In today’s high-velocity work environments, where deadlines loom, priorities shift by the hour, and the pressure to perform never lets up, empathy can feel like a luxury we can’t afford. But what if that thinking is backwards?

In this episode of The Leadership Code, we’re joined by Rebecca Shaddix—a powerhouse strategist and founder of Strategica Partners—who’s helped organizations generate over $450 million in revenue growth in just three and a half years. With her sharp eye for product-market fit and her signature blend of analytical thinking and emotional intelligence, Rebecca argues that empathy isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a performance multiplier.

We explore:

• What empathy actually looks like in fast-paced, high-stakes teams

• How to lead with heart without losing your edge

• Why emotionally intelligent leaders build stronger products, cultures, and bottom lines

• What you can do today to foster empathy across teams—especially in roles where metrics often overshadow meaning

Whether you're scaling a startup, leading cross-functional teams, or trying to stay grounded in the chaos—this conversation will challenge your assumptions and equip you with practical tools to lead with both clarity and compassion.