CEO Conversation With Elizabeth Smith - Author of Trauma Informed Leadership

March 03, 2025

Ken Gosnell and Elizabeth Smith

The CEO Conversation centered on trauma-informed leadership, with Elizabeth Smith sharing her personal experiences and the importance of addressing trauma in the workplace. She recounted a traumatic incident in a nonprofit setting where leadership failed to recognize and manage her trauma response, which ultimately influenced her career shift towards leadership. Elizabeth emphasized that leaders must be equipped with the skills to handle trauma effectively to foster a supportive organizational culture that prioritizes employee well-being. She highlighted the necessity of creating safe environments where employees can take strategic risks without fear of failure, as well as the critical role of listening in effective leadership. Ken Gosnell and Elizabeth explored the impact of microaggressions on psychological safety, noting that small actions can accumulate to create a toxic work environment. Elizabeth stressed the importance of leaders being mindful of their language and behaviors, as these can significantly affect team dynamics. They discussed the misconception that being people-oriented requires excessive time investment, with Elizabeth arguing that curiosity-led conversations can enhance efficiency. Ken reinforced the idea that understanding employees is essential for building a strong culture and improving customer relationships, urging leaders to engage meaningfully with their teams to foster both individual and organizational growth.