# Are You Being Curious or Judgmental? How to Know the Difference

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Podcast: [The Modern Humanitarian and International Development Leader: Make a Greater Impact During Uncertainty as a NGO Leader While Avoiding Stress, Burnout and Overwhelm](https://stenobird.com/podcast/the-modern-humanitarian-and-international-development-leader-make-a-greater-impact-during-uncertainty-as-a-ngo-leader-while-avoiding-stress-burnout-and-overwhelm-6953228)
Published: 2026-06-15T07:00:00+00:00
Episode link: https://the-modern-humanitarian.captivate.fm/episode/are-you-being-curious-or-judgmental-how-to-know-the-difference
Audio file: https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/5f38f05f-f114-4a3d-ac8e-59e85f9739b7.mp3
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Duration seconds: 357

## Resource

As leaders, we're often encouraged to be more curious. Ask better questions. Make fewer assumptions. Seek to understand before being understood. But can curiosity ever go too far? In this episode, Torrey explores a question raised by one of her students: When does curiosity cross the line into getting into other people's business? Drawing on her coaching and leadership experience, she unpacks the important distinction between genuine curiosity and the type of questioning that is driven by assumptions, judgment, or a desire to confirm what we already believe. You'll learn why curiosity is one of the most powerful leadership skills—and how to ensure it builds trust rather than fueling gossip, rumors, and misunderstanding. In This Episode You'll Learn: Why curiosity is essential for effective leadership The difference between seeking understanding and seeking confirmation How assumptions can disguise themselves as curiosity Why healthy curiosity respects boundaries A simple question to ask yourself before asking someone else a question Key Quote "Curiosity seeks understanding. Toxic curiosity seeks confirmation." Reflection Questions What assumptions might I be making about the people around me? Am I asking questions to understand—or to confirm what I already believe? Where might I need to be more curious in my leadership conversations? How can I respect others' boundaries while remaining genuinely interested in understanding them? Resources Mentioned Learn more about Torrey's leadership programs and resources: www.aidforaidworkers.com Find on YouTube Here Take the Leadership Style Quiz: www.aidforaidworkers.com/quiz Enjoyed the Episode? If you found this episode helpful, please share it with a colleague or fellow leader and leave a review. It helps more humanitarian and…

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