Ep 7: Sticking your neck out as a leader in today’s world w/Badass Granddad John Graham

Are You Ready to Stick Your Neck Out and Lead With Purpose?In this episode of the HEARTset Studio Leadership Podcast, host Lisa Virtue welcomes John Graham—executive director of the Giraffe Heroes Project, global peacebuilder, bestselling author, and social media’s “Badass Granddad”—to challenge everything leaders think they know about risk, meaning, and making a difference.Get the full show notes at: http://heartsetstudio.com/podcastEpisode Highlights:How Do You Find True Fulfillment as a Leader?John Graham shares his extraordinary journey from being an adrenaline-fueled adventurer and US Foreign Service officer to discovering that real courage is about self-examination and serving others, not just chasing the next thrill.What Does ‘Sticking Your Neck Out’ Really Mean in Today’s Corporate World?Learn practical ways leaders can take meaningful risks—whether it’s challenging the status quo, advocating for workplace humanity, or navigating the disruptive challenges of AI and layoffs. John Graham connects these high-stakes decisions to the ethos behind the Giraffe Heroes Project, where honoring those who “stick their necks out” inspires others to act boldly for the greater good.Leadership Lessons for Modern Times:Discover why storytelling is a critical tool for cultural change, how to build trust starting with small steps, and why leaders who focus on meaning and service—not just money, power, or corporate goals—create truly lasting impact.Influencing With Integrity:As an influencer with 120,000 loyal followers on social media, John Graham demonstrates how authenticity, vulnerability, and service transcend trends and help leaders build real communities—online and off.Honest Conversations About Masculinity, Adversity, and Change:Reflecting on his transformation—from seeking manhood in action, danger, and toughness to learning the power of vulnerability and compassion—John Graham offers a roadmap for any leader ready to look inward and lead outwardly with heart.Why Listen?This episode is packed with actionable leadership strategies, honest discussions about risk and courage, and inspiring stories that will help you:Lead with meaning and purpose even when it challenges your comfort zoneBuild trust and influence in polarizing environmentsModel courageous leadership to inspire your teams and communitiesShift from success defined by power, to significance defined by serviceWhether you’re a CEO, manager, or emerging leader, this episode will equip you with the mindset and motivation to lead with impact—by sticking your neck out for what truly matters.Listen now for a masterclass in values-driven leadership, storytelling for change, and finding your purpose in and beyond the workplace.Keywords: leadership podcast, courageous leadership, building trust, corporate culture, storytelling, purposeful leadership, Giraffe Heroes Project, John Graham, leading with heart, service, influence, meaning at work, workplace humanity