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What if the key to better leadership, stronger teams, and healthier workplace culture starts with one thing—self-awareness?

In this episode, I sit down with Larissa Fitzhugh, founder of Diadem Solutions, to explore what it really takes to build workplaces where people can thrive—not just perform.

Larissa shares how her journey in HR operations led her to focus on employee experience after realizing she couldn’t always answer one simple question honestly: “What is your culture really like?”

From that moment, she chose to be part of the solution.

In this conversation, we unpack:

• Why self-awareness is one of the most powerful career accelerators
• How the DISC framework (Dominance, Influence, Steadiness, Conscientiousness) helps you understand how you show up under pressure
• The two breakthroughs that change everything: relief and compassion
• Why culture isn’t built through big initiatives—but in small, consistent daily moments
• The leadership gap around difficult conversations—and how to approach them without overthinking
• Why differences on teams are not a liability—but a necessity for growth

We also talk about the reality organizations are facing:

• AI is reshaping the workforce, but human understanding and emotional intelligence are more critical than ever
• Many organizations know change is needed—but aren’t taking action
• Culture and leadership development are often deprioritized due to time and budget constraints

This episode is a powerful reminder:
Leadership is not just about strategy—it’s about people.

And the leaders who understand themselves—and others—will be the ones who shape the future of work.

Connect with us:

Larissa: www.diademsolutions.co | linkedin.com/in/larissa-fitzhugh

Dawn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dawnbutler1/

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The views and opinions expressed by the host and guests are personal and not reflective of any employer.