Welcome to all of my leadership enthusiasts! Here we explore another episode of The Leadership Toolkit podcast, hosted by the one and only Mike Phillips. In this episode I have the chance to interview a true leadership luminary, Coach Calvin Richard, he takes us on an exhilarating journey into the depths of leadership identity, vulnerability, resilience, and more. The way that Coach Calvin talks about leadership, he offers tremendous insights that will leave you inspired and ready to lead with courage and authenticity.

Discovering Your Leadership Identity

Calvin Richard kicks off the conversation by diving straight into the heart of leadership – one’s identity as a leader. Calvin shares, “It’s about who you are at your core. It’s about aligning your actions with your values and beliefs.”

He goes on to emphasize the importance of self-awareness in leadership. Before you can lead others effectively, you must first understand yourself. Your leadership identity is like your North Star. It guides your decisions, influences your behavior, and sets the tone for your team.

Leading with Vulnerability

As the conversation unfolds, Coach Richard passionately delves into the topic of vulnerability in leadership. “Leaders who are open about their vulnerabilities create environments where others feel safe to be themselves.” Vulnerability can foster trust and connection, which are essential for high-performing teams.”

He encourages all leaders to embrace vulnerability. You don’t have to be perfect. Showing vulnerability can be a sign of strength. It humanizes you, making you more relatable and approachable.

The Obstacle Is the Way

Next, Coach Richard refers to a powerful concept: “The obstacle is the way.” He draws inspiration from the books of the same name. Challenges and obstacles are not roadblocks; they are opportunities for growth and learning. In leadership, it’s not about avoiding difficulties but facing them head-on.

Calvin shares the story of a pivotal moment in his coaching career when he encountered a seemingly insurmountable challenge. “I could have walked away, but I chose to confront it,” he says. “And that decision transformed my leadership journey. It taught me resilience, resourcefulness, and the importance of perseverance.”

He urges leaders to adopt the mindset of: “When you encounter obstacles, don’t shy away from them. Lean into them. They will shape you into a stronger and more capable leader.”

Courageous Leadership

The podcast takes an electrifying turn as Coach Richard delves into the heart of courageous leadership. “Courage is not the absence of fear; it’s the willingness to act in spite of it,” he declares.

He emphasizes the importance of taking bold action and making tough decisions as a leader. Leadership often requires you to step into the unknown, to challenge what’s in front of you, and to take calculated risks. And that takes courage! Calvin Richard’s passion for courageous leadership is contagious.

Your Gift Will Make Room For You

A theme throughout the conversation, Coach Calvin reminds us of this nugget of wisdom that resonates deeply. “Your gift will make room for you,” he says with a lot of conviction and a smile on his face. Each of us has a unique gift, a talent, a skill that can make a difference in the world. When you use that gift to serve others, doors will open for you.

He shares anecdotes from his coaching journey, recounting how his dedication to helping others led to unexpected opportunities. “It’s not about seeking recognition or rewards,” Calvin explains. “It’s about giving your best and watching how God returns that favor.”

Until next time, keep learning, keep growing, and keep leading!

Check out the full episode featuring Calvin “Go Hard” Richard below. And, Stay tuned for more captivating episodes of The Leadership Toolkit, where we continue to bring you the best in leadership insights and inspiration.

Check out past episodes of The Leadership Toolkit on YouTube or your favorite podcast platform!