What if leadership isn’t actually hard—it’s just uncomfortable?

In this episode of the Business Impact Lab Podcast, Angela Jackson and LynnAnn Erickson sit down with former Chief People Officer, executive coach, and bestselling author Tom Emery to explore what it means to lead people well in a rapidly changing world.

Tom shares practical insights on navigating difficult conversations, giving feedback without putting people on the defensive, and creating psychological safety through small, intentional changes in leadership behavior. He also challenges leaders to become more comfortable with discomfort, slow down when emotions are high, and recognize the difference between trying to control people and learning how to influence them.

The conversation also turns to AI and the future of work, where Tom offers a refreshingly human perspective: AI may be a significant disruption, but at its core, it is another form of change—and the fundamentals of good leadership still matter.

It’s a thoughtful and practical conversation about feedback, psychological safety, change, and why some of the most effective leadership practices may also be the simplest.

Tom Emery's Bio:

Tom Emery is a sought-after speaker, consultant, performance and team coach, author, podcast host and Founder of HEX, an award-winning people performance consultancy and the bestselling author of People People: Reach Your Full Potential as a Chief HR Officer.

A leading voice in transformational leadership, Tom specialises in executive impact and effectiveness. He brings his experience as a Chief People Officer to his work helping senior leaders and executives unlock high performance with clarity, confidence, and authenticity. His work centres on supporting businesses to build psychological safety, strengthen leadership capability, and unlock human potential.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-emery-b8809818/

https://www.hex-development.com

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Also, check out an opportunity for Utah locals that is coming up at the Woodbury School of Business' Business Impact Lab Den Event:

Impostor Syndrome: Why You Should Care & What You Can Do About It Wednesday, September 16 | 8:30–9:45 a.m. UVU Keller Building, Entrepreneurial Institute (KB 102)

Our special guest, Dr. Bonnie Andersen, Chair of the Physics Department at Utah Valley University, will explore how impostor syndrome can affect not only our confidence as individuals, but also creativity, progress, and leadership within our organizations. You'll learn about the five types of impostor syndrome, practical strategies for managing it, and ways to create your own action plan for moving forward with greater confidence.

Come develop new skills, engage in meaningful conversation, and network with other professionals in our community. Light breakfast refreshments will be provided.

Space is limited, so reserve your spot today!

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/imposter-syndrome-why-your-should-care-what-you-can-do-about-it-tickets-1998786437039?lid=qicnoiy15ys5&utm_source=braze&utm_medium=ebml&utm_campaign=clab_coex_lcm_dss_mec_mc_mum_0_0_previousorganizer-reactivation&utm_term=US-Provo-1.TwoTowers-Reactivation.PaidTickets-listing.previousorganizer&utm_content=69a699f2-1028-4684-982c-ced9e6f5ec7f__6a8f012d4eb72427c3ba7a12697ffc2b__04a9bfbc-d724-4925-9c4e-ff477bfc3c41__2f69ecc3-4cbb-4b51-b694-2139a92b9a17&aff=ebemnsebconsumeremail