Stop Performing Success: How to Lead with Authentic Power

What if becoming a better leader isn't about becoming more impressive—but becoming more yourself? In this episode of The Career Evangelist Podcast, Bola Alabi sits down with leadership coach Ruth Andermatt, founder of Ace Inc., who brings nearly three decades of experience helping senior leaders and executives reconnect with their authentic power. Ruth shares her unconventional career journey—from working in a mental health institution to Xerox sales, corporate leadership, and eventually building her own coaching practice. Along the way, she learned an important lesson: sustainable success doesn't come from constantly trying to fit someone else's model of leadership. The conversation explores what Ruth calls "coming home to your power"—understanding how you operate, trusting yourself, being intentional about how you show up, and resisting the temptation to perform success. Ruth also discusses her experience as the only woman in Canada in a senior operations role, the challenges facing introverted leaders, and why genuine presence may be one of the most underrated leadership skills. You'll discover: Why authentic leadership begins with knowing yourself Why introverts shouldn't imitate extroverted leadership How Ruth navigated being a woman in a male-dominated leadership environment Why listening can create more impact than trying to impress people How career detours can lead to unexpected opportunities Why presence is becoming increasingly valuable in a distracted world How to become more intentional about the impact you have on others If you've ever felt pressure to shrink, perform, or become someone else to succeed professionally, this conversation offers a different approach: Know your power. Be present. Show up intentionally.