Episode recap:

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Marcel Schwantes opens Season 10 with gratitude and a renewed call for better leadership. He previews more solo episodes in 2026 and emphasizes that a leadership strategy only works when a leader’s character and inner operating system are solid. He reframes authentic leadership as humility, self-honesty, and service. Authenticity starts with self-awareness, supported by a weekly reflection: where you lived your values, where you drifted, and what triggered it. He links authentic leadership to well-being by urging leaders to remove friction, create clarity, support mental health, and help people connect to purpose—since burnout often stems from a loss of meaning, not just workload.

Bio:

Marcel Schwantes is a speaker, author, and acclaimed executive coach with a global following. Recognized by Inc. Magazine as one of the Top 50 Leadership and Management Experts in 2025, Marcel’s thought leadership reaches millions each month through global media like Inc., Time, Fast Company, Business Insider, and Forbes. Marcel delivers presentations, workshops, courses, and coaching programs about the human side of business and how cultures of care,  connection, and belonging power companies to thrive and outperform the competition. 

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Show Notes

Quotes:

• “You become a far more effective leader the moment you stop performing leadership and start practicing it.”
• “Authentic leadership always, always starts with self-honesty.” 
• “Humility is a performance enhancer, not just a personality trait.”
• “Great leaders aren’t afraid of holding up the mirror; they invite feedback and treat it like data, not judgment.”
• “Real authentic leadership exists to meet real human needs.” 

Takeaways:

1. Authentic leadership begins with self-honesty and removing the mask.
2. Humility allows leaders to learn, grow, and truly connect with others.
3. Seeking and acting on feedback transforms workplace relationships.
4. Meeting the real needs of people is at the heart of effective leadership.
5. Redefining leadership with authenticity, humility, and service sets the stage for a thriving culture. 

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction & Podcast Purpose 

03:26 2026 Podcast Direction & New Year Focus 

06:00 Principles of Authentic Leadership 

08:30 Practical Implementation Tips 

14:45 Conclusion & Call to Action 

Conclusion: 

As we close out this episode, remember that real leadership begins with honesty, humility, and a genuine commitment to serving others. By embracing authenticity and staying true to your values, you create space for growth, trust, and lasting impact. Let this new year be your opportunity to lead with heart, listen deeply, and elevate the people around you. True change starts from within, and your leadership can set the tone for a better tomorrow. 

The Book

Links/Resources: 

Substack: https://marcelschwantes.substack.com/      

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcelschwantes/  

Twitter/X: https://x.com/MarcelSchwantes  

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarcelSchwantes1 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marcel.schwantes/  

Now Accepting Podcast Sponsors

We would be delighted to accept your sponsorship for future episodes as we challenge current management thinking and practices and build skills around human leadership and human-centered work cultures. If interested, contact Marcel.