In this empowering episode of the Female Executive Survival Guide, host Lauren Eyles and emotional intelligence expert Amy Jacobson discuss why emotional intelligence is a non-negotiable skill for women in leadership. They explore how mastering your emotions can help you confidently navigate the unique challenges you face in the workplace, from cultivating stronger team relationships to owning your voice in difficult conversations. Discover why adaptability is a superpower for today's female leaders and how embracing self-awareness can lead to both personal and professional growth. Amy shares practical, actionable strategies for preparing for challenging discussions and managing change with grace. This episode is a roadmap for any woman executive ready to level up her leadership skills and build a powerful, supportive workplace culture.   Key Takeaways for Women in Leadership Emotional intelligence is your secret weapon for effective and authentic leadership. The best leaders are adaptable and create a supportive environment where everyone can thrive. Effective communication is a two-way street that starts with understanding others' emotions. Embracing self-management and taking ownership of your emotions is crucial for your growth. Preparation for difficult conversations should focus on understanding others' perspectives, not just your own.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Emotional Intelligence 02:56 Understanding Emotional Intelligence 05:39 The Importance of Emotional Intelligence in Leadership 08:22 Changing Expectations of Leadership 11:27 Navigating Difficult Conversations 14:04 Preparing for Difficult Conversations 17:09 The Role of Emotions in Change 19:43 The Impact of Change on Individuals 22:52 Building a Supportive Environment for Change 25:38 The Journey of Leadership 28:47 Final Thoughts on Leadership and Emotional Intelligence   Bio: Amy Jacobson Amy Jacobson is an emotional intelligence specialist who challenges people to own their S.H.I.T., take control and be unstoppable! Amy is the author of The Emotional Intelligence Advantage, which explores how to master difficult conversations and deal with change. She held leadership roles in insurance before training as a coach, and now works with companies across Australia. You can connect with Amy via her website, LinkedIn or Instagram. Her book, The Emotional Intelligence Advantage, is available on Amazon and in bookstores.   Bio: Lauren Eyles Lauren Eyles, Producer and Host of the Female Executive’s Survival Guide, inspires and supports women to thrive in leadership. As an Executive Coach and Mentor she is a trusted guide to new and experienced Executives, helping them navigate times of growth and change. She loves helping leaders find calm amid chaos, using her extensive experience as a Board Chair, Non Executive Director and Executive Leader. Lauren started this podcast to support and inspire women in their first few years of executive leadership, as she found that being the only woman on the senior leadership team was a bit lonely. Lauren is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and has an MBA (Distinction), a Master of Sustainability and qualifications in coaching, change management, communication and project management. Lauren would love to hear what you think of the podcast and what topics you'd like her to cover next. Please reach out via LinkedIn or Instagram.   Keywords Women in Leadership Female Leadership Emotional Intelligence Executive Coaching Leadership Skills Difficult Conversations Communication Strategies Workplace Culture Change Management Self-Management Lauren Eyles Amy Jacobson