The Power of Second Chances in Leadership

Summary:

In this heartfelt and joy-filled conversation, Lori sits down with longtime friend and leadership partner Christine Conroy to explore what it really means to lead with humanity. From Christine’s years at Coca-Cola to her current work at Grayston Bakery—home of the groundbreaking open hiring model—this episode is a powerful reflection on second chances, dignity at work, and leading with courage and compassion.

Together, Lori and Christine share personal stories about resilience, vulnerability, and building workplaces rooted in trust and purpose. As the holiday season approaches, they also reflect on gratitude, joy, and how leaders can stay grounded and hopeful—even in challenging seasons. This episode is a reminder that great leadership isn’t about perfection; it’s about presence, empathy, and believing in people.

If you’re craving leadership that feels real, meaningful, and deeply human—this conversation is for you.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

Second Chances Change Everything

Christine shares how Grayston Bakery’s open hiring policy removes barriers and gives people the opportunity to rebuild their lives through meaningful work.

Audience follow-up → Where in your leadership could you create space for someone’s fresh start?

Vulnerability Is a Leadership Strength

True connection comes from leaders who are willing to be real, honest, and human—not just polished and perfect.

Audience follow-up → What would shift if you led your team with a little more openness?

Empathy Builds Stronger Partnerships

From corporate boardrooms to social enterprises, Christine and Lori discuss how empathy and mutual respect create lasting, impactful relationships.

Audience follow-up → How well do you really know the people you work with—and what they’re carrying?

Purpose Makes Work Matter

Christine reflects on the deep fulfillment that comes from aligning values with work, and how purpose-driven leadership fuels resilience.

Audience follow-up → Does your work reflect what matters most to you right now?

Joy Is a Practice—Especially in Hard Seasons

As the holidays approach, the conversation turns to gratitude, perspective, and choosing joy even when life feels heavy.

Audience follow-up → What’s one small way you can protect your joy this season?

🔎 Mentioned in the Episode:

1. Grayston Bakery & Open Hiring Model – A pioneering approach to employment rooted in dignity and opportunity
2. Christine’s Leadership Journey – From Coca-Cola to purpose-driven work
3. Mentors and Meaningful Relationships – Lessons from leaders like Mike Rizzo
4. Personal Stories of Friendship, Loss, and Growth

✨ Reflection Prompts:

1. Where have you seen the power of a second chance—either given or received?
2. How do you balance results with compassion as a leader?
3. What helps you reconnect to joy when leadership feels heavy?

🧠 Who This Episode Is For:

1. Leaders who want to lead with heart, not just authority
2. Executives...