What Great Leaders Know: Leadership Expert Nan Carney-DeBord

What does it really take to become a great leader?In this powerful conversation, Nan Carney-DeBord takes us through her remarkable journey from coach to athletic administrator and the first woman at Denison to lead an athletic department. Along the way, she shares hard-earned lessons about authenticity, mentorship, resilience, relationships, and building a culture where people can thrive.Nan explains her philosophy of servant leadership and introduces the five Ps that have guided her career: Pride, Passion, Purpose, Perseverance, and Process. She also reflects on the evolution of women's sports since Title IX, the challenges women have faced in athletic leadership, and why today's women can lead with their own authentic style.This episode goes beyond sports. It's a conversation about how to build resilient teams, navigate adversity, develop meaningful relationships, and lead with purpose.Whether you're an athlete, coach, administrator, student, or aspiring leader, Nan's message is simple: leadership isn't about you, but it's about the people you serve and the culture you create.