When we think of role models, we often picture mythical heroes, overnight success stories, and leaders who made key decisions in the nick of time.

But Scott Miller is far more interested in the mistakes of successful leaders. He discusses them deeply in his bestselling books and immensely popular podcast On Leadership. For every world-famous actor, there are box office flops. For every bestselling author, there are manuscripts in the dustbin.

Scott argues we can learn much more by "hyping our failures," and that true leadership isn't about being right, but being vulnerable. And in an age of connectivity and intimate media, even if you think you don't have a mentor, you probably do. Just look to your favorite podcaster, author, or influencer to see how they've grown.

Scott isn't all talk. He had to step back from a comfortable CMO job at the leadership training company FranklinCovey when he realized he was an "accidental diminisher." This re-examination of his skills changed the course of his career, and he's on a mission to help other S-curve jumpers do the same.