old command-and-control leadership style is obsolete. Leaders today must evolve or risk irrelevance. But leadership now goes beyond dashboards and spreadsheets—so, what’s the answer?

Melissa Robinson-Winemiller is the answer. With over 20 years of leadership experience, two doctorates (including one focused on empathy in leadership), an MBA, and multiple certifications in change management and DEI, she helps leaders achieve greater profits, retention, productivity, and innovation.

Her mission? To elevate leadership through the often-overlooked power of EQ and empathy. As a coach and consultant, Melissa draws on expertise, data-driven insights, and proven results to guide leaders through today’s complexities.

► Disclaimer:

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide professional, medical, or clinical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional or licensed provider with any specific and personal questions you may have regarding personal or professional concerns.

In this deeply reflective episode, Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller sits down with executive coach, leadership mentor, and founder of The PhD Academy, Don Beck, to unpack the emotional and cultural dissonance that comes with transitioning from the ivory tower to industry, leadership, and a more human-centered world of work.

Don shares powerful insights from his own journey—from academia to high-level executive and nonprofit leadership—and the work he now does helping PhDs reframe their identities, expand their leadership potential, and bridge the gap between scholarly rigor and practical impact.

Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:

► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 

► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg

► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leader

Subscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader 

CONNECT WITH ME:

► Instagram: @empathyqueen.eq

► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy 

► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/

Connect with Don Back:

Website: https://www.phdcareeracademy.com/about/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/don-back/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/don.back.5851127 

About Don:

Don Back, PhD, MBA is an executive coach, leadership mentor, and founder of The PhD Academy. After starting his career in academia—with a PhD, postdoc experience, and a faculty position—Don realized the traditional path no longer aligned with his passion for meaningful, applied work. Leaving academia was both isolating and eye-opening, revealing how unprepared most PhDs are for career transitions.

Since then, Don has built a dynamic career across industry, venture capital, and innovation leadership. He’s helped launch startups, advised...]]>What really happens when a highly educated person leaves academia—not just in career, but in identity?

In this deeply reflective episode, Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller sits down with executive coach, leadership mentor, and founder of The PhD Academy, Don Beck, to unpack the emotional and cultural dissonance that comes with transitioning from the ivory tower to industry, leadership, and a more human-centered world of work.

Don shares powerful insights from his own journey—from academia to high-level executive and nonprofit leadership—and the work he now does helping PhDs reframe their identities, expand their leadership potential, and bridge the gap between scholarly rigor and practical impact.

Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:

► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 

► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg

► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leader

Subscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader 

CONNECT WITH ME:

► Instagram: @empathyqueen.eq

► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy 

► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/

Connect with Don Back:

Website: https://www.phdcareeracademy.com/about/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/don-back/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/don.back.5851127 

About Don:

Don Back, PhD, MBA is an executive coach, leadership mentor, and founder of The PhD Academy. After starting his career in academia—with a PhD, postdoc experience, and a faculty position—Don realized the traditional path no longer aligned with his passion for meaningful, applied work. Leaving academia was both isolating and eye-opening, revealing how unprepared most PhDs are for career transitions.

Since then, Don has built a dynamic career across industry, venture capital, and innovation leadership. He’s helped launch startups, advised research centers, and guided high-achieving professionals in redefining success beyond academic walls.

Today, through The PhD Academy, Don empowers others to navigate career pivots with confidence and clarity. His step-by-step coaching framework helps PhDs and technical experts translate their expertise, communicate their value, and build purposeful, fulfilling careers.

► About Dr. Robinson-Winemiller:

What do empathy and a treadmill have in common? Both need action to deliver results.

Quiet quitting. Resenteeism. Post-pandemic stress. AI. Modern leaders face challenges unimaginable in the past, and the pace of change is relentless. The old command-and-control leadership style is obsolete. Leaders today must evolve or risk irrelevance. But leadership now goes beyond dashboards and spreadsheets—so, what’s the answer?

Melissa Robinson-Winemiller is the answer. With over 20 years of leadership experience, two doctorates (including one focused on empathy in leadership), an MBA, and multiple certifications in change management and DEI, she helps leaders achieve greater profits, retention, productivity, and innovation.

Her mission? To elevate leadership through the often-overlooked power of EQ and empathy. As a coach and consultant, Melissa draws on expertise, data-driven insights, and proven results to guide leaders through today’s complexities.

► Disclaimer:

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide professional, medical, or clinical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional or licensed provider with any specific and personal questions you may have regarding personal or professional concerns.

In this series finale, Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller walks us through Chapter 10 of the book, unpacking a critical framework for evaluating empathy in leadership: beige flags vs. red flags; why knowing the difference could change your workplace (and well-being) forever.

Whether you're a leader, a middle manager, or an employee trying to navigate a complex work culture, this episode is packed with hard truths, honest reflections, and actionable insight.

You’ll learn how to recognize early warning signs in leadership behavior, and why hearing “we’re like family” during a job interview might be more of a flag than a feature. We also explore what real psychological safety looks like and what happens when it’s missing. 

Most importantly, you’ll see how empathy isn’t just about being nice. It's a strategic skill that can be learned, practiced, and used to build healthier teams and more sustainable leadership.

If you've ever ignored your gut at work, struggled to feel safe in your role, or wanted to lead with more impact and less exhaustion…this conversation is for you.

‘The Empathic Leader’ BOOK IS OUT NOW! https://www.amazon.com/Empathic-Leader-Transforms-Leadership-Productivity-ebook/dp/B0F44JLV5R 

Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:

► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 

► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg

► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leader

Subscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader 

CONNECT WITH ME:

► Instagram: @empathyqueen.eq

► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy 

► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/

► About Dr. Robinson-Winemiller:

What do empathy and a treadmill have in common? Both need action to deliver results.

Quiet quitting. Resenteeism. Post-pandemic stress. AI. Modern leaders face challenges unimaginable]]>This episode marks the third and final part of our special 3-part series diving into the heart of the book ‘The Empathic Leader’ which officially launched at #1 on Amazon last week! 

In this series finale, Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller walks us through Chapter 10 of the book, unpacking a critical framework for evaluating empathy in leadership: beige flags vs. red flags; why knowing the difference could change your workplace (and well-being) forever.

Whether you're a leader, a middle manager, or an employee trying to navigate a complex work culture, this episode is packed with hard truths, honest reflections, and actionable insight.

You’ll learn how to recognize early warning signs in leadership behavior, and why hearing “we’re like family” during a job interview might be more of a flag than a feature. We also explore what real psychological safety looks like and what happens when it’s missing. 

Most importantly, you’ll see how empathy isn’t just about being nice. It's a strategic skill that can be learned, practiced, and used to build healthier teams and more sustainable leadership.

If you've ever ignored your gut at work, struggled to feel safe in your role, or wanted to lead with more impact and less exhaustion…this conversation is for you.

‘The Empathic Leader’ BOOK IS OUT NOW! https://www.amazon.com/Empathic-Leader-Transforms-Leadership-Productivity-ebook/dp/B0F44JLV5R 

Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:

► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 

► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg

► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leader

Subscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader 

CONNECT WITH ME:

► Instagram: @empathyqueen.eq

► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy 

► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/

► About Dr. Robinson-Winemiller:

What do empathy and a treadmill have in common? Both need action to deliver results.

Quiet quitting. Resenteeism. Post-pandemic stress. AI. Modern leaders face challenges unimaginable in the past, and the pace of change is relentless. The old command-and-control leadership style is obsolete. Leaders today must evolve or risk irrelevance. But leadership now goes beyond dashboards and spreadsheets—so, what’s the answer?

Melissa Robinson-Winemiller is the answer. With over 20 years of leadership experience, two doctorates (including one focused on empathy in leadership), an MBA, and multiple certifications in change management and DEI, she helps leaders achieve greater profits, retention, productivity, and innovation.

Her mission? To elevate leadership through the often-overlooked power of EQ and empathy. As a coach and consultant, Melissa draws on expertise, data-driven insights, and proven results to guide leaders through today’s complexities.

► Disclaimer:

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide professional, medical, or clinical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional or licensed provider with any specific and personal questions you may have regarding personal or professional concerns.

In Episode 24 of The Empathic Leader podcast, we continue our special 3-part series exploring the behind-the-scenes journey of writing the book The Empathic Leader—and this one dives deep.

This episode is personal, raw, and necessary.

We talk about what happens when you work under toxic leadership, what it feels like to be silenced when you're seeking justice, and the difficult reality of recognizing when you’re no longer safe in a work environment. We also explore how empathy can (and must) be used as a SKILL, not just a feeling, especially in leadership roles.

‘The Empathic Leader’ BOOK IS OUT NOW! https://www.amazon.com/Empathic-Leader-Transforms-Leadership-Productivity-ebook/dp/B0F44JLV5R 

Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:

► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 

► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg

► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leader

Subscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader 

CONNECT WITH ME:

► Instagram: @empathyqueen.eq

► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy 

► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/

► About Dr. Robinson-Winemiller:

What do empathy and a treadmill have in common? Both need action to deliver results.

Quiet quitting. Resenteeism. Post-pandemic stress. AI. Modern leaders face challenges unimaginable in the past, and the pace of change is relentless. The old command-and-control leadership style is obsolete. Leaders today must evolve or risk irrelevance. But leadership now goes beyond dashboards and spreadsheets—so, what’s the answer?

Melissa Robinson-Winemiller is the answer. With over 20 years of leadership experience, two doctorates (including one focused on empathy in leadership), an MBA, and multiple certifications in change management and DEI, she helps leaders achieve greater profits, retention, productivity, and innovation.

Her mission? To elevate leadership through the...]]>"What if I can't relate because I haven't been there?"

In Episode 24 of The Empathic Leader podcast, we continue our special 3-part series exploring the behind-the-scenes journey of writing the book The Empathic Leader—and this one dives deep.

This episode is personal, raw, and necessary.

We talk about what happens when you work under toxic leadership, what it feels like to be silenced when you're seeking justice, and the difficult reality of recognizing when you’re no longer safe in a work environment. We also explore how empathy can (and must) be used as a SKILL, not just a feeling, especially in leadership roles.

‘The Empathic Leader’ BOOK IS OUT NOW! https://www.amazon.com/Empathic-Leader-Transforms-Leadership-Productivity-ebook/dp/B0F44JLV5R 

Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:

► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 

► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg

► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leader

Subscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader 

CONNECT WITH ME:

► Instagram: @empathyqueen.eq

► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy 

► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/

► About Dr. Robinson-Winemiller:

What do empathy and a treadmill have in common? Both need action to deliver results.

Quiet quitting. Resenteeism. Post-pandemic stress. AI. Modern leaders face challenges unimaginable in the past, and the pace of change is relentless. The old command-and-control leadership style is obsolete. Leaders today must evolve or risk irrelevance. But leadership now goes beyond dashboards and spreadsheets—so, what’s the answer?

Melissa Robinson-Winemiller is the answer. With over 20 years of leadership experience, two doctorates (including one focused on empathy in leadership), an MBA, and multiple certifications in change management and DEI, she helps leaders achieve greater profits, retention, productivity, and innovation.

Her mission? To elevate leadership through the often-overlooked power of EQ and empathy. As a coach and consultant, Melissa draws on expertise, data-driven insights, and proven results to guide leaders through today’s complexities.

► Disclaimer:

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide professional, medical, or clinical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional or licensed provider with any specific and personal questions you may have regarding personal or professional concerns.

In this Part 1 episode, Dr. Melissa sits down with Jesse Sussman—consultant, editor, and creative collaborator on the book—to unpack the emotional and systemic challenges she faced as a first-time author. From navigating betrayal in the publishing world to surviving toxic workplaces and finding her way back through empathy, this conversation goes far beyond writing.

👉 This is Part 1 of a 3-part series on the making of ‘The Empathic Leader’ book—a behind-the-scenes look at the lived experiences, research, and fire that made the book what it is.

PRE-ORDER NOW! https://www.amazon.com/Empathic-Leader-Transforms-Leadership-Productivity-ebook/dp/B0F44JLV5R

Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:

► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 

► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg

► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leader

Subscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader 

CONNECT WITH ME:

► Instagram: @empathyqueen.eq

► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy 

► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/

► About Dr. Robinson-Winemiller:

What do empathy and a treadmill have in common? Both need action to deliver results.

Quiet quitting. Resenteeism. Post-pandemic stress. AI. Modern leaders face challenges unimaginable in the past, and the pace of change is relentless. The old command-and-control leadership style is obsolete. Leaders today must evolve or risk irrelevance. But leadership now goes beyond dashboards and spreadsheets—so, what’s the answer?

Melissa Robinson-Winemiller is the answer. With over 20 years of leadership experience, two doctorates (including one focused on empathy in leadership), an MBA, and multiple certifications in change management and DEI, she helps leaders achieve greater profits, retention,...]]>In this powerful 3-part interview series, Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller opens up about the deeply personal and professional journey behind her upcoming book ‘The Empathic Leader’, launching July 15.

In this Part 1 episode, Dr. Melissa sits down with Jesse Sussman—consultant, editor, and creative collaborator on the book—to unpack the emotional and systemic challenges she faced as a first-time author. From navigating betrayal in the publishing world to surviving toxic workplaces and finding her way back through empathy, this conversation goes far beyond writing.

👉 This is Part 1 of a 3-part series on the making of ‘The Empathic Leader’ book—a behind-the-scenes look at the lived experiences, research, and fire that made the book what it is.

PRE-ORDER NOW! https://www.amazon.com/Empathic-Leader-Transforms-Leadership-Productivity-ebook/dp/B0F44JLV5R

Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:

► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 

► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg

► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leader

Subscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader 

CONNECT WITH ME:

► Instagram: @empathyqueen.eq

► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy 

► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/

► About Dr. Robinson-Winemiller:

What do empathy and a treadmill have in common? Both need action to deliver results.

Quiet quitting. Resenteeism. Post-pandemic stress. AI. Modern leaders face challenges unimaginable in the past, and the pace of change is relentless. The old command-and-control leadership style is obsolete. Leaders today must evolve or risk irrelevance. But leadership now goes beyond dashboards and spreadsheets—so, what’s the answer?

Melissa Robinson-Winemiller is the answer. With over 20 years of leadership experience, two doctorates (including one focused on empathy in leadership), an MBA, and multiple certifications in change management and DEI, she helps leaders achieve greater profits, retention, productivity, and innovation.

Her mission? To elevate leadership through the often-overlooked power of EQ and empathy. As a coach and consultant, Melissa draws on expertise, data-driven insights, and proven results to guide leaders through today’s complexities.

► Disclaimer:

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide professional, medical, or clinical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional or licensed provider with any specific and personal questions you may have regarding personal or professional concerns.

Learn the 4 stages of stereotype formation and how to disrupt them by asking two simple but powerful questions:

✅ Is it valid?

✅ Is it useful?

If you’re serious about leading with clarity, empathy, and emotional intelligence—this one’s for you.

📘 Preorder "The Empathic Leader"—out July 15 on Amazon!

Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:

► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 

► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg

► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leader

Subscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader 

Pre-Order my book here: https://stan.store/empathicleader

CONNECT WITH ME:

► Instagram: @empathyqueen.eq

► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy 

► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/

► About Dr. Robinson-Winemiller:

What do empathy and a treadmill have in common? Both need action to deliver results.

Quiet quitting. Resenteeism. Post-pandemic stress. AI. Modern leaders face challenges unimaginable in the past, and the pace of change is relentless. The old command-and-control leadership style is obsolete. Leaders today must evolve or risk irrelevance. But leadership now goes beyond dashboards and spreadsheets—so, what’s the answer?

Melissa Robinson-Winemiller is the answer. With over 20 years of leadership experience, two doctorates (including one focused on empathy in leadership), an MBA, and multiple certifications in change management and DEI, she helps leaders achieve greater profits, retention, productivity, and innovation.

Her mission? To elevate leadership through the often-overlooked power of EQ and empathy. As a coach and consultant, Melissa draws on expertise, data-driven insights, and proven results to guide leaders through today’s complexities.

► Disclaimer:

This podcast is for informational and educational...]]>In this episode, Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller breaks down the subconscious shortcuts—called heuristics—that often lead to bias and stereotyping in leadership.

Learn the 4 stages of stereotype formation and how to disrupt them by asking two simple but powerful questions:

✅ Is it valid?

✅ Is it useful?

If you’re serious about leading with clarity, empathy, and emotional intelligence—this one’s for you.

📘 Preorder "The Empathic Leader"—out July 15 on Amazon!

Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:

► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 

► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg

► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leader

Subscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader 

Pre-Order my book here: https://stan.store/empathicleader

CONNECT WITH ME:

► Instagram: @empathyqueen.eq

► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy 

► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/

► About Dr. Robinson-Winemiller:

What do empathy and a treadmill have in common? Both need action to deliver results.

Quiet quitting. Resenteeism. Post-pandemic stress. AI. Modern leaders face challenges unimaginable in the past, and the pace of change is relentless. The old command-and-control leadership style is obsolete. Leaders today must evolve or risk irrelevance. But leadership now goes beyond dashboards and spreadsheets—so, what’s the answer?

Melissa Robinson-Winemiller is the answer. With over 20 years of leadership experience, two doctorates (including one focused on empathy in leadership), an MBA, and multiple certifications in change management and DEI, she helps leaders achieve greater profits, retention, productivity, and innovation.

Her mission? To elevate leadership through the often-overlooked power of EQ and empathy. As a coach and consultant, Melissa draws on expertise, data-driven insights, and proven results to guide leaders through today’s complexities.

► Disclaimer:

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide professional, medical, or clinical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional or licensed provider with any specific and personal questions you may have regarding personal or professional concerns.

Sherry shares her extraordinary journey from elite athlete to transformational leadership coach, revealing the hidden struggles that shaped her path. She opens up about battling depression, surviving trauma, and navigating the pressure to stay silent in toxic environments—all while outwardly succeeding. Her story is one of resilience, courage, and reclaiming self-worth through vulnerability and self-leadership.

🎁 BONUS: Sherry offers a free 45-minute leadership consultation (worth $350) with guaranteed takeaways to anyone ready to take the next step. Just visit thewinningleadershipcompany.com and mention this episode!

Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:

► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 

► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg

► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leader

Subscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader 

CONNECT WITH ME:

► Instagram: @empathyqueen.eq

► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy 

► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/

Connect with Sherry Winn:

Website: https://www.thewinningleadershipcompany.com/about/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thewinningleadershipcompany/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewinningleadershipcompany/ 

About Sherry:

Sherry Winn stepped into the world as a leader, first in sports where she attained the highest level possible in athletics–The Olympic Games. 

She then led...]]>In this powerful episode of The Empathic Leader podcast, Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller sits down with Sherry Winn—two-time Olympian, national championship-winning coach, and internationally acclaimed leadership speaker—to explore what it really takes to lead with both strength and heart.

Sherry shares her extraordinary journey from elite athlete to transformational leadership coach, revealing the hidden struggles that shaped her path. She opens up about battling depression, surviving trauma, and navigating the pressure to stay silent in toxic environments—all while outwardly succeeding. Her story is one of resilience, courage, and reclaiming self-worth through vulnerability and self-leadership.

🎁 BONUS: Sherry offers a free 45-minute leadership consultation (worth $350) with guaranteed takeaways to anyone ready to take the next step. Just visit thewinningleadershipcompany.com and mention this episode!

Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:

► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 

► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg

► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leader

Subscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader 

CONNECT WITH ME:

► Instagram: @empathyqueen.eq

► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy 

► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/

Connect with Sherry Winn:

Website: https://www.thewinningleadershipcompany.com/about/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thewinningleadershipcompany/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewinningleadershipcompany/ 

About Sherry:

Sherry Winn stepped into the world as a leader, first in sports where she attained the highest level possible in athletics–The Olympic Games. 

She then led college basketball programs for 23 years where she won a National Championship and took her teams to three Elite Eights. 

Since 2012 as CEO of The Winning Leadership Company, she has delivered over 3,800 hours of leadership programs where she has developed Olympic-level leaders. 

As a public speaker, Sherry has spoken to audiences as large as 14,000 and has spoken for companies such as Dell, McDonald’s, and Adobe. She has spoken in Gillette Stadium, airplane hangars, baseball diamonds, and too many hotel convention centers to mention. 

Organizations such as the Volunteers of America, AnyTime Fitness, Edward Jones, and a host of multi-million and billion-dollar companies invest in Sherry’s teachings each year.

Not to mention 3 times best selling Amazon author, ‘leader of leaders’

► About Dr. Robinson-Winemiller:

What do empathy and a treadmill have in common? Both need action to deliver results.

Quiet quitting. Resenteeism. Post-pandemic stress. AI. Modern leaders face challenges unimaginable in the past, and the pace of change is relentless. The old command-and-control leadership style is obsolete. Leaders today must evolve or risk irrelevance. But leadership now goes beyond dashboards and spreadsheets—so, what’s the answer?

Melissa Robinson-Winemiller is the answer. With over 20 years of leadership experience, two doctorates (including one focused on empathy in leadership), an MBA, and multiple certifications in change management and DEI, she helps leaders achieve greater profits, retention, productivity, and innovation.

Her mission? To elevate leadership through the often-overlooked power of EQ and empathy. As a coach and consultant, Melissa draws on expertise, data-driven insights, and proven results to guide leaders through today’s complexities.

► Disclaimer:

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide professional, medical, or clinical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional or licensed provider with any specific and personal questions you may have regarding personal or professional concerns.

Doug opens up about losing everything in 2008 and how rediscovering his own voice helped him rebuild his life—and help others do the same. He dives into the power of personal branding, why empathy is essential for real influence, and how leaders can stand out in a noisy, tech-driven world.

Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:

► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 

► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg

► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leader

Subscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader 

CONNECT WITH ME:

► Instagram: @empathyqueen.eq

► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy 

► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/

Connect with Doug Crowe:

Website: https://dougcrowe.com/about/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thedougcrowe/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dougcrowe/  

About Doug:

Doug Crowe is a modern growth strategist who delivers tangible results through a relationship-first approach to business.

A lifelong communicator and connector, Doug began his leadership journey early—earning the Dale Carnegie Highest Achievement Award in high school and becoming one of the youngest trainers in the organization. He went on to graduate from Northwestern University with a degree in Radio, Television, and Film, later building a dynamic media career with CBS Television and ABC Radio, and becoming a contributor to Entrepreneur magazine.

As an author, publisher, and media insider, Doug has written and launched several bestselling books, including Express Lane to Success and I Wrote the Book on It. He is the...]]>In this episode of ‘The Empathic Leader,’ Doug Crowe—author, media veteran, and business growth strategist—shares how he went from a shy student to a confident leader by prioritizing human connection over tech and titles.

Doug opens up about losing everything in 2008 and how rediscovering his own voice helped him rebuild his life—and help others do the same. He dives into the power of personal branding, why empathy is essential for real influence, and how leaders can stand out in a noisy, tech-driven world.

Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:

► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 

► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg

► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leader

Subscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader 

CONNECT WITH ME:

► Instagram: @empathyqueen.eq

► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy 

► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/

Connect with Doug Crowe:

Website: https://dougcrowe.com/about/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thedougcrowe/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dougcrowe/  

About Doug:

Doug Crowe is a modern growth strategist who delivers tangible results through a relationship-first approach to business.

A lifelong communicator and connector, Doug began his leadership journey early—earning the Dale Carnegie Highest Achievement Award in high school and becoming one of the youngest trainers in the organization. He went on to graduate from Northwestern University with a degree in Radio, Television, and Film, later building a dynamic media career with CBS Television and ABC Radio, and becoming a contributor to Entrepreneur magazine.

As an author, publisher, and media insider, Doug has written and launched several bestselling books, including Express Lane to Success and I Wrote the Book on It. He is the founder and CEO of a company that specializes in personal branding and storytelling to grow businesses with a human-centered approach. His firm has helped launch over 500 Amazon #1 bestsellers and has worked with executives from brands like Apple, Pepsi, National Geographic, Louis Vuitton, Touchstone Pictures, NASA, and the NFL, as well as veterans across all military branches.

Beyond business, Doug is a passionate storyteller and adventurer—he’s a licensed pilot, certified scuba diver, photographer, magician, and proud father of three.

► About Dr. Robinson-Winemiller:

What do empathy and a treadmill have in common? Both need action to deliver results.

Quiet quitting. Resenteeism. Post-pandemic stress. AI. Modern leaders face challenges unimaginable in the past, and the pace of change is relentless. The old command-and-control leadership style is obsolete. Leaders today must evolve or risk irrelevance. But leadership now goes beyond dashboards and spreadsheets—so, what’s the answer?

Melissa Robinson-Winemiller is the answer. With over 20 years of leadership experience, two doctorates (including one focused on empathy in leadership), an MBA, and multiple certifications in change management and DEI, she helps leaders achieve greater profits, retention, productivity, and innovation.

Her mission? To elevate leadership through the often-overlooked power of EQ and empathy. As a coach and consultant, Melissa draws on expertise, data-driven insights, and proven results to guide leaders through today’s complexities.

► Disclaimer:

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide professional, medical, or clinical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional or licensed provider with any specific and personal questions you may have regarding personal or professional concerns.

Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller unpacks the emotional labor leaders face daily and explains why it’s not empathy that burns us out, but rather the lack of boundaries, recovery, and self-empathy. You’ll learn the difference between affective and cognitive empathy, the importance of emotional regulation, and why self-reflection is essential for sustainable leadership.

Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:

► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 

► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg

► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leader

Subscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader 

Pre-Order my book here: https://stan.store/empathicleader

CONNECT WITH ME:

► Instagram: @empathyqueen.eq

► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy 

► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/

► About Dr. Robinson-Winemiller:

What do empathy and a treadmill have in common? Both need action to deliver results.

Quiet quitting. Resenteeism. Post-pandemic stress. AI. Modern leaders face challenges unimaginable in the past, and the pace of change is relentless. The old command-and-control leadership style is obsolete. Leaders today must evolve or risk irrelevance. But leadership now goes beyond dashboards and spreadsheets—so, what’s the answer?

Melissa Robinson-Winemiller is the answer. With over 20 years of leadership experience, two doctorates (including one focused on empathy in leadership), an MBA, and multiple certifications in change management and DEI, she helps leaders achieve greater profits, retention, productivity, and innovation.

Her mission? To elevate leadership through the often-overlooked power of EQ and empathy. As a coach and consultant, Melissa draws on expertise, data-driven insights, and proven results to guide leaders through today’s complexities.

►...]]>In this episode, we dive deep into the reality of empathy fatigue—what it really is, what causes it, and how leaders can protect themselves from burnout without abandoning empathy.

Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller unpacks the emotional labor leaders face daily and explains why it’s not empathy that burns us out, but rather the lack of boundaries, recovery, and self-empathy. You’ll learn the difference between affective and cognitive empathy, the importance of emotional regulation, and why self-reflection is essential for sustainable leadership.

Listen in any of your favorite podcast platform:

► APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/the-empathic-leader/id1796715528 

► SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ChVQGgl5l1jqAfxdoR0EG?si=1wRZC3DbS9KvhLYTggkuhg

► AMAZON: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0158b2cb-7bec-4135-a2c0-2f594d21109b/the-empathic-leader

Subscribe to the Show ► @theempathicleader 

Pre-Order my book here: https://stan.store/empathicleader

CONNECT WITH ME:

► Instagram: @empathyqueen.eq

► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eqviaempathy 

► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melissa-a-robinson-winemiller-author-speaker-trainer/

► About Dr. Robinson-Winemiller:

What do empathy and a treadmill have in common? Both need action to deliver results.

Quiet quitting. Resenteeism. Post-pandemic stress. AI. Modern leaders face challenges unimaginable in the past, and the pace of change is relentless. The old command-and-control leadership style is obsolete. Leaders today must evolve or risk irrelevance. But leadership now goes beyond dashboards and spreadsheets—so, what’s the answer?

Melissa Robinson-Winemiller is the answer. With over 20 years of leadership experience, two doctorates (including one focused on empathy in leadership), an MBA, and multiple certifications in change management and DEI, she helps leaders achieve greater profits, retention, productivity, and innovation.

Her mission? To elevate leadership through the often-overlooked power of EQ and empathy. As a coach and consultant, Melissa draws on expertise, data-driven insights, and proven results to guide leaders through today’s complexities.

► Disclaimer:

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide professional, medical, or clinical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional or licensed provider with any specific and personal questions you may have regarding personal or professional concerns.