Pilot 2 Co-Pilot Podcast: Leadership Insights

For the first time on Pilot to Co-Pilot, we have not just two people part of the conversation but three, as we are joined by special guest Susan Toalson McGinity, Chief Growth and Advocacy Officer at the University of Illinois “U of I” Community Credit Union. Tune in as we get into some of the "what-the-heck" moments that leaders often face - the unexpected challenges that force us to re-evaluate everything and shape who we become. Susan shares her experiences getting through these turbulent times and how she has become a leader who is both friendly and fierce.

Susan also describes how her career journey, starting at 40 after leaving a difficult marriage, instilled a strong sense of fierce determination and confidence which she has had to work through. She emphasizes the importance of "vulnerable trust" on teams, where leaders can openly own their mistakes, setting an example for others.

Meanwhile, Jason highlights the value of compartmentalizing work and personal life, using the workplace as a "blessing" and "solace" from daily challenges. He stresses the need for grace and transparency as a leader, acknowledging that everyone makes mistakes and the power of revisiting issues once emotions have settled down. Both share some incredible insights into developing meaningful mentor-mentee relationships, where the exchange of advice and expertise is reciprocal. They encourage listeners, especially young leaders, to be proactive in seeking guidance rather than waiting to be approached.

Ultimately, our conversation highlights the true human side of leadership - the importance of empathy, compassion and self-awareness, even (or especially) when facing the unexpected. Along with Susan, we provide some practical tips for taking on those tough "what-the-heck" moments and emerging as a stronger, more authentic leader!

[2:20] – Susan embraces a fierce, unapologetic approach to seize opportunities while staying compassionate.
[3:32] – Hear why Susan prefers the word compassionate over empathetic.
[5:34] – Susan reveals that she gained confidence in leadership by realizing her achievements were earned, not given.
[7:37] – Jason highlights that true leadership fierceness develops via challenges and persistence.
[10:30] – Susan believes that compassion grows when balancing personal hardships with professional responsibilities.
[12:30] – Jason views work as a solace where leaders compartmentalize personal struggles to serve others effectively.
[14:27] – Antonio reframes work as a blessing and highlights the importance of mentorship.
[16:24] – Susan reflects on when she first met Jason.
[18:12] – Jason describes their mentorship as reciprocal, driven by friendship, guidance, and mutual learning.
[21:44] – Antonio stresses that effective mentor-mentee relationships are specific, reciprocal, and built on asking for advice.
[24:20] – Jason adds that it’s so important for leaders to create a human, forgiving workplace where mistakes are acknowledged and learning is prioritized.
[26:50] – Susan argues that leaders need to balance accountability, grace, and direct communication to strengthen workplace relationships.
[29:41] – Susan emphasizes owning mistakes to build vulnerable trust and model grace for her team.
[32:11] – How can we disarm defensiveness when addressing off-the-cuff mistakes in others?
[35:01] – It’s so important to give grace, reflect, and circle back to correct mistakes.
[37:45] – Jason advises compartmentalizing personal challenges to stay focused and productive at work.
[40:25] – Continuous learning, focusing on the present, and making the best decisions possible are all so important.