Episode 291: Introvert to Bold Leader: How Small Risks Turn Into Big Wins (Without Burning Out) with Cristy von
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In this episode of Workday Playdate, Erin is joined by keynote speaker, improve it! workshop facilitator, and proud introvert Cristy von for a heartfelt, humorous, and eye-opening conversation about what it really means to lead as your authentic self. From discovering the power of introversion to redefining what “good leadership” looks like, this episode offers a fresh take on how to thrive without performing.
When the World Mistakes You for an Extrovert
Cristy shares how she spent years believing she was an extrovert—because that’s what everyone told her. But through deep self-reflection and years of facilitating workshops, she realized her true nature was introverted. That shift wasn’t just personal—it completely transformed how she leads.
Improv as a Mirror and a Microphone
Improv may seem like an unlikely tool for introverts, but for Cristy, it became a place of self-discovery. She and Erin explore how improv helps introverts take up space, express themselves freely, and build the confidence to lead with authenticity. When the stage feels safe, quiet leaders can shine.
Energy is Everything
Leadership takes energy—but what happens when you’re constantly depleted? Cristy and Erin dig into the importance of setting boundaries, protecting your energy, and giving yourself permission to say no. Turns out, knowing your limits isn’t a weakness—it’s wisdom.
The Power of Vulnerability in the Room
Creating safe, supportive spaces is at the heart of Cristy’s work. Whether she’s leading a workshop or preparing for a keynote, she emphasizes the value of vulnerability—not just from participants, but from facilitators too. When leaders go first, real connection follows.
Redefining What Leadership “Should” Look Like
Forget loud. Forget always-on. Cristy and Erin make a compelling case for leadership that’s rooted in presence, not performance. Introverts have unique superpowers: deep listening, clarity under pressure, and the ability to lead with intention. It's time we stop treating that as second-best.
Takeaways from Erin + Cristy’s Conversation:
Introverts can lead powerfully without being loud
Improv can be a safe, playful path to growth
Vulnerability builds trust and connection
Setting boundaries is essential—not selfish
Protecting your energy is part of the job
Collaboration improves when all voices are valued
Being yourself is your greatest leadership tool
Joy and play have a place at work
Self-awareness fuels sustainable success
You don’t need to "fix" your introversion—own it
Whether you’re a leader who’s quietly carrying a lot, a facilitator trying to hold space for others, or someone just learning to honor your own limits—this episode is your permission slip to lead with calm, clarity, and confidence.
Ready to take one small step toward showing up with more clarity and confidence? Download our newest freebie—The Confident Leader’s Toolkit—a 4-step guide to crafting a professional persona that actually feels like you. This plug-and-play resource helps you define how you want to be seen, align your presence with your purpose, and lead with authenticity (not performance).
No, You Hang Up First (Let’s Keep Connecting)
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Connect with Cristy von
Cristy’s LinkedIn
Cristy’s Instagram
Contact improve it! about Cristy’s keynote: The Introverted Leader
Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it!
Erin’s website
Erin’s Instagram
Erin’s TikTok
Erin’s LinkedIn
improve it!’s website
improve it!’s Instagram