Leading through Unlearning
Leading through Unlearning is dedicated to helping leaders shed outdated practices and embrace evidence-based strategies. In each short episode, host Dr. Brandon A. Smith delves into the latest literature and best practices, offering actionable insights to replace ineffective habits with proven techniques. Join Brandon as he explores the journey of unlearning, providing concise and practical guidance to transform your leadership approach and drive meaningful change in your organization. Perfect for busy leaders seeking quick, impactful tips to enhance their leadership skills.
Leading through Unlearning
Defining Leadership: Beyond Titles and Formal Authority
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What does it mean to lead? In this episode, we tackle the challenge of defining leadership—a concept that’s intuitively understood yet difficult to pin down. Drawing from insights and real-world examples, we explore the essence of leadership as influence, the distinction between formal and informal leadership, and how it compares to management. Whether you're an aspiring leader or already in a position of authority, this episode will inspire you to reflect on your own leadership style and discover how influence, not just authority, can drive meaningful results. Tune in and take the first step in becoming the leader you aspire to be!
Contact us at UnlearningLeadership@outlook.com
References
- Northouse, P. G. (2025). Leadership: Theory and practice. Sage publications.
- Kotter, J. P. (2008). Force for change: How leadership differs from management. Simon and Schuster.
- French, J. and Raven, B. (1959). The Bases of Social Power. In Studies in Social Power, D. Cartwright, Ed., pp. 150-167. Ann Arbor, MI: Institute for Social Research.
- Simonet, D. V., & Tett, R. P. (2013). Five perspectives on the leadership–management relationship: A competency-based evaluation and integration. Journal of Leadership & Organizational Studies, 20(2), 199-213.
- Lewin, Kurt, Fritz Heider, and Grace M. Heider. 1936. Principles of topological psychology. New York: McGraw-Hill Book Company, Inc.