Gut + Science

330: Leadership Is a Choice: Building Self-Efficacy Through a Behavioral Approach with Wesley Bender


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What if your greatest leadership move isn't climbing the ladder, but choosing to show up differently, every single day?

Nikki sits down with Wesley Bender, a leadership coach who believes the most powerful leaders aren't defined by titles or personality types, but by their actions. Together, they unpack the bold idea that leadership is a choice, grounded in behavior and built through self-efficacy: the belief that your actions can shape outcomes.

Wesley brings a refreshing challenge to traditional frameworks and dives into why admired leaders stand out: not just because they drive performance, but because people actually want to follow them.

From personal stories to practical takeaways, this episode is a masterclass in what it means to model the way, at home, in the workplace, and everywhere in between. Tune in to rethink what leadership really looks like. 🌌

Additional Resources:

Connect with Wesley on LinkedIn

Explore the Field Notes page at Admired Leadership

Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!

Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn

Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn

Learn more about PeopleForward Network

Nikki's Key Takeaways:

  • Leadership is a daily behavioral choice, not a title.
  • Self-efficacy drives lasting leadership impact and growth.
  • Admired leaders combine results with genuine followership.
  • Behavioral leadership builds better habits than assessments alone.
  • Real leadership shows up through consistent, intentional action.

...more
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Gut + ScienceBy Nikki Lewallen Gregory

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