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The CUInsight Experience podcast: Pamela Barnum – Tactical influence (#192)

“Trust exists at the crossroads of confidence and empathy.” - Pamela Barnum

Pamela-Barnum-1


Thank you for tuning in to episode 192 of The CUInsight Experience podcast with your host, Randy Smith, co-founder of CUInsight.com. This episode is brought to you by Velera, formerly PSCU/Co-op Solutions, the nation’s premier payments credit union service organization and an integrated financial technology solutions provider. Velera serves more than 4,000 financial institutions throughout North America, operating with velocity to help its clients keep pace with the rapid momentum of change and fuel growth in the new era of financial services.

My guest on today’s show is Pamela Barnum, Trust and Nonverbal Communication Expert and keynote speaker for the upcoming CUInsight Mini-Con event. Pamela shares her career journey as a former undercover police officer and federal prosecuting attorney. She leverages her law enforcement background to teach leaders strategies to build trust, improve negotiations, and increase sales through intentional communication and body language. We are so excited to have Pamela as the keynote speaker for the next CUInsight Mini-Con event, register today!

During our conversation, Pamela discusses the “First” principles of leadership as it relates to tactical influence. She explains how to build and maintain trust along with the crucial role of empathy in leadership. Pamela explores common pitfalls in communication and how leaders can better connect with their teams and members by understanding nonverbal cues and practicing effective listening. Listen as we discuss the power of trust, communication, and empathy to build a stronger, more productive, and more engaged culture.

As we wrap up the show, listen in as Pamela talks about creating routines, journaling, and improving each day along with some books she recommends. Enjoy my conversation with Pamela Barnum!

How to find Pamela

Pamela Barnum

Pamela Barnum

A big shout-out to our friends at Velera, an amazing sponsor of The CUInsight Experience podcast. Thank you!
Want to hear more from Pamela? Click here.
To learn more and register for the CUInsight Mini-Con series, click here.
Should-out: TED
Pamela’s TED Talk: What drug dealers taught me about trust
Shout-out: Warren Buffet
Shout-out: Dale Carnegie
Shout-out: HGTV
Shout-out: Steve Jobs
Shout-out: Lauren Culp
Shout-out: Linda Lafortune
Shout-out: Pamela’s son
Album mentioned: War by U2
Album mentioned: Escape by Journey
Book mentioned: Insight by Tasha Eurich
Book mentioned: Man’s Search for Meaning by Victor E. Frankl
Book mentioned: The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton
Film mentioned: The Outsiders
Place mentioned: Tulsa, Oklahoma

[1:42] – Learn how Pamela transitioned from an undercover police officer and federal prosecuting attorney to speaking about leadership.
[5:35] – Tactical influence is a superpower because it involves enduring change and setbacks.
[8:02] – Pamela discusses the importance of self-awareness
[10:00] – Effective listening and observing is crucial, especially in challenging situations.
[12:21] – “Trust exists at the crossroads of confidence and empathy.”
[15:37] – Leaders should consider tools and training to enhance staff empathy.
[16:23] – Pamela shares the value in checking in with staff and showing appreciation.
[22:12] – Pamela has found that personal growth, good sleep, and exercise are crucial for success.
[25:09] – Pamela argues that while self-awareness is important, it isn’t enough without situational awareness.
[28:52] – Changing meeting seating arrangements can empower introverts and lead to more diverse ideas.
[30:57] – Pamela points out how AI creates mixed emotions; starting with small, manageable changes helps lead to acceptance before tackling larger shifts.
[34:47] – Hear how Pamela is researching fortitude and balance, sharing a personal example of maintaining family connections and relaxation.
[36:43] – Pamela has stopped saying yes to things she doesn’t enjoy.
[38:06] – Pamela aims for daily improvement in various areas through journaling, valuing small but consistent progress over time.
[39:22] – Pamela shares music and book recommendations.
[41:43] – What does success mean to Pamela?