Why authenticity and vulnerability define great tech leaders with Catherine Stagg-Macey

In this episode of The Digital Lighthouse, host Zoe Cunningham speaks with Catherine Stagg-Macey, executive coach, advisor, and host of the Unsaid At Work podcast. After more than 20 years in consulting and operations, Catherine has seen how traditional command-and-control leadership fails in fast-moving tech environments.

Together they explore why authenticity and vulnerability are not weaknesses but core strengths for today’s technology leaders. Catherine shares how letting go of the illusion of control, acknowledging challenges, and treating teams like adults can transform culture, build trust, and unlock better performance—even in turbulent times.

Discover

• How to show vulnerability without oversharing: sharing “scars” rather than open wounds
• Why authenticity builds stronger teams and reduces the burden on leaders 
• Why “motivation” isn’t something leaders can inject, but a balance of clear direction and the right people
• The difference between acknowledgement and toxic positivity—and why it matters
• Strategies for motivating self-driven teams without micromanagement
• How to handle difficult conversations when budgets tighten or uncertainty looms
• Practical ways to co-create solutions with your team while retaining decision-making authority
  
  

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