In this inspiring episode of the UpliftHER Leadership Series on the Self-Care Goddess Podcast, I speak with Carolyn Tong — Manager of Health, Wellness & Human Resources at the Region of Peel — and a passionate advocate for psychological safety and well-being in the workplace.
Our conversation takes you on an illuminating journey into what it truly means to build healthy, thriving organizations — where empathy, authenticity and humanity are at the heart of leadership. Carolyn’s story, from growing up as a Chinese woman in South Africa to leading wellness strategy in Canada, is a powerful testament to resilience, empathy and purpose-driven leadership.
Here’s what we explore in this powerful and heartfelt discussion:
✅ The evolution of workplace wellness — from isolated programs to system-wide psychological safety
✅ How empathy, curiosity and listening create safer, more inclusive work cultures
✅ Preventing burnout through boundaries, shared responsibility and leadership readiness
✅ Why authenticity and self-awareness are cornerstones of resilient leadership
✅ The connection between mental, physical and emotional health in the workplace
✅ How feminine and masculine energy can harmonize to elevate leadership
✅ Redefining work-life balance through integration, compassion and flexibility
Carolyn reminds us that wellness at work begins with self-knowledge and shared humanity. Her wisdom offers a fresh and hopeful perspective on the future of leadership — one grounded in empathy, authenticity and collective care.
🎙️ Listen to Episode #175 of the Self-Care Goddess Podcast on my website, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.
🙌🏽 Connect with Carolyn Tong on LinkedIn: Carolyn Tong
🎥 Watch the full episode now on YouTube: Rita Savoia!
Link: https://youtu.be/CdIbXvgOKJs
With immense gratitude and thanks to our sponsor:
▸ St. Lucian Sea Moss | www.stlucianseamoss.co | @stlucianseamoss
===
▸ Join the Breathwork Revolution and harness the power of the New Moon every month online. Get your tickets here. Follow my updates on my instagram
▸ Don\’t know what to eat for Mental Health? Download Your Mental Health Shopping List
▸ If you enjoyed this episode and it was helpful please share it with your loved ones or a friend and check out www.ritasavoia.com for more amazing wellness tips.
▸ Please also leave us a rating now on apple podcast, take a screenshot and send it to rita@ritasavoia.com. We will reply with a gift as a grateful THANK-YOU!
▸ If you want to upgrade your healthy living and take it to the next level, be sure to join us next week!
===
// F O L L O W
▸ instagram | @ritasavoia_
▸ facebook | /savoiaselfcare
▸ linkedin | Rita Savoia
▸ youtube | SavoiaSelf-Care
▸ website | www.ritasavoia.com
===
Disclaimer: This podcast is for information purposes only. Statements and views expressed on this podcast are not medical advice. This podcast including Rita Savoia disclaim responsibility from any possible adverse effects from the use of information contained herein. Opinions of guests are their own, and this podcast does not accept responsibility of statements made by guests. This podcast does not make any representations or warranties about guests qualifications or credibility. Individuals on this podcast may have a direct or non-direct interest in products or services referred to herein. If you think you have a medical problem, consult a licensed physician.
