Discussion Questions:
- How does self-compassion help leaders navigate feelings of insecurity, especially in moments when they feel marginalized or “othered”?
- In what ways can acknowledging our own anxiety be more effective than taking a “fake it till you make it” approach in leadership?
- Why do Tod Bolsinger and the hosts suggest that admitting insecurity can build authentic leadership, rather than weaken it?
- How might the idea of “being a learner” rather than “being an expert” change the way you lead others?
- The episode mentions creating a “holding environment” or “core of discovery.” What do you think these terms mean, and how can these concepts help leaders facing difficult challenges?
- Why do you think compassionate self-talk (e.g., “Of course, you’re anxious. This is hard.”) can be transformative during tough leadership moments?
- How do you interpret the relationship between self-compassion and the ability to extend genuine compassion to others?
- What risks do leaders face when they mask insecurity instead of acknowledging it, both for themselves and for their teams?
- When leading people through uncharted or difficult territory, what does it look like to lead with “confidence in calling,” as Tod describes, rather than relying solely on expertise or certainty?
- How does a faith perspective shape the way leaders approach insecurity, resilience, and the call to lead authentically as discussed in this episode?
