Building Bridges Through Empathy

In this episode of Behind Beliefs, Behaviors and the Brain, Dr. Maiysha Clairborne reconnects with her longtime friend and leadership expert Wade Hinton to talk about the power of empathy, trust, and shared values in leadership. Their conversation explores how leaders can move beyond surface-level diversity initiatives to cultivate authentic human connection.

Let’s dive into how empathy, curiosity, and communication can bridge divides both in the workplace and in everyday life.

Leadership Begins with Self-Awareness

Wade Hinton describes leadership as a continual practice of self-reflection. He reminds us that effective leaders don’t have all the answers. Instead, they create space for curiosity and collaboration. True confidence comes from saying, “Here’s what we know right now,” and being transparent about uncertainty.

When leaders show vulnerability, they model psychological safety. Let’s remember that safety is not built by perfection but by presence, consistency, and humility.

Transparency Builds Trust

Transparency and communication are the foundation of bridge building. Wade notes that when leaders communicate openly, even about what they don’t yet know, they strengthen trust within teams. Whether through town halls, small-group meetings, or one-on-one check-ins, regular and honest dialogue ensures that people feel seen and heard.

Trust grows when leaders create feedback loops rather than waiting for conflict to surface. Let’s listen first, speak second, and make room for every voice.

Curiosity Over Certainty

One of the greatest barriers to connection is certainty. When we enter conversations convinced we already have the truth, we close the door to understanding. Wade shares that real bridge building requires curiosity—being willing to ask, “Tell me more about how you see this.”

Let’s approach discussions with open minds and regulate our emotional responses when beliefs or values differ. Curiosity invites dialogue. Certainty ends it.

Shared Values Create Common Ground

At the core of every healthy organization and relationship is a set of shared values. Wade and Dr. Maiysha discuss how identifying and revisiting those values keeps teams aligned. When actions drift from stated values, it may be time to re-evaluate whether the organization’s culture and its daily practices truly match.

Shared values are not only professional; they’re personal. Let’s bring the same empathy, respect, and curiosity we practice at work into our homes and communities.

The BUILD Framework for Bridge Building

Wade introduces the BUILD framework, a simple yet powerful guide to leading with empathy and values:

• Be Curious – Ask questions that invite understanding.

• Understand – Seek the story beneath someone’s perspective.

• Listen – Reflect back what you’ve heard to show true attention.

• Identify Values – Look for shared beliefs or goals.

• Decide What’s Next – Choose actions that align with mutual respect and growth.

Let’s apply this framework in our conversations to move beyond debate toward connection.

Bridge Building at Work and at Home

Leadership principles extend far beyond the workplace. The same empathy and curiosity that help leaders connect with teams can deepen relationships with family and friends. Whether we’re parenting, partnering, or collaborating, our ability to listen and validate others’ experiences shapes the strength of our connections.

Appreciation and acknowledgment go a long way. Let’s express gratitude often and recognize small wins. These gestures build trust faster than any strategy or slogan ever could.

About Wade Hinton 

Wade Hinton is a leadership and culture expert, award-winning lawyer, and CEO of Hinton & Company, helping executives, boards, and organizations create thriving workplaces where people are engaged, teams are aligned, and strategies deliver results.  Wade enjoys traveling, reading, working out, and playing golf, and is active in his community through board and civic work. 

Follow Wade Hinton 

Website: https://www.wadehinton.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hinton_co
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HintonandCompany
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wadehinton 

Follow Dr. Maiysha on Social media 

Facebook: www.facebook.com/DrMaiysha 
Instagram: www.instagram.com/DrMaiysha
Youtube: www.YouTube.com/DrMaiysha 

Hosted by: Dr. Maiysha Clairborne 

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