In this episode of MBA Mindset, we dive into the complex and often misunderstood concept of power in the workplace. Spencer Harris breaks down the two main types of power—formal and personal—and explores how each can influence leadership, team dynamics, and organizational culture. Drawing on real-world experience, including a personal story about servant leadership, Spencer shows how power can be wielded ethically to inspire and empower teams.

We’ll also introduce French and Raven’s Five Bases of Power, a foundational framework that provides a deeper understanding of the sources of power leaders draw from. Plus, we’ll ask a thought-provoking question: Does power corrupt? Take a moment to reflect, then join the conversation on X by tagging @mbamindpodcast.

This episode is packed with actionable insights and a challenge to take a closer look at how power is distributed in your own workplace. Whether you’re leading a team or navigating the complexities of office politics, understanding power is key to driving positive change.

Next Episode Preview: Stay tuned as we explore how power in group settings becomes political, with a deep dive into organizational politics and the behaviors that shape workplace dynamics.

------

French and Raven 1959 Research in PDF form - https://www.researchgate.net/publication/215915730_The_bases_of_social_power

Leadership: Theory and Practice by Peter G. Northouse -

https://a.co/d/1e7c0oO