In this powerful episode of The Leadership Toolkit, Mike Phillips sits down with Australian employment lawyer, HR strategist, and leadership coach Karen Ansen, founder of Ignite HR and Ignite Your Purpose.

Karen is widely known as the person organizations call when the situation is at its toughest. From guiding boards through high-stakes CEO exits to navigating workplace conflict with compassion and clarity, she blends legal precision with heartfelt leadership. Her unique ability to make people feel seen, heard, and understood has positioned her as a trusted advisor to leaders across Australia.

In this conversation, Mike and Karen break down:

• Why leaders fear difficult conversations and how to face them with confidence
• How asking better questions eliminates assumptions and opens true understanding
• What really happens when people do not feel heard
  The role of “unofficial leaders” and why they often hold more influence than those with titles
• Simple actions that transform culture and strengthen trust inside any organization
• How self-awareness, breath work, and authentic leadership help leaders break old patterns and step into their purpose

Whether you lead a team, want to become a stronger communicator, or are striving to elevate your workplace culture, this episode offers tools and insights you can apply immediately.

Contact Information:

Email: karen@ignitehr.com.au

Linkedin: LinedIn.com/in/KarenAnsen

Web: IgniteHR.com.au

Mike Phillips

Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠mike@TheLeadshipToolkit.com⁠⁠⁠⁠

LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Linkedin.com/in/LeadTheTeam⁠⁠⁠⁠

Twitter: ⁠⁠@LeadershipTLT

YouTube: ⁠YouTube.com/@MikePhillips

Credits:

Hosted by Mike Phillips

Produced by The Leadership Toolkit Team

Guest: Karen Ansen, professional fixer, and empowering unofficial leaders to lead in business

Watch more episodes of the Leadership Toolkit at https://spotify.TheLeadershipToolkit.com

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