Personal growth for leaders is more than just a buzzword. It's a necessity for anyone striving to align their actions with their values. In this episode of the Race in the Workplace Podcast, host Joanna Shoffner Scott is joined by guest Anthony Armstrong to discuss the opportunities and hurdles leaders most commonly face in equity work. Joanna and Anthony explore the unique challenges leaders face, especially those of color, and the importance of building robust support systems. Using personal stories and research insights, they highlight the need for safe spaces where leaders can express themselves without judgment. The episode concludes by celebrating the joy of living a life that is true to one's values.

Key Takeaways:

1. With REAL Change Comes Resistance

• Leaders should anticipate and prepare for REAL change in their organizations that come from changes in practice. A common pitfall is organizations make public commitments to equity without enacting tangible changes that affect staff and external partners.
  
  
• Resistance often stems from inertia or a fear of losing comfort and operational norms. Understanding this natural reaction can help leaders manage it more effectively.
  
  

2. Create a Culture Open to Learning

• Create a culture that welcomes continuous learning. Encouraging staff to ask critical questions about existing processes and being open to new ways of doing things is how you work as a team.
  
  
• Leaders must challenge dominant cultural norms and integrate equity into day-to-day operations to align with mission, vision, and values.

3. Prioritize Personal Growth Development

• Equity as a practice is an organizational challenge and a personal journey.
  
  
• Building a strong support system through peer groups or professional coaches can aid leaders on this personal development path, allowing them to approach setbacks and necessary pivots with resilience and creativity.

Additional Resources:

Let's Talk Racial Equity and Leadership with Sheri Brady | S2, Ep 4 [podcast episode]

Supporting Executive Leaders of Color: A Conversation with Sean Thomas-Breitfeld | S2, Ep 12 [podcast episode]

How to Plan for Leadership Transitions | S3, Ep 7 [podcast episode]

If you liked this episode, you will LOVE my Race in the Workplace newsletter. Check it out here: https://pages.stameystreet.com/

If you learned even one thing you didn't know before listening to the episode, leave me a + review on Apple Podcasts.

Want to learn more about my work with leaders? Visit stameystreet.com