EP197 - How 5 Minutes of Empathy Can Boost Team Performance, According to a Leadership Expert

In this episode of The Tyler Dickerhoof Show, host Tyler Dickerhoof sits down with Shermin Kruse—globally recognized negotiation consultant, law professor, author, and TEDx producer. Shermin has helped leaders, organizations, and individuals master the art of transformative empathy, complex negotiation, and authentic leadership in high-stakes environments. They explore how to harness the power of stoic empathy to build trust and connection, even with unlikely allies or adversaries. Shermin shares lessons from her journey growing up under an oppressive regime, her rise in the legal and business world, and how vulnerability and authenticity can drive real influence. Together, they dive into strategies for emotional regulation, avoiding empathy burnout, and why understanding both your own and others’ motivations is the ultimate leadership advantage. Shermin also offers actionable tools for leaders who want to foster stronger teams, negotiate effectively, and lead with both heart and strategy. Connect with Shermin: https://www.sherminkruse.com/ https://www.instagram.com/sher_kruse/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/shermin-kruse The Tyler Dickerhoof Show https://www.youtube.com/@impactdrivenleader https://www.instagram.com/thetylerdickerhoofshow/ Subscribe to the newsletter: https://impactdrivenleader.beehiiv.com/ Tyler is on: https://www.tylerdickerhoof.com/ https://www.facebook.com/tyler.dickerhoof.3 https://www.instagram.com/tyler_dickerhoof/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-dickerhoof-1960351b What We Discussed: 00:00 Introduction 02:15 Stoic empathy vs. Emotional empathy 09:21 Empathy born from survival 13:49 Is empathy a negotiation tactic? 19:37 How insecurity can make leaders seem strong but disconnected 25:07 Emotional regulation 29:46 Authenticity vs. professionalism 33:07 When appearance becomes protest 42:21 Why do we hide who we really are 48:53 Relationships evolving over time 55:29 Empathy or manipulation? 59:35 Why empathy needs to be in sync 1:03:04 Finding the balance between being an A-hole and a doormat 1:06:41 What can you learn from ‘Stoic Empathy’ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Tyler Dickerhoof Show, host Tyler Dickerhoof sits down with Matt Poepsel to uncover the transformative journey that led him from Marine Corps service to becoming a passionate advocate for enlightened leadership. Matt reveals how his relentless pursuit of achievements—from military accomplishments to Ironman races to earning a PhD—ultimately left him feeling empty, until the pandemic forced him into a free fall that changed everything. They explore the profound disconnect between outdated leadership models and today's workforce, particularly as younger generations demand purpose alongside paychecks. Matt shares his unexpected path to ancient wisdom traditions and how these timeless principles can revolutionize modern organizations facing unprecedented challenges. From the "Killer Bees" of workplace fulfillment to the power of purposeful pauses, this conversation examines why fear destroys everything good in organizations—and how authentic leadership begins with genuine self-reflection. Follow Matt:  https://www.mattpoepsel.com/ https://www.instagram.com/mattpoepsel/ https://www.youtube.com/@mattpoepsel https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattpoepsel/ https://www.mattpoepsel.com/podcasts/lead-the-people The Tyler Dickerhoof Show https://www.youtube.com/@impactdrivenleader https://www.instagram.com/thetylerdickerhoofshow/ Subscribe to the newsletter: https://impactdrivenleader.beehiiv.com/ Tyler is on: https://www.tylerdickerhoof.com/ https://www.facebook.com/tyler.dickerhoof.3 https://www.instagram.com/tyler_dickerhoof/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-dickerhoof-1960351b What We Discussed: 00:00 Introduction  01:27 Joining the Marines 02:05 The military adapted, but leadership models didn't 04:28 Why retirees return to the workforce 07:24 How Millennials and Gen Z Are Redefining Work 11:59 The 2008 Crisis Changed Retirement Forever 15:10 What Is Enlightened Leadership? 19:47 How Nature Reconnects You to Who You Are 22:38 Slow Is Fast: The Counterintuitive Secret to Productivity 25:32 Fear Is What’s Ruining Your Workplace 31:48 Why Every Employee Should See Themselves as a Leader 33:32 The Power of Leading Yourself Before Leading Others 36:56 Are We Still Using the Wrong Playbook for Success? 40:11 Impact of Toxic Work Environments 42:35 Pause Button for Better Leadership Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Tyler Dickerhoof Show, Josh Kosnick opens up about the emotional journey of facing betrayal and loss, and how it became the catalyst for a complete reinvention of his life and leadership. After losing everything he thought he was meant to do, Josh dove deep into the pain and grief, refusing to let himself fall into a victim mindset. Instead, he found a new path—one rooted in service, purpose, and unwavering faith. Josh shares how he embraced his true calling as a leader, coach, and speaker, determined to build something that would not only impact his own life but the lives of those around him. If you're facing tough decisions, dealing with setbacks, or struggling to find your purpose, this episode will hit home. Josh’s journey will remind you that even in the darkest moments, there is light. Connect with Josh: https://joshkosnick.com/ https://www.instagram.com/joshkosnick https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshkosnick https://youtube.com/@joshkosnick The Tyler Dickerhoof Show https://www.youtube.com/@impactdrivenleader https://www.instagram.com/thetylerdickerhoofshow/ Subscribe to the newsletter: https://impactdrivenleader.beehiiv.com/ Tyler is on: https://www.tylerdickerhoof.com/ https://www.facebook.com/tyler.dickerhoof.3 https://www.instagram.com/tyler_dickerhoof/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-dickerhoof-1960351b What We Discussed: What we discussed: 00:00 Introduction 02:49 Grief & Betrayal: My Journey  09:42 Lessons Learned  16:52 Reject Victimhood Mentality 22:24 The Art Of Endurance 26:15 I Can Do All Things Through Christ 34:11 Aligning With My Spiritual Self 42:26 Legacy: Rebuilding Myself 50:18 Vulnerability In Leadership  54:56 My Greatest Legacy  57:40 Connect With Josh Kosnick Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Tyler Dickerhoof Show, host Tyler Dickerhoof sits down with Brian Kight—performance coach, leadership expert, and founder of Daily Discipline. Brian has spent years working with top athletes, business leaders, and high-performing teams to develop the habits, systems, and mindset that drive consistent results. They explore how to build a life of discipline without burning out, why the most dangerous mindset is entitlement, and how to lead with clarity—starting with yourself. Brian also shares what he’s learned from working with elite performers, how to navigate chaos with confidence, and why personal responsibility is the cornerstone of real freedom. Follow Brian:  https://www.tbriankight.com/ https://www.dailydiscipline.com/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMctd-YoxlHTTjSU6-qkHJQ http://instagram.com/tbriankight/ The Tyler Dickerhoof Show https://www.youtube.com/@impactdrivenleader https://www.instagram.com/thetylerdickerhoofshow/ Subscribe to the newsletter: https://impactdrivenleader.beehiiv.com/ Tyler is on: https://www.tylerdickerhoof.com/ https://www.facebook.com/tyler.dickerhoof.3 https://www.instagram.com/tyler_dickerhoof/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-dickerhoof-1960351b What We Discussed: 00:00 Introduction  01:55 Brian’s story and how he learned empathy 08:54 The Definition of Empathy 16:40 How a Family Dinner Changed One’s Perspective 22:43 Empathy Can Save Weeks of Resistance 28:33 The Power of Choosing Empathy Over Feeling It 36:17 Empathy in Politics 38:18 Lack of Empathy Makes People Feel Invisible 44:25 The Power of Owning Your Choices in Leadership 48:05 Are You Getting Validation from Real Relationships or Your Phone? 54:34 The True Meaning of Vocation and Life’s Calling 1:05:02 Teaching Empathy and Discipline to Others 1:10:59 Understanding the Problem vs. Just Fixing the Symptoms Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Tyler Dickerhoof Show, host Tyler Dickerhoof sits down with Natalie Kovarik to explore the layered journey behind her online presence—one that began not with a content strategy, but with a single post that changed everything. From growing up a self-proclaimed “non-farm kid” to becoming one of the most recognizable voices in agriculture today, Natalie shares the evolution of her identity, her voice, and her mission. They talk about what it means to truly advocate for agriculture in a world that often misunderstands it, the delicate balance between being honest and being liked, and why choosing vulnerability online is sometimes the most radical form of leadership. If you've ever felt torn between staying small or speaking up, this conversation is an invitation to step into purpose—even when it’s uncomfortable. Follow Natalie:  https://www.instagram.com/nataliekovarik/ https://nataliekovarik.com/ https://discoverag.com/meet-your-hosts The Tyler Dickerhoof Show https://www.youtube.com/@impactdrivenleader https://www.instagram.com/thetylerdickerhoofshow/ Subscribe to the newsletter: https://impactdrivenleader.beehiiv.com/ Tyler is on: https://www.tylerdickerhoof.com/ https://www.facebook.com/tyler.dickerhoof.3 https://www.instagram.com/tyler_dickerhoof/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-dickerhoof-1960351b What We Discussed: 00:00 Introduction  02:01 Choosing Pharmacy Over Ranch Life 06:07 Why Perception Around Farming Is Complicated 09:26 Most People Don’t Know Where Food Comes From 12:09 Making Agriculture Cool Again 16:01 What Real Support in Marriage Looks Like 19:04 The Emotional Toll of Farming 21:32 Supporting Local Farms: The Push Against Corporate Food 26:59 How Family Farms Handle Cash Flow and Debt in Agriculture 30:50 The Truth About Big Food and Its Control Over Agriculture 33:36 Can We Make Changes to Agriculture Without Sacrificing Quality? 37:50 The Surprising Link Between Seed Oils and Beef Production 40:41 Is Social Media Helping or Hurting Our Understanding of Food? 45:11 The Changing Role of Women in Agriculture 50:53 What If Social Media Disappeared Tomorrow? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Tyler Dickerhoof Show, host Tyler Dickerhoof sits down with Laurel Weirs, a licensed marriage and family therapist with over 24 years of experience. Laurel has developed a unique method, MINT (Memory Integration and Neutralization Technique), that helps people rewire the way they respond to trauma. They break down why some behaviors seem impossible to change, how childhood memories shape adult relationships, and the brain science behind rewriting painful experiences. Tyler also shares his own struggles with intensity and how trauma responses show up in leadership, parenting, and personal growth. If you've ever wondered why certain things trigger you—or how to break free from them—this episode will change the way you see your past and your future. Follow Laurel:  https://laurelwiers.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurelwiers https://youtube.com/@laurelwiers https://www.instagram.com/laurelwiers The Tyler Dickerhoof Show https://www.youtube.com/@impactdrivenleader https://www.instagram.com/thetylerdickerhoofshow/ Subscribe to the newsletter: https://impactdrivenleader.beehiiv.com/ Tyler is on: https://www.tylerdickerhoof.com/ https://www.facebook.com/tyler.dickerhoof.3 https://www.instagram.com/tyler_dickerhoof/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-dickerhoof-1960351b What We Discussed: 00:00 Introduction  01:50 Behavioural Therapy 11:57 Memory, Integration & Neutralization Techniques 19:35 Impact Of Behavioural Therapy 28:09 Does Alcohol & Substances Stunt This Process? 36:09 Personality Triggers 38:40 Put What You Have Learnt Into Practice 41:42 Be Authentically Vulnerable 47:04 Process & Know Your Triggers 52:22 Connect With Laurel Wiers Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Tyler Dickerhoof Show, host Tyler Dickerhoof chats with Katie Harnetiaux, President of USL Spokane, as she shares her journey from leading teams at Amazon and Starbucks to launching two professional soccer teams from scratch. They also discuss the power of leadership, the challenges of building culture, and the lessons learned from stepping into the unknown. Katie opens up about the sacrifices, the surprises, and the mission behind bringing high-level soccer to Spokane. Plus, she dives into the importance of mentorship, enduring tough seasons, and why sports are more than just a game—they’re a community lifeline. If you're a leader, entrepreneur, or just someone who loves an underdog story, this episode is for you! Follow Katie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katieharnetiaux https://www.instagram.com/katieharnetiaux/ https://www.uslspokane.com/ https://x.com/katieharnetiaux The Tyler Dickerhoof Show https://www.youtube.com/@impactdrivenleader https://www.instagram.com/thetylerdickerhoofshow/ Subscribe to the newsletter: https://impactdrivenleader.beehiiv.com/ Tyler is on: https://www.tylerdickerhoof.com/ https://www.facebook.com/tyler.dickerhoof.3 https://www.instagram.com/tyler_dickerhoof/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-dickerhoof-1960351b What we discussed: 00:00 Introduction  01:52 What Leadership Really Means for Women 05:28 From Corporate Careers to Running a Soccer Club 10:05 When Your Work Becomes Your Life 11:46 Success Requires Endurance 13:47 Building Something for Spokane’s Future 19:35 The Hardest Part of Building a Team 25:20 Balancing Leadership & Marriage 27:04 How Pro Athletes & Staff Became a Family 31:40 The Pandemic Proved We Need Sports & Community 33:58 How Katie's Upbringing Shaped Her Parenting Style 39:33 Why Forcing Kids to Choose a Sport Too Soon is Harmful 49:19 How to Surround Yourself with the Right People Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What truly defines a winning culture? In this episode of The Tyler Dickerhoof Show, host Tyler Dickerhoof sits down with Robby Emery—speaker, pastor, and leadership expert—to explore the power of culture in shaping high-performing teams. Robby shares insights from his work with Michigan football and his experience developing leaders in business, sports, and faith-based organizations. They discuss why what’s said in the halls matters more than what’s written on the walls, emphasizing how true leadership isn’t just about setting expectations but creating space for people to take ownership. Robby breaks down the three keys to building a championship culture—defining it, declaring it, and defending it—and highlights the role of language in shaping leadership. They also explore the intersection of faith, responsibility, and personal growth, sharing valuable lessons from Michigan’s football program and how winning cultures sustain success. Whether you’re a business leader, coach, or entrepreneur, this conversation will give you actionable strategies to create a culture that drives impact. Follow Robby: https://www.robbyemery.com/ https://www.instagram.com/robbyemery/ The Tyler Dickerhoof Show https://www.youtube.com/@impactdrivenleader https://www.instagram.com/thetylerdickerhoofshow/ Subscribe to the newsletter: https://impactdrivenleader.beehiiv.com/ Tyler is on: https://www.tylerdickerhoof.com/ https://www.facebook.com/tyler.dickerhoof.3 https://www.instagram.com/tyler_dickerhoof/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-dickerhoof-1960351b What we discussed: 00:00 Introduction 01:38 Why the Big Ten Is Dominating College Football 02:42 The Secret to Building a Championship Culture 05:00 How Toxic Conversations Can Destroy an Organization 08:39 The Lesson Behind Michigan’s Championship Mentality 11:19 Why True Leaders Take Responsibility, Not Just Credit 16:26 Faith, Belief, and the Role They Play in Leadership 18:49 The Intersection of Character and Culture 20:55 Why Some People Lead and Others Just Wait 23:02 Culture Starts with Ownership 26:29 How Leadership Can Inspire True Ownership 29:05 How to Keep Moving Forward After a Setback 36:03 You Can Get Content Online, But You Can’t Get Community Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Tyler Dickerhoof Show, host Tyler Dickerhoof sits down with bestselling author and Enneagram expert Ian Cron as he breaks down the surprising ways addiction shows up in our daily lives—from workaholism to perfectionism to success addiction. Ian opens up about his personal journey, including his relapse during COVID, and shares how the 12 Steps offer a path to freedom—not just for addicts, but for anyone looking to break free from destructive habits. They also discuss how leadership, personal growth, and even the Enneagram tie into overcoming addictive patterns. If you’ve ever felt stuck in unhealthy cycles or wondered why certain behaviors keep holding you back, this conversation will challenge you to rethink what addiction really means—and how to move toward true transformation. Follow Ian: https://ianmorgancron.com https://www.instagram.com/ianmorgancron/ https://www.typologypodcast.com https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLT_Gnk3MdUZsFz3dTjFXQQ The Tyler Dickerhoof Show https://www.youtube.com/@impactdrivenleader https://www.instagram.com/thetylerdickerhoofshow/ Subscribe to the newsletter: https://impactdrivenleader.beehiiv.com/ Tyler is on: https://www.tylerdickerhoof.com/ https://www.facebook.com/tyler.dickerhoof.3 https://www.instagram.com/tyler_dickerhoof/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-dickerhoof-1960351b What we discussed: 00:00 Introduction  01:43 Ian Cron’s Journey Into Recovery 03:46 The Link Between Workaholism & Substance Abuse 07:26 Imposter Syndrome in High Achievers 09:32 The Dark Side of Always Hustling 14:29 The Brain Chemistry Behind Addiction 17:50 How Social Media Fuels Addiction 21:58 The Truth About Powerlessness & Control 26:11 Why Vulnerability Helps Others Heal 28:24 The Biggest Misconception About 12-Step Meetings 31:43 Why Powerlessness Is Actually a Superpower 36:07 Good Leadership Is an Inside Job 42:57 The Hidden Cost of Pushing Through Pain 45:09 How to Know If You’re Addicted to Something 53:02 The Legacy of The Fix Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Tyler Dickerhoof Show, host Tyler Dickerhoof sits down with Johannes Escudero, CEO of the Coalition for Renewable Natural Gas. They discuss how biogas and renewable natural gas (RNG) are produced, how they can help reduce waste, and why big companies are starting to pay attention. Johannes shares his experience working in the energy industry, the biggest challenges in pushing for change, and why funding and politics play such a big role in renewable energy. They also talk about how rising energy costs affect food prices and what the future could look like under new leadership. From leadership struggles to the fight for better energy solutions, this episode is packed with insights on where the industry is headed and what still needs to change.  Follow Johannes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johannes-d-escudero https://www.rngcoalition.com/staff https://www.instagram.com/johannes_escudero https://x.com/JDEscudero_ The Tyler Dickerhoof Show https://www.youtube.com/@impactdrivenleader https://www.instagram.com/thetylerdickerhoofshow/ Subscribe to the newsletter: https://impactdrivenleader.beehiiv.com/ Tyler is on: https://www.tylerdickerhoof.com/ https://www.facebook.com/tyler.dickerhoof.3 https://www.instagram.com/tyler_dickerhoof/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-dickerhoof-1960351b What we discussed: 00:00 Introduction  01:57 Biogas & Renewable Natural Gas 15:05 From Waste To Fuel 20:33 New Administration: Prospects For The Energy Sector  27:50 Energy Cost & Its Role In Cost Of Living 37:23 The Biggest Leadership Challenges  43:15 Funding & Politics 45:39 Connect With Johannes Escudero Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices