In this episode of Lead Like You Mean It, we’re digging into one of my favorite leadership analogies: the greenhouse.

If you’ve ever thought, “Why can’t people just grow already?”—you’re not alone. But here’s the truth: growth doesn’t happen by accident. Plants don’t thrive without care, and neither do people. That’s why we’re reframing leadership not as a grind, but as gardening.

We're talking about:                                                           

•  Why culture is more than ping pong tables
•  How to spot stress vs. safety in your team’s environment
•  What overwatering your people looks like (and yes, I’ve done it too)
•  The Five Voices as flowers—because every team is a garden, and each person blooms differently

We’ll also unpack how understanding yourself—and your people—is the real key to lasting transformation, not just team harmony.

If you’re a leader who wants to cultivate more than just results, this one’s for you. Grab your watering can (or just your coffee), and let’s get growing.

Audience Takeaways

• Leadership is about creating a nurturing environment.
• Self-awareness is crucial for effective leadership.
• Understanding individual growth needs is essential.
• Healthy leaders foster healthy teams.
• Culture leaks can undermine team performance.
• The Five Voices framework helps identify team dynamics.
• Every team member requires different care to thrive.
• Leaders must listen to their teams to improve culture.
• Transformational leadership involves knowing oneself and others.
• Leaders should lead with intention and understanding.

Sound Bites

"Leadership is gardening, not grind."

"Healthy leaders equal healthy people."

"Every plant blooms differently."

Chapters

00:00 | Reframing Leadership as Gardening

03:27 | Understanding Growth and Cultivating Culture

17:10 | Understanding Individual Needs

21:30 | The Role of Different Voices in Leadership

24:35 | Transformational Leadership through Understanding

27:26 | Closing Thoughts on Leadership and Growth

Visit my website: www.masiwillis.com

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Connect on LinkedIn: Masi Willis  

Contact me: masi@masiwillis.com

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What was your biggest “aha” from today’s episode? I’d love to hear!