016: Leadership Lessons from Season 1 with Erik & Rachel

Season 1 wasn’t just about retreat tall tales—it was a masterclass in real leadership. In this wrapped-up chat, hosts Rachel and Erik unpack the key lessons that surfaced across the season—from stepping into leadership despite imposter syndrome and the power of a single invitation, to why retreats are where connections happen and how humble gestures become leadership in action. This episode isn’t a recap—it’s a reflection on what it means to lead, together.Key TakeawaysYou don’t need to feel ready to start leading—action builds confidence.An ask is powerful—leadership often begins with someone saying, “Hey, we’d love you here.”Retreats shape us more than events do—they’re where people evolve into leaders.Small, messy actions matter—gracious leadership often happens offstage.People are our legacy—connections outlast work portfolios.Mentorship completes the circle—being invited and then inviting others is leadership in motion.Season 1 was the structural foundation—and it’s only getting stronger in Season 2.Episode Chapters00:02 – Why this episode exists: Rachel shares how reviewing transcripts with GPT revealed stunning leadership insights hidden just below the retreat stories.  01:11 – Lesson 1: Leadership starts before you feel ready: Imposter vibes are universal, but leadership grows in the doing.  04:27 – Lesson 2: One invitation can change everything: A simple “Wanna join?” unlocked leadership paths for many guests.  09:18 – Lesson 3: Retreats aren’t events—they’re origin stories: From Grand Rapids energy to hot tub bonding, these aren’t just trips—they’re accelerators of belonging.  13:10 – Lesson 4: Real leadership is small, messy & generous: It’s not always the mic, but the unseen gestures—like greeting at the check-in table.  16:29 – Lesson 5: This community is the product: It’s the people that turn chapters into ecosystems—relationships matter more than portfolios.  21:05 – Lesson 6: Full-circle moments make it worth it: From mentee to mentor, the loop of giving back is the heartbeat of design community.  29:48 – Behind the scenes love: Erik and Rachel reflect on how much this podcast—Season 1—has meant to them personally.  33:22 – What’s next for Season 2: A teaser—returning by August with duo interviews, a bi-weekly rhythm, and subscriber exclusives.  About the HostsRachel Elnar & Erik Cargill continue their journey shaping Cheers & Tiers, curating design leadership stories with warmth, levity, and honesty. From pulling insights out of transcripts to building community one episode at a time—they lead by listening, storytelling, and lifting others.FeaturingHost Erik Cargill, connect on LinkedInHost Rachel Elnar, connect on LinkedInSupport the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Together by Design newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updatesSponsored by: Able Made, The Original Off Pitch Soccer Style: shop nowSponsored by: Draplin Design Company, check us out!Sponsored by: The People's Graphic Design Archive: browse, contribute, and research