13. Leadership Is a Decision, Not a Title: How Leadership Archetypes Help You Act with Alignment

What does it really mean to lead? In this episode, I share a personal story about my neighborhood block party and how that decision became a real-time leadership case study. We explore how true leadership isn't about pushing through—it's about alignment, courage, and making decisions others can follow.You’ll learn a fresh, inclusive definition of leadership, how to recognize when it’s your time to lead, and how to understand your personal leadership style using my new Leadership Archetypes Matrix. Plus, I walk you through how I used the VIEW Framework in real life—without even realizing it.Whether you're leading a team, a household, or a community, this episode is your permission to trust your gut, act with intention, and lead from where you are.Key Themes:* Redefining leadership beyond hierarchy and control* A real-time leadership story from my neighborhood* How misalignment can signal your moment to lead* The four Leadership Archetypes: Executive, Advocate, Operator, Integrator* Why saying no can be the boldest act of leadership* How I used the VIEW Framework (Values, Insight, Empowerment, Wisdom) in actionResources & Links:* 🎧 Listen to Episode 9: The VIEW Framework for Decision-Making* 📥 Download the Free VIEW Framework Workbook* 📖 Read more reflections on leadership on Substack* 🌐 Explore my work at intuitionstrategist.com* ✉️ Want to share your story of leading without a title? Email me at [email protected] Practices from This Episode:* Use the VIEW Framework to evaluate a real decision in your life or work.* Speak up or act when your gut says, “This needs leadership.”* Choose one leadership archetype outside your comfort zone and try it on this week.Leadership Archetypes Mentioned:* Executive (Strategic + Formal) — e.g., Miranda Priestly, Ted Lasso* Advocate (Strategic + Informal) — e.g., Elle Woods, early Leslie Knope* Operator (Tactical + Formal) — e.g., Olivia Pope, Joan Holloway* Integrator (Tactical + Informal) — e.g., Charlotte York, also Ted Lasso and Leslie Knope at timesReflection Prompt:Where in your life are you being called to lead—even if it’s not your job?If this episode resonated with you, please consider rating and reviewing the show. It helps more leaders find their way to aligned, intuitive action.Until next time—trust your gut, make decisions, and get results! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leahgoldman.substack.com