Why This Conversation Will Change How You See People!In this transformative episode of The Wise Why, Kirsty van den Bulk sits down with Rob Lion, a professor, consultant, and multi-business owner, who shares why putting people first and letting go of control might be the biggest keys to success.Rob’s story spans academia, entrepreneurship, and personal growth, and he brings powerful insights into how curiosity, open-mindedness, and surrender can shift everything—from how you lead to how you live.💬 In this episode:Why control is an illusion—and how surrender unlocks peace and progressHow empathy and grace can change every conversationWhy Rob smiles at strangers (and why you might want to try it too)How can academic theory empower real-world business success?What parenting, leadership, and personal growth have in common🎯 Whether you're building a business or becoming a better human, this conversation will challenge you to rethink your appearance.📚 Book Recommendation:Why We Do What We Do by Edward L. Deci – The science of motivation, self-determination, and what really drives us🎧 Listener Challenge:Pause and reflect: Where are you holding on too tightly? What might happen if you gave grace to yourself or someone else?Chapters: 00:00 Meet Rob Leon: People First Leadership 01:00 From Academia to Entrepreneurship 03:17 The Power of Curiosity and Open Mindedness 05:45 Learning to Let Go of Control 06:46 Emotional Burdens and the Illusion of Control 10:34 People at the Heart of Business 14:07 Parenting with Empathy and Grace 15:18 Silencing the Inner Critic 16:04 Wisdom Through Life Experience 18:31 Connecting Academia with Real World Business 25:28 The Power of Collaboration in Learning 26:24 Kirsty’s Unanswered Question 26:36 What's Next? Letting Go and Retirement 29:03 Parenting, Teens and Trusting the Process 30:09 Understanding Human Behaviour and Motivation Contact Rob: https://blackriverpm.com/Contact Kirsty: www.kvdb.co.uk#Leadership #Inspiration #Podcast