What it really takes to grow into the leader you’re meant to be—on your terms, over time, and from the inside out.
As we head into the July 4th holiday—a time to reflect on freedom, progress, and reinvention—it feels fitting to bring you this powerful episode featuring Dr. Bryan Deptula, leadership expert and author of Leaders Are Born to Be Made.
Bryan is one of the most grounded, engaging, and purpose-driven voices I’ve come across. His philosophy? Leadership isn’t reserved for the chosen few. It’s a skill—one we can all develop, practice, and strengthen over time.
In our conversation, Bryan opens up about his own unlikely path from corporate sales leader to PhD, professor, and consultant. He shares how pivotal moments in his life—like a tough-love lesson from his godmother “Mama Sis” and a period of tent-bound self-reflection beneath the Indian River Inlet Bridge along the Delaware coastline—helped him shed old versions of himself to grow into who he’s meant to become.
We also dive deep into his MUSCLE framework, a practical and personal approach to building leadership strength:
- M: Me – Start with self-leadership
- U: Understanding – Grow your leadership intelligence
- S: Strategy – Align with your vision, mission, and values
- C: Conflict – Use it productively
- L: Learning – Commit to growth
- E: Entrepreneurship – Own your path, whether you run a business or lead from within
This isn’t just theory—Bryan brings real-world experience, relatable stories, and an unfiltered look at what leadership looks like when it’s done with heart, humility, and a willingness to get uncomfortable.
He also reminds us that the best leaders are the ones who keep learning, keep failing forward, and keep living.
As Bryan puts it: “Start leading by treating yourself as the most important individual you can work on first.”
This is a conversation for anyone at a crossroads—whether you’re a seasoned executive, an emerging manager, or someone simply wondering how to lead your own life more intentionally.
Books mentioned in this episode:
- Essentialism – Greg McKeown
- Team of Rivals – Doris Kearns Goodwin
- Unique Ability – Dan Sullivan
- Plus, shoutouts to Adam Grant and the value of failing forward
🎧 Listen HERE or wherever you get your podcasts.
🌐 Visit Bryan’s website
Let us know: What’s one part of your own leadership “muscle” you want to grow next?
Until next time, friends,
Chris
If this conversation resonates, forward it to a friend or colleague. Insight is meant to be shared.