In this episode of "In the Lead," host Nathan Metz continues his conversation with Ryan Ott, President of TLC Management, focusing on clarity in leadership. They discuss the importance of self-awareness, synthesizing past and present leadership styles, and the value of empowering others. Ryan shares personal experiences that highlight the significance of seeking input and giving permission rather than imposing ideas. The episode concludes with insights from Leslie, emphasizing the ongoing journey of self-discovery and offering thought-provoking questions for developing personal clarity.  

Leadership Lessons

1. A clear leader synthesizes with what's already in place
2. Clear leaders value permission over control
3. Personal clarity allows space for others' strengths  

Notable Quotes

1. "Our business is here for people. People are not here for our business."
2. “Don't allow the perfect direction prevent you from taking them in a good direction”
3. "I'll take the high character, the well-rounded, the emotionally intelligent, the self-aware individual over the MBA or doctorate or any degree."
4. "Too many times when we come into positions, we don't take the time to understand the identity and the mission and what has been done good and pull out that good of the organization or that position before we just point out the deficits."  

Research Mentioned

1. Cornell University study: "What Predicts Executive Success" found that high self-awareness was the strongest predictor of overall success.
2. The Potential Project research: Self-awareness has a more positive impact on leadership than an MBA.
3. Harvard Business Review: Leaders who communicate with clarity nearly double their trustworthiness.  

Book Recommendation

• "The Seven Primal Questions" - A book that unpacks questions motivating our behaviors and helps define identity.  

Practical Questions

1. What's something great your predecessor did that you admire?
2. Where might loosening control actually lead to success?