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The Messy Truth About Leadership

The Messy Truth About Leadership

By: Gavin Fenn-Smith Meghan Mahoney Nicki Roth
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Leadership is hard because human beings are complicated. The only way to decode all the things that we do is to become self-aware. When we turn inward, we can start to understand why we do the things we do. After that, we can start to understand other people, and figure out why they do the things they do. With that knowledge, we can build stronger connections to others. Hang out with us so you can become a more self-aware person and connect better with others.

messytruthleadership.substack.comGavin Fenn-Smith, Meghan Mahoney, Nicki Roth Economics Management Management & Leadership Personal Development Personal Success
Episodes
  • Narcissistic leaders want you back

    Narcissistic leaders want you back
    Jul 14 2026

    More and more, we hear that CEOs want employees back in the office. According to research recently published in the NYT, contrary to the publicly-stated defense of this as the need for employee collaboration, the real reason is because the leaders’ ego needs it to happen.

    Link to the article that this episode is based upon.



    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit messytruthleadership.substack.com
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    41 mins
  • How much should I reveal about myself with my team?

    How much should I reveal about myself with my team?
    May 19 2026

    I know that the team will be more effective, more productive if I have a functioning relationship with my colleagues. And to build those relationships, I need to be more open with them about who I am. But, that is emotionally risky and I don’t want to be exposed. How far should I go?



    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit messytruthleadership.substack.com
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    34 mins
  • "Introspection is a recipe for misery"

    "Introspection is a recipe for misery"
    Apr 7 2026

    This podcast is all about self-awareness as the root of successful leadership. So, needless to say, we take issue with this perspective.

    You can read the story in The Atlantic here.



    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit messytruthleadership.substack.com
    Show More Show Less
    43 mins
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