Your Friend in Leadership

In this epsiode J.Marie gives her version on the classic communications technique of bridging. We are all familiar with when a policitian or leader is asked about something they don't want to answer and they redirect the conversation to another topic they do want to talk about. This can easily feel disingenuous, but as leaders being able to redirect a conversation or pivot when you are asked somet...

Public leaders are often remarkably effective at engaging your communities through active listening. After decades as a communication and leadership consultant, J.Marie has found that leaders often miss an easy opportunity to use what you've heard to not just make good decisions, but to also build trust and credibility. She will talk about the extra step you can take to demonstrate to your constit...

It is a very human, often subconscious, habit to assume we understand what others are thinking and why they do the things they do. In this episode J.Marie shares a true story that demonstrates how thoroughly wrong we can be ... and how quickly our own inner experience can shift simply by remembering that we are responsible for the stories we tell ourselves. She also notes how this technique works...

When you communicate on behalf of your organization, there are a few tips and tricks that give a leg up to the success of your message. These include, making sure that you keep everyone on the same page, involving all stakeholders, and empowering those within your organization to share your message. In this episode I discuss a few strategies to ensure your success by starting with your audience. S...

In this episode I diverge from the more theoretical leaning of recent episodes, to discuss communication tools. As a leader there just isn't enough time in the day to connect one-on-one with all the people you serve. In this episode I discuss the different tools at your disposal, and when, and how to utilize them to change hearts and minds.  Sign up for classes with J.Marie here . https://www.jmar...

In this week's slightly shorter episode, I explore what makes organizational communication successful, and also what distinguishes it from personal communications. I breakdown organizational communications into four components: Audience, Message,  The tools you use, and Logistics. Tune in for a few tidbits to make communicating within your organizational structure a little more seamless. Sign up f...

Giving and receiving feedback is a gift, yet one that often makes us comfortable for many reasons deeply ingrained in our society and culture. In this episode, I explore shifting our mindsets to allow us to accept and give feedback objectively, without internalizing an emotional response. Setting our personal feelings aside and understanding feedback as the gift is,  allows us to take full advanta...

In continuation of last episode's theme of dealing with conflict, this episode shifts its focus slightly to consider addressing conflict at an organizational level. J. Marie shares a quote that is emblematic of her approach to dissecting conflict from a position of leadership, and that is “make yourself vulnerable to the legitimacy of someone else’s perspectives.” This episode then provides specif...

Conflict is an inevitable part of leadership, but it can be approached with grace and productivity. In this episode, J.Marie explores a mindset shift that reframes conflict as a collaborative puzzle to solve rather than a confrontation to win. With practical tips like adjusting your body language, choosing empowering words, and fostering a solutions-focused approach, you’ll gain tools to navigate...

Listening is the foundation of effective communication and leadership. In this episode, J.Marie unpacks the "listening continuum," a model that explores different levels of listening—from ignoring to empathetic listening—and shares practical insights for leaders on how to match their listening approach to the moment. Learn how listening well not only strengthens relationships but also serves as a...

Public leaders often face moments when confidentiality or discretion is necessary, which can challenge their commitment to transparency. In this episode, J.Marie shares practical approaches to navigating these moments, such as highlighting organizational values, referencing policies, and framing big-picture steps to build trust. Learn how to communicate effectively under constraints while avoiding...

In this inaugural episode of Your Friend in Leadership , J.Marie introduces her mission to empower public leaders with communication and leadership strategies that align work with values, deepen community connections, and build trust. Drawing on decades of experience, she shares practical insights for making your message resonate by focusing on what truly matters to your community. Tune in for an...