113. How to go from Toxic Boss to Human Leader, with Alexis Zahner

Welcome to Truth, Lies, and Work, the award winning psychology podcast helping you simplify the science of work.

This episode is part of our special summer series where we bring you interviews with inspiring leaders twice a week throughout July.

Today, we are thrilled to welcome Alexis Zahner, co-founder of Human Leaders. Alexis shares her transformative journey from a high-performing footballer to a toxic workplace competitor and finally, to a human-centric leader committed to fostering workplaces where people thrive.

Her experiences at Patagonia played a pivotal role in shaping her leadership philosophy and inspired her to start Human Leaders.

Key Talking Points:

Alexis's Journey:

• From high-level football in Australia to marketing consultant.
• Transitioning to leadership roles and the impact of toxic workplace cultures.
• Life-changing experience at Patagonia and the realization of a human-centric leadership approach.

Founding Human Leaders:

• Establishing a leadership development company.
• Focus on supporting teams and creating workplaces where humans thrive.
• The importance of self-leadership, emotional wisdom, and empowered agency.

Transformational Leadership:

• The shift from task-oriented to human-centric leadership.
• Building trust and creating a supportive environment for employees.
• The role of feedback and continuous improvement in leadership.

The Power of a Great Workplace:

• How positive workplace culture can transform employees' attitudes and performance.
• Examples from Alexis's experience at Patagonia.

Human-Centric Leadership Explained:

• Definition and benefits of human-centric leadership.
• Addressing misconceptions about human-centric approaches.
• The balance between productivity and employee well-being.

Self-Leadership:

• The importance of self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and empowered agency.
• Practical tips for leaders to develop self-leadership skills.

Guest Information:

Alexis Zahner is the co-founder of Human Leaders, a leadership development company dedicated to creating workplaces where humans thrive. Alexis’s work focuses on fostering human-centric leadership and supporting leaders through self-leadership and emotional wisdom.

Find out more: We Are Human Leaders

LinkedIn: Alexis Zahner

Mental Health Support Services:

If you have been affected by any of the themes in this episode, or are currently struggling with your mental health, the following resources may be useful:

• Mind: Visit Mind's website for information and support.
• Samaritans: If you are feeling in distress or despair, including feelings of suicide, please consider calling the Samaritans for free on 116 123 (UK) or email jo@samaritans.org (Rest of World).

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Join us on Thursday for another inspiring interview with Cate Luzio, who transitioned from being an MD at major banks to founding one of the fastest-growing networks for managers in the US.