Leadership isn’t only about the people who report to you.

Some of the most important leadership happens up the chain of command.

In this episode, we explore the often-overlooked skill of leading your leaders — influencing decisions, shaping strategy, and advancing the mission even when you don’t hold the highest authority.

History is filled with examples of individuals who mastered this delicate balance. From **Dwight D. Eisenhower navigating strategic disagreements with Winston Churchill during World War II, to **Ulysses S. Grant earning the trust of Abraham Lincoln through clarity and results, great leaders have long understood that influence doesn’t depend on rank.

Even in moments of crisis—like the engineers at NASA during the Apollo 13 mission—the ability to present clear thinking and courageous ideas upward can change the course of events.

We’ll discuss:

• Why leading up is one of the most valuable professional skills you can develop
• How to respectfully challenge ideas while supporting the mission
• Why great leaders bring solutions, not just problems
• How trust and credibility allow your voice to be heard in the rooms where decisions are made

Whether you’re early in your career or leading large teams, this conversation will challenge you to rethink what leadership really looks like.

Because leadership isn’t limited to the top of the hierarchy.

Sometimes the most powerful leadership happens from the middle of the ladder.