In this conversation, Danielle Marshall speaks with Nancy Lee about the complexities of navigating cultural dualities, the barriers to curiosity, and the importance of empathy in fostering connection. Nancy shares her personal experiences as a first-generation college student and how her background influences her work with leaders and teams. They discuss the significance of self-connection and emotional awareness in enhancing curiosity and the role of empathy in understanding others’ perspectives. The conversation emphasizes the need for individuals to be present and grounded in their experiences to foster genuine connections and curiosity. In this conversation, Nancy Li and Danielle Marshall explore the themes of curiosity, empathy, and effective communication. They discuss the importance of listening, the dynamics of conversations, and how to create spaciousness for curiosity in both personal and professional settings. Nancy shares her core principles for navigating difficult conversations with care and connection, emphasizing the need for self-awareness and the cultivation of curiosity from within.