The truth about trauma and leadership with Dr. Erica Bowen

Episode Number

19

I sat down with the brilliant Dr. Erica Bowen, and wow, did we cover some ground. We talked about trauma, why it’s not just a “soft” topic, and how it shapes the way we show up as leaders and colleagues.

This week, I sat down with the brilliant Dr. Erica Bowen, and wow, did we cover some ground. 

We talked about trauma, why it’s not just a “soft” topic, and how it shapes the way we show up as leaders and colleagues. 

Erica shared powerful insights on creating workplaces that feel safe, the emotional toll carried by HR and people leaders, and why doing the inner work is non-negotiable if you want to lead well. 

It’s honest, practical, and full of those “oh, that makes sense now” moments. If you care about leading with courage and humanity, this one’s for you.

Here are the highlights:

Understanding trauma: More than just being “nice” (07:38)

Trauma-informed leadership: Start with yourself (11:18)

Change and safety: Why resistance isn’t always about stubbornness (22:56)

The hidden load of HR: Carrying everyone else’s emotions (29:57)

The learning obsession: Using it to help others change (40:11)

Erica’s brave next step: Trusting herself through change (46:06)

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