291: Introvert To Bold Leader: How Small Risks Turn Into Big Wins (Without Burning Out) With Cristy Von Workday Playdate podcast

Content provided by Erin Diehl | Business Improv Edutainer, Failfluencer, Professional Zoombie, Erin Diehl | Business Improv Edutainer, and Keynote Speaker. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Erin Diehl | Business Improv Edutainer, Failfluencer, Professional Zoombie, Erin Diehl | Business Improv Edutainer, and Keynote Speaker or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://staging.podcastplayer.com/legal.

Workday Playdate »
291: Introvert to Bold Leader: How Small Risks Turn Into Big Wins (Without Burning Out) with Cristy von

1d ago 47:13

MP3•Episode home

In this episode of Workday Playdate, Erin welcomes keynote speaker, facilitator, and introverted powerhouse Cristy von to the mic for a conversation that redefines what it means to lead from a place of quiet strength. Together, they dig into the surprising overlap between improv and introversion, showing how safe spaces, self-awareness, and a little bit of “yes, and” can transform leadership from the inside out.

Cristy shares her journey from mistaking herself for an extrovert to fully embracing her introverted identity—and how that shift changed the way she leads, connects, and recharges. This episode is a powerful reminder that leadership doesn’t require being the loudest in the room. Sometimes, it starts with simply knowing your limits and honoring them.

Whether you're leading workshops, giving keynotes, or just trying to survive your next Zoom call, this one’s for anyone who's ever wondered if quiet can still be commanding. (Spoiler alert: it absolutely can.)

Inside This Episode:

Why Cristy used to think she was an extrovert—and what changed
How improv became a launchpad for her confidence
The importance of creating safe, inclusive workshop spaces
What keynote speaking taught Cristy about energy management
The link between vulnerability and powerful facilitation
Why collaboration between introverts and extroverts matters more than ever
The mindset shift that helped Cristy find joy (and her voice) at work

Who This Episode Is For:

This episode is for the introverts in leadership roles, the workshop facilitators who crave real connection, and the quiet professionals looking to own their power without pretending to be someone they’re not. If you’re a recovering over-functioner who wants to lead with authenticity, boundaries, and a sense of play—pull up a chair.

Take a break from your emails, slam your laptop shut for 30ish minutes, and come have a Workday Playdate with us.

Ready to take one small step toward showing up with more clarity and confidence? Download our newest freebie—The Confident Leader’s Toolkit—a 4-step guide to crafting a professional persona that actually feels like you. This plug-and-play resource helps you define how you want to be seen, align your presence with your purpose, and lead with authenticity (not performance).

No, You Hang Up First (Let’s Keep Connecting)

Did today’s episode resonate with you? Leave us a review sharing your favorite insight and we’ll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader’s Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy.

Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a Speakpipe audio clip and we’ll answer it in an upcoming episode.

Don’t want to miss another episode? If you’re a Spotify listener, find our show here and click “Follow.” If you’re an Apple Podcast listener, click here and make sure to hit “+Follow.”

Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your personal jackpot that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you’re trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you’ve had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back.

Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe here.

Connect with Cristy von

Cristy’s LinkedIn
Cristy’s Instagram
Contact improve it! about Cristy’s keynote: The Introverted Leader

Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it!

Erin’s website
Erin’s Instagram
Erin’s TikTok
Erin’s LinkedIn
improve it!’s website
improve it!’s Instagram

327 episodes

#Careers #Business #Erin Diehl | Business Improv Edutainer #Keynote Speaker #Corporateleadership #Teambuilding #Professionaldevelopment #Professionaldevelopmentcoach #Teamdevelopmenttrainer #Businessimprovement