164 | How to Listen Like Jesus & Use God-given Discernment in Conversations

Leadership conversations are rarely about the words alone. Sometimes a team member says everything is fine, yet something still feels unsettled. Other times a conversation seems clear on the surface, but deeper tension remains beneath it. One of the most important leadership skills you can develop is the ability to listen beyond the surface. In this episode, we explore how leaders can learn to listen more like Jesus — paying attention not only to what people say, but also to the deeper concerns, emotions, and challenges that may remain unspoken.   In This Episode We discuss: • Why people often say less than they truly feel in workplace conversations • How leaders can recognise subtle signals that something deeper may be happening • The role of thoughtful questions in uncovering hidden concerns • Why listening well strengthens trust and leadership influence • What Scripture teaches us about listening with wisdom and compassion You will also learn how slowing down conversations and asking better questions can reveal insights that help you lead your team more effectively.   Prepare for the Difficult Conversation You’ve Been Avoiding If you’ve been sensing that a conversation on your team needs to happen but you’re unsure how to approach it, the Confident Conversation Sprint will help you prepare for it step by step. 📅 May 25–29, 2026 This 5-day guided experience walks leaders through preparing one difficult conversation they’ve been avoiding. During the sprint, you will: • identify what truly needs to be addressed • clarify the real issue beneath the frustration • prepare what you want to say and how to say it • approach the conversation with calm confidence and biblical wisdom By the end of the week, you will no longer be replaying the conversation in your mind. You will be prepared to lead it well. 👉 Register here: womenoffaithinleadership.com/sprint   Stay Connected Subscribe to the Weekly Newsletter Receive faith-based leadership insights, practical strategies, and encouragement for Christian women navigating real leadership situations. 👉 https://womenoffaithinleadership.com/newsletter   Have a Listener Question? Submit your leadership question here: 👉 https://womenoffaithinleadership.com/podcast   Join the Community for Female Christian Leaders Connect with other women navigating leadership challenges with faith and wisdom. 👉 https://womenoffaithinleadership.com/community   Connect with Rika LinkedIn 👉 https://www.linkedin.com/in/rikawhelan