Episode 8: The Power of Leading with Listening

In this episode of Living in 3D Power, Amber sits down with her daughter, Emma, for a powerful discussion on authentic leadership, the role of listening, and the significance of representation. Through the lens of Women’s History Month, they reflect on the impact of Black women in leadership, the importance of community and sisterhood at professional conferences, and the barriers Black women face in leadership roles.

Emma, a 10-year-old with a wisdom beyond her years, shares her perspective on knowing oneself, navigating friendships, addressing bullying in schools, and leading with empathy. This episode challenges listeners to examine their own leadership practices, rethink what it means to truly listen, and consider how creating space for others can shape a more inclusive and empowering future.

Key Topics Covered:

* The importance of listening in leadership and why it starts with knowing yourself

* Women’s History Month & celebrating Black women in leadership

* The “Pet to Threat” phenomenon and its impact on Black women in professional spaces

* How community and rest fuel sustainable leadership

* Emma’s firsthand experiences with leadership, friendship, and confidence-building

* Addressing bullying in schools and ensuring a safe, inclusive environment

* How leaders can create spaces of belonging and empowerment

Chapters:

01:16 – Women’s History Month & celebrating Black women leaders

01:40 – Honoring Black women in school psychology

04:11 – Understanding the “Pet to Threat” phenomenon

07:15 – The power of community, rest, and support networks

11:07 – Emma’s take on leadership: what it means to her

12:14 – Friendship, confidence, and stepping into leadership

14:39 – How community shapes self-perception and identity

24:16 – Emma on bullying and school safety

27:42 – Why listening is a leadership skill schools must prioritize

27:58 – How to create safe and inclusive learning spaces

29:21 – Emma’s vision for what leadership should look like

34:05 – Discussing racism in schools & actionable steps

38:40 – Final reflections on leadership & the power of listening

40:06 – Closing thoughts & resources for self-discovery

Curiosity Card Prompts for Reflection:

* Have I ever

Connect with Me:

Instagram: @natural_inclination

Youtube: @naturalinclination

TikTok: Amber Sessoms

LinkedIn: Dr. Amber M. Sessoms, NCSP

Bluesky: @ambersessoms.bsky.social

Facebook: Natural Inclination

Website: www.aninclination.com

Like, Comment, Share, Engage
If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who would love these conversations. Engage with the Curiosity Cards and ask the youth in your life about their experiences because you might be surprised by what you learn. Share your thoughts and reflections in the comments or on social media using #LivingIn3DPower. And, don’t forget to subscribe and stay tuned for next week’s conversation!

Chapters

• 0:00 IMG_2462
• 1:16 Introduction to Women's History Month
• 1:40 Celebrating Black Women Leaders in School Psychology
• 4:11 The Pet to Threat Phenomenon
• 7:15 The Importance of Community and Rest
• 11:07 Emma's Perspective on Leadership
• 12:14 Emma's Experience with Leadership and Friendship
• 14:39 The Role of Community in Building Confidence
• 16:04 Marker
• 19:00 Marker
• 23:03 ‌
• 24:16 Emma's Thoughts on Bullying and School Safety
• 27:42 The Importance of Listening in Schools
• 27:58 Creating a Safe and Inclusive Environment
• 29:21 Emma's Vision of Leadership
• 34:05 Addressing Issues of Racism in Schools
• 38:40 Final Thoughts on Leadership and Listening
• 40:06 Conclusion and Resources for Self-Discovery