Developing Cultural Intelligence for Leaders | Cedric Williams, Ph.D. | TEDxNormal
How do we lead with empathy when everything feels like it's falling apart? Drawing on his military experience, work as a psychologist and executive coach, Dr. Cedric Williams introduces a simple yet powerful framework for building cultural intelligence in times of trauma, grief, and interpersonal tension. Through a deeply personal story of witnessing tragedy in Iraq, he shows how connection, acceptance, reflection, and encouragement—the CARE model—can transform not only how we lead, but how we show up for each other as human beings. This talk invites us to confront emotional discomfort, strengthen trust, and practice leadership grounded in curiosity, humility, and care. Dr. Cedric Williams is a licensed clinical and consulting psychologist and the author of Brick by Brick: Becoming a Clinical and Consulting Psychologist. He integrates psychological science and leadership development models to support individuals, teams, and organizations in achieving meaningful growth. Dr. Williams brings extensive experience in executive coaching, organizational consulting, and assessment, working with leaders across sectors including technology, financial services, and nonprofits.His research interests focus on multicultural humility, occupational thriving, leadership, and followership. He has served on the executive board of the American Psychological Association’s Division 13, the Society of Consulting Psychology. In addition to his work as a psychologist, Dr. Williams has served soldiers and their families in the United States Army—both Active Duty and Reserve—for over 23 years. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
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