228 - Leading with Empathy: The Key to Fostering a Productive Work Culture
Leading with Empathy and Building Positive Work Cultures: Insights from Swati Reichmuth
In this episode of Listening with Leaders Podcast, host Doug Noll sits down with Swati Reichmuth, COO and CFO of Rune Labs, to explore strategies for leading with empathy, creating high-performing teams, and navigating leadership challenges in the biotech and startup world. Swati shares actionable lessons from her career journey—from mechanical engineering to management consulting to executive leadership—offering insights that are valuable for entrepreneurs, leaders, and professionals striving to build positive workplace cultures.
From Engineer to Executive: Leadership Lessons and Strategies
Swati Reichmuth began her career in mechanical engineering, a foundation that sharpened her analytical skills and problem-solving mindset. Transitioning into management consulting and eventually joining the healthcare and biotech industries, she has consistently leveraged adaptability and continuous learning to thrive in dynamic environments. Swati’s career path underscores the importance of embracing change, seeking knowledge, and remaining curious to expand one’s expertise and leadership capabilities.
As a COO and CFO, Swati emphasizes the critical shift from doing the work to leading others. Effective leadership requires guiding teams, inspiring innovation, and fostering relationships across all levels of an organization. Networking, mentoring, and building strong professional connections are not just career enhancers—they are essential tools for creating influence and driving meaningful impact within a company.
A core theme of the conversation is the power of empathy in leadership. Swati explains how understanding team members’ emotions and perspectives can improve decision-making, resolve conflicts, and create a supportive work environment. Active listening, emotional validation, and considering the human impact of business decisions are practical ways leaders can embed empathy into daily operations.
About Swati Reichmuth
Swati Reichmuth is the COO and CFO of Rune Labs and a seasoned executive in the biotech and startup space. She brings expertise in operational strategy, financial management, and leadership development. Swati also advises startups and small VC funds, using her experience to guide emerging leaders and entrepreneurs. Connect with her on LinkedIn.
About Rune Labs
Rune Labs is a biotechnology company focused on developing innovative solutions to improve patient outcomes. The company combines cutting-edge technology, data analytics, and operational excellence to drive research and product development while fostering a culture of collaboration, transparency, and empathy.
Links Mentioned in This Episode
Key Episode Highlights
Embrace adaptability and continuous learning to navigate career growth and industry shifts.
Transitioning from producer to leader requires guiding, inspiring, and mentoring teams.
Leading with empathy improves decision-making, team cohesion, and workplace culture.
Providing context and connecting with personal motivations drives meaningful employee engagement.
Pursuing personal interests and mentoring others fosters balance and professional impact.
Conclusion
Swati Reichmuth’s insights provide practical strategies for leaders aiming to build supportive, productive, and high-performing workplaces. By prioritizing empathy, fostering strong relationships, and aligning team motivations with organizational goals, leaders can inspire meaningful work and cultivate positive work cultures. Her experiences demonstrate the value of adaptability, continuous learning, and balance in achieving both professional success and personal fulfillment.
Explore more about Doug Noll’s work at Doug Noll’s website and apply to be a guest on the Listening with Leaders Podcast here.
