In the latest episode of our Leadership Story Talks podcast, Jerome Deroy and Julienne Ryan delved into the transformative power of storytelling in leadership with special guest George Pesansky. The episode opened with a vivid narrative of a personal experience that shaped George’s perspective on success and failure. Picture this: a young athlete, struggling to make it up a steep hill, with his father as the only supporter left. This moment of vulnerability became a foundation for George’s future insights into leadership and personal growth.As the conversation unfolds, hosts Jerome and Julienne explore how George’s early experiences in sports taught him valuable lessons about resilience and the importance of continuously striving for improvement. George had emphasized that while he may not have been the best athlete, his determination to get better each time was what truly mattered. This insight is pivotal for anyone in a leadership role, as it highlights the importance of embracing failure as a learning opportunity rather than a setback.
Julienne and Jerome further discuss the significance of capturing knowledge within organizations. They argue that too often, companies focus on the negatives—what went wrong—rather than celebrating successes and understanding the processes that led to those successes. George shared his belief that institutional knowledge comes from everyone in the organization, not just the leaders. By interviewing employees and sharing their stories, companies can foster a culture of learning and continuous improvement.
The episode also touches on the importance of accountability in leadership. As George pointed out, it’s not enough to simply have a coach who teaches skills; leaders need to show their teams how to succeed through their own experiences and stories. This approach builds trust and connection, essential components of high-performing teams.
Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own experiences—both successful and not so successful—and consider how those moments can be turned into valuable lessons. The discussion serves as a reminder that leadership is not about perfection, but about growth, learning, and the ability to inspire others through authentic storytelling.
If you’re looking to enhance your leadership skills and learn how to turn failures into stepping stones for success, this episode is a must-listen. George’s insights, combined with Jerome and Julienne’s engaging discussion, provide practical advice for anyone looking to lead with empathy and purpose. Tune in and discover how you can apply these lessons in your own life and work environment.
LISTEN to the episode HERE
Narativ’s online course in partnership with New Mexico State University Global Campus:
Lead With Your Story (self-paced, on-demand course)
Podcast listeners get 25% off – Use code NARATIV → Register Here
Learn more about how to leverage Narativ’s storytelling method for your pitch and sales team: Download our free e-book, or you’re welcome to schedule a free 15-minute call with Jerome.
Please join our mailing list to stay updated on all our latest episodes and events.
