Why Most Leaders Get It Wrong (And How to Fix It) | Dave Chauhan

Episode SummaryIn this episode of The Grit Diaries, we sit down with Dave Chauhan — author, leadership consultant, and former corporate executive — to explore what leadership really means in today’s world.After nearly two decades in the corporate world, Dave realised that traditional definitions of success — titles, income, and status — weren’t aligned with what truly matters. Shaped by a childhood between two very different value systems, he began questioning everything he thought he knew about leadership.This conversation challenges outdated leadership models and explores what it takes to lead with purpose, empathy, and responsibility.Episode Pillars● Two Worlds, One IdentityGrowing up between two sets of parents and conflicting values — and how this shaped Dave’s leadership philosophy● Success vs PurposeThe moment Dave realised corporate success wasn’t enough — and chose a different path● Why Leadership Is BrokenHow outdated, KPI-driven leadership models are failing people and organisations● The Captain Set Sail FrameworkBeacon (purpose), Wayfinder (adaptability), and Seafarer (courage) — a new way to lead● The Hidden Weight of LeadershipDecision fatigue, emotional pressure, and the responsibility leaders carry every dayThe Kintsugi ConnectionDave’s journey reflects the essence of Kintsugi — where life’s fractures become the foundation for growth, purpose, and impact.Rather than being defined by pressure or misalignment, Dave used those experiences to rebuild a new understanding of leadership grounded in values and humanity.About Kintsugi HeroesKintsugi Heroes is an Australian not-for-profit (DGR endorsed) dedicated to strengthening mental wellbeing through the power of storytelling.We believe that lived experience is a gift to be shared, not a scar to be hidden.Partner with Ushttps://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/partners/Donatehttps://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/donate/#donateConnect With UsWebsite: https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.auLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kintsugi-heroes/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kintsugi.heroes/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Kintsugi-Heroes-100084850387170/Mentioned in this episode:Kintsugi HeroesFollow the show, share it with someone who needs it, or share your own story at kintsugiheroes.com.au. Your story matters.Support Kintsugi HeroesKintsugi Heroes is a not-for-profit, and every story we share is free for the people who need it. If this show has meant something to you, you can help us keep going. Visit kintsugiheroes.com.au and click donate. Every contribution helps us keep telling these stories, and it's tax-deductible.