Leading Yourself with Elizabeth Lotardo

In this episode, I was delighted to welcome Elizabeth Lotardo—consultant, writer, and LinkedIn Learning instructor—to talk with me about her new book Leading Yourself.
Known for her fresh and practical take on leadership, Elizabeth shared insights on how to create a work experience worth loving, no matter your title or role. This is despite imperfect bosses, weird economies, lethargic coworkers, annoying systems and too many deliverables.
We explored managing your mindset, how to show up as your best self and working with difficult people.
With experience working with companies like Salesforce, Hilton, and Berkshire Hathaway, Elizabeth brought both credibility and heart to the conversation.
Here are some insights from the interview you don’t want to miss:
- Self-Leadership: Elizabeth discussed the importance of self-leadership, emphasising that individuals should take ownership of their engagement and fulfilment at work rather than depending entirely on the organisation or external factors to provide that.
- Purpose at Work: The conversation touched on the idea of finding purpose within a job, regardless of its nature. Elizabeth highlighted that purpose does not have to be grandiose; it can be found in small, impactful ways every day.
- Mindset Shifts: Elizabeth suggested that shifting one’s mindset can lead to a better work experience. For instance, instead of waiting for a perfect boss or ideal circumstances, one can start creating a more positive work environment themselves.
- Navigating Change and Resistance: The discussion addressed dealing with change and resistance in the workplace. Elizabeth provided tips on how to embrace change, manage fear, and stay adaptable, emphasising the importance of focusing on what one can control.
- Managing Boss Relationships: Elizabeth shared strategies for managing relationships with bosses, suggesting that employees take responsibility for their half of the relationship and find ways to work effectively despite any challenges.
You are never powerless. The more you can point your brain to what you do control, the more you can manage your mindset in a way that works for you. And the more you can own your part of relationships, the more likely you are to experience success and engagement at work. It is all in your hands – Elizabeth Lotardo
Whether you’re a senior leader, a new manager, or someone looking to find more meaning in your day-to-day, this episode is full of actionable wisdom to help you lead yourself—and inspire others to do the same.
You can listen to this Business Elevation Show interview with Elizabeth Lotardo & Chris Cooper here. Alternatively on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Tunein, Amazon Music, iHeart Radio (latter US only).
More about Elizabeth Lotardo:

Elizabeth Lotardo is a consultant, writer, and online instructor who helps organisations drive emotional engagement. Her new book, Leading Yourself, has been called a refreshingly candid playbook that helps you create a work experience worth loving, right now.
With an undergraduate degree in advertising from Boston University and a Master’s in Industrial and Organizational Psychology, Elizabeth works with senior leaders, frontline managers, and entry-level teammates to create more purpose-driven work experiences. Her clients include Salesforce, DraftKings, Hilton, and numerous Berkshire Hathaway organizations.
She is also a popular LinkedIn Learning instructor who designs workshops on topics like Leading without Formal Authority, Finding Your Purpose at Work, and Leading Yourself. Elizabeth writes for Harvard Business Review, and her work has been featured in The Wall Street Journal and on NPR.