ILA Podcast

Dark Gifts of the Pandemic

Phronesis: Practical Wisdom for Leaders

with Steve Mortenson

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Quotes From This Episode

  • “One of the things that I’ve asked my students is what new strengths has the pandemic brought out in you? I talk about ‘dark gifts of the pandemic’ – like, I’ve got a lot more patience than I used to, because I don’t have a choice.”
  • “The way I talk about supportive confrontation…you have to support the person while you critique their behavior. Otherwise, it’s difficult for them to hear what you’re trying to say.”
  • On people who are comfortable having difficult conversations – “they don’t get set off, they’re able to listen, they’re more comfortable in their own skin.”
  • “We need to see that there’s another side to our personality and the things we’re afraid of have a lot of really important potential for us. And that the things that we rely on are also the root of our dysfunctions.”
  • “What are you good at? But when does it also undermine you?”
  • “Authentic anger is – you crossed a line with me – there’s a clear transgression – I can tell you what it is. And I can tell you, this is why I’m mad.”
  • “Jung said that you can show somebody their shadow, and they’ll kind of deal with it. You show somebody their genius, they’ll fight you every step of the way.”
  • “I want us to have a fuller understanding of our identities, not just the parts we’re comfortable with.”

About the Guest

Dr. Steve Mortenson is an award-winning teacher and researcher. Steve’s mission is to help people help themselves by sharing transformative tools for building personal skills and relational effectiveness. He received his Ph.D. in Communication from Purdue University. Recipient of the Excellence in Teaching Award, Dr. Mortenson teaches and publishes at the University of Delaware. He has designed and conducted leadership development seminars and communication workshops for the U.S. State Department’s International Leadership Programs, The National Association for Environmental Management, Delaware Psychological Association, The Horn Institute, and the Blue Hen Leadership Program.

Host Scott J. Allen

Scott Allen

Scott J. Allen, Ph.D., is the Standard Products—Dr. James S. Reid Chair in Management at John Carroll University. He is an associate professor and teaches courses in leadership, management skills, and executive communication. He is also a communications coach, consultant, author, podcast host, and entrepreneur. For almost two decades, he’s worked with clients to improve their leadership and communication skills. Learn more about Scott here.

About Phronesis

Phronesis: Practical Wisdom for Leaders offers a smart, fast-paced discussion on all things leadership. Scott and his expert guests cover timely, relevant topics and incorporate practical tips designed to help you make a difference in how you lead and live.