When Identity and Role Collide with Ron Rapatalo

Hey Friends! Send us a text! What happens when the leader you know yourself to be clashes with the role you’re expected to play?In this powerful episode of Leadership POV: Conversations with Alkema & Friends, Alkema sits down with leadership coach, author, publisher, and RONderings podcast Ron Rapatalo for an honest conversation about authenticity, integrity, and navigating leadership in environments that may not align with your values.Raised in Queens by Philippine immigrant parents and deeply shaped by the principles of kapwa and bayanihan — shared identity and communal support — Ron brings decades of experience helping mission-driven leaders grow through storytelling, authentic relationship-building, and equity-centered leadership. As the host of RONderings, Ron has built a platform rooted in curiosity, reflection, and meaningful human connection.Together, Alkema and Ron unpack the tension leaders experience when organizational culture, politics, or expectations begin pulling them away from who they truly are. Through candid reflection and lived experience, they explore:Defining your leadership identity beyond titles and rolesRecognizing when you are “doing leadership” instead of truly leadingHow to remain grounded when workplace values conflict with personal convictionsCommunicating with integrity in high-pressure or misaligned environmentsRecalibrating your leadership compass when testedRon also shares practical wisdom from his work in executive consulting, leadership development, career coaching, and publishing first-time authors of color, offering encouragement for leaders trying to navigate complex systems without losing themselves in the process.This episode is both a mirror and a map for leaders wrestling with the question:“When my organization’s values collide with my own, how do I stay true to who I am?”Whether you’re leading a team, an organization, a ministry, or simply trying to lead yourself well, this conversation will challenge you to reflect deeply, lead courageously, and anchor yourself in values that endure long after the title changes.Learn more about Ron’s work through Stronger Consulting and explore his leadership insights on RONderings Podcast.🔗 Connect with Our Host & GuestAlkema LewisWebsite: www.alewisconsult.comLinkedIn: Alkema LewisInstagram/Facebook: @ALewisConsultingRon RapataloLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rapataloFacebook: [email protected]: @phenomeronauthentic leadership, leadership podcast, educational leadership, principal leadership, leadership development, psychological safety, leadership self-awareness, transparency in leadership, leadership communication, building trust in teams