What if creating a trauma-informed workplace actually led to higher performance—not lower expectations?

Many leaders worry that supporting employees through difficult circumstances means compromising accountability. Angela Crockwell, Executive Director of Thrive, argues the opposite.

In this episode of Wired to Work, Jess Chapman sits down with Angela to unpack what trauma-informed leadership really means, why every workplace—not just healthcare or social services—should be thinking about it, and how leaders can create psychologically safe environments while still expecting excellence.

They explore:

• Why trauma is more common than most leaders realize
• The difference between being trauma-aware and trauma-informed
• How to create psychological safety without becoming a therapist
• Why strong boundaries are essential—not optional
• How curiosity can replace judgment in difficult conversations
• Why accountability and compassion can (and should) coexist
• Practical ways leaders can support people without lowering standards

Whether you lead a team of two or two thousand, this conversation will change the way you think about people, performance, and what it really means to create a healthy workplace.

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