Most people spend their careers chasing a title—manager, director, business owner—believing it will finally give them confidence, authority, and respect. But as Josh reveals in this raw and honest episode, the title is a trap. It’s ink on paper, not real influence. And if you’re not careful, it can turn you into “Mike”—a great performer who becomes a terrible leader overnight.
Using frameworks from John Maxwell and the biology insights of Simon Sinek, Josh explains why teams stop listening, why fear shuts down creativity, and why authority alone produces nothing but resentment and bare-minimum compliance. You’ll learn the difference between positional leadership and permission-based leadership—and the reset conversations every new leader must have to earn trust again.
Key topics:
• The biological impact of cortisol and fear in the workplace
• Why people don’t follow you just because you’re “the boss”
• The messy transition from peer to leader
• The exact script to reset expectations with former coworkers
• The one daily question that builds trust and influence
You’ll walk away with clear, actionable steps to build a true circle of safety and lead with influence—not intimidation.
If this episode hits home, share it with a friend and leave a review. Freedom—and leadership—are built, one step at a time.
