Braving the Workplace: Building Belonging and Leadership with Dr. Beth Kaplan

2025-11-12

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In this episode of Winning Through Culture, hosts Amanda Kramer and Tim Flanagan are joined by Dr. Beth Kaplan, author of Braving the Workplace and a leading expert in belonging and leadership development. Together, they explore how leaders can create brave spaces—environments where truth is told with care and vulnerability meets accountability. Dr. Kaplan discusses the difference between safe and brave spaces, the impact of belonging uncertainty on performance, and why care—not perfection—is at the heart of effective leadership. The conve...

Dr. Kaplan discusses the difference between safe and brave spaces, the impact of belonging uncertainty on performance, and why care—not perfection—is at the heart of effective leadership. The conversation uncovers practical ways for leaders to replace assumptions with invitations, meet people where they are, and build cultures rooted in authenticity and care.

Key Topics:

The difference between inclusion and belonging—and why both matter
How to balance vulnerability, candor, and accountability as a leader
Why psychological safety fuels courage and growth
Practical ways to show genuine care and strengthen team connections
How progress, not perfection, creates sustainable success

Dr. Kaplan also shares findings from her ongoing research with the University of Pennsylvania and offers a reminder that leadership is never neutral—it’s either healing or harmful.

About Dr. Beth Kaplan:

Dr. Beth Kaplan is a researcher, writer, and thought leader on belonging and leadership development. Through her work with organizations like Salesforce, Georgetown University, and the Carnegie Foundation, she helps people and teams thrive through care, courage, and connection. Learn more at drbethkaplan.com

Related Content: Winning Women Series | Kristen Eskew on Fostering Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging | How to Build and Fuel a Healthy Company Culture

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