Ep. 43 | Lead Like a Director: What Filmmaking Can Teach Us About Leadership

Every film begins with a story — and so does every company.In this cinematic conversation, Dr. Nashay Lowe sits down with filmmaker and creative strategist Cherise Lesesne to explore how storytelling and direction can transform the way we lead. From defining a clear vision to casting the right team and setting the emotional tone, Cherise unpacks how the best directors — and leaders — bring stories to life that people actually want to be part of. Together, they reveal how creativity, clarity, and compassion can reshape the cultures we build, one scene at a time. Key TakeawaysLeaders are storytellers, crafting narratives for their teams.Language and tone significantly impact team dynamics.Effective teams require a mix of personalities and skills.Conflict can be a catalyst for growth and improvement.Directing is about inspiring others, not micromanaging.Character development is crucial for team success.Setting the right tone can influence team morale.Reframing challenges can turn fear into focus.Leadership should be iterative and adaptable.Understanding and empathy are key to effective leadership.About Cherise LesesneCherise Lesesne is a product strategist, writer, and filmmaker whose work bridges storytelling, culture, and social analysis. She explores the power of narrative to decode how film, television, and media mirror societal systems and human behavior. She is also a finalist for TEDx U Street Women to deliver a speech regarding how people should take advantage of technology and screentime by thinking critically about the messages present in film and TV. Through her media platform Chaos In My Cup, Cherise weaves together essays, cinematic storytelling, and cultural critique that challenge audiences to think critically about identity, power, and belonging. Her background in product strategy informs her creative approach—merging analytical precision with emotional depth to craft stories that inspire reflection, connection, and change.🌟 Rate 🙆🏾‍♀️ Join the Community 🎤 Speaking Learn more at https://www.loweinsights.com