In this solo episode, Elizabeth Freedman breaks down a surprising pattern she sees in even the most capable senior leaders - a mismatch in terms of the value they may be giving and getting back.

Using the “give and get” equation, Elizabeth shares how healthy, high-performing leaders and organizations strike a healthy balance between what they give and what they get.

The problem is when the Give and Get Equation gets out of balance, and it happens more than you might think.

In this podcast episode, you’ll learn:

• Why so many leaders struggle to give and get value equally
• How overgiving value can keep others underperforming
• Why overgiving value doesn’t guarantee visibility or recognition
• Ways to rebalance the equation and lead with more impact

Stay tuned for a follow-up episode on the opposite trap: when leaders get more value than they give and how it affects trust, culture, and your leadership brand. You can also visit Elizabeth’s website to explore all kinds of free resources!

E-Suite Impact: 8-Week Executive Intensive Program.
Learn more and join the waitlist for 2026: https://esuiteleader.com/impact-intro

Episode Mentioned: The Hidden Rules of Talking To Executives

• Free C-Suite Readiness Assessment
• Website: https://esuiteleader.com/
• Forbes Column: https://www.forbes.com/sites/elizabethfreedman/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethfreedman
• Twitter X: @‌esuiteleader

Howard Ungerleider, former CFO and President of Dow, joins Elizabeth Freedman on this week’s episode to explore the unwritten playbook of the C-suite. With decades of experience inside one of the world’s largest companies, Howard shares the mindset shifts, leadership habits, and executive presence required to succeed in the C-suite.

They unpack the challenges new executives face, why enterprise thinking is non-negotiable and how skills like influence, humility, and listening are often more valuable than formal authority.

You’ll explore:

• Advice for navigating the boardroom and building trust with stakeholders
• The emotions toll of the C-suite and how to manage the pressure
• How to compartmentalize stress and stay grounded in your “why”
• How to use the “bite, snack, meal” approach when you want to be heard

This conversation offers a candid look at the real work of executive leadership. For more insights and tools to lead at the highest level, visit Elizabeth’s website!

• Free C-Suite Readiness Assessment
• Website: https://esuiteleader.com/
• Forbes Column: https://www.forbes.com/sites/elizabethfreedman/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethfreedman
• Twitter X: @‌esuiteleader

In this episode of Executiveland, Elizabeth Freedman returns with a new chapter of the unwritten C-suite playbook: “Do I Really Have to Spell It Out?” Drawing from years of coaching senior leaders, she unpacks why clarity in communication is one of the most overlooked drivers of performance, and why even seasoned executives fall into common traps.

Elizabeth explores how decoding, vague messaging, and a lack of ownership can derail strategy and credibility. Through practical examples, she shows how to shift from hinting to directness, and how clear, confident communication can accelerate results, build trust, and amplify a leader’s impact.

You’ll explore:
• Why leaders often assume their message is clearer than it is
• The hidden impact of vague feedback and indirect messaging
• How confidence shapes clarity in high-stakes conversations
• Practical tools to sharpen communication and ensure understanding

To sharpen your message and lead with more impact, visit Elizabeth’s website and subscribe so you never miss a new chapter of the playbook!

E-Suite Impact: 8-Week Executive Intensive Program.
Learn more and register here: https://esuiteleader.com/impact-intro

Book Mentioned: This American Woman by Zarna Garg

• Free C-Suite Readiness Assessment
• Website: https://esuiteleader.com/
• Forbes Column: https://www.forbes.com/sites/elizabethfreedman/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethfreedman
• Twitter X: @‌esuiteleader