S3 Ep1. Name It to Tame It: How Emotional Regulation Shapes Leadership and Relationships with Dawnese Openshaw

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In this inspiring episode of ABWilson’s Heart of the Matter, host Aderonke Bademosi Wilson sits down with Dawnese Openshaw, a self-described change agent, visionary, and impact-maker who brings warmth, clarity, and deep intention to every space she enters.

Dawnese shares a powerful idea that shapes how she leads: she aims to be a thermostat, not a thermometer. Instead of simply reading the energy in a room, she focuses on influencing it by adding value, opening possibilities and supporting people to see themselves differently. 

She reflects on life experiences that helped her develop this approach, including running for public office, serving on community commissions and navigating challenging leadership conversations.

The conversation also explores Dawnese’s work around emotional regulation and co-regulation, including practical ways to pause, name emotions and respond with intention. She explains how being present, leading with curiosity and making requests instead of demands can strengthen relationships at home and at work.

This episode is a thoughtful reminder that meaningful change begins with how we show up, one moment at a time and that personal growth creates ripples far beyond ourselves.

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