Below the Surface Leadership Lessons from an LGBTQ+ Black Mayor The Leading Below the Surface Podcast with LaTonya Wilkins

Welcome to Season Two of the Leading Below the Surface podcast, where we kick off with a special episode for Black History Month featuring Mayor Bruce Teague, the first Black LGBTQ+ mayor of Iowa City, Iowa. In our conversation, we discuss the challenges of leading a diverse community in today's polarized world, Mayor Teague's approach to navigating difficult conversations and decisions, and the role that empathy, understanding, and open communication play in fostering a community that values diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Mayor Teague’s story is a powerful testament to the impact that below the surface leadership can have on a community and beyond.



Tips from Today's Episode:

-Create space and foster an environment for others to bring their full authentic selves.

-Bring empathy, and a clear message when approaching a challenging conversation.

-Co-create a path forward when addressing deficiencies or differences of opinions.



Resources from today's episode:

LBTS Blog: When being labeled “the first” detracts from genuine belonging

Connect with us: 

Email us at info@changecoaches.io

Learn more about Change Coaches 

Follow LaTonya on LinkedIn 

Follow Change Coaches on LinkedIn 

For More on the Book Leading Below the Surface