The Courage of a Leader

Hosted by Amy Riley

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Aug 2026

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This is where top leaders tell real stories about achieving extraordinary results and share practical advice and techniques you can immediately apply for your own success. This is where you will get inspired and take bold, courageous action. Host of The Courage of a Leader™, Amy Riley is a renowned keynote speaker, #1 international best-selling author and sought-after leadership consultant who has been transforming leaders – at all levels – for more than 2 decades. Guests on The Courage of a Leader™ are powerful, successful leaders who are passionate about authentic, engaging, difference-making leadership. Amy gets beyond the theory and dives deep with her guests about how things really work, so you walk away with tangible ideas to grow your influence, inspire your team, and get extraordinary results. Join us to step into the full power of your leadership and achieve what you care about most. Here’s where you’ll ignite The Courage of a Leader! To apply for the show or to book Amy Riley as a guest or keynote speaker, visit The Courage of a Leader website at www.courageofaleader.com.

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September 8, 202624 min

Courage in Action: How Exceptional Leaders Accelerate Trust

How can we build trust faster as leaders? Trust grows over time, yet we have more ability to accelerate it than we may realize. Sometimes, a single courageous action can change how someone experiences our leadership. We look at five questions every leader should be asking about trust. We examine what happens when we extend trust first, how everyday behaviors strengthen credibility and connection, and where our good intentions may not match the way others experience us. We also explore what appropriate transparency looks like during uncertainty and why saying “I don’t know yet” can be more trustworthy than silence. We also confront what happens when we get it wrong. A mistake does not automatically have to destroy trust. How we own it, apologize, make it right, and communicate what others can expect from us next can reveal our integrity in powerful ways. When we are willing to go first, trust becomes something we actively create through the choices we make every day. Key Takeaways: Extend Trust First: Explore what can change when we stop waiting for others to earn every ounce of trust before we offer it. Notice What Builds Trust Daily: Consider which everyday leadership behaviors may be strengthening trust, and which ones may be quietly weakening it. Examine How Others Experience You: Discover why our intentions are only part of the trust equation and what else leaders need to pay attention to. Lead Transparently Through Uncertainty: Explore what trustworthy communication can look like when we do not yet have all the answers. Repair Trust When It Breaks: Consider what matters most after a mistake and how our response can shape what happens next. Resources Mentioned The Inspire Your Team to Greatness assessment (the Courage Assessment ) - In less than 10 minutes, find out where you’re empowering and inadvertently kills productivity, and get a custom report that will tell you step by step what you need to have your team get more done. Get it here: https://courageofaleader.com/inspireyourteam/ You don't need to have all the answers to lead well. Get your copy of the Clarity Kit for just $17 to learn the five practices to bring more clarity, confidence and courage into your leadership - https://courageofaleader.com/the-clarity-kit/ About the Host: Amy L. Riley is an internationally renowned speaker, author and consultant. She has over 2 decades of experience developing leaders at all levels. Her clients include Cisco Systems, Deloitte and Barclays. As a trusted leadership coach and consultant, Amy has worked with hundreds of leaders one-on-one, and thousands more as part of a group, to fully step into their leadership, create amazing teams and achieve extraordinary results. Amy’s most popular keynote speeches are: The Courage of a Leader: The Power of a Leadership Legacy The Courage of a Leader: Create a Competitive Advantage with Sustainable, Results-Producing Cross-System Collaboration The Courage of a Leader: Accelerate Trust with Your Team, Customers and Community The Courage of a Leader: How to Build a Happy and Successful Hybrid Team Her new book is a #1 international best-seller and is entitled, The Courage of a Leader: How to Inspire, Engage and Get Extraordinary Results. http://www.courageofaleader.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/amyshoopriley Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below! Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the, podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app. Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts. Mentioned in this episode: The Inspire Your Team to Greatness Assessment (The Courage Assessment) https://courageofaleader.com/inspireyourteam/

August 18, 202637 min

Fearless Feedback: Say What Needs to Be Said Without Damaging the Relationship | Katie O’Brien Ceccarini

How do you give difficult feedback without damaging trust? Katie O’Brien Ceccarini, author of Fearless Feedback: Everything Managers Have Never Been Taught About Feedback and founder of Endurance Management Coaching, brings two decades of experience leading, managing, and training teams. She shares how leaders can prepare for hard conversations, navigate emotional reactions, and say what needs to be said while preserving the relationship. Katie explains that fearless feedback starts before we ever choose the right words. It begins with our mindset, the strength of the relationship, and the intention we bring into the conversation. When we believe in the other person’s ability to grow, we are more likely to communicate with conviction, clarity, and care. She also shows us how to stay present when feedback brings up defensiveness, emotion, silence, or resistance. Instead of reacting to what we see on the surface, we can get curious about what may be happening underneath. We can acknowledge someone’s experience without abandoning the message, and we can refocus the conversation without turning it into a debate. When we strengthen our mindset, relationships, and delivery, we can give feedback with greater courage, build trust through difficult moments, and create conversations that help people grow. Key Takeaways: Prepare Your Mindset for Feedback: Explore how the beliefs you bring into a conversation can shape how your message is received. Strengthen the Relationship First: Consider how trust and safety can create a stronger foundation for honest feedback. Open the Conversation Well: Discover how a thoughtful headline can make difficult feedback easier to hear and engage with. Navigate Difficult Reactions: Examine how the HEAR framework can help you respond when feedback triggers defensiveness, emotion, or resistance. Make a Better Second Choice: Learn how noticing your first reaction can help you approach challenging feedback conversations with greater courage. Resources Mentioned The Inspire Your Team to Greatness assessment (the Courage Assessment ) - In less than 10 minutes, find out where you’re empowering and inadvertently kills productivity, and get a custom report that will tell you step by step what you need to have your team get more done. Get it here: https://courageofaleader.com/inspireyourteam/ You don't need to have all the answers to lead well. Get your copy of the Clarity Kit for just $17 to learn the five practices to bring more clarity, confidence and courage into your leadership - https://courageofaleader.com/the-clarity-kit/ About the Guest: Katie is a developer of people with two decades of experience leading, managing, and training teams. Her career spans early education, a decade at Yelp where she created and scaled all Customer Success training, and then as Head of Learning & Development at Opendoor she elevated employee onboarding and leadership development. She has the rare ability to bridge the gap between what HR and L&D leaders need and what actually lands with leaders in the business. In 2026, she published Fearless Feedback: Everything Managers Have Never Been Taught About Feedback , a practical guide that equips managers for the development and performance conversations that HR professionals depend on them to have. Today, Katie runs Endurance Management Coaching, partnering with organizations like eBay, Munchkin, Vital Farms, and PAN Communications to develop their managers and leaders. Over the past 20 years, she’s managed, trained, and developed thousands of people, and everything she teaches comes from real teams, real conversations, and real results. Katie’s leadership style is best described as human, with standards. She cares deeply and holds a high bar. When she’s not working, she’s getting dirty at the barn with her horse, training for triathlons, or hanging out with her son and husband in Denver. https://www.enduranceboss.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/katie-ceccarini About the Host: Amy L. Riley is an internationally renowned speaker, author and consultant. She has over 2 decades of experience developing leaders at all levels. Her clients include Cisco Systems, Deloitte and Barclays. As a trusted leadership coach and consultant, Amy has worked with hundreds of leaders one-on-one, and thousands more as part of a group, to fully step into their leadership, create amazing teams and achieve extraordinary results. Amy’s most popular keynote speeches are: The Courage of a Leader: The Power of a Leadership Legacy The Courage of a Leader: Create a Competitive Advantage with Sustainable, Results-Producing Cross-System Collaboration The Courage of a Leader: Accelerate Trust with Your Team, Customers and Community The Courage of a Leader: How to Build a Happy and Successful Hybrid Team Her new book is a #1 international best-seller and is entitled, The Courage of a Leader: How to Inspire, Engage and Get Extraordinary Results. http://www.courageofaleader.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/amyshoopriley Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below! Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the, podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app. Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts. Mentioned in this episode: The Inspire Your Team to Greatness Assessment (The Courage Assessment) https://courageofaleader.com/inspireyourteam/

August 4, 202632 min

The Five Habits Courageous Leaders Use to Prevent Burnout | Sophie Anderson

We often treat burnout as a personal failure when it is really a warning that our demands have exceeded our available time, energy, and support. Burnout prevention specialist Sophie Anderson shares five courageous habits that help us protect our energy before exhaustion takes over. She challenges us and helps us see how to practically get honest about our priorities, pause before automatically saying yes, create stronger technology boundaries, speak openly when our capacity is stretched, and make space for rest even when guilt shows up. Her perspective reminds us that capability and capacity are not the same, and that being able to do something does not always mean we have the energy or resources to take it on. By noticing the pressure we place on ourselves and making intentional changes, we can reduce overwhelm, support healthier teams, and lead with greater clarity and sustainability. Key Takeaways: Be Clear on Your Priorities: Explore how sorting what truly matters can reduce pressure and create greater focus. Say Maybe Before Saying Yes: Consider how pausing before committing can protect your time and prevent unnecessary overload. Implement Tech Boundaries: Discover how small changes to notifications and availability can reduce distraction and overwhelm. Speak Up About Overwhelm: Examine why honest conversations about capacity can strengthen support and reduce shame. Build in Rest and Recovery: Learn how making space for recovery can help you sustain your energy and leadership. Resources Mentioned Download your copy of the 5 Courageous Habits to Prevent Burnout for Leaders poster at https://www.sophieanderson.au/courage The Inspire Your Team to Greatness assessment (the Courage Assessment ) - In less than 10 minutes, find out where you’re empowering and inadvertently kills productivity, and get a custom report that will tell you step by step what you need to have your team get more done. Get it here: https://courageofaleader.com/inspireyourteam/ You don't need to have all the answers to lead well. Get your copy of the Clarity Kit for just $17 to learn the five practices to bring more clarity, confidence and courage into your leadership - https://courageofaleader.com/the-clarity-kit/ About the Guest: Sophie Anderson is a burnout prevention specialist and the creator of the Anderson Model of Burnout Prevention (AMBP™) - a practical framework that maps how burnout accumulates across three zones: Activation, Over-functioning and Depletion, and identifies the intervention points that stop professionals from crossing the threshold into burnout. She works with professionals, leaders and organisations across Australia and worldwide through personal coaching, keynotes and workplace wellbeing programs. Connect with Sophie at : https://www.sophieanderson.au/contact or hello@sophieanderson.au https://www.sophieanderson.au/ambp-framework About the Host: Amy L. Riley is an internationally renowned speaker, author and consultant. She has over 2 decades of experience developing leaders at all levels. Her clients include Cisco Systems, Deloitte and Barclays. As a trusted leadership coach and consultant, Amy has worked with hundreds of leaders one-on-one, and thousands more as part of a group, to fully step into their leadership, create amazing teams and achieve extraordinary results. Amy’s most popular keynote speeches are: The Courage of a Leader: The Power of a Leadership Legacy The Courage of a Leader: Create a Competitive Advantage with Sustainable, Results-Producing Cross-System Collaboration The Courage of a Leader: Accelerate Trust with Your Team, Customers and Community The Courage of a Leader: How to Build a Happy and Successful Hybrid Team Her new book is a #1 international best-seller and is entitled, The Courage of a Leader: How to Inspire, Engage and Get Extraordinary Results. http://www.courageofaleader.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/amyshoopriley Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below! Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the, podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app. Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts. Mentioned in this episode: The Inspire Your Team to Greatness Assessment (The Courage Assessment) https://courageofaleader.com/inspireyourteam/

July 20, 202626 min

Courage in Action: Decision Making Under Pressure

The higher we climb as leaders, the easier we expect decisions to become. Yet, the opposite is often true. Bigger responsibilities bring greater complexity, higher stakes, and more uncertainty. The strongest leaders aren't the ones who always know the right answer. They're the ones who have the courage to move forward without waiting for perfect certainty. In this episode, we unpack the questions that surface most often when leaders are faced with difficult decisions. We explore why fear can disguise itself as caution, how pressure quietly changes the way we think, when to trust data, intuition, and values, and why the quality of our decision-making process matters more than chasing perfect outcomes. Along the way, we're reminded that every decision becomes an opportunity to build confidence, strengthen trust, and grow into the kind of leader others are willing to follow, even when the path ahead isn't perfectly clear. Key Takeaways: Confidence Isn't the Starting Point – Why waiting to feel ready may be the very thing holding leaders back. The Process Behind Every Great Decision – Discover how a clear approach creates confidence when certainty isn't possible. The Cost of Waiting – See why the decisions we avoid often shape our teams more than the ones we make. When the Numbers Aren't Enough – How experienced leaders navigate the space between data, instinct, and values. What Every Tough Decision Leaves Behind – What happens after a decision often matters just as much as the decision itself. Resources Mentioned The Inspire Your Team to Greatness assessment (the Courage Assessment ) - In less than 10 minutes, find out where you’re empowering and inadvertently kills productivity, and get a custom report that will tell you step by step what you need to have your team get more done. Get it here: https://courageofaleader.com/inspireyourteam/ You don't need to have all the answers to lead well. Get your copy of the Clarity Kit for just $17 to learn the five practices to bring more clarity, confidence and courage into your leadership - https://courageofaleader.com/the-clarity-kit/ About the Host: Amy L. Riley is an internationally renowned speaker, author and consultant. She has over 2 decades of experience developing leaders at all levels. Her clients include Cisco Systems, Deloitte and Barclays. As a trusted leadership coach and consultant, Amy has worked with hundreds of leaders one-on-one, and thousands more as part of a group, to fully step into their leadership, create amazing teams and achieve extraordinary results. Amy’s most popular keynote speeches are: The Courage of a Leader: The Power of a Leadership Legacy The Courage of a Leader: Create a Competitive Advantage with Sustainable, Results-Producing Cross-System Collaboration The Courage of a Leader: Accelerate Trust with Your Team, Customers and Community The Courage of a Leader: How to Build a Happy and Successful Hybrid Team Her new book is a #1 international best-seller and is entitled, The Courage of a Leader: How to Inspire, Engage and Get Extraordinary Results. http://www.courageofaleader.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/amyshoopriley Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below! Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the, podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app. Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts. Mentioned in this episode: The Inspire Your Team to Greatness Assessment (The Courage Assessment) https://courageofaleader.com/inspireyourteam/

June 30, 202633 min

Courage In Action: Inspiring Lasting Engagement

What if the biggest driver of employee engagement isn't charisma? Amy challenges one of leadership's most common misconceptions, showing why authenticity, presence, and intentional leadership inspire people far more than motivational speeches or big personalities. Through five practical leadership questions, she shares strategies for reconnecting disengaged employees, building trust through everyday interactions, creating a compelling purpose and a clear finish line that exponentially increase engagement, and leading with confidence during times of uncertainty. Amy reminds leaders that lasting engagement is built through consistent presence, honest communication, and making people feel valued. Every interaction is an opportunity to strengthen trust, inspire others, and shape a workplace culture where people can thrive! Want to go deeper? Email info@courageofaleader.com and ask for Chapter 9: Build the Ultimate Corporate Culture from Amy's bestselling book, The Courage of a Leader: How to Inspire, Engage, and Get Extraordinary Results . It's a free resource that expands on the ideas of trust, engagement, compelling purpose, and courageous leadership shared in this episode. Key Takeaways: Trust Over Charisma – Why authentic leadership creates deeper and more lasting engagement than personality alone. Purpose That Inspires – How a compelling purpose and a clear finish line help people connect to meaningful work. Curiosity Before Assumptions – The role genuine conversations play in rebuilding trust with disengaged employees. Consistency Creates Culture – Why everyday leadership behaviors shape trust and engagement more than occasional big moments. Leading Through Uncertainty – How honesty, presence, and vulnerability help teams stay connected when the future feels unclear. Resources Get Your Free Copy of The Inspire Your Team to Greatness assessment (the Courage Assessment ) - In less than 10 minutes, find out where you’re empowering and inadvertently kills productivity, and get a custom report that will tell you step by step what you need to have your team get more done. Get it here: https://courageofaleader.com/inspireyourteam/ You don't need to have all the answers to lead well. Get your copy of the Clarity Kit for just $17 to learn the five practices to bring more clarity, confidence and courage into your leadership - https://courageofaleader.com/the-clarity-kit/ About the Host: Amy L. Riley is an internationally renowned speaker, author and consultant. She has over 2 decades of experience developing leaders at all levels. Her clients include Cisco Systems, Deloitte and Barclays. As a trusted leadership coach and consultant, Amy has worked with hundreds of leaders one-on-one, and thousands more as part of a group, to fully step into their leadership, create amazing teams and achieve extraordinary results. Amy’s most popular keynote speeches are: The Courage of a Leader: The Power of a Leadership Legacy The Courage of a Leader: Create a Competitive Advantage with Sustainable, Results-Producing Cross-System Collaboration The Courage of a Leader: Accelerate Trust with Your Team, Customers and Community The Courage of a Leader: How to Build a Happy and Successful Hybrid Team Her new book is a #1 international best-seller and is entitled, The Courage of a Leader: How to Inspire, Engage and Get Extraordinary Results. http://www.courageofaleader.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/amyshoopriley Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below! Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the, podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app. Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts. Mentioned in this episode: The Inspire Your Team to Greatness Assessment (The Courage Assessment) https://courageofaleader.com/inspireyourteam/

June 16, 202637 min

Why RACI Isn’t Creating Accountability—And the 5 Verbs That Actually Do | Robert Snyder

Why do accountability systems fail even when roles and responsibilities seem clear? In this episode, we sit down with Robert Snyder, Founder and President of Innovation Elegance, LLC, to explore why most organizations unintentionally separate authority from accountability, creating confusion, project delays, and trust issues. Robert introduces his Five Verbs framework—draft, review, revise, approve, and distribute—and explains how it creates clearer ownership, stronger collaboration, and better decision-making. Together, we discuss why documentation is a leadership tool rather than administrative overhead, how teams can detect and address untrustworthiness earlier, and why discipline and empathy must work together to build high-performing cultures. We leave with a practical perspective on creating trust through clear expectations, transparent decisions, and systems that help people succeed together. Key Takeaways: Keep authority and accountability connected to strengthen trust and execution. Use simple, repeatable processes to create clarity across teams. Document decisions that matter and avoid relying on memory alone. Encourage healthy task conflict while preventing personality conflict. Build empathy through consistent habits, questions, and team rhythms. Resources Mentioned The Inspire Your Team to Greatness assessment (the Courage Assessment ) - In less than 10 minutes, find out where you’re empowering and inadvertently kills productivity, and get a custom report that will tell you step by step what you need to have your team get more done. Get it here: https://courageofaleader.com/inspireyourteam/ You don't need to have all the answers to lead well. Get your copy of the Clarity Kit for just $17 to learn the five practices to bring more clarity, confidence and courage into your leadership - https://courageofaleader.com/the-clarity-kit/ About the Guest: Robert Snyder is the founder and president of Innovation Elegance, LLC. His thirty-year career spans roles such as developer, project management, change management, sales enablement, and the performing arts. His career path includes corporate roles, consulting roles, startups, PMP, and Agile certifications. He’s performed in numerous vocal, dance, and theater ensembles. Robert earned his BS in Electrical Engineering from the University of Illinois and his MBA in Strategy from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University. Robert is publishing a series of books on innovation methodology. Innovation Elegance: Transcending Agile with Ruthlessness and Grace - https://a.co/d/0e8MCIao Innovation Portfolio: Five Verbs Shape Your Team’s Legacy - https://a.co/d/0h1K85BO Elegant Leadership: Distinguishing the Good, the Bad, and the False (targeting 2027) About the Host: Amy L. Riley is an internationally renowned speaker, author and consultant. She has over 2 decades of experience developing leaders at all levels. Her clients include Cisco Systems, Deloitte and Barclays. As a trusted leadership coach and consultant, Amy has worked with hundreds of leaders one-on-one, and thousands more as part of a group, to fully step into their leadership, create amazing teams and achieve extraordinary results. Amy’s most popular keynote speeches are: The Courage of a Leader: The Power of a Leadership Legacy The Courage of a Leader: Create a Competitive Advantage with Sustainable, Results-Producing Cross-System Collaboration The Courage of a Leader: Accelerate Trust with Your Team, Customers and Community The Courage of a Leader: How to Build a Happy and Successful Hybrid Team Her new book is a #1 international best-seller and is entitled, The Courage of a Leader: How to Inspire, Engage and Get Extraordinary Results - https://a.co/d/06hsUz64 http://www.courageofaleader.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/amyshoopriley Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below! Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the, podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app. Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts. Mentioned in this episode: The Inspire Your Team to Greatness Assessment (The Courage Assessment) https://courageofaleader.com/inspireyourteam/

June 2, 202633 min

How Adversity Can Make Us Better Leaders | Steve Garraty

What if the hardest thing you ever face becomes the experience that shapes you into a stronger leader? Steve Garraty shares how a cancer diagnosis at age 18 became one of the most defining experiences of his life. Through a season marked by uncertainty, loss, and physical hardship, he discovered the power of perspective, resilience, and gratitude. Steve reflects on how adversity can shape us, not by avoiding difficult emotions, but by choosing how we respond and what we learn along the way. In our conversation, Steve offers practical insights for navigating challenges with courage and intention. He explores the importance of leaning on support systems, moving beyond a victim mindset, and finding meaning in life's hardest moments. We also discuss how these lessons have influenced the way he leads others, helping him approach leadership with greater empathy, patience, and appreciation. His story reminds us that while adversity is unavoidable, it can become a powerful catalyst for growth, perspective, and purposeful leadership. Key Takeaways: Reframe difficult experiences to build resilience and long-term growth. Crest a support system and lean on others, even when people are disappearing from your life. Acknowledge hardship without becoming trapped by it. Authentically practice gratitude and transform the way you lead others. Make past struggles a source of confidence and strength for future challenges. Resources The Inspire Your Team to Greatness assessment (the Courage Assessment ) - In less than 10 minutes, find out where you’re empowering and inadvertently kills productivity, and get a custom report that will tell you step by step what you need to have your team get more done. Get it here: https://courageofaleader.com/inspireyourteam/ You don't need to have all the answers to lead well. Get your copy of the Clarity Kit for just $17 to learn the five practices to bring more clarity, confidence and courage into your leadership - https://courageofaleader.com/the-clarity-kit/ Get your copy of Steve’s book, Greatfruit: How Cancer Led to Living a More Fruitful Life - https://a.co/d/0bG6NVcZ About the Guest: Steve Garraty is a cancer survivor, husband, and father of two beautiful children he was told he would unlikely ever have due to chemotherapy. He has a finance degree from the University of Georgia. He’s been in sales and leadership roles for thirty years and has hired, trained, and coached hundreds of people. Steve is passionate about coaching and mentoring others to achieve their goals and accomplish more than they ever imagined. His experience battling cancer led to him being a better parent and leader with a new perspective to live a better, more fruitful, and wonderful life. About the Host: Amy L. Riley is an internationally renowned speaker, author and consultant. She has over 2 decades of experience developing leaders at all levels. Her clients include Cisco Systems, Deloitte and Barclays. As a trusted leadership coach and consultant, Amy has worked with hundreds of leaders one-on-one, and thousands more as part of a group, to fully step into their leadership, create amazing teams and achieve extraordinary results. Amy’s most popular keynote speeches are: The Courage of a Leader: The Power of a Leadership Legacy The Courage of a Leader: Create a Competitive Advantage with Sustainable, Results-Producing Cross-System Collaboration The Courage of a Leader: Accelerate Trust with Your Team, Customers and Community The Courage of a Leader: How to Build a Happy and Successful Hybrid Team Her new book is a #1 international best-seller and is entitled, The Courage of a Leader: How to Inspire, Engage and Get Extraordinary Results. http://www.courageofaleader.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/amyshoopriley Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below! Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the, podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app. Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts. Mentioned in this episode: The Inspire Your Team to Greatness Assessment (The Courage Assessment) https://courageofaleader.com/inspireyourteam/

May 21, 202622 min

Courage in Action: Qualities and Traits of The Courage of a Leader

In the second episode of the Courage in Action series, Amy explores the traits that define courageous leadership in today’s workplace. She challenges the idea that leadership is about having all the answers and instead focuses on the courage required to navigate uncertainty, have difficult conversations, build trust, and lead authentically. Through practical leadership examples, Amy breaks down how emotional intelligence, self-awareness, adaptability, and vulnerability strengthen leadership credibility and team connection. This episode is a grounded reminder that courageous leadership is not built through perfection. It is built one intentional choice, one conversation, and one act of courage at a time. Key Takeaways: Leadership Beyond Titles – Why courageous leadership is demonstrated through behavior, not authority or position. Emotional Intelligence Under Pressure – Discover how self-awareness and emotional discipline strengthen leadership effectiveness. Building Trust Through Honesty – Explore how transparency and authenticity create stronger team trust during uncertainty. Courage Through Everyday Choices – Learn how courageous leadership traits are developed through consistent practice and reflection. Vulnerability and Credibility – How healthy vulnerability strengthens trust, psychological safety, and leadership connection. Resources Mentioned The Inspire Your Team to Greatness assessment (the Courage Assessment ) - In less than 10 minutes, find out where you’re empowering and inadvertently kills productivity, and get a custom report that will tell you step by step what you need to have your team get more done. Get it here: https://courageofaleader.com/inspireyourteam/ You don't need to have all the answers to lead well. Get your copy of the Clarity Kit for just $17 to learn the five practices to bring more clarity, confidence and courage into your leadership - https://courageofaleader.com/the-clarity-kit/ About the Host: Amy L. Riley is an internationally renowned speaker, author and consultant. She has over 2 decades of experience developing leaders at all levels. Her clients include Cisco Systems, Deloitte and Barclays. As a trusted leadership coach and consultant, Amy has worked with hundreds of leaders one-on-one, and thousands more as part of a group, to fully step into their leadership, create amazing teams and achieve extraordinary results. Amy’s most popular keynote speeches are: The Courage of a Leader: The Power of a Leadership Legacy The Courage of a Leader: Create a Competitive Advantage with Sustainable, Results-Producing Cross-System Collaboration The Courage of a Leader: Accelerate Trust with Your Team, Customers and Community The Courage of a Leader: How to Build a Happy and Successful Hybrid Team Her new book is a #1 international best-seller and is entitled, The Courage of a Leader: How to Inspire, Engage and Get Extraordinary Results. http://www.courageofaleader.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/amyshoopriley Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below! Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the, podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app. Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts. Mentioned in this episode: The Inspire Your Team to Greatness Assessment (The Courage Assessment) https://courageofaleader.com/inspireyourteam/

May 5, 202616 min

Courage in Action: What It Takes to Powerfully Lead Through Change

In this first episode of the new Courage in Action series, Amy answers some questions she receives from leaders and their teams about the reality of change, especially when it is unexpected or uncomfortable. She walks through how leaders can pause instead of react, how they can lead their teams with intention, and why resistance to change is often more about identity than logic. She also shares practical ways leaders can create safety, build trust, and bring clarity when answers are not fully known. This is your opportunity to set the tone when change feels uncertain. Key Takeaways: Avoid emotional reactions - Discover a simple technique to create space between reaction and response during change Resistance and Identity – Uncover why change feels personal and how to work through it Creating Safety – Learn how to build trust and stability even without full answers Managing Overload – Explore how to make multiple changes feel more manageable for teams Resources: The Inspire Your Team to Greatness assessment (the Courage Assessment ) - In less than 10 minutes, find out where you’re empowering and inadvertently kills productivity, and get a custom report that will tell you step by step what you need to have your team get more done. Get it here: https://courageofaleader.com/inspireyourteam/ You don't need to have all the answers to lead well. Get your copy of the Clarity Kit for just $17 to learn the five practices to bring more clarity, confidence and courage into your leadership - https://courageofaleader.com/the-clarity-kit/ About the Host: Amy L. Riley is an internationally renowned speaker, author and consultant. She has over 2 decades of experience developing leaders at all levels. Her clients include Cisco Systems, Deloitte and Barclays. As a trusted leadership coach and consultant, Amy has worked with hundreds of leaders one-on-one, and thousands more as part of a group, to fully step into their leadership, create amazing teams and achieve extraordinary results. Amy’s most popular keynote speeches are: The Courage of a Leader: The Power of a Leadership Legacy The Courage of a Leader: Create a Competitive Advantage with Sustainable, Results-Producing Cross-System Collaboration The Courage of a Leader: Accelerate Trust with Your Team, Customers and Community The Courage of a Leader: How to Build a Happy and Successful Hybrid Team Her new book is a #1 international best-seller and is entitled, The Courage of a Leader: How to Inspire, Engage and Get Extraordinary Results. http://www.courageofaleader.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/amyshoopriley Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below! Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the, podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app. Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts. Mentioned in this episode: The Inspire Your Team to Greatness Assessment (The Courage Assessment) https://courageofaleader.com/inspireyourteam/

March 31, 202633 min

How to Go From Visionary to Change Agent to Triumphant | David Johnson (Encore)

Most leaders want change, but we often avoid the one place it has to start. Truth. In this encore presentation of our conversation with David Johnson, we challenge the instinct to jump straight to vision and instead ground ourselves in reality. We explore why leaders struggle to be fully transparent, how avoiding hard truths slows everything down, and what it really takes to move people through resistance. We walk through how to create momentum with early wins, how to focus on the people who are willing but waiting, and why transformation is not about tearing things down but building something stronger. This is a conversation that shifts how we think about change. When we face where we are with clarity and lead with honesty, we create the conditions for real progress and lasting results. Key Takeaways: Reality First – We learn why honest assessment is the foundation of effective change. Build Momentum – We see how early wins create energy and forward movement. Transparency Wins – We understand how openness builds trust and engagement. Focus the Middle – We learn how to influence the majority who are undecided. Change Creates Value – We discover how transformation strengthens entire systems. Resources Mentioned The Inspire Your Team to Greatness assessment (the Courage Assessment ) - In less than 10 minutes, find out where you’re empowering and inadvertently kills productivity, and get a custom report that will tell you step by step what you need to have your team get more done. Get it here: https://courageofaleader.com/inspireyourteam/ You don't need to have all the answers to lead well. Get your copy of the Clarity Kit for just $17 to learn the five practices to bring more clarity, confidence and courage into your leadership - https://courageofaleader.com/the-clarity-kit/ About the Guest: David Johnson, founder and managing partner of Abraxas Group, has a 20-year track record of driving organizational change. David has served as interim executive or financial advisor to dozens of middle market companies in transition. Throughout his career, David has demonstrated a commitment to thought leadership, with numerous speaking engagements and articles on the topics of change management, performance improvement, restructuring and turnaround to his credit. David received his MBA from the University of Chicago and completed his undergraduate studies at Fairleigh Dickinson University. About the Host: Amy L. Riley is an internationally renowned speaker, author and consultant. She has over 2 decades of experience developing leaders at all levels. Her clients include Cisco Systems, Deloitte and Barclays. As a trusted leadership coach and consultant, Amy has worked with hundreds of leaders one-on-one, and thousands more as part of a group, to fully step into their leadership, create amazing teams and achieve extraordinary results. Amy’s most popular keynote speeches are: The Courage of a Leader: The Power of a Leadership Legacy The Courage of a Leader: Create a Competitive Advantage with Sustainable, Results-Producing Cross-System Collaboration The Courage of a Leader: Accelerate Trust with Your Team, Customers and Community The Courage of a Leader: How to Build a Happy and Successful Hybrid Team Her new book is a #1 international best-seller and is entitled, The Courage of a Leader: How to Inspire, Engage and Get Extraordinary Results. http://www.courageofaleader.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/amyshoopriley Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below! Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the, podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app. Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts. Mentioned in this episode: The Inspire Your Team to Greatness Assessment (The Courage Assessment) https://courageofaleader.com/inspireyourteam/