What happens when life falls apart—but you still have to show up for work? In this moving episode of Unlock Your Blocks, Elyssa Smith sits down with workplace empathy expert Liesl Mertes, founder of Handle with Care. Liesl opens up about her own journey through loss and how it inspired her mission to help organizations better support employees navigating grief, trauma, and major life transitions.
They discuss the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership, how empathy can transform workplace culture, and why self-awareness is key to responding compassionately to others. This heartfelt conversation is an invitation to slow down, extend grace—to yourself and others—and recognize that healing and growth are both possible, even in the midst of hardship.
✅ What You’ll Learn:

How empathy can transform workplace culture and leadership
Why disruptive life events require emotional support at work
Practical ways to build a culture of empathy and care
How grief and trauma can deepen self-awareness and resilience
The importance of gentleness and self-compassion during healing
How to identify and overcome self-sabotaging behaviors
The power of movement and nature for grounding and safety
Why asking for help is an act of strength, not weakness



🕒 Episode Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction to Workplace Empathy
03:07 – Understanding Handle with Care
10:26 – Liesl’s Personal Journey of Loss
18:40 – Building Handle with Care
23:21 – Overcoming Self-Sabotage
31:50 – Finding Safety and Hope
39:27 – Final Thoughts and Recommendations
🎁 Get a Free Call with Elyssa:
Book your FREE 15-minute Unlock Your Blocks focus call to uncover what’s keeping you from your next level of growth and clarity.
👉 Book here
📌 Follow Elyssa for More:
📸 Instagram: @elyssacsmith
📘 Facebook Group – The Stressless Lounge

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