Creating empathetic leaders for organizational success and a compassionate world
In the cutting-edge contemporary times, those in position of leadership will play a defining role in the growth of individuals, organizations, and the world as a whole. Understanding the need for compassionate leadership to take this generation forward, R. Harrison Baxter has dedicated his life to Leadership Development through the lens of empathy and reflective listening.
A Global Leadership Coach, Corporate Trainer, Keynote Speaker, and Published Author, Harrison is inspired by the transformative power of effective communication. As Founder/MD of Impactful Solutions Academy LLC, he has created programs and workshops that empower leaders to connect deeply with their teams, get cutting-edge insights, and create innovative solutions for long-term success.
Discussing the type of leaders the world today needs, he says, “True leadership involves developing others’ skills and confidence, enabling them to take initiative, make decisions, and contribute meaningfully. By nurturing leaders, we create a culture of shared responsibility and innovation, driving sustained success and positive change.”
Based in New York, USA, Harrison’s journey began with a passion for understanding human behavior. He completed his Bachelor’s in Finance and Economics, Master’s in Strategic Leadership, and PhD in Psychology. Simultaneously, he worked across the Center for Employment Opportunities, Maximus Federal, and ASML-Applied Semiconductor Machines Lithography.
Always harboring a desire to foster genuine connections in the workplace, Harrison turned entrepreneur and established Impactful Solutions Academy in 2018 with the objective of helping organizations transform unproductive teams into high performing units. By emphasizing reflective listening, he aims to build bridges between individuals and cultivate environments where everyone feels heard and valued. This approach not only enhances leadership skills but also drives organizational success and personal growth.
“My passion is fueled by the profound impact that effective communication and empathy can have on individuals and organizations. Seeing leaders transform their approach and witness the positive ripple effects on their teams and workplaces drives me forward. The stories of personal and professional growth from those who have embraced reflective listening inspire me to continue my mission. The belief that fostering genuine human connections can create a more compassionate and productive world keeps me motivated. Every success story and every breakthrough moment in my workshops reinforces my commitment to this vital work.”
Throughout his business journey, Harrison has encountered numerous challenges – resistance to change, skepticism about the value of empathy in leadership, and the difficulty of measuring the impact of soft skills. In his inimitable style, he overcame all obstacles to emerge as a transformational leader with an envious record. With a wealth of skills and industry acumen, he has helped hundreds of companies and individuals to turn around their fortunes.
Professionally, he has successfully led numerous leadership development workshops globally, helping leaders transform their communication and empathy skills. He was honored to speak at the Live Your Best Life Conference in Nairobi, Kenya.
Personally, he has authored several articles on reflective listening and leadership, gaining recognition in the industry. He has received numerous accolades for his innovative approach to leadership training, including the Leadership Excellence Award.
His strengths include strong empathetic listening skills, effective communication, and the ability to inspire and empower others. These qualities have been instrumental in Harrison’s success as a leadership coach. A sharable weakness is his tendency to overcommit, which sometimes leads to burnout. Recognizing this has been a learning opportunity, teaching Harrison the importance of setting boundaries and prioritizing self-care to maintain long-term effectiveness and well-being.
On weekends, you can usually find him working out, either in the gym or a park. You may also find him studying; reflecting on the week and recharging for the days ahead. Sometimes, he even volunteers with a local youth football program. He loves reading books on psychology and leadership, which continually inspire his work. His ‘me time’ involves practicing mindfulness and meditation, allowing him to center himself and maintain balance amidst a busy schedule.
Harrison follows in the footsteps of visionary leaders who prioritize empathy and effective communication, such as Brené Brown, Simon Sinek, and Dr Ruben West. Their work underscores the power of vulnerability and connection in leadership.
Harrison’s own mantra for growth, development, and success is simple: listen actively, lead with empathy, and never stop learning. “My aspirations are to continue expanding my impact globally, helping more leaders embrace reflective listening, and creating cultures of empathy. By truly understanding and valuing others’ perspectives, you can foster deeper connections and create more inclusive and collaborative environments. Ultimately, my goal is to contribute to a world where compassionate and effective leadership is the norm, driving positive change in organizations and communities.”
