Leadership Tea Ambassador Robert Gilchrist: Leading with Integrity, Empathy & Ice Cream | S3 EP10
Jun 4, 2025
Join former diplomat Ambassador Robert Gilchrist, who has a rich background in advocating for democracy and human rights. He shares his unique approach to leadership, using "ice cream diplomacy" to foster team connections. Gilchrist emphasizes the importance of integrity and empathy, especially in challenging environments. He discusses the necessity of self-awareness and mental health in leadership, offering strategies to tackle toxic workplaces. With personal stories and reflections grounded in his Quaker faith, he provides invaluable insights for leaders at any level.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Ice Cream as Leadership Tool
- Ambassador Gilchrist used making and sharing ice cream to break down barriers and foster team connection at work.
- His passion turned ice cream into a tool for informal bonding and creativity testing with his office as guinea pigs.
Values Fuel Leadership
- Gilchrist's personal journey as a gay man in the State Department influenced his commitment to civil rights and human rights.
- His Quaker faith guides him to listen to his conscience and act against injustice.
Prioritize Self-Care to Lead
- Take care of your mental and physical health to build resilience in challenging situations.
- Stay sane first and then support others while focusing on the work at hand.
