This episode of The Leader in You Podcast discusses the vital role of trust in workplace relationships.

Dr. Lola Gershfeld, Polina Marian, and Chip Simmons dive deep into how trust is not just about behavior but about authentic emotional connection and how the EmC process transforms the way organizations build and sustain trust. They explore real-life stories, including lessons from Chip's 9,000-person training journey, reducing turnover, and even making layoffs more human and healing. They emphasize that secure relationships drive performance, accountability, and well-being.

Tune into the episode to learn how to build authentic trust, repair broken bonds, and create work cultures where people feel valued and connected.

In this episode, we talk about:

• [00:00] Welcome and Introduction of Chip Simmons
• [02:08] Lola's early experience with The Speed of Trust
• [03:36] Why trust-building efforts often fail without emotional connection
• [05:43] Chip's background and how the EmC process changed his leadership
• [10:04] Why people lie at work — The role of fear and disconnection
• [14:16] Managers and difficult conversations — letting people go with care
• [18:00] The power of secure relationships during tough changes (demotions, layoffs)
• [23:23] The problem with performance reviews and the need for relationship reviews
• [25:28] Can you create a workplace where you never have to fire anyone?
• [27:25] Managers and teams: Why both share responsibility for trust
• [29:53] Rethinking meetings: from transactional to relational
• [31:44] The dance of connection — differences, attachment, and emotional safety
• [33:19] How emotions affect trust and performance long-term
• [37:00] Why time alone doesn't heal disconnection — it takes intentional repair
• [39:38] Closing reflections — trust as the foundation for thriving organizations

The Leader in You is the go-to podcast for anyone who wants to create a workplace culture where you can thrive.

Envision a future where you are more grounded, confident, and in sync with your team.

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Connect with Dr. Lola Gershfeld:

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Instagram: @drlolaemc

Dr. Lola Gershfeld, a distinguished organizational psychologist, has dedicated her career to delving into the intricate layers of employee engagement, team dynamics, and workplace conflicts. She is the author of Emotional Connection and The Connected Culture, which aims to build strong and connected relationships, improve team dynamics, and prevent workplace conflicts.