Authoritarian, fear-based leadership might seem loud and everywhere—but that doesn’t mean it’s working. In this solo episode, LaTonya Wilkins, award-winning executive coach and author of Leading Below the Surface (second edition out Sept. 30), unpacks why dominant leadership standards—rigidity, perfectionism, and toxic meritocracy—are failing organizations today. Drawing on Chapter 2 of her book, LaTonya contrasts authoritarian and relational leadership, shares personal insights from the field, and explains why relational leadership is the future in an era of mental health challenges, AI disruption, and broken systems.
She also teases upcoming guest conversations on mental health and conscious leadership. If you’ve been told to “toughen up” or “lead with fear” to get results, this episode will give you evidence, strategies, and courage to lead differently.
Authoritarian leadership OwlCast episode referenced:
Key Insights:
Dominant leadership standards (rigidity, fear, optics) are outdated and erode innovation and psychological safety.
Authoritarian leadership thrives on fear and appears louder than it is—but relational leadership creates sustainable performance.
Relational leadership is essential as workplaces face unprecedented challenges and employees bring their whole selves to work.
Situational leadership and coaching cultures are powerful relational tools that drive inclusion, collaboration, and trust.
Sticking with relational leadership—even when pressured to adopt authoritarian tactics—pays off in alignment, creativity, and resilience.
Let's Stay in Touch:
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Explore More: Visit LeadingBelowTheSurface.com and ChangeCoaches.io for book updates, keynotes, workshops, and coaching.
Book Talks: Want a Leading Below the Surface book talk for your team? Email info@changecoaches.io to schedule—limited slots each month.
Connect with LaTonya: LinkedIn — share your thoughts or let her know how relational leadership is showing up in your world.
Next Episode Preview: Don’t miss next week’s conversation on Everyday Mental Health Practices for Leadership and Life—practical ways leaders can support wellness in a world that feels broken.