Bonus Episode #1 How to Speak Truth to Power Without Becoming a Target

Leadership Lessons with Dr. Fredrick D. Lee II

📄 Episode Description:

Telling the truth shouldn’t cost you your peace—but in systems that protect power, it often does.

In this Bonus Episode of Leadership Lessons with Dr. Fredrick D. Lee II, we unpack what it really takes to speak truth to power—without sacrificing your credibility, emotional well-being, or future opportunities.

Inspired by a recent coaching conversation with a new leader navigating the tension between honesty and reputation, this episode dives into the emotional, strategic, and cultural complexity of being a truth-teller—especially for BIPOC professionals in spaces built to maintain the status quo.

🧠 This isn’t just about “being brave.”
It’s about emotional intelligence, power dynamics, psychological safety, and the cost of silence.

💡 In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• Why speaking up in hierarchical systems often feels dangerous
• How ego, identity, and defensiveness shape leadership responses
• What neuroscience reveals about fear, feedback, and perceived threats
• The emotional tax of being “the only one in the room”
• How to lead with honesty and strategy—without burning out
• 5 Change Moves to help you advocate, influence, and protect your peace

🔧 Practical Tools You’ll Take Away:

• How to ground yourself before difficult conversations
• How to frame truth-telling around outcomes and shared values
• How to ask powerful questions that disarm defensiveness
• Why building coalitions matters more than going solo
• When to document, escalate, or exit unsafe environments

🗣️ Who This Episode Is For:

• Leaders navigating complex workplace dynamics
• BIPOC professionals who are “the first” or “only” in leadership
• Emerging executives who want to build trust and tell the truth
• Anyone who’s been labeled “too much” for challenging what’s broken

📝 Coaching Prompt of the Episode:

What truth have you been holding back because you’re afraid it will cost you something?
What would it look like to speak that truth with strategy, not just frustration?

📬 Stay Connected:

Need support as you grow your voice and lead with emotional intelligence?

▶️ Coaching, consulting, and workshops available:
📧 Email: [email protected]
📱 Follow: @DrFredrickDwaneLeeII on Instagram & Facebook

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