In this episode, I dive deep into the media reaction and double standards surrounding British Chancellor Rachel Reeves showing emotion during a high-profile parliamentary session. I explore the gender biases at play, the different standards applied to male and female leaders, and the larger implications for women in leadership. (00:02:05 – 00:04:08) The Gender Double Standard: Ruth unpacks how tears from women are often interpreted as incompetence or weakness, while similar emotional displays from male leaders (e.g., Gordon Brown, Philip Hammond) are either empathized with or ignored. (00:04:08 – 00:08:00) Emotional Expression in Leadership: A discussion about how Reeves’ credentials are questioned after displaying emotion, despite male predecessors not facing the same scrutiny. References to research on emotional displays and workplace perceptions. Connect with Ruth: Instagram LinkedIn Website
