What if the biggest thing holding you back… is the version of yourself you’re pretending to be?
In this episode, Enrique Acosta Gonzalez gets radically real about his journey from a siloed, boxed-in Navy leader to a fully integrated, truth-speaking mentor and coach. From cultural identity struggles to a wake-up call from his own wife, Enrique shares the bold pivots that reshaped his life and leadership.
If you’ve ever felt the pressure to conform or the fear of being too much, this conversation will help you break out of the mold and start owning your power.
Must-Hear Insights and Key Moments
- The moment Enrique realized he was living a “dual life” and how he changed it.
- Why siloing different parts of yourself weakens your leadership.
- The wake-up call that came from his wife—and changed everything.
- The power of listening as a leadership superpower.
- How to lead with authenticity in high-pressure environments like the military.
- Why being “you” might be the boldest asset your team needs.
- The hard truth about fitting in vs. standing out.
- Real talk on culture, identity, and playing someone else’s role.
Words of Wisdom: Standout Quotes from This Episode
- “Once you can step into who you are at your core—even all your little quirks—that’s when people are drawn to you.” - Courtney Turich
- “While we think it feels safe, honestly, it’s suffocating.” - Courtney Turich
- “The best you can do is to be yourself. That’s when your true leadership will come through.” - Courtney Turich
- “People’s words have power. And if you can let them be heard, that is power in itself.” - Courtney Turich
- “We’re all just trying to fit into a mold—but maybe it’s time to smash it instead.” - Courtney Turich
- “You’re either living in truth or you’re living a lie—there’s no in-between.” - Enrique Acosta Gonzalez
- “Stop playing somebody else’s role. Just play yours. Be excellent at it.” - Enrique Acosta Gonzalez
- “When you stop siloing your life, you start enriching other people’s lives.” - Enrique Acosta Gonzalez
- “The world doesn’t need a copy. It needs the one and only you.” - Enrique Acosta Gonzalez
- “You are a treasure. Hug that truth and walk in it.” - Enrique Acosta Gonzalez
About Enrique
Enrique Acosta Gonzalez is a leadership and career developer on a mission to stop bad leadership before it starts. After experiencing the harm caused by unqualified leaders early in his career, he’s committed to helping aspiring and current leaders grow before they do damage—intentionally or not.
A 26-year Navy veteran, Enrique is a bestselling author, award-winning podcaster, and decorated mentor. He brings decades of leadership experience across military and civilian sectors, and he’s known for his no-fluff, real-talk approach to leadership, growth, and impact.
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