The rebel leader: Why great leaders break the rules episode artwork

EPISODE · Aug 14, 2025 · 37 MIN

The rebel leader: Why great leaders break the rules

from How to Make a Leader · host Big Think+

Ingrid Hu Dahl believes the most effective leaders are those who intentionally break rules, challenging the status quo. With diverse experience as a punk-rock musician, executive coach and L&D leader at Gap, Meta and Capital One, Ingrid offers a radically human perspective on leadership - one that is rooted in rebellion and genuine connection. She shares personal stories and learnings about why the best leaders are the rebels who dare to challenge the status quo and lead with authenticity. You’ll learn:Why rebellion is a powerful force in leadershipFast reset tools to reduce workplace stressHow to break toxic patterns in traditional leadership culturesHow to lead with empathy and inclusion in high-stress environments Things to listen for:(00:00) Introducing Ingrid Hu Dahl(02:43) Rebellion as a foundation for authentic leadership(04:07) The parallels of young musicians and high-performing teams(05:41) Coaching executives through fear, doubt, and isolation(10:09) Leading with empathy in high-stress environments(12:07) Fast reset tools to reduce workplace stress(16:20) Writing a memoir and not a leadership book(21:49) Breaking toxic patterns in traditional leadership cultures(25:12) Bringing experimentation and play into team culture(28:38) Daily behaviors that define inclusive leadership today(33:40) Advice for leaders who are ready to rebelTo learn more about Ingrid, check out her website and her book Sun Shining On Morning Snow. Want to learn more about getting Big Think+ for your business? Schedule a call with us at https://www2.bigthink.com/request-a-demo-big-think-plus About Ingrid Hu Dahl:Ingrid Hu Dahl is an author, speaker, and leadership coach. She is the founder of a coaching and consulting business dedicated to empowering the next generation of leaders. With over two decades of experience in learning and development, she brings her expertise to a wide range of industries, from corporate and media to nonprofit and social justice organizations. A TEDx speaker and a founding member of the Willie Mae Rock Camp in Brooklyn, Ingrid has a lifelong passion for amplifying underrepresented voices. She has written, filmed, and directed two short films exploring identity, representation, and the mixed-race experience. And, she has toured in multiple rock bands, playing bass, guitar, synth, drums, and singing.Ingrid is certified by the International Coaching Federation and the Center for Creative Leadership. She is a global lecturer and speaker, and an advisory board member for the Institute for Women’s Leadership at Rutgers University. She lives in Sausalito, California, with her wife, Courtney, and their dog, Palo Santo.Invite Ingrid to be a speaker, facilitator, consultant or leadership coach: www.IngridHuDahl.com Buy Ingrid's book and get it signed at one of her upcoming events: www.SunShiningonMorningSnow.comCheck out Ingrid's interview in Authority Magazine: “The Hidden Superpower of Every Great Leader: Ingrid Hu Dahl On Uncovering the Traits That Separate Good Leaders from Exceptional Ones”Read Ingrid's article for Women in Leadership: “Leading with Heart and Wading Through Fear—How Women Can Drop Control and Embrace Their Power”

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The rebel leader: Why great leaders break the rules

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