Embracing Humanity in Everyday Leadership Moments with Tricia Naddaff

"It's not about being the smartest in the room—it's about creating space for others to contribute."

In this episode, Craig P. Anderson welcomes Tricia Naddaff, President of Management Research Group, to explore what it really means to lead through change, complexity, and feedback. Tricia shares how her earliest leadership lessons—like being a fourth-grade bus stop monitor—shaped her approach to self-awareness, responsibility, and building resilient teams. Craig and Tricia discuss why context matters as much as vision, how neuroscience reveals our leadership habits, and what happens when leaders shift from "I have to know everything" to "we'll figure it out together." Drawing from humanitarian work and years of coaching leaders, Tricia offers practical, human-centered advice for anyone who wants to grow as a leader—no matter where they start.

After You Listen:

• Connect with Tricia Naddaff on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tricianaddaff/

• Learn more about Management Research Group: https://www.mrg.com/

• Connect with Craig on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigpanderson/ 

• Sign up for Craig's Monthly Business Leadership Webinars: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/3GDgSdp_RfGqegxIXIbAYg

Key Takeaways

• Self-awareness is foundational for authentic leadership

• Context, objectives, and resources shape every leadership decision

• Feedback is a tool for growth, not judgment

Things to listen for:

(00:00) Intro

(02:31) Why neuroscience matters for leaders

(05:44) Lessons from leading in humanitarian settings

(09:35) Defining leadership beyond style or vision

(16:24) Navigating raw moments and team dynamics

(18:25) Early leadership experiences and learning from feedback

(21:21) The importance of self-knowledge

(24:46) Tricia's evolving leadership style

(29:50) Advice Tricia would give her younger self