The Power of Words: Pausing Before we Judge

12/10/2025 8 min Episodio 16
The Power of Words: Pausing Before we Judge

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Episode Synopsis


🪞 Episode SummaryWhat happens in that moment after someone says something that hits you wrong? Before the judgment, before the reaction—there’s a pause. And in that pause lies the possibility for understanding.In this episode of Space to Lead, David LeBlanc explores the power of language, how certain words—like “sissy”—carry history and emotion, and how our reactions often reveal as much about us as they do about the word itself.This is a conversation about words as both weapons and bridges, about sensitivity and awareness, and about the practice of pausing before we decide what’s right, wrong, or off-limits.In This EpisodeThe story behind why a single word in a previous episode stayed with DavidHow language carries history, identity, and emotionThe psychology of reaction—what’s happening in your body when a word triggers youHow to pause and reflect before judgmentWhy curiosity, not censorship, builds understandingWhat leaders, coaches, and teams can learn about communication through awareness of languageKey TakeawaysWords are never neutral—they live in relationship and context.Our reactions are often shaped by memory, identity, and experience.The pause between stimulus and response is where reflection and growth happen.True inclusion isn’t just about policing language—it’s about staying open to dialogue and difference.When we replace judgment with curiosity, we open the door to empathy.Reflective Prompts for ListenersWhat words have power for you?When you react strongly to something someone says, what might that be telling you about your story?How can you create more space to pause, reflect, and respond rather than react?Connect & Explore📰 Read the companion article: The Power of Words: Pausing Before We Judge – TEAMshift Magazine🎧 Listen to past episodes of Space to Lead🌐 Visit www.leblancleadership.ca for leadership and team development resources💬 Join the conversation on LinkedIn — share your reflection using #SpaceToLead #TEAMshiftMagazine #LiveLearnGrow🕊️ Episode Quote“Maybe the answer isn't in making a list of forbidden words - maybe it's in practicing curiosity.”🎵 CreditsHost: David LeBlancProduced by: LeBlanc Leadership Group – The LIVE. LEARN. GROW. CompanyFind more at: The Space to Lead Podcast

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