Episode 6

#6: Active Listening – The Leadership Superpower

In this episode of Promoted: Stop Doubting, Start Leading, we uncover the critical role of active listening in leadership. Many leaders unknowingly undermine their credibility and effectiveness by failing to truly hear their teams and peers.

This episode dives into the importance of listening as a leadership superpower, exploring how it builds trust, reduces conflict, and enhances collaboration. Packed with actionable strategies, you'll learn how to improve your listening skills to lead with intention and make a lasting impact.

Key Takeaways

  1. The High Cost of Poor Listening: Disengagement, eroded trust, and missed opportunities arise when leaders fail to listen actively.
  2. Trust is Built Through Listening: Intentional listening shows respect and value, forming the foundation of strong professional relationships.
  3. Conflict Resolution and Collaboration: Listening reduces defensiveness and encourages open communication and teamwork.
  4. Adopt the 10% Mindset Shift: Assume there’s value in everyone’s perspective, helping you discover insights and strengthen connections.
  5. Practical Listening Tips: Learn exercises like reflective listening and sound-focused mindfulness to build your listening muscle daily.

"Active listening transforms leaders—it builds trust, fosters collaboration, and empowers teams to achieve their best." – Karen Gombault


Listening is more than hearing words; it’s about understanding and valuing the people behind them. By practicing active listening, you’ll strengthen relationships, reduce tension, and inspire confidence in those around you.

Take this opportunity to reflect: Are you truly listening to lead? Start applying these strategies today to elevate your leadership journey.


Karen is a leadership coach and mentor, working with recently promoted women to help them stop doubting and start leading.

Further resources:

  • Free resource: 5 Simple Ways to Protect Your Energy for busy leaders:
  • www.karengombault.com/energy
  • More information about coaching services here: Work With Me
  • Follow along on LinkedIn: (13) Karen Gombault | LinkedIn
  • Email me at Karen@karengombault.com
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About the Podcast

Show artwork for Promoted: Stop Doubting, Start Leading
Promoted: Stop Doubting, Start Leading
Promoted: Stop Doubting, Start Leading helps professionals confidently navigate new leadership roles with actionable strategies and insights from former CEO and coach Karen Gombault.

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About your host

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Karen Gombault

I’m Karen, and I know firsthand the challenges of balancing a passionate career with personal health.

As a former CEO with 30 years in corporate leadership, I’ve lived the pressures of work, travel, raising a family and emotional eating.

For years, I tried every diet, counting calories and macros, even training for marathons, but nothing worked long-term.

It wasn’t until I focused on how I thought about myself and my weight that I finally lost the last 10 pounds and have kept it off over 7 years.

Now, as a coach and mentor, I help ambitious women think differently and lose weight permanently.