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Episode 22: The Power of Language in Leadership – Driving Culture and Clarity with Susan McGee
TRAITS podcast: Building Higher Performing Organizations
59 minutes 7 seconds
6 months ago
Episode 22: The Power of Language in Leadership – Driving Culture and Clarity with Susan McGee
Why Language in Leadership Matters More Than You Think
In Episode 22 of the TRAITS Podcast, Susan McGee, CEO of Homeward Trust, dives deep into how language in leadership shapes culture, drives alignment, and even impacts life-or-death outcomes in high-stakes organizations.
From leading a complex not-for-profit to navigating massive growth and burnout, Susan shares candid insights on why the words we choose can either move people forward—or hold them back. Whether you're running a business, managing a team, or shaping policy, this episode will challenge how you think about leadership, culture, and the true power of communication.
Show Notes:
2:10 Susan’s background
6:05 What is homeward trust?
9:55 The difference great leadership can make (fit is so important)
12:50 Are challenges any different in a not for profit? (again, fit is so important)
15:35 The nuances of influencing others; language matters!
25:25 How did language become so important to Susan?
28:40 Language changes the way we think and needs to be updated
35:15 “Help me help you help me” How do we influence others?
40:10 How can we protect culture in a high growth organization?
43:35 Some tips: Systems, Overcoming bias, Analytics
48:35 Susan’s definition of authenticity
51:50 Some recognitions for Susan
Episode Resources & Links
Homeward Trust
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TRAITS podcast: Building Higher Performing Organizations
