#13 – The It, We, and I of Leadership

SUMMARY In this episode, I sit down with Russ Powell of Russ Powell Consulting to explore what it really takes to be an effective leader and team builder. Russ shares the winding path that led him from psychology and teaching to instructional design, the U.S. Coast Guard, and eventually into leadership development. We talk about why most people don’t think systemically, the value of simplicity in coaching, and how habits like journaling, poetry, and reflection can power real transformation. Russ also shares his daily poem, practical frameworks for teams, and what makes his coaching style unique. TOPICS Russ’s Career Journey 00:00:30 From Jesuit studies to instructional design and corporate consulting Working with the U.S. Coast Guard, Sun Microsystems, and Genentech Founding Peregrine Performance Group and eventually launching Russ Powell Consulting Leadership and Team Development 00:06:16 From Jesuit studies to instructional Common mistakes leaders make—especially in startups Building systems thinking and collaborative problem-solving skills The “It, We, I” model and how to apply it in daily reflection Daily Practices for Growth 00:08:47 Bug Russ: Reflecting on yourself as if from the outside Morning habits: meditation, walks, and starting the day with poetry Writing, journaling, and simple visual models for self-awareness Poetry and Emotional Grounding 00:22:45 How poetry helps in personal clarity and emotional processing Russ’ daily poem Using poetry as a leadership tool in times of grief and transition Business Insights and Frameworks 00:36:15 What makes his coaching different The Freedom Compass and applying frameworks to productivity Admin challenges and how to stay focused on the work that matters Books & Inspiration 00:39:16 Humankind by Rutger Bregman: real-life stories of compassion and cooperation How to Survive the Loss of a Love: a beautifully structured book blending science, psychology, and poetry Final Reflections 00:41:37 Billboard message: “A desk is a dangerous place from which to view the world” Why self-awareness, courage, and simplicity are key to meaningful leadership Russ’ advice for leaders Links Russ Powell - Website Jonathan Mahrt – LinkedIn | Instagram | Website Thank you for joining us on this episode of On the Flywheel! If you enjoyed our discussion, please rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us continue to bring you insightful conversations with inspiring guests. Until next time, keep building momentum in your personal and professional lives!