“Empathy is the starting point for creating a community and taking action. It’s the impetus for creating change.” – Max Carver

We think Max Carver got it right and that if we truly care about community building and making positive changes in the world, we have to invest in learning about how to become even more empathic as empathy is at the heart of true understanding. We asked some deeply empathic leaders to share their perspectives below.

Tina Cordes

I have always felt a little out of step in the business world, especially working in digital agencies. I took the time to foster my feminine approach to being an entrepreneur thanks to Jennifer Ambrust and her Feminist Business School. She asks the question: can a business be feminist? But the more important question is how can it be feminist? She outlines the Feminine Economy which is grounded in an abundance (vs. scarcity) mindset. Read More>>

Laura Ostofe

I truly believe that most people are born with an innate ability to empathize with others; for some, that is a large component of their being and for others, a very small part of who they are. Developing my empathy has most certainly come as a result of life experiences, some wanted and some unwanted. In saying this though, the most substantial element in my growth and development has been a desire to be more like those around me. I have been incredibly fortunate to have grown up in a family that was filled with love and support. My grandmother was the kindest person I ever knew and watching her instinctively and intrinsically care for those in her life, her family and her community was like taking a master’s course in empathy and compassion. Read More>>

Trevor Otsuka

My empathy was developed through firsthand experience. Shortly before entering the mortgage industry, I went through the process of purchasing my first home with a new home builder. Unfortunately, the loan officer assigned to our transaction showed a significant lack of communication, empathy, and genuine care. That experience was frustrating, stressful, and disheartening—especially during a milestone as significant as buying a home. Read More>>

Kristin Manu

I’ve experienced various situations in my life where others showed me empathy and supported me when I couldn’t support myself. Those moments allowed me to truly understand the value of empathy, as I was on the receiving end. Additionally, I consider myself a realist, and I recognize that life can be unpredictable, with many circumstances beyond our control. This awareness has made me more understanding and compassionate toward others, knowing that sometimes the best approach is simply to offer support and understanding Read More>>