Discussing Opening Up and Leading with Curiosity, Empathy, and Connection on Paper Napkin Wisdom Podcast
- jenniferehoffmann
- Nov 19, 2025
- 2 min read
I recently had the opportunity to sit with Govindh Jayaraman, host of the Paper Napkin Wisdom podcast, to share my thoughts on the importance of opening up and adopting a leadership style grounded in curiosity, empathy, and connection.
Throughout the podcast episode, Govindh and I discuss the importance of vulnerability and authenticity, especially for those in leadership positions. We dispel the myth that leaders have all the answers, and explain the importance of creating meaningful connections with those around you to help establish genuine relationships.
I share the story of how I turned my personal SOS into a Story of Strength, which ultimately led to my creation of the CEC Method - leading with curiosity, empathy, and connection. I explain how I learned to use curiosity as my superpower, asking others for their thoughts and opinions instead of thinking I had the best solution to a problem. When I started doing this at work, I discovered new possibilities I hadn't considered, empowering my team to be more creative and open.
I share examples of how I used empathy at a past job when one of our projects stalled. By understanding and acknowledging the stress stakeholders faced across various areas, I ensured everyone felt heard and that their opinions were valued. I go on to explain that it is through empathy that we establish our best connections, and that these connections are what create aligned, energized partners.
You can watch and listen to the podcast episode on YouTube at the link below, as well as on Apple and Spotify.
You can learn more about turning your SOS into a Story of Strength and about adopting curiosity, empathy, and connection into your leadership style in my book Open Up! Step Into the Leader You Are Meant to Be, available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble.
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