A Conversation with Dr. Stevie Dawn Carter on Emotional Intelligence and Leadership

In the latest episode of the Inspired Podcast, I had the privilege of interviewing Dr. Stevie Dawn Carter , a nationally acclaimed speaker, five-time business owner, and CEO of Empathic. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Carter is a leader in the field of emotional intelligence, communication, and leadership. Our conversation touched on some truly insightful topics, highlighting the evolution of emotional intelligence in leadership, bridging academic theories with real-world application, and the resilience required in entrepreneurship.

Emotional Intelligence in Leadership

Dr. Carter emphasized the growing importance of emotional intelligence in today’s diverse and global business environment. She highlighted how critical it is for leaders to not only hear what people are saying but to also understand the intent behind their words. In a post-pandemic world, where personal and professional boundaries blur, emotional intelligence enables leaders to communicate more effectively and lead with empathy. As Dr. Carter noted, “We are bringing all of ourselves into work these days, and as leaders, we need to truly listen to people on a daily basis.”

This focus on empathy in leadership is timely. Many organizations are navigating hybrid work environments, and leaders must cultivate an emotional connection to maintain team cohesion and morale.

Bridging the Gap Between Academia and Real-World Application

As someone with a strong academic background, including a doctorate in leadership, Dr. Carter brings a unique blend of theory and practice to her work. She discussed the importance of using data and research to validate her teachings, ensuring that her methods are not just anecdotal but grounded in science. For example, she pointed to research on listening skills, showing that people only retain about 50-60% of what they hear. By combining her academic rigor with practical stories and real-world experiences, Dr. Carter effectively connects with her audience in a relatable and impactful way.

One standout moment was when she shared a humorous yet universal story about communication in her own household—reminding us that sometimes, what we say isn’t always what others hear. This blend of storytelling and data is what makes Dr. Carter’s approach so engaging and memorable.

Entrepreneurship: Challenges and Resilience

As a five-time business owner, Dr. Carter knows firsthand the highs and lows of entrepreneurship. She shared some of the challenges she faced, including learning how to approach sales conversations and the pandemic’s impact on her business. What stood out most was how she used emotional intelligence to deepen client relationships, many of whom have become long-term partners and friends.

During the pandemic, Dr. Carter had to pivot her business model from in-person speaking engagements to online programming. Her ability to adapt and stay resilient during such a turbulent time was a testament to her entrepreneurial spirit. But she also emphasized the importance of personal resilience, sharing that a business can only be as strong as the person leading it. “Never let your business become everything in your world,” she advised. “Lean on family, friends, and your personal life when things get tough.”

Setting Goals Based on Feelings

Perhaps one of the most inspiring takeaways from our conversation was Dr. Carter’s unique approach to goal setting. Instead of focusing on traditional, material goals, she sets "feeling goals"—intentions based on how she wants to feel at the end of the year. In 2023, her goal was to feel “at peace,” and for 2024, she’s focused on “rediscovery.” This approach encourages a healthy work-life balance and a deeper connection to personal well-being, something that resonates with many entrepreneurs seeking more than just financial success.

Final Thoughts

Dr. Stevie Dawn Carter left us with a powerful reminder: “You are an inspiration to someone else.” Whether through a simple smile, a kind gesture, or a thoughtful conversation, we have the power to inspire others every day. It was an absolute pleasure to have Dr. Carter on the podcast, and her insights on emotional intelligence, leadership, and resilience will continue to resonate with me and our audience.

To listen to the full episode and hear more from this incredible conversation, tune in to the Inspired Podcast. Dr. Carter’s wisdom and practical advice are sure to inspire you in your own journey toward personal and professional success.

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Key Takeaways:

1. Emotional Intelligence in Leadership: In today’s world, empathy and understanding are crucial for effective communication and leadership.

2. Bridging Theory and Practice: Combining academic research with real-world examples creates relatable and trustworthy insights.

3. Entrepreneurial Resilience: Successful businesses require not only strategic pivots but also personal resilience and balance.

4. Feeling-Based Goals: Set goals based on how you want to feel, not just on material outcomes.

For more insights from Dr. Stevie Dawn Carter , visit [her website ](#empathix) or connect with her on LinkedIn .