Where Old Power Fails

Where Old Power Fails (And What Actually Makes Leaders Great)
Host: Bron Stephens

Episode Summary:
If you’ve ever been told to “be more assertive,” “get tougher,” or “stop caring so much”—this one’s for you.

In this episode, Bron unpacks the outdated leadership model of power over—and why it doesn’t work. Through personal stories, corporate truths, and powerful real-world examples, she introduces the concept of power with (thank you Brené Brown)—and how it opens the door to confident, compassionate, and values-aligned leadership.

You’ll learn:

• Why intention and impact are rarely the same thing
• How to build trust without softening your standards
• Why organisational compassion is the leadership edge most executives are missing
• Tangible steps to lead with empathy, wisdom and accountability
• What “power with” looks like in feedback, performance, and decision-making

This isn’t about leading softer—it’s about leading better.

Key Topics Covered:

• Care and Power Over can exist together
• Why Power With trumps Power Over
• Empathy, wisdom and accountability as the pillars of compassionate leadership
• The ripple effect of organisational compassion
• Five practical ways to lead with power with in your day-to-day

Takeaway Questions:

• Where am I using power to protect, not connect?
• Where might my impact not match my intention?
• What systems, habits, or language reinforce “power over” in my team?
• Where could I lead with more curiosity—and still hold the bar high?

Links & Mentions:

• Learn more about Bron’s executive coaching: bronstephens.com
• Brené Brown on Power With, Power Over and Power Within: overviews and quotes from Dare to Lead
• Want support to lead with compassion and confidence? DM Bron on Instagram or LinkedIn

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