FTF250: Building trust and driving change in workshops with Hitomi Whitlock
In this episode, we're joined by Hitomi Whitlock, Organizational Change Manager at the University of Washington's Housing and Food Services, and an experienced real estate investor.
Hitomi shares her journey from moving to the U.S. as a child to leading change at one of the nation's top universities—all while managing a successful real estate business.
🔍 What You’ll Learn:
How Hitomi uses her strengths (Futuristics, Discipline, Positivity, Woo, Learner) to drive success.
The tech tools she leverages, like ClickUp, Miro, Loom, and GoodNotes, to streamline workflows, eliminate unnecessary meetings, and enhance collaboration.
Tips for running effective hybrid workshops that keep everyone engaged, whether in-person or remote.
How a customer-centric focus in both her roles has led to zero evictions and high tenant satisfaction in her real estate ventures.
Strategies for building trust quickly in workshops, from pre-session videos to effective icebreakers.
The importance of balancing big-picture vision with disciplined execution in both professional and personal life.
About Hitomi Whitlock
Hitomi is an Organizational Change Manager at the University of Washington's Housing and Food Services and a real estate investor, co-owning a property management business in the Seattle area since 2005. She attributes her success to her customer-centric focus and effective communication, always thinking about how to best serve her customers. Hitomi loves making new connections and friends while nurturing existing relationships. In her spare time, she enjoys travelling, attending concerts, and exploring new restaurants/bars with family and friends.
📌 Links Mentioned in the Episode:
Tools discussed: ClickUp, Miro, Loom, GoodNotes
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Memorable quotes
"The more people feel like they're part of the process, the more they’re invested in the change—it’s all about co-creation."
"I’ve learned that balancing big vision with disciplined execution is the key to making things happen, whether it’s leading change or managing real estate."
"Using technology effectively isn't just about saving time; it's about enhancing collaboration and creating a better experience for everyone involved."
"When you treat people like they matter—not just as transactions—you build trust, and that’s the foundation for lasting relationships."
"Sometimes, you just have to go for it. If you feel comfortable, take the risk—there’s no growth without a bit of a leap."
"Even in the face of resistance, involving people in the process and making them feel heard can turn opposition into collaboration."
"I’ve found that being intentional with pre-session videos sets the stage for successful workshops—it gives people clarity and reduces anxiety before they even walk in the door."
"In the past, I felt like I had to be 200% sure before I could act—now, I know that taking action and learning from it is the best way forward."
"Centralizing everything in one place, whether it’s notes, tasks, or ideas, has been a game-changer for staying organized and on track."
About your host: Leanne Hughes
Leanne Hughes is a consultant, speaker and facilitator, maximising team potential by creating influential, contagious work experiences that scale across teams, functions and regions.
Whether launching a change initiative, enabling shifts in performance, or building a culture to achieve next-level success, Leanne's workshops impact both business and lives.
Especially skilled with virtual events (both delivery and behind the scenes advice and coaching) Leanne has distilled her knowledge and experience into The First Time Facilitator and now, a book 'The 2-Hour Workshop Blueprint'.
In 2022, Leanne was inducted into The Million Dollar Consulting® Hall of Fame, recognised by her peers as being among the world leaders in consulting. In 2021, Leanne was the winner of Learning Professional of the Year at the Asia Pacific Learning Impact Awards.
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