In this episode, I dive into one of the most challenging (but necessary) parts of leadership: handling difficult conversations. Whether it's addressing underperformance, delivering tough feedback, or letting someone go, avoiding these conversations only makes the situation worse over time.

I share why addressing issues early is a sign of strong leadership—not conflict. Letting small problems slide can quickly snowball into major challenges, so I walk you through why transparency and timely communication are key.

I outline five practical strategies that have helped me navigate these moments with clarity and confidence. Preparation is a huge part of the process—just like I would never walk into a presentation unprepared, I never approach a tough conversation without planning. I talk about maintaining professionalism, leaving personal emotions at the door, and approaching the conversation with empathy and compassion.

I also cover how to handle terminations effectively. Having been in that position many times, I’ve learned to keep the conversation short, focused, and respectful. It’s not about getting into debates or justifying decisions—it’s about being clear, compassionate, and professional.

This episode is for anyone in a leadership position (or preparing for one) who wants to get better at addressing the hard stuff—with confidence and care.

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