• The Power & Risks of Empathy: When Empathy Becomes Too Much

    In part two of this series, Erin explores what happens when empathy becomes too much and begins to impact your ability to lead. She unpacks how over-identifying as an empath and constantly holding space for others can lead to overwhelm without strong boundaries and self-awareness. Erin reframes empathy as a matter of capacity—not just feeling—and offers a more sustainable way to practice it in leadership.


    Today on Tactical Empathy:

    • Empathy is about how much you can hold, not how much you can feel.
    • Over-identifying as an empath limits your leadership capacity.
    • Building space for yourself is essential to practicing true empathy.
    • Changing jobs doesn't solve underlying emotional challenges.
    • Self-awareness is the first step to sustainable empathy.



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    This show was produced by ELF Solutions Inc. 



    S3E103 - 20m - Apr 1, 2026
  • The Power and Risk of Empathy - When Empathy Goes Wrong at Work

    In this episode of Tactical Empathy, Erin explores both the power and the risk of empathy in the workplace—what happens when a leadership strength starts to work against us. Through real-world examples, she unpacks how empathy can be misused or overextended, from avoiding hard conversations to unintentionally applying pressure through emotional leverage. Erin introduces discernment as the key to using empathy effectively, offering practical ways to stay clear, accountable, and grounded so empathy builds trust rather than erodes it.


    Today on Tactical Empathy:

    • Empathy can be misused for manipulation if not practiced with discernment.
    • Trust building through empathy can be exploited to increase expectations or loyalty.
    • Ruinous empathy involves avoiding tough conversations to prevent discomfort.
    • Emotional leveraging uses guilt and shame to manipulate team members.
    • Gaslighting through care diminishes lived experiences and fosters microaggressions.
    • Support framed as growth opportunities can overload without proper resources.
    • Discernment, not judgment, is key to using empathy ethically.
    • Ask yourself if your actions support or avoid hard conversations.
    • Clarity and accountability are essential for healthy empathy.
    • Practicing empathy with boundaries prevents it from becoming a weapon.


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    This show was produced by ELF Solutions Inc.

    S3E102 - 17m - Mar 25, 2026
  • Building Resilient Teams with Brandon Walker

    In this insightful interview, Erin chats with Brandon Walker as he shares his leadership journey, blending military discipline with emotional intelligence. Discover practical practices for self-awareness, team building, and maintaining resilience in demanding environments.


    Today on Tactical Empathy:

    • Trust in oneself is key to authentic leadership.
    • Understanding different parts of oneself enhances empathy.
    • Regular reflection and feedback foster growth and resilience.


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    S3E101 - 28m - Mar 18, 2026
  • Episode 100: The Real Work

    Celebrating the 100th episode of Tactical Empathy, Erin reflects on her journey from engineering to leadership, emphasizing the importance of empathy in tough conversations and team dynamics. This episode explores how staying present in conflict and building safety can transform leadership and foster authentic connections.


    Today on Tactical Empathy:

    • Empathy is not about being soft; it's about unlocking team potential.
    • Building safety in conversations encourages honesty and trust.
    • The real work of leadership involves staying in tension and conflict.
    • Practicing empathy is like training a muscle—regular effort is required.
    • Leaders should believe and explore perspectives shared by others.



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    This show was produced by ELF Solutions Inc.

    S3E100 - 17m - Mar 11, 2026
  • Just Show Up: Building Compassionate Communities with Yvonne Heath

    In this episode, Erin chats with Yvonne as she shares her insights on leadership, empathy, and the importance of addressing grief and addiction within our communities. Drawing from her experiences as a nurse and a mother, she emphasizes the need for proactive conversations about grief and the role of empathy in supporting those facing challenges. Yvonne advocates for creating compassionate communities that allow individuals to recover openly and encourages listeners to embrace discomfort as part of the learning process.


    Today on Tactical Empathy:

    • We are all leaders in our own lives.
    • Nobody can make us happy; we must take responsibility for our own happiness.
    • Empathy is a skill that needs to be practiced.
    • It's okay to be a hot mess; just show up for others.
    • Your 10 is your 10; everyone experiences grief differently.
    • It's better to say something than nothing when supporting others.
    • Compassionate communities are essential for recovery.
    • Life is uncomfortable; we need to get used to it.
    • You can start making a difference now, no matter your past.
    • Just show up and see how it feels to support others.


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    This show was produced by ELF Solutions Inc.

    S3E99 - 28m - Mar 4, 2026
  • Part 4: Restoring Capacity & Reclaiming Empathy

    In the final episode of this 4-part series - Erin explores the importance of rest in restoring capacity and preventing burnout. She shares personal experiences, insights from the book 'Sacred Rest,' and practical strategies for integrating various types of rest into daily life to enhance empathy, resilience, and overall well-being.



    Today on Tactical Empathy:

    • Rest is essential infrastructure for a sustainable life.
    • True rest involves more than sleep; it includes mental, sensory, emotional, social, and spiritual rest.
    • Building capacity for rest requires practice and patience.
    • Rest helps regulate the nervous system and reduces burnout.
    • Recognizing and honoring your capacity is key to avoiding overwhelm.



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    This show was produced by ELF Solutions Inc.

    S3E98 - 25m - Feb 25, 2026
  • Slowing Down to Lead: Empathy in Action with Jason Donkersgoed

    In this conversation, Erin chats with Jason as he shares his leadership journey, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, empathy, and vulnerability in effective leadership. He reflects on transformative moments in his life that shaped his understanding of leadership and the necessity of emotional intelligence in navigating corporate environments, especially during restructuring. The discussion highlights practical strategies for building empathy and connection within teams, underscoring the significance of intentionality in leadership practices.


    Today on Tactical Empathy:

    • Leadership begins with self-awareness and personal growth.
    • Transformative experiences can redefine one's leadership style.
    • Empathy is essential for building trust in teams.
    • Vulnerability fosters deeper connections among team members.
    • Corporate restructuring requires emotional intelligence from leaders.
    • Regular one-on-ones are crucial for team trust and connection.
    • Creating space for emotions is vital during organizational changes.
    • Self-care practices enhance a leader's ability to empathize.
    • Empathy is a skill that can be developed over time.
    • Intentionality in leadership practices leads to more effective teams.

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    This show was produced by ELF Solutions Inc. 



    S3E97 - 31m - Feb 18, 2026
  • Part 3: Restoring Capacity & Reclaiming Empathy

    In part 3 of this 4-part series, Erin discusses the significance of creative expression as a means to reclaim empathy and restore personal capacity. She emphasizes that creative expression is not about artistic talent or production but rather about engaging in activities that bring joy and presence. Through various examples, Erin illustrates how creative practices can help individuals reconnect with themselves, reduce stress, and foster a sense of safety and well-being. The conversation also highlights the importance of allowing oneself to create without the pressure of performance or outcome, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling and empathetic life.


    Today on Tactical Empathy:

    • Creative expression is not about being artistic.
    • It allows us to express emotions and complete the stress cycle.
    • Engaging in creative activities can signal safety to our bodies.
    • Creative expression helps reduce anxiety and overwhelm.
    • It's important to differentiate between necessity and creativity.
    • Creative activities can be restorative and deeply restful.
    • We should allow ourselves to create without the pressure of production.
    • Creative expression can help us reconnect with ourselves.
    • Engaging in creativity can enhance empathy for ourselves and others.
    • It's essential to practice creative expression regularly for personal growth.



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    This show was produced by ELF Solutions Inc.

    S3E96 - 16m - Feb 11, 2026
  • Feeling Everything and Leading Well, with Jordan Dellinger

    In this conversation, Erin and Jordan Dellinger explore the complexities of empathy, particularly in leadership roles. Jordan shares his journey of writing his book, 'Congratulations, You Feel Everything,' which aims to help empaths navigate their emotions sustainably. They discuss the challenges leaders face in practicing empathy, the importance of self-awareness, and the personal experiences that shaped their understanding of emotional intelligence. The conversation emphasizes the need for empathy in professional settings and offers practical tools for developing this essential skill.


    Today on Tactical Empathy:

    • Empathy is the ability to understand and feel what someone is experiencing without losing yourself.
    • Leadership often prioritizes control and efficiency over emotional connection.
    • Self-awareness is crucial for practicing empathy effectively.
    • Empaths can feel overwhelmed by their emotions if not managed properly.
    • Writing can be a therapeutic tool for processing emotions.
    • Creating a toolkit for empaths can help manage emotional burdens.
    • It's important to communicate openly about one's emotional state.
    • Empathy can be developed and strengthened over time.
    • Caring deeply for others should not come at the expense of self-care.
    • Leaders can benefit from learning how to integrate empathy into their leadership style.



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    This show was produced by ELF Solutions Inc.

    S3E95 - 17m - Feb 4, 2026
  • Part 2: Restoring Capacity & Reclaiming Empathy

    Apple Summary:


    In part 2 of this 4-part series, Erin discusses the importance of emotional expression in the healing process from burnout. She emphasizes that burnout is not just a result of a busy schedule but also stems from unexpressed emotions. The conversation explores how acknowledging and expressing emotions can help close the stress cycle, leading to a restoration of capacity and empathy. Erin shares practical strategies for emotional expression and highlights the significance of recognizing feelings like resentment as signals for self-care.



    Today on Tactical Empathy:

    • Burnout is a result of both physical and emotional exhaustion.
    • Emotional expression is crucial for healing from burnout.
    • Unexpressed emotions can lead to feelings of numbness and irritability.
    • Journaling and talking to trusted friends can aid emotional expression.
    • Resentment can signal a need for self-care and prioritization.
    • Emotions should be acknowledged without judgment or suppression.
    • Curiosity about our emotions can lead to better understanding and action.
    • Expressing emotions helps close the stress cycle in our bodies.
    • It's important to take responsibility for our emotional health.
    • Practicing tactical empathy can enhance our relationships and self-awareness.


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    This show was produced by ELF Solutions Inc.

    S3E94 - 22m - Jan 28, 2026
  • From Climbing to Choosing: One Leader’s Journey Through Change with Wendy Fortna

    In this conversation, Erin and Wendy discuss Wendy's journey through career transitions, the importance of coaching, and the role of empathy in leadership and parenting. Wendy shares her experiences of working with Erin over the years, highlighting the significance of holding space for oneself and others, and how this practice has influenced her personal and professional life. They explore the challenges of leadership without a formal title, the tools that have aided Wendy's growth, and the lessons learned from difficult experiences. The conversation concludes with reflections on the evolving nature of careers and the importance of aligning with one's values.


    Today on Tactical Empathy:

    • Wendy has been a customer success manager for a project consulting company.
    • The coaching journey began during COVID when Wendy sought career guidance.
    • Holding space is crucial for personal and professional growth.
    • Empathy plays a significant role in leadership and parenting.
    • Leadership can exist without a formal title.
    • Tools like SL2 and mental fitness have been impactful for Wendy.
    • Learning from challenges is essential for growth.
    • Personal and professional lives are interconnected.
    • It's okay to change career paths as values evolve.
    • Self-empathy is important during transitions.


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    Connect with Erin:



    This show was produced by ELF Solutions Inc.

    S3E93 - 34m - Jan 21, 2026
  • Part 1 - Restoring Capacity & Reclaiming Empathy

    In this episode, Erin explores the concept of burnout, particularly in relation to empathy. She discusses how burnout is often misunderstood and emphasizes the importance of completing the stress cycle to regain empathy. The conversation highlights the significance of body work, physical movement, and self-care practices in managing burnout and maintaining emotional capacity. Erin introduces a four-part series on burnout, starting with body work and its role in stress management, and sets the stage for future discussions on emotional expression, creative expression, and rest.


    Today on Tactical Empathy:

    • Burnout is often an unfinished stress cycle.
    • Empathy can weaken if not practiced on oneself.
    • Physical movement is essential to complete the stress cycle.
    • Stressors can keep our bodies in a state of fight or flight.
    • Body work practices help in managing stress and burnout.
    • Regular exercise can significantly improve mental clarity.
    • Energy work and somatic practices are beneficial for emotional health.
    • Self-care is not a luxury; it's a necessity for empathy.
    • Recognizing stress is the first step, but action is required to resolve it.
    • You are not alone in feeling overwhelmed or burnt out.



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    This show was produced by ELF Solutions Inc.

    S3E92 - 20m - Jan 14, 2026
  • Empathy Starts Here

    In this episode of Tactical Empathy, Erin reflects on her journey of self-understanding and the importance of empathy in leadership. She emphasizes the need for self-reflection and the challenges of self-judgment, while encouraging listeners to build their capacity for empathy both for themselves and others. The episode serves as a reminder that empathy is a foundational skill for effective leadership and personal growth.


    Today on Tactical Empathy:

    • Empathy is about understanding oneself and others.
    • Self-empathy is often the hardest part of leadership.
    • Taking time for self-reflection can lead to powerful insights.
    • We are our own harshest critics, which hinders self-understanding.
    • Understanding ourselves is a lifelong journey.
    • Empathy is a muscle that needs to be exercised regularly.
    • Self-judgment can prevent us from leading effectively.
    • The journey of self-discovery is not linear but spiral.
    • Each experience provides new information for self-understanding.
    • Empathy is the foundation for effective leadership.



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    This show was produced by ELF Solutions Inc.

    S3E91 - 17m - Jan 7, 2026
  • Navigating Empathy and Boundaries

    In this final episode of 2025, Erin reflects on the importance of empathy, self-care, and setting boundaries. She discusses her personal struggles with over-empathizing and the resulting feelings of resentment. Erin emphasizes the need for self-empathy and radical honesty, encouraging listeners to recognize their own emotions and needs. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to practice self-care and reflect on their experiences as they move into the new year.


    Today on Tactical Empathy:

    • Empathy is a leadership tool that requires self-awareness.
    • Resentment can be an early warning signal for personal boundaries.
    • Over-empathizing can lead to feelings of being unsupported and resentful.
    • Setting healthy boundaries is essential for personal well-being.
    • Self-empathy is often the hardest type of empathy to practice.
    • Radical honesty with oneself is crucial for emotional health.
    • Ignoring emotional signals can lead to burnout and disconnection.
    • Practicing discernment helps in setting healthy boundaries.
    • It's important to recognize when you're giving more than you receive.
    • Self-care is not selfish; it's necessary for effective leadership.


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    This show was produced by ELF Solutions Inc.

    S3E90 - 21m - Dec 17, 2025
  • Flip the Script: A Client Interviews Erin with special guest host Adriana Mercader


    In this episode of Tactical Empathy, we flipped the script! A client, Adriana Mercader interviews Erin, exploring the profound impact of empathy in personal and professional relationships. Erin shares her journey of understanding empathy, the importance of self-awareness, and how empathy can transform leadership and team dynamics. The conversation delves into the challenges of self-empathy, the distinction between empathy and sympathy, and practical steps to navigate feelings and burnout. Erin emphasizes the need for genuine connection and understanding in all aspects of life, encouraging listeners to embrace their emotions and foster empathy within themselves and their teams.


    Today on Tactical Empathy:

    • Empathy starts with understanding ourselves.
    • The hardest part of work is often relationships.
    • We practice what we are, not what we pretend to be.
    • Feelings are our internal GPS system.
    • Empathy is not about fixing others' problems.
    • Self-empathy is crucial for personal growth.
    • Leaders can inspire change through understanding.
    • Burnout can be addressed by allowing ourselves to feel.
    • Empathy requires self-responsibility and accountability.
    • Transformation happens when teams engage in tough conversations.


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    This show was produced by ELF Solutions Inc. 

    S3E89 - 29m - Dec 10, 2025
  • Empathy in Engineering: From Fixing the Women to Fixing the System

    In this episode, Erin explores the themes of leadership and inclusion, particularly for women in traditionally male-dominated fields. Through personal anecdotes and reflections on recent conferences, she emphasizes the importance of empathy, the need for systemic change, and the dual responsibility of both individuals and organizations to foster an inclusive environment. Erin shares insights on how lived experiences can drive meaningful conversations and the necessity of creating spaces where truth can surface, ultimately leading to more effective leadership.


    Today on Tactical Empathy:

    • Inclusion should feel like the rule, not the exception.
    • Personal experiences shape our understanding of leadership.
    • Empathy is a powerful tool in navigating tough conversations.
    • Women in leadership need spaces that validate their experiences.
    • Systemic change requires both individual and collective action.
    • Lived experiences should be treated as expertise.
    • Creating conditions for truth is essential in leadership.
    • Leadership is about understanding emotions and boundaries.
    • The importance of sponsorship over mentorship in career advancement.
    • Small shifts in language can lead to significant cultural changes.



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    This show was produced by ELF Solutions Inc.

    S3E88 - 20m - Dec 3, 2025
  • Finding Your Unique Voice in Leadership with Jay Floyd

    In this conversation, Erin chats with Jay Floyd as he shares his journey as a leader and coach, emphasizing the importance of empathy, self-discovery, and embracing one's uniqueness. He discusses how personal trauma shaped his leadership style and the significance of finding the right environment for growth. Jay also highlights the challenges leaders face in practicing empathy and the need to overcome biases. He encourages listeners to audit their strengths and lead with authenticity, especially in the context of the evolving landscape of AI.


    Today on Tactical Empathy:

    • Jay Floyd emphasizes the power of empathy in leadership.
    • He believes that titles do not define one's identity.
    • Empathy involves holding space for others, even in disagreement.
    • Being rare on purpose means embracing one's unique strengths.
    • Jay's journey includes overcoming personal trauma to become a leader.
    • Finding the right room is crucial for personal and professional growth.
    • Leaders must confront their biases to foster a supportive environment.
    • Toxic positivity can hinder genuine emotional experiences.
    • Self-audit of strengths is essential for effective leadership.
    • In the age of AI, embracing human uniqueness is vital.



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    This show was produced by ELF Solutions Inc.

    S3E87 - 31m - Nov 26, 2025
  • You Don’t Have to Do It Alone

    In this episode, Erin discusses the concept of overwhelm, reframing it from a personal failure to a signal indicating a lack of resources. She emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and recognizing when to step back to manage one's resources effectively.


    Today on Tactical Empathy:

    • Overwhelm is a signal, not a personal failure.
    • Recognizing overwhelm can lead to better resource management.
    • Taking a pause can help assess personal needs.
    • Self-awareness is crucial in managing overwhelm.
    • It's important to identify when you're under-resourced.
    • Reframing thoughts about overwhelm can be empowering.
    • Understanding your limits can prevent burnout.
    • Acknowledging feelings of overwhelm is the first step.
    • Effective resource management leads to better mental health.


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    This show was produced by ELF Solutions Inc.

    S3E86 - 22m - Nov 19, 2025
  • Culture Starts With Us: Leading with Empathy in Everyday Interactions with Susan Loberg

    In this conversation, Erin and Susan explore the significance of empathy in leadership. Susan shares her journey through various leadership roles and emphasizes the importance of seeing employees as whole human beings. They discuss personal experiences with empathetic and non-empathetic leaders, the benefits of practicing empathy in the workplace, and the challenges leaders face in implementing empathetic practices. Susan also highlights her current work in workplace culture and the importance of fostering trust and psychological safety within teams.


    Today on Tactical Empathy:

    • Empathy is foundational for effective leadership.
    • Leaders should see employees as whole human beings.
    • Personal experiences significantly impact workplace engagement.
    • Empathy can enhance loyalty and dedication to an organization.
    • Leaders must balance empathy with accountability.
    • Understanding generational differences is crucial in leadership.
    • Empathy is often misunderstood as a weakness in leadership.
    • Creating a culture of empathy can lead to greater financial success.
    • Trust and psychological safety are essential for workplace culture.
    • Empathetic leadership can transform workplace dynamics.


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    This show was produced by ELF Solutions Inc. 


    S3E85 - 37m - Nov 12, 2025
  • Feel It, Then Lead — Acting Through Discomfort

    In this conversation, Erin discusses the importance of identifying and engaging in energizing and high-impact work, which she refers to as 'refueling.' She emphasizes that this work is unique to each individual and is essential for creativity, clarity, and emotional fulfillment.

    Today on Tactical Empathy:


    • Energy leaks—tasks that drain you without impact—are often where burnout hides.
    • Discomfort isn’t always a red flag; sometimes it’s the signal that growth is happening.
    • You don’t need to earn your rest or explain why ease matters.
    • You lead you first—before the team, the metrics, or the outcomes.
    • “Good enough” is sometimes exactly what’s needed to move forward.
    • Naming and honouring your needs is a powerful act of leadership.


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    This show was produced by ELF Solutions Inc.

    S3E84 - 24m - Nov 5, 2025
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