Episode 8: The Power of Leading with Listening: Emma’s Wisdom on Authentic Leadership & Community
In this episode of Living in 3D Power, Amber sits down with her daughter, Emma, for a powerful discussion on authentic leadership, the role of listening, and the significance of representation. Through the lens of Women’s History Month, they reflect on the impact of Black women in leadership, the importance of community and sisterhood at professional conferences, and the barriers Black women face in leadership roles.
Emma, a 10-year-old with a wisdom beyond her years, shares her perspective on knowing oneself, navigating friendships, addressing bullying in schools, and leading with empathy. This episode challenges listeners to examine their own leadership practices, rethink what it means to truly listen, and consider how creating space for others can shape a more inclusive and empowering future.
Key Topics Covered:
The importance of listening in leadership and why it starts with knowing yourself
Women’s History Month & celebrating Black women in leadership
The “Pet to Threat” phenomenon and its impact on Black women in professional spaces
How community and rest fuel sustainable leadership
Emma’s firsthand experiences with leadership, friendship, and confidence-building
Addressing bullying in schools and ensuring a safe, inclusive environment
How leaders can create spaces of belonging and empowerment
Chapters:
01:16 – Women’s History Month & celebrating Black women leaders
01:40 – Honoring Black women in school psychology
04:11 – Understanding the “Pet to Threat” phenomenon
07:15 – The power of community, rest, and support networks
11:07 – Emma’s take on leadership: what it means to her
12:14 – Friendship, confidence, and stepping into leadership
14:39 – How community shapes self-perception and identity
24:16 – Emma on bullying and school safety
27:42 – Why listening is a leadership skill schools must prioritize
27:58 – How to create safe and inclusive learning spaces
29:21 – Emma’s vision for what leadership should look like
34:05 – Discussing racism in schools & actionable steps
38:40 – Final reflections on leadership & the power of listening
40:06 – Closing thoughts & resources for self-discovery
Curiosity Card Prompts for Reflection:
Have I ever been in a space where I felt like I was the only one who looked like me? If so, did that make me feel?
Are there any spaces that I’ve been in that I’d like to be a part of more?
If I could change one thing about how kids feel at school, what would it be?
What makes a school feel like a safe and happy place?
When I think about the future, what kind of leader do I want to be? How do I want to help others?
References
Thomas, Kecia & Johnson-Bailey, Juanita & Phelps, Rosemary & Tran, Ny Mia & Johnson, Lindsay. (2013). Women of Color at Midcareer: Going from Pet to Threat. Psychological health of women of color: Intersections, challenges, and opportunities.
The Infuriating Journey From Pet To Threat: How Bias Undermines Black Women At Work
Connect with Me
Instagram: @natural_inclination
Youtube: @naturalinclination
LinkedIn: Dr. Amber M. Sessoms, NCSP
Bluesky: @ambersessoms.bsky.social
Facebook: Natural Inclination
TikTok: @naturalinclination
Like, Comment, Share, Engage
If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who would love these conversations. Engage with the Curiosity Cards and ask the youth in your life about their experiences—you might be surprised by what you learn. Share your thoughts and reflections in the comments or on social media using #LivingIn3DPower. And, don’t forget to subscribe and stay tuned for next week’s conversation!
