The Mason Duchatschek Show · 2026-06-10 · 17 min
What makes a leader instantly lose credibility in a high-pressure room? Sometimes it is a small habit like over-apologizing, over-explaining, avoiding conflict, or trying too hard to prove value. In this episode, Mason Duchatschek talks with Dr. Liz DuBois Erskine , a PhD conflict analyst and executive coach who helps high performers break patterns of people pleasing, burnout, and fear of judgment. Dr. Liz shares practical insights leaders can use immediately to strengthen executive presence, communicate with authority, and navigate difficult workplace dynamics without escalating unnecessary conflict. You will hear why repeated apologies can quietly undermine credibility, how simple accountability can defuse tension, and why trying to sound smart can make people less likely to understand or trust you. Dr. Liz also explains what happens when leaders sweep conflict under the rug, why being undervalued often requires an internal shift before an external move, and how coaching can help leaders see the blind spots that keep them stuck.
Why Your AI Strategy Will Fail If You Start With Tools56 / 100Be the Signal, Not the Noise: Strategic Communication for Business LeadersAre Your Best Employees Being Undervalued? Jacob Chase on Real-Time Performance, Pay, and Talent VisibilityYour Health Is a Business Asset: The Metrics Every CEO Should Be TrackingWhen to Stop Fixing and Start Rebuilding Your Business With Bob Levinstein