Leaders are not defined by titles—they’re defined by how well they know themselves. In this engaging conversation, Mitchell Levy and keynote speaker Paul Bramson explore how authenticity, feedback, and emotional intelligence shape effective leadership. From building a “personal board of advisors” to understanding the nuances of self-awareness, Paul shares how being open, reflective, and humble drives true personal and professional evolution. The discussion uncovers why finesse, joy, and integrity matter more than perfection, and how coachability remains the most powerful mark of credible leadership.
Summary
Mitchell Levy and Paul Bramson discuss the importance of leaders living their values. Paul shares his core values: authenticity, excellence, self-assuredness, freedom, and health. He emphasizes the role of an advisory board in self-assessment and the significance of emotional intelligence. Paul recounts a learning experience where his advisor’s feedback led him to refine his presentation style. They also discuss the concept of happiness as a choice, agreeing that while happiness may vary by situation, joy is a personal choice. Paul values clients who are fully engaged and open to learning, and Mitchell highlights the importance of coachability and articulating one’s purpose.
Quotes
* “I always want to be evolving as a human.” – Paul Bramson
* “You can’t see yourself accurately without others’ feedback.” – Mitchell Levy
* “Freedom means making decisions that serve your happiness.” – Paul Bramson
* “When someone’s work becomes play, that’s when they’re living their values.” – Mitchell Levy
Takeaways
* Define Core Values: Identify and live by your own guiding principles; Paul’s include authenticity, excellence, self-assuredness, freedom, and health.
* Seek Honest Feedback: A “personal board of advisors” helps leaders maintain accurate self-perception and accountability.
* Practice Finesse: Communicate truth with empathy and tact—smoothness often amplifies effectiveness.
* Stay Coachable: Openness to feedback, even when uncomfortable, strengthens credibility and leadership trust.
* Find Joy in Growth: True fulfillment comes when learning, purpose, and personal evolution align.
Timeline
[00:00] Mitchell introduces Paul and sets the stage for an authentic discussion on leadership values.[01:07] Paul defines himself—driven, evolving, and passionate about speaking and travel.[02:38] Discovering core values: Paul reflects on authenticity, excellence, self-assuredness, freedom, and health.[05:22] The role of feedback and surrounding yourself with honest advisors.[08:15] Emotional intelligence and the challenge of self-awareness.[13:08] A humbling moment—learning from feedback and the importance of finesse.[16:47] Paul shares his goals for continued growth, learning, and inspiration.[18:21] The power of coachability in credible leadership.[23:29] Choosing ideal clients and the importance of being “all in.”[25:28] Discussing core values in others—integrity, optimism, and joy.[27:57] Is happiness a choice? Exploring joy, freedom, and decision-making as paths to fulfillment.[30:40] Closing thoughts on clarity, purpose, and spreading “cred dust.”
Conclusion
Through vulnerability, humor, and insight, Paul Bramson reminds us that leadership begins with self-awareness, sustained by humility and refined through honest reflection. Living one’s values means continuously evolving, staying open to growth, and finding joy in the pursuit of purpose.
If you like what you’re hearing and want to dive deeper into credibility, clarity, and how to show up as your best self, visit MitchellLevy.com. You can also book time directly on the calendar at https://mitchelllevy.com/contact-us to start your journey toward greater credibility today!
Links/Resources:
* Email Paul: info@paulbramson.com
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulbramsonofficial/
* Website:
https://paulbramson.com/
* Learn more about Mitchell Levy:
https://MitchellLevy.com
* Book time directly with Mitchell: https://mitchelllevy.com/contact-us
Credibility Nation:
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https://MitchellLevy.com
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* Community: https://aha.pub/Superheroes
