The Limitless Equation Podcast, hosted by Chloe Hooper, has unveiled a compelling new episode titled Radical Candour, featuring Sarah Thom, the general manager at Nunn Media. In this episode, Thom shares her transformative journey from being a self-described people pleaser to becoming a leader who values truth-telling delivered with empathy.
During the candid conversation, Thom delves into her leadership philosophy, emphasizing the importance of balancing care with directness. “Radical candour is caring personally while challenging directly,” Thom explained. “I’ve always cared deeply about people, but learning to give the honest feedback they needed helped me become a better leader.”
The Journey from People Pleaser to Truth Teller
Thom’s evolution as a leader is marked by her shift from avoiding difficult conversations to embracing them as a tool for growth. Early in her career, Thom admits that her tendency to please others often led to unaddressed issues within her teams. However, by adopting frameworks like C.O.I.N. (Context, Observation, Impact, Next steps), she was able to transform her approach to leadership and achieve better outcomes.
According to Thom, the C.O.I.N. framework provided a structured way to deliver feedback that is both honest and constructive. This method not only improved her communication skills but also fostered a more open and trusting environment within her teams.
Humor and Emotional Maturity in Leadership
In addition to her focus on candour, Thom highlights the role of humor in her leadership style. She describes humor as her “go-to” tool, which she has learned to use selectively. This selective use of humor is part of a broader emotional maturity that Thom has developed over the years, knowing when to inject lightness into a situation and when to pull back.
Chloe Hooper, reflecting on the episode, remarked, “Sarah has this incredible mix of warmth, honesty, and humor… she gives you the truth in a way that makes you feel safe, not judged. Her perspective on feedback, confidence, and connection is powerful because it’s lived. Listening to Sarah is a reminder that candour isn’t harsh; it’s one of the most generous things we can offer.”
Implications for Modern Leadership
The insights shared by Thom on the podcast have broader implications for modern leadership practices. In an era where transparency and authenticity are increasingly valued, Thom’s approach underscores the importance of honest communication in building strong, effective teams. Her journey highlights the potential for personal growth and improved team dynamics when leaders prioritize candour and empathy.
As organizations continue to navigate complex challenges, the ability to engage in open, honest dialogue becomes a critical skill for leaders. Thom’s experiences serve as a testament to the power of radical candour in fostering a culture of trust and accountability.
Looking ahead, the principles discussed by Thom could inspire other leaders to reevaluate their communication strategies and embrace a more candid, compassionate approach. As Thom’s story illustrates, the path from people pleaser to truth teller is not only possible but also profoundly impactful for both leaders and their teams.
