From Office Escalations, Cybersecurity Attacks, to Surviving Mergers Without Losing Your Mind
Workplace chaos is inevitable. Whether it’s an office escalation, a cybersecurity scare, or a merger that flips your world upside down, staying grounded is key. In this conversation between Emily Sander and Amy Martin, we hear honest, real-world lessons on leadership, composure, and career reinvention after 30 years in corporate life.
Key Takeaways
Empower, don’t micromanage. Great leaders trust their teams to solve problems and step in only to remove roadblocks.
Stay calm under pressure. A level head during crises earns more respect than any title.
Respond, don’t react. How you handle difficult people or stressful situations often matters more than the situation itself.
Notable Quotes
“I hire smart people to do smart things—and you’ve got to trust your team, or you’re not going to get anywhere.” — Amy Martin
“When someone acts out, it probably has more to do with them than with you.” — Amy Martin
“If you see change as an opportunity to learn, you’ll always come out stronger.” — Amy Martin
Real-World Applications
Empowerment in Teams:
Instead of checking every email or decision, give team members room to figure things out. Example: Let a new manager handle a client issue independently—then debrief afterward.Crisis Composure:
Keep your voice steady and focus on solutions, not blame. Example: During a cybersecurity attack, Amy stayed calm and reassured both clients and her team, which helped restore trust quickly.Handling Difficult People:
Don’t match their energy. Pause and consider their stressors before responding. Example: When faced with an aggressive coworker, Amy reminded herself it was “their thing, not mine.”
The modern workplace will test every ounce of your patience and composure. But as Amy Martin proves, how you respond—to chaos, change, and choice—defines your growth. Leadership isn’t about control; it’s about trust, calm, and courage to design a life that fits you.
Time Stamps:
01:09 Amy's Career Background and Mentorship
05:43 Handling Pressure and Client Escalations
09:48 Dealing with Strong Personalities
12:54 Navigating Change and Mergers
17:43 Career Transitions and Coaching
22:01 Holistic Career Coaching Approach
24:16 Becoming a SCORE Mentor
27:37 Success Stories and Client Transformations
33:55 Personal Motivations for Career Change
Links Mentioned:
Amy Martin’s Website: https://amartin.esourcecoach.com/
About The Author
Emily Sander is an ICF-certified leadership coach with more than 15 years of experience in the business world and the author of Hacking Executive Leadership. She’s been featured in several print publications, online articles, and podcasts, including CEO Today Magazine, Leading to Fulfillment, and Leadership Powered by Common Sense.
Emily has a passion for helping business leaders reach their full potential. Go here to read her story from seasoned executive to knowledgeable coach. If you want to send Emily a quick message, then visit her contact page here.