Effective leadership begins with connection. In this one-hour interactive talk, participants will explore the science and practice of building meaningful connections with colleagues, collaborators, and the communities they serve. Through the principles of responsive listening and empathic communication, leaders will consider how curiosity, trust, and genuine engagement can strengthen relationships and create more productive conversations.

Participants will learn practical approaches for listening with intention, communicating with empathy, and creating environments where others feel heard and valued. The session will also explore how strong connections can help leaders build trust, navigate differences, and engage others around shared goals.

By the end of the talk, participants will have practical strategies for strengthening their leadership through authentic connection and more responsive, empathetic communication.