#1: Stop Playing by Outdated Rules — Redefining Leadership as a Badass Softie

For too long, leadership has been framed as a false choice: Be loud and aggressive, or compassionate and empathetic. Be ambitious, or be likable. Be respected, or be real. In this premiere episode of Badass Softie, Dr. J.J. Peterson reflects on his own career and the leaders he’s worked alongside — and names the tension many of us feel. Too driven for the “soft” spaces, yet not cutthroat enough for the boardroom. For years, he believed you had to choose. But he’s discovered the opposite is true: the leaders who make the greatest impact are unapologetically ambitious and lead with heart.

This episode is your starting place for redefining leadership. J.J. shares stories and lessons from his own journey where you’ll learn: -The false choices that keep leaders stuck (strong OR compassionate, respected OR real) -Why choosing “either/or” in leadership always leads to frustration -How the most impactful leaders combine ambition with empathy -A new framework for leading with both strength and softness -Practical steps to begin stepping more fully into being a Badass Softie 📺 Watch full episodes on YouTube @BadassSoftie 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts 🎧 Listen on Spotify ------ It’s time to stop believing you have to choose — and start leading with both strength and softness, the very definition of a Badass Softie. www.BadassSoftie.com