274: Justice, Love, and Organizational Transformations: Ora Grodsky’s Career Journey

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Written By Tammy Gooler Loeb

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274: Justice, Love, and Organizational Transformations

On this week’s episode of Work from the Inside Out, I had the pleasure of speaking with Ora Grodsky, co-founder of Just Works Consulting and the author of Justice, Love, and Organizational Healing: A Guide to Transformational Consulting. Her path, from being an acupuncturist and academic dean to organizational transformation consultant, offers a powerful reminder that our careers don’t need to follow a straight line to be meaningful. Her story exquisitely illustrates what it means to lead a values-aligned, purpose-driven professional life.

Ora’s journey began with a profound question: How can we create a just and sustainable world while taking care of ourselves and each other? This inquiry has been the guiding force throughout her multifaceted career. Raised in a family deeply committed to social justice, she carried those principles into every role she stepped into, from launching a holistic AIDS care clinic in the early days of the epidemic to her decades-long work with nonprofits and mission-driven organizations. Her story is a testament to the power of living and working with intention.

One of the most impactful parts of our conversation was discussing how internal regulation, both emotional and nervous system regulation, is essential to leading effectively in today’s complex world. Ora believes that we cannot bring about real change in our organizations or communities if we’re constantly reacting from a place of fear or scarcity. She emphasizes the importance of grounding ourselves in practices that help us remain centered and connected, whether that’s through meditation, time in nature, or honest conversations with trusted peers.

We also explored several practical tools from her book that leaders and consultants alike can apply, including her favorite framework POP (Purpose, Outcomes, Process). This simple yet powerful model encourages clarity and alignment in group work and decision-making. Whether you're considering a career change, stepping into a new leadership role, or trying to navigate a values clash at work, the insights Ora shares are both timely and actionable.

In this week’s Work From The Inside Out podcast, learn more about:

  • Discover how clarifying your personal values can guide more meaningful career and organizational decisions.

  • How Ora’s journey from acupuncturist to organizational consultant demonstrates the value of following purpose over predictability.

  • Understand how Purpose, Outcomes, and Process (POP) can ground meetings, planning, and change initiatives in clarity and intention.

  • Explore how self-awareness and emotional regulation support effective leadership, especially during times of conflict and transformation.

  • Gain insights into how equity, compassion, and healing can be embedded into the culture and systems of any workplace.

Learn more about Ora:

Interested in individual or group coaching with Tammy?  Learn more about her coaching service.

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Affiliate Links: Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links above are “affiliate links”. This means that if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Regardless, I only recommend products and services I use personally and believe will add value to my listeners. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

 

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About Tammy, host of
Work from the inside out

Prior to establishing her practice, Tammy held a variety of positions in mental health services, higher education administration, public policy analysis and fundraising. Her practical knowledge and experience in organizational development, program management and business operations builds a relatable relationship with clients striving for higher performance results.

Tammy Gooler Loeb
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273: Listen to the Compass of Your Heart: Choosing a Life of Service with Dr. SD Shanti