"You can hear the silence emerging in the room. You can hear the sound of silence. There's a peace that comes with, a harmony that comes from it. It offers an opportunity for more sharing, more cooperation, less competition. So it's very generative." Carissa Bub
Carissa Bub and I explore the transformative power of silence in leadership and life. We dive into the paradox of silence - how it can feel awkward or even frightening, yet hold the potential for profound connection and insight. We discuss how cultivating stillness can unlock deeper awareness, relational intelligence, and a new level of courageous leadership. By tapping into stillness, leaders can listen more deeply, respond with empathy, and foster psychological safety within teams. Carissa shares her journey of embracing silence as a resource, not just as a practice but as a way of being that enhances presence, influence and authentic leadership. We also discuss the role of reflective practices, playfulness, and trusting in life’s unfolding mystery.
Carissa Bub is a Leadership and Systems Coach on a mission to re-humanise organisations. With one foot firmly in the business world and the other gently planted in the earth, she enables leaders and teams to navigate complex change with dignity and agency. For 25 years, she's partnered with C-suite leaders to build stronger connections - from the boardroom to the marketplace - bringing strength and heart to strategic dialogue. As a seasoned facilitator now trained in nature-based practices, she invites her clients to take off their shoes, both physically and metaphorically, deepening their trust in life and empowering them to use their gifts for the benefit of all life. What sets Carissa apart is her unique blend of systemic coaching expertise and her background as a BBC journalist turned media trainer. She creates spaces where authentic communication catalyses real change, helping leaders develop both their inner presence and outer voice to shape lasting impact. As faculty at CRRGlobal and Six Team Conditions, she helps coaches and consultants develop their practice in systemic transformation. A TEDx speaker, Carissa challenges organisations to think differently about leadership and change, cultivating environments where people and performance naturally thrive.
Connect with Carissa:
Through her website: www.carissabub.com
On LinkedIn
Resources Mentioned:
Conclave – an example of silence and uncertainty in leadership moments.
Atomic Habits by James Clear
The Sound of Silence by Simon & Garfunkel
Marcel Marceau – influenced Carissa’s fascination with silence
Brother David Steindl-Rast – for his work on gratefulness and trust in life.
Eckhart Tolle – someone who embodies playfulness and presence.
Brahma Kumaris (BKs) – their practice of “Just a Minute” silence.
London Writers’ Salon – silent writing sessions.
Center for Awakening – Monday silence gatherings.
On Being with Krista Tippett – Yo-Yo Ma’s discussion on the space between musical notes.
Unlimited Futures - Episode 193 Life Beyond the Numbers
