Podcast: In Conversation
February 24, 2025
In this episode of In Conversation, Steph Hawkins, Positive Psychology Expert & Coach, sits down with Jennifer to explore the power of difficult conversations in leadership. They discuss: (1) Why hard conversations matter for well-being—and how avoiding them can take a toll. (2) How leaders can approach them without losing sleep—strategies to reduce stress and build confidence. (3) Balancing clarity and care—how to be direct while supporting the other person’s well-being. Packed with insights, practical takeaways, and a fresh perspective on leadership communication, this is a must-watch for school leaders, coaches, and anyone looking to strengthen their conversations at work.
About:
In Conversation: 3 Questions with… is a series in which Steph Hawkins poses three thought-provoking questions to thought leaders and experts, exploring issues that matter in educational leadership and wellbeing. Each episode offers sharp insights, fresh perspectives, and practical takeaways for anyone in (or interested in) educational leadership. Short, focused, and packed with value – perfect for busy educators looking for inspiration and impact in less than the time it takes you to commute to work!
Listen to the Podcast:
About Jennifer Abrams
Jennifer has been recognized as one of "21 Women All K-12 Educators Need to Know" by Education Week's 'Finding Common Ground' blog. She considers herself a "voice coach," helping others learn how to best use their voices – be it collaborating on a team, facilitating a group, coaching a colleague, supervising an employee and being an all around better human being in all types of interactions.
Work with Jennifer
Praise for Jennifer
“Jennifer’s session was not just a workshop, but an invitation to look inward at how we, as adults, show up in our professional roles. She reminded us that hard conversations are not about winning or avoiding conflict, but about cultivating clarity, empathy, and courage.
One of the most powerful takeaways was this: for dialogue to be truly effective, we must learn to communicate with precision while holding space for humanity. Hard conversations should not shut people down; they should open the door to growth-producing feedback that strengthens trust, relationships, and professional practice. My learning experience with Jennifer was a reminder that our impact as educators is amplified when we are willing to pause, reflect, and engage with one another in ways that foster both accountability and compassion.”
