When Leading Hurts. Understanding and Healing from Traumatic Experiences of Leadership - Jennifer P. Wisdom;Nina A. Nabors

When Leading Hurts shines a light on a hidden truth: Leadership can inspire and transform, but it can also wound.

This groundbreaking volume explores the emotional and psychological toll that leadership roles can take, revealing how trauma sometimes emerges in organizational contexts and why it is so often ignored.

Drawing on interdisciplinary research and compelling case studies, experts in psychology, leadership development, and organizational behavior identify the forces that leave leaders feeling isolated, undermined, and sometimes deeply harmed. Topics include toxic cultures, identity‑based harm, bullying, scapegoating, and gaslighting—issues leaders frequently endure but rarely discuss. Readers will find evidence‑based strategies for prevention and healing, including clinical guidance for therapists, coaching models, and organizational interventions for systemic change.

Designed for leaders at every level and the professionals who support them, When Leading Hurts provides insight, validation, and a roadmap toward resilience, recovery, and reform.