Aaron Bare: "It Takes Less Energy to Think Big Than to Worry Small"

Aaron Bare has spent the last two decades traveling the world as a speaker, entrepreneur, and facilitator, helping leaders rethink what they believe is possible. But behind the titles and accomplishments is a simple question that drives his work: why do so many capable people settle for smaller lives than they’re capable of living?In this conversation, Aaron reflects on the experiences that shaped his philosophy of leadership, from working with global founders to facilitating organizations struggling with communication and culture. Over time, he began to notice a pattern. The difference between ordinary and extraordinary people was rarely talent or intelligence. It was perspective. The willingness to think bigger, pause before reacting, and see challenges as part of a much larger game.Along the way, Aaron shares the leadership lessons he learned the hard way. Why communication breaks down inside most organizations. Why authentic connection carries more influence than authority. And why the future of leadership will depend less on technology and more on something surprisingly simple: our ability to be fully human with one another.At a time when artificial intelligence is accelerating change across every industry, Aaron argues that the real differentiator will not be who uses technology the most. It will be who understands people the best.What You’ll Learn• Why Aaron believes it takes less energy to think big than to worry about small things• The hidden communication breakdown that affects nearly every organization• How curiosity, confidence, and clarity shape high-performing teams• Why authentic leadership creates stronger cultures than authority or control• How AI may increase the importance of human creativity, storytelling, and empathy• The surprising power of gratitude and presence in everyday leadership moments• Why the people closest to you influence your future more than you realizeAbout Aaron BareAaron Bare is a 12-time entrepreneur, global speaker, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author. He has facilitated leadership and communication programs around the world and has visited more than 100 countries. Aaron’s work focuses on helping leaders and organizations unlock human potential through curiosity, clarity, and courageous communication.About Extraordinary StoriesExtraordinary Stories explores the ideas, people, and experiences that shape extraordinary lives.Hosts Forbes Shannon, Christine Butler, and Aaron Bare sit down with entrepreneurs, thinkers, creators, and leaders to uncover the moments that changed how they see the world.