Ed Locher, a seasoned executive with over 25 years in tech and cybersecurity, joins Claire Hayek for a raw, honest conversation about emotional intelligence, feedback, and what it really takes to grow as a leader. Ed shares how one moment—being told he had no empathy—pushed him to shift from reactive defensiveness to self-reflection. Claire adds brain-based tools around the Default Mode Network and how language becomes a mirror for what the brain repeats. Together, they break down why empathy is a trainable skill and why humility under pressure is a leader’s greatest unlock.Topics Covered:What to do when you're hit with brutal feedbackThe trap of performance-based leadershipClaire explains the Default Mode Network and how thoughts loopSelf-awareness vs. self-shame: the brain differenceLanguage as data: how words reveal mental patternsEd’s strategies for staying grounded in conflictWhy ego-resistance can derail team cultureTimestamps (HH:MM):00:00 – Cold open: “You have no empathy”02:00 – Ed’s background + what happened in that pivotal moment04:30 – Claire explains DMN and brain loops during stress06:00 – Performance vs. presence in leadership09:30 – Ed on managing internal resistance and staying grounded12:00 – Words as neural commands + the RAS15:00 – Vulnerability vs. control: Ed’s learning curve18:00 – Listener challenge: Tune into your reactive phrase this week20:00 – Closing reflections + connect with ClaireMentioned Resources:Free Webinar- Own Your Voice. Master Your Mind. Live Sept 10 at 1PM EST | 10AM PST👉 Save your seat or Register here for the replayEd Locher's Book on Amazon: Holistic Marketing: Digital Transformation through People, Processes, and TechnologyConnect with Claire → https://linktr.ee/clairehayek | IG: @claire.hayek  Have a question? [email protected] 
The NeuroLeadership Edge Podcast is produced by Claire Hayek. All opinions are those of the host and guests. For more leadership resources, visit www.mspteambuilding.com.

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