In a world that often glorifies rugged individualism, finding real connection and mutual growth with others can feel elusive, especially when it comes to our closest relationships. The secret ingredient might just be what so many overlook: genuine collaboration—both at home and beyond. What if the key to thriving wasn't "doing it all yourself," but learning how to truly work together?

In this episode, you'll discover how building circles of collaboration can transform your personal relationships, family dynamics, and even your broader social and professional connections. Through real-life stories and practical strategies, you'll learn why trust, curiosity, and deep listening are so essential for building fulfilling partnerships. You'll also hear how taking intentional steps—like active listening, sharing vulnerability, and nurturing supportive communities—can help you experience more connection, resilience, and joy in every area of your life.

Leslie Grossman is a trailblazer in leadership, and professional and career development for women. She is an accomplished executive coach, keynote speaker, researcher, serial entrepreneur and co-founder of the Women's Leadership Exchange, the first national conference program for women based on collaborative leadership. She is faculty director of Executive Women's Leadership at The George Washington University – Center for Excellence in Public Leadership. Leslie's latest book, "Circles of Collaboration", reveals the time-tested method of harnessing one's success and fulfillment on the principles of collaboration, trust, generosity and communication.

 

Episode Highlights

06:27 Navigating leadership roles and collaboration in relationships.

08:21 Intentionality in creating circles of collaboration.

10:33 The power of deep listening and curiosity in partnership.

14:38 Building meaningful connections through intentional questions.

17:40 Vulnerability, trust, and support systems in relationships.

20:27 Generosity, active listening, and expanding your circles.

25:28 Collaborative exchanges and asking for support.

28:24 Negotiating imperfect collaboration and relationship expectations.

31:06 Bringing up important issues: Timing and communication.

34:17 The impact of collaborative relationships and taking action.

 

Your Check List of Actions to Take

• Divide and conquer roles: In partnerships, clearly designate leaders for different areas, but always ensure communication and final decisions respect collaboration and listening.

• Practice deep listening: Be intentional about giving your full attention to your partner or colleague; don't interrupt or assume you know what they'll say.

• Ask curious questions: Show genuine interest by asking open-ended questions about feelings, experiences, and perspectives to foster connection.

• Build multiple circles of collaboration: Develop relationships beyond your intimate partnership—think family, friends, work, and community circles—to enrich your support network.

• Be intentional with connection: Choose to initiate deeper conversations with those you care about, rather than keeping interactions at a surface level.

• Cultivate generosity: Offer your time and listening ear generously; seek ways to support others, such as facilitating introductions or sharing helpful resources.

• Keep track of important issues: If topics arise that feel uncomfortable to discuss, jot them down and revisit them when the timing is better; don't let them slip away.

• Let go of perfection: Accept that not all relationships or collaborations will be perfectly reciprocal; allow space for difference and focus energy on relationships that foster growth and mutual support.

 

Mentioned

Circles of Collaboration (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book)

ERP 301: How an Entrepreneur Couple Can Negotiate Love and Business Successfully — An Interview with Dr. Ellyn Bader

12 Relationship Principles to Strengthen Your Love (free guide)

 

Connect with Leslie Grossman

Website: Lesliegrossmanvision.com

YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCqjD0Y4L0XVjzixocEsO8kw

Instagram: instagram.com/lesliegrossmanvision

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lesliegrossmanleadership