How Great Leaders Handle Hard Conversations | Jen Hardy
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How Great Leaders Handle Hard Conversations | Jen Hardy
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About this listen
In this episode of the Executive Connect Podcast, host Melissa Aarskaug sits down with Jen Hardy to unpack why difficult conversations trigger fear at a nervous system level and how leaders can learn to regulate themselves before trying to influence others.
Jen shares her journey from results-driven athletic coaching to emotionally intelligent leadership, explaining why vulnerability is not weakness and why clarity begins with self-regulation. Together, they explore how psychological safety, emotional awareness, and intentional communication frameworks allow leaders to navigate conflict without losing authority or trust.
This episode is a practical guide for executives who want stronger teams, healthier cultures, and conversations that actually move people forward.
Key Takeaways
- Why avoiding conflict shuts down logical thinking and decision-making
- How nervous system regulation impacts leadership communication
- The difference between vulnerability and oversharing
- Why emotional safety is required before clarity can exist
- How to lead difficult conversations without losing authority
- Simple frameworks leaders can use to reduce defensiveness and resistance
- Why courage, not certainty, drives long-term leadership growth
Timestamp Chapters
(00:00) Why logic fails without emotional safety
(01:10) From performance coaching to conscious leadership
(03:30) Vulnerability versus weakness in leadership
(05:55) Self-regulation before difficult conversations
(07:26) Psychological safety and communication breakdowns
(10:04) Leading with strength and transparency
(12:54) Conflict, courage, and growth in modern teams
(15:26) Tools for navigating high-stress conversations
(17:24) Pre-framing communication for better outcomes
(21:43) Why uncertainty creates leadership growth
(23:39) Supporting leaders through emotional mastery
(25:03) Final leadership reflections
About the Guest
Jen Hardy is the COO at the Academy of Motive Action, where she supports high-stress professionals through communication, emotional literacy, resilience, and self-mastery. With a background in athletics, education, and executive coaching, Jen helps leaders transform discomfort into clarity and connection.
Connect With Jen Hardy
Website: https://motivaction.academy/home-614511
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/the-jenhardy/
Connect With Executive Connect
Website: www.executiveconnectpodcast.com
YouTube: Executive Connect YouTube Channel
LinkedIn: Melissa Aarskaug
Instagram: @executiveconnectpodcast
TikTok: @executiveconnectpodcast
Facebook: Executive Connect
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