E35: Empathetic Communication is Key for Leaders with Deborah Laurel

"Small talk defines us as human beings"

In this conversation, I found myself reflecting on how much of our frustration with work comes from what goes unspoken. Deb Laurel, a workplace learning and performance improvement consultant, brings clarity to the evolving definition of work, the outsized impact of management on employee satisfaction, and the quiet power of workplace culture. 

Drawing from her experience across industries and cultures, she explores why so many employees feel unseen, under-communicated with, and disconnected from meaning in their roles. We talk about empathy as a leadership skill, the importance of small talk in building trust, and how understanding personal values can support healthier work-life balance. The conversation also touches on generational differences, flexibility, and how administrative noise can pull us away from the heart of our work—ultimately reminding us that culture isn’t what we say it is, but how people are treated every day.

Connect with Deb:

https://laurelandassociates.com/about-us/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborah-laurel-master-trainer/