Leadership is presence, not performance.

In this powerful mashup, Denis Gianoutsos features Dr. Maja Zelihic and Shari Foos: two leaders redefining what it means to lead with authenticity, empathy, and purpose. From academic leadership to emotional connection, they reveal how real impact begins when we show up as our whole selves.

This episode is a call to every leader who’s ever felt the pressure to wear a mask. Let it go. The real work and the real connection start with showing up as you are.

Tune in to hear what changes when leaders lead from humanity instead of hierarchy.

EP 269 – Dr. Maja Zelihic: Leading with Perception, Purpose, and Presence

• How her journey from corporate training to interim dean shaped her leadership style
• The power of perception and why we experience the same moment differently
• The truth about women in leadership and why mimicking masculine styles doesn’t work
• Her take on authentic leadership and building strength through empathy

EP 272 – Shari Foos: Vulnerability, Connection, and the Power of Being Real

• Why sharing our stories is the fastest way to human connection
• Redefining networking as a soul-to-soul interaction, not a transaction
• How masking ourselves at work diminishes creativity and belonging
• What it means to lead with your wounds, not despite them

Key Quotes:

“Be yourself, with all of your faults and all of your opportunities. Work on those opportunities, but don’t try to be someone else.” – Dr. Maja Zelihic

“None of our accomplishments or gifts can compensate for the fact that we’ve all had to survive life.” – Shari Foos

“Be you. Just be you.” – Denis Gianoutsos

The 10 Proven Ways to Lead and Thrive in Today's World - FREE Executive Guide Download https://crm.leadingchangepartners.com/10-ways-to-lead 

Connect with Denis:

Email: [email protected]

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YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@DenisGianoutsos