THIS Leader Podcast
67. Leading Without Losing Yourself: Being A Purpose-Driven Leader
May 19, 2026
“I’m just trying to get through this week.”
“I haven’t had time to think.”
“Thank goodness it's Friday.”
Little by little, urgency and habit can start leading your life.
In this episode, I reflect on how it feels to lead on autopilot and the difference I feel when I’m connected with my true north– i.e., the values, purpose, and inner clarity that help me be intentional with my leadership and my life. If you’ve been running on autopilot, this episode is your invitation to pause, recalibrate, and lead from your center.
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In this episode, Claire introduces the concept of leadership identity, a clear, intentional articulation of your core values, your strengths, your learning edges, and what your role truly requires.
Through personal reflection and practical insight, she unpacks why so many leaders lose connection with their values over time and how reconnecting with their “true north” changes the way they navigate hard decisions, hard conversations, and hard seasons.
We'll discuss four foundational elements that shape your leadership identity: your values, your strengths, your learning edges, and the real demands of your role.
"The leaders who thrive — not just perform, but genuinely thrive — are the ones who know exactly who they are as leaders."
67: Leading Without Losing Yourself: Being A Purpose-Driven Leader
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About your Host
Claire Laughlin, MA, Organizational Development Consultant
Hi! I'm Claire Laughlin, and I love helping leaders like you create workplaces where people truly thrive.
For over two decades, I've been rolling up my sleeves alongside teams and organizations, using hands-on methods that actually work (because let's face it - theory only gets you so far!).
I specialize in teaching leaders how to engage their teams, helping managers become more effective facilitators, and showing people how to work better together.
I'm also a master facilitator for the Six Types of Working Genius® - a fantastic tool that helps you understand and leverage your natural talents.
When I'm not helping leaders like you build happy, high-energy workplaces, I'm enjoying a hike in the forest with my dog Fiona, spending time with my family or curled up with a great book.
Let's keep the party going!
We have tons of great episodes waiting for you! Check them out on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
66. The Neuroscience of Resilient Leadership with Lisa Alessi
Do you ever find yourself reacting in ways you don't recognize? If so, this means your nervous system is running the show more than you realize. In this episode, I sit down with leadership coach Lisa Alessi to discuss how resilient leadership starts with self-awareness, and the practices that help you lead from your best self even when things get hard. It’s time for you to lead with more calm, clarity, and emotional resilience.
65. Building Psychological Safety with Janet Williams
In this episode, I sit down with Janet Williams, founder of Progressive Discoveries, to dig into what psychological safety feels like inside your team, why trust is essential, and what you can do right now to close the gap between "my door is open" and a team that genuinely brings their best thinking to the table. If you want a team that speaks up, challenges ideas, and brings their best thinking forward, press play!