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What it really takes to grow into the leader you're meant to be—on your terms, over time, and from the inside out.

As we head into the July 4th holiday, a time when we reflect on freedom, progress, and reinvention, it feels fitting to bring you this powerful new episode with Dr. Bryan Deptula, leadership expert and author of Leaders Are Born to Be Made.

Bryan is one of the most grounded, engaging, and purpose-driven voices I’ve come across. His philosophy? That leadership isn’t reserved for the chosen few. It’s a skill, one we can all build, train, and strengthen over time.

In our conversation, Bryan opens up about his own unlikely path from corporate sales leader to PhD, professor, and consultant. He shares how pivotal moments in his life—like a tough-love lesson from his godmother “Mama Sis” and a tent-bound self-reflection under the Indian River Inlet Bridge—helped him shed old versions of himself to grow into who he’s meant to become.

We dive deep into his MUSCLE framework:

• M: Me – Start with self-leadership
  
  
• U: Understanding – Grow your leadership intelligence
  
  
• S: Strategy – Align with vision, mission, and values
  
  
• C: Conflict – Use it productively
  
  
• L: Learning – Commit to growth
  
  
• E: Entrepreneurship – Own your path, whether you run a business or lead from within

This isn’t just theory, Bryan brings real-world experience, relatable stories, and an unfiltered look at what leadership looks like when it’s done with heart, humility, and a willingness to get uncomfortable.

He also reminds us that the best leaders are the ones who keep learning, keep failing forward, and keep living. As Bryan puts it: “Start leading by treating yourself as the most important individual you can work on first.”

This is a conversation for anyone at a crossroads, whether you’re a seasoned executive, a rising manager, or someone wondering what it takes to lead your own life a little better.

Books mentioned in this episode:

• Leaders Are Born to Be Made – Bryan Deptula
  
  
• Essentialism – Greg McKeown
  
  
• Team of Rivals – Doris Kearns Goodwin
  
  
• Unique Ability – Dan Sullivan
  
  
• Plus shoutouts to Adam Grant and the value of failing forward

Whether you're tuning in from the car, the beach, or your morning walk, I hope this one leaves you thinking a little differently about what it means to be a leader—starting with you.

🎧 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts.
And let us know: What’s one part of your own leadership “muscle” you want to grow next?

Until next time, friends,
Chris

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This week’s episode of Outside Insights is a special one.

I had the opportunity to sit down with Peter Samuelson, film producer, philanthropist, and now, the author of Finding Happy: A User’s Guide to Your Life with Lessons from Mine. Before our conversation, I had a chance to read an early copy of the book (officially released June 10), and I couldn’t put it down. It’s heartfelt, funny, profound, and filled with stories that encourage you to think a little deeper about your own life, and consider how you might use it to help someone else.

Peter’s journey is truly remarkable. From studying medieval literature to producing blockbuster films to founding seven nonprofits, he’s lived a life driven by curiosity, service, and an unwavering belief that everyone has the power to make a difference. His book, along with our conversation, offers a guide for anyone looking to live with more meaning and impact, no matter your age or background.

In this episode, we talk about:

• What a film producer really does (hint: it’s a lot like being a general)
• The story behind his nonprofit work with foster kids—and the powerful ripple effect of giving them agency
• His unlikely mentorship with General Norman Schwarzkopf
• Why short-term happiness might be chocolate ice cream… but long-term happiness requires service
• How we can heal our divided world with a simple but powerful concept: empathy

Peter expresses it best: “You are the only author of the rest of your life.” His life’s work is a testament to that, and I think you will walk away from this episode as driven—and motivated—as I was.

👉 Listen to the episode now

🌐 Visit Peter's website

Whether you’re a young adult, a parent, a mentor, or simply someone seeking happiness, this episode is for you.

Until next time, friends,
Chris

If this conversation resonates, forward it to a friend or colleague. Insight is meant to be shared.

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Are You a Farmer or a Fisherman? A New Take on Purpose at Work

What if the secret to long-term success wasn’t the hustle, but the harvest?

This week on Outside Insights, I’m joined by Jonathan Stanley—purpose strategist, author of Purposeful Performance, and surprise TikTok star with a viral story that proves empathy still wins in business (and in bookstores).

We talk about what it really means to lead with purpose—from redefining success to building values-aligned teams and turning culture into a competitive advantage. Plus, Jonathan breaks down his MEAN framework for goal-setting and explains why it’s time to ditch outdated models like SMART goals.

And yes… his dog Charlie makes an appearance—because who better to remind us of loyalty, presence, and purpose?

In this episode:

• Why the best leaders think like farmers, not fishermen
• How the MEAN goal-setting framework unlocks deeper performance
• The role of purpose in building better teams, stronger brands, and meaningful lives
• The viral moment that put empathy (and Jonathan) on the map

🎧 Listen to the episode now
▶️ Streaming everywhere you get your podcasts.

Know someone trying to build a better team or lead with more intention?
Share this episode with a friend or leader who’s ready to move from hustle to harvest.

Until next time, friends,
Chris Burkhard