050: The Nervous System's Influence on Leadership with Dr. Steve Hotz (RERUN)

Evolve: A New Era of Leadership

In this episode, previously released in August of 2023, we explore the complex interplay between the nervous system and leadership, revealing the profound impact of past experiences on a leader's style and adaptability with Dr. Steve Hotz. The patterns ingrained in our nervous system are key to how we respond in various situations, significantly influencing decision-making and behavior in leadership roles. This understanding is crucial for leaders seeking to harness their full potential. We also delve into the nuanced way our nervous systems perceive challenges versus threats. This ability to recognize and fine-tune responses to different stimuli is essential in leadership, helping in guiding teams through complex scenarios and making informed decisions.

Maintaining a balanced nervous system is another critical aspect discussed, highlighting its importance in accessing higher-level skills and expertise for effective leadership. We touch upon the impact of trauma on this balance, which can significantly affect a leader's ability to handle stress and lead effectively. The conversation then shifts to vulnerability in leadership, emphasizing how understanding and accepting our vulnerabilities can reduce their control over our actions. We explore common reactions to vulnerability, such as defensiveness and emotional numbing, and how they influence our leadership style.

We also cover the power of co-regulation and the role of psychological safety and consistency in the workplace. A leader's ability to exhibit a calm and regulated demeanor can significantly influence the team's overall environment and effectiveness. This is complemented by a discussion on the importance of senior leadership understanding and facilitating nervous system regulation. Such awareness is crucial for adapting and responding to various situations, shaped by personal experiences and nervous system reactivity.

Drawing insights from 'The Compassionate Mind' by Paul Gilbert, the podcast reflects on his model of three emotional regulation systems – energizing, threat, and contentment – and their influence on leadership styles. Understanding these systems is invaluable for effective leadership and emotional regulation. We also discuss the importance of fostering a culture that supports mutual regulation and secure connections among team members, essential for a productive work environment and beneficial for organizational dynamics.

Finally, the episode concludes with practical advice for leaders. This includes techniques for becoming more aware of bodily experiences and staying present in the moment. Such practices are essential for effective leadership and decision-making, helping leaders to be more grounded, responsive, and empathetic. These insights enhance a leader's ability to lead effectively and inspire their teams, embodying the core message of our podcast – the intricate and influential relationship between our nervous system and leadership.

Dr. Steve Hotz is a clinical and health psychologist with deep roots in community medicine and population health. In addition to his academic career and clinical practice, he has worked and consulted in continuing professional development for health care providers from many disciplines on such topics as motivation, health behaviour change, and treatment adherence. His clinical work incorporates interpersonal neurobiology, neuroplasticity, attachment, and approaches to change and growth that utilize the potential of knowledge in these areas.

We talk about:

• [4:10] Our history working together

• [8:25] The impact of our life circumstances based on endured trauma

• [11:20] Our nervous system and its impact on our safety and emotional state

• [18:35] The research behind 'vulnerability'

• [21:40] The acceptance of trauma and vulnerability

• [22:40] Cognitive exercises of creating safety

• [25:10] Co-regulating as leaders

• [30:25] Being open to our own vulnerability and experiences

• [38:45] Going into sympathetic overdrive

• [43:00] Rewiring our desire for balance

• [45:30] Getting in touch with your inner experience

• [52:30] A moment that was very uncomfortable, yet full of tremendous insight about himself

• [55:45] A practice or ritual that keeps him in a calm or regulated state

• [58:20] A song or genre of music that makes him feel connected to others or part of something bigger than himself

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Brene Brown’s Power of Vulnerability: https://www.ted.com/talks/

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