How to Turn Brilliant Jerks Into Better Leaders | Dr. Katrina Burrus

Can a leader deliver great results and still damage the people who make those results possible?

NaRon Tillman sits down with executive coach Dr. Katrina Burrus, author of Managing Brilliant Jerks, to explore how technically gifted but abrasive leaders can develop the emotional intelligence to lead more effectively.

Dr. Burrus explains her progression from self-awareness to boss awareness and stakeholder awareness. The conversation examines how feedback reveals leadership blind spots, why organizations must support behavior change, and how leaders can manage triggers without lowering their standards.

In This Episode:

• The difference between a demanding boss and a toxic leader

• Why expertise and high IQ do not guarantee emotional intelligence

• Using feedback to close the gap between intention and impact

• Self-awareness, boss awareness, and stakeholder awareness

• Managing emotional triggers and giving constructive feedback

• How leadership identity affects work and personal relationships

Key Insight:

High standards and respect can work together. Effective leaders address the task, help people improve, and take responsibility for the impact of their behavior.