Leadership Unplugged: Lessons in Resilience, Balance, and Impact

In the latest episode of The Simply Radia Podcast, I had the privilege of sitting down with Chantal Veillon the CHRO and Executive VP at Integra LifeSciences . Chantal’s incredible career has spanned some of the world’s leading organizations, including GE Healthcare, BMS, Honeywell, and Integra. Along the way, she’s navigated complex organizational transformations, including the Celgene integration and the challenges of the pandemic, all while staying grounded in her values of integrity, empathy, and continuous learning.

Chantal’s journey is one of professional success and personal resilience. As a mother of three young adults, she’s mastered balancing a high-powered career with the demands of family life. Her story is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when you lead with authenticity, adaptability, and a commitment to growth.

Here are top takeaways from our conversation and tips from her perspective as a leader. These are ones that every leader, regardless of industry, can apply to their own journey.

1. Embrace Change as a Constant

For Chantal, change isn’t just an external reality—it’s a motivator and a driver of growth. Early in her career, she worked in an environment where organizational changes were the norm. This experience taught her how to thrive in uncertainty and use change as an opportunity for reinvention.

“I’m not a steady-state person. Change motivates me—it’s where I thrive.”

Her advice for leaders: Instead of resisting change, lean into it. By embracing transformation, you’ll discover opportunities to innovate and grow in ways you never imagined.

2. Lead with Integrity

Integrity is the foundation of her leadership philosophy. It means being true to yourself, aligning your actions with your values, and creating a culture of trust. For Chantal, integrity also involves speaking the truth and fostering an environment where others feel safe to do the same.

“Integrity provides a safe space for people to speak up and inspires trust.”

Takeaway for leaders: Authenticity isn’t a buzzword—it’s a leadership imperative. When you model integrity, you set the standard for your team to do the same.

3. Cultivate Self-Awareness

One of the most impactful lessons Chantal learned early in her career is the ripple effect of a leader’s energy. Your team feels it whether you’re having a great or challenging day. Be aware of that.

“If I’m having a low-energy day, I protect others from that influence.”

Her tip: Develop the habit of checking in with yourself. If your energy is off, acknowledge it, communicate it, and take steps to ensure it doesn’t negatively impact your team.

4. Understand and Adapt to Culture

Navigating organizational and cultural differences requires curiosity, humility, and a willingness to learn. She emphasizes the importance of taking time to understand a company's culture before trying to influence it.

“Take the company as it is before you try to influence it. Learn from its culture first.”

Key insight: Cultural adaptability isn’t about losing authenticity; it’s about aligning with the organization while staying true to your core values.

5. Mentorship and Feedback Are Essential

Chantal has leaned on mentors for honest feedback and guidance throughout her career. Whether formal or informal, these relationships have helped her see blind spots and build confidence.

“You need people who know you well to give you perspective. Self-awareness is always a work in progress.”

Action step: Find mentors who will challenge you to grow and celebrate your progress. In turn, pay it forward by mentoring others.

6. Prioritize Psychological Safety

She believes that psychological safety is the cornerstone of effective teamwork. Leaders must create environments where people feel valued, heard, and empowered to contribute their ideas.

“Leaders need to ask more open-ended questions and let the room express itself.”

Pro tip: Listen more than you speak in meetings. Encourage diverse perspectives and make space for honest, constructive dialogue.

7. Balance Requires Boundaries

As both a leader and a mother, Chantal knows firsthand the pressure to excel in every area of life. Her approach to balance is simple but powerful: Be present for the moments that matter and let go of the rest.

“You don’t need to be perfect. Be there for the moments that matter and let go of the rest.”

Her advice: Set clear boundaries around your time and energy. This will help you avoid burnout and ensure that you’re fully present for what matters most.

A Legacy of Impact

When asked about the legacy she hopes to leave, her answer was a reflection of her humility and purpose:

“I want to be remembered as someone who was helpful—someone who made a difference in even small ways.”

Her story reminds us that leadership is about more than achieving professional milestones—it’s about making a meaningful impact on the lives of others.

Inspiration for Leaders

Chantal’s journey offers invaluable lessons for leaders at every level:

• Be curious. Whether it’s adapting to a new culture or asking better questions, curiosity fuels growth.
• Stay grounded. Integrity and self-awareness are non-negotiables for effective #leadership.
• Empower others. From creating #psychologicalsafety to mentoring the next generation, great leaders lift others up.
• Protect your energy. Balance isn’t about perfection—it’s about being present where it counts.

Question for you?

Which leadership tips resonate most with you, and how will you apply them this week? Share your thoughts in the comments.

?? Want more inspiration? Catch the full episode here or on YouTube (SimplyRadia) Episode #14 with Chantal Veillon for great insights on resilience, leadership, and balance.

#LeadershipDevelopment #EmpathyInLeadership #PsychologicalSafety #ContinuousLearning #WomenInLeadership #MentorshipMatters #ResilientLeadership