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In this episode of Live Lead Last, James sits down with coach and culture-builder Masi Willis to unpack what it means to truly transform as a leader. From her nonlinear career journey—spanning ministry, movie production, and major live events—to launching The Mason Effect, Masi shares how knowing yourself deeply is the foundation for building thriving cultures at work and beyond.

They explore the metaphor of the greenhouse, the crucial difference between default and designed culture, and the vital role of self-leadership. Masi shares vulnerable stories from her own journey, insights into her MILE framework, and powerful moments of transformation she’s witnessed in organizations.

Whether you’re leading a team of hundreds or just starting your own entrepreneurial path, this conversation will challenge you to cultivate environments where people—and you—can truly flourish.

What You’ll Learn / Key Points

• Why leadership always starts with self-awareness and self-leadership
• How your voice order (Five Voices) shapes your work and life
• The "greenhouse" metaphor for building intentional, healthy organizational cultures
• How to spot and address "weeds" that choke growth in your team
• Why transformation requires moving beyond inspiration and motivation
• The power of pruning, evolving, and consistently tending to your organizational "garden"
• Masi’s M.I.L.E.™ framework for transforming individuals and teams: Mirror, Implement, Leverage, Evolve
• Practical ways to stay rooted personally while leading others

Links & Resources

• Masi’s Masterclass → Level Up Leadership
• Five Voices Assessment → FREE
• 10x Is Easier Than 2x: How World-Class Entrepreneurs Achieve More by Doing Less by Dan Sullivan & Benjamin Hardy
• Same Kind of Different As Me: A Modern-Day Slave, an International Art Dealer, and the Unlikely Woman Who Bound Them Together by Ron Hall & Denver Moore

Connect with James:

• Instagram: @thejamesduvall
• LinkedIn: @thejamesduvall
• Website: www.liveleadlast.com

Connect with Guest :

• Website: www.masiwillis.com 
• LinkedIn: masiwillis
• Instagram: @masiwillis
• Email: [email protected]

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