Ever caught yourself thinking, “Why should I be the one to fix this?” or “That sounds like a YOU problem”?

That flash of defensiveness might feel natural, but it could be blocking a chance to grow, connect, and lead more effectively.

In this episode of Beyond the Class, Katie Trotter, Chief Program Officer at the Chapman Foundation for Caring Communities, explores the ownership mindset. This approach invites leaders to ask, “What part can I own?” even when the situation feels mostly out of their control.

Katie introduces the idea of “the gap." The space between what happens and how we choose to respond. It’s in this space that leaders can shift from blame to responsibility, from frustration to curiosity, and from reaction to reflection.

Through real-life stories and practical tools, Katie unpacks how small shifts in ownership can build trust, strengthen teams, and create psychological safety. You’ll learn how to:

• Recognize the difference between blame and responsibility
• Use reflection to respond with intention
• Ask questions that move conversations forward
• Build trust through consistent, small acts of ownership
• Create space for growth even when things go wrong

If you're ready to shift from defensiveness to development in your leadership journey, this episode offers the practical guidance and actionable steps to get started today.

If you're interested in exploring these concepts further, check out Our Community Serves, a two-day class on mindsets that help shift from a me-centric to a we-centric culture at https://www.chapmancommunities.org/learn-to-connect/

Emotions aren’t problems to solve—they’re messengers revealing what we truly need.

In this episode of Beyond the Class, CFCC CEO and organizational psychologist Misty Janks explores how emotional intelligence (EI) transforms relationships, decision-making, and leadership.

The conversation begins around Daniel Goleman’s five components of emotional intelligence:

• Self-awareness
• Self-regulation
• Motivation
• Empathy
• Social skills

These aren’t just abstract ideas—they’re practical tools that shape how we show up in every interaction. Misty explains how emotional catalysts—specific events that trigger strong emotional responses—can uncover our values and unmet needs. Whether it’s frustration pointing to a need for clarity or anxiety signaling a desire for safety, emotions guide us toward more profound understanding.

Listeners will gain three actionable strategies for managing emotional catalysts:

1. Identify your triggers—both positive and negative.
2. Pause before reacting—interrupting automatic responses and allowing space for thoughtful action.
3. Reframe challenges by viewing emotional moments as opportunities for growth.

The impact of emotional intelligence goes far beyond the workplace. Leaders with high EI foster cultures of trust, adaptability, and psychological safety, while individuals experience less stress and deeper, more fulfilling relationships.

Whether you're leading a team, navigating family dynamics, or simply striving to show up more intentionally, this episode offers practical wisdom for turning emotional awareness into your greatest strength.

👉 READ THE BLOG

👉 Visit https://www.chapmancommunities.org/ to learn more about bringing emotional intelligence to your organization.

Ever snapped at someone and instantly thought, “Wait… what just happened?” That split-second of self-awareness might hold the key to transforming how we lead, connect, and communicate.

In this episode of Beyond the Class, we’re joined by Misty Janks—CEO of the Chapman Foundation for Caring Communities and a leading voice in organizational psychology. Misty unpacks a deceptively simple idea: every behavior is a clue to an unmet need.

What if that “difficult” colleague isn’t defiant, but just needs to feel secure? What if that unmotivated team member is actually craving purpose? Misty demonstrates how shifting from judgment to curiosity can unlock empathy, enhance relationships, and even transform workplace culture.

You’ll walk away with practical tools—including two powerful questions that can change how you respond to challenging behavior—and a deeper understanding of how self-awareness and DISC assessments can guide personal growth.

Plus, Misty and host Adam Salgat share candid stories that bring these insights to life.

Subscribe to Beyond the Class for more insights rooted in Chapman Foundation principles. Visit chapmancommunities.org to learn more. Remember—you are the message!

READ THE BLOG!

Key Points Discussed in the Episode
• Every action, reaction, and decision stems from an underlying need
• Psychology confirms behavior is purposeful, not random or purely oppositional
• Instead of labeling behavior as good/bad, ask what need it expresses
• Two key questions to ask: What might this person need? How can I support constructively?
• Leaders create stronger teams by understanding people, not just managing tasks
• DISC assessments help teams understand behavioral tendencies and style preferences
• Self-awareness allows us to recognize our own needs driving our behaviors
• Three action steps: shift to curiosity, lead with empathy, reflect on your own needs