

Ep. #92 The Impact of Our Early Lives on Our Leadership: Dr. Saba Hasanie
In this insightful episode of Making Sense of Work, Jean Balfour is joined by Dr. Saba Hasanie, Managing Director and Senior Partner of OSC Leadership Development.
Dr. Saba introduces Biographical Dimensions of Leadership using BDMM© – Level One, a framework designed to explore unconscious behavioral patterns rooted in the past that may hinder growth and development in coaching.
With over 20 coaching and psychology certifications, a doctorate in coaching psychology, and her involvement with the prestigious Forbes Coaches Council, Saba brings a wealth of experience in executive coaching, leadership development, and coaching supervision. Originally from Canada and now based in Singapore, Saba shares her professional and personal journey spanning over 14 years in the APAC region.
Key topics covered in this episode include
- Saba’s career pillars: executive coaching, leadership development, coach training, and professional writing.
- The deep connection between our childhood experiences and how they influence our leadership styles and professional behavior.
- The importance of understanding “why I am” rather than just “what I do” as a leader.
- Saba’s unique Biographical Dimensions of Meaning Making (BDMM) model, which explores how past experiences, family dynamics, and personal history shape leadership tendencies.
- Ethical considerations in coaching, especially when exploring childhood influences and how to ensure clients are resourced to handle those conversations.
Coming Soon: Saba’s upcoming book on leadership development and the biographical dimensions of meaning-making. For more information about Dr. Saba Hasanie’s work, coaching, and upcoming book, visit OSC Leadership Development.
Books & Resources Mentioned:
- Bittersweet by Susan Cain
- Brené Brown’s work on vulnerability
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