Leading in Chaos: Love and Empathy in Business with Irma J. Neal

What happens when you walk into a workplace filled with chaos? In this episode, Nicole sits down with the powerhouse author, leadership expert, and former deputy mayor, Irma J. Neal, for a jaw-dropping conversation about Leading in Chaos — the title of her book and the essence of her leadership journey.

Irma shares real, raw stories from her time leading a government department in Washington, D.C. under extreme dysfunction—and how she brought it back to life with structure, empathy, and fearless leadership. From handling fish-frying, gossiping, couch-surfing chaos to confronting political pressure and addiction in the workplace, Irma drops 20 powerful management insights you won’t want to miss.

Key Highlights from this episode:

[00:03:04] – Why every leader should lead with love, empathy, and vision

[00:09:13] – How there's always somebody who is benefiting from the chaos of a dysfunctional workplace

[00:14:05] – Why administrative assistants are your most powerful allies in navigating organizational power

[00:32:18] – How coaching misfits into becoming strong contributors pays off big

[00:41:22] – Just because you solved a problem once doesn’t mean it won’t return

Irma's book: Leading in Chaos
FREE RESOURCE: Self Assessment for a Thriving Workforce

Connect with Irma:
website: www.onyx2rise.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/irma-j-neal-082739118/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leadinginchaos/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/LeadingInChaos/

Also mentioned in this episode:

Life’s Little Instruction Book by H. Jackson Brown

Who Moved My Cheese? by Spencer Johnson, MD

Don’t Forget:

• Like what you heard? Leave us a 5-star review and drop a love note for Irma in the comments!
• Listen today at vibrantculture.com/podcast or your favorite podcast platform!
• Learn more about Nicole Greer, the Vibrant Coach: https://www.vibrantculture.com/