2351 - Incorporating Joy and Humor into Your Leadership Style with Elizabeth Walker

How Comedy Builds Trust, Connection, and Stronger Leadership Teams with Elizabeth Walker

In this episode, host Josh Elledge speaks with Elizabeth Walker, host of the Dear Business Coach Podcast and a workplace communication expert who helps leaders use humor as a tool for connection and trust. Their conversation explores how comedy—when used intentionally—can break down barriers, improve communication, and create psychologically safe environments where teams thrive. This blog captures the most impactful insights from their discussion, offering leaders a fresh perspective on how humor can elevate leadership effectiveness and workplace culture.

Using Humor as a Strategic Leadership Skill

Elizabeth Walker reframes comedy as a leadership skill rather than entertainment, explaining that humor helps leaders communicate more effectively by making messages memorable and human. When leaders use light, intentional humor—especially through storytelling—they signal approachability and authenticity, making it easier for teams to engage, share ideas, and collaborate. Rather than relying on jokes, Elizabeth emphasizes humor rooted in shared experiences, everyday challenges, and honest reflection.

A major focus of the conversation is self-effacing humor, which Elizabeth describes as a powerful way to build trust without undermining authority. By sharing moments of failure, awkwardness, or learning, leaders show they are human—inviting connection instead of hierarchy. Elizabeth cautions against self-disrespect, noting that effective self-effacing humor should create common ground rather than diminish confidence, helping teams feel safe enough to contribute openly.

Elizabeth also shares how she teaches humor through workshops and exercises that guide participants to uncover their own “underdog stories.” These storytelling practices help individuals tap into authenticity, vulnerability, and relatability—key ingredients for strong leadership presence. By modeling openness and encouraging laughter rooted in empathy, leaders can foster cultures where trust grows, pressure eases, and teams become more resilient and engaged.

About Elizabeth Walker

Elizabeth Walker is a leadership communication coach, workshop facilitator, and host of the Dear Business Coach Podcast. She helps leaders, coaches, and teams use humor, storytelling, and authenticity to improve communication, build trust, and strengthen workplace culture. Connect with Elizabeth on LinkedIn or explore her work through the Dear Business Coach Podcast.

About the Dear Business Coach Podcast

The Dear Business Coach Podcast features conversations with coaches, leaders, and industry experts on practical strategies for professional growth, leadership development, and effective communication. The show focuses on real-world insights—covering everything from workplace dynamics to personal development tools leaders can apply immediately. Learn more at dearbusinesscoachpodcast.com.

Links Mentioned in This Episode

• Elizabeth Walker on LinkedIn
• Dear Business Coach Podcast

Key Episode Highlights

• Comedy is a leadership tool—not entertainment
• Humor improves communication...