69. Brave space over safe space: what human-powered teams need
The shit we need to talk about this week: people-centered leadership and conflict resolution is needed now more than ever before.
And what’s more: having a space to establish your wants, needs, and how you desire to be held by others in your roles (and have others be equipped to meet you there or find the support to do so) is the dream for future workplaces (and all relationships).
This week, I am joined by Abbiola Ballah (she/her) to discuss the challenges of navigating difficult conversations and leadership in the workplace - including for those who are self-employed. As the Founder of Phern Education Studios, Abbiola created a consulting practice dedicated to helping managers navigate complex team dynamics, rebuild trust, and lead with empathy and confidence.
This episode:
Emphasizes the importance of understanding and managing the intersection of identities and social dynamics in leadership.
Redefines the term “messy” - why it happens, why it NEEDS to happen, and how to evolve through it with compassion, clarity, and authenticity.
Highlights the need for pausing to reflect and the significance of community agreements and assumptions in fostering inclusive environments.
Explores practical tips, such as setting reminders to reflect on feelings and responses, and the value of transparency and consent in interactions.
Encourages dreaming of a time when space is opened for you to establish your wants, needs, and how you desire to be held by others in your roles (and have others be equipped to meet you there or find the support to do so). For me, this was the sweetest part of the discussion!
And so much more! Our conversation turned down so many avenues that we did not originally anticipate and all of it wove together to create a really beautiful and raw dialogue. I really hope you enjoy it!
Jump in here for all the goodness!
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Additional resources from this episode: Get the episode transcript here.
Abbiola’s info: website Instagram
Abbiola Ballah trains managers to lead people with ease. She believes when managers are equipped with skills to master the people-side of leadership, you can create organizations where all team members feel fully supported and empowered. As the Founder of Phern Education Studios, she created a consulting practice dedicated to helping managers navigate complex team dynamics, rebuild trust, and lead with empathy and confidence.
She brings over two decades of experience in international education, leadership development, and program design, working with organizations across health, education, philanthropy, tech, and nonprofit sectors. Her coaching and workshops help leaders shift how they lead, so they can navigate conflict, build trust, and create healthier team cultures.
Originally from Trinidad and Tobago, Abbiola’s global perspective is shaped by living internationally for over 22 years in places like Japan, the U.S., and Belize. A lifelong reader, theater lover, and nomadic traveler, she stays rooted in her Trinidadian heritage wherever she goes.
