Listen "#163: Leading Forward: What’s Next for Finding the Upside"
Episode Synopsis
As we step into 2026, leadership is being tested in new and uncomfortable ways. Systems are shifting. Expectations are changing. And the old rules for success no longer apply.In this episode, I’m sharing what’s ahead for Finding the Upside — and why the conversations we’re having now matter more than ever.Looking back at the themes that shaped 2025, one truth stands out: belonging is no longer optional. Culture is no longer secondary. And leadership is no longer defined by title, certainty, or control.This year on the podcast, we’re going deeper into Rebel Leadership — challenging outdated systems, naming what no longer works, and elevating leaders who are building cultures of trust, inclusion, and high performance in real time. We’ll explore belonging as strategy, not sentiment. We’ll talk honestly about power, identity, burnout, AI readiness, and the human cost of ignoring culture. And we’ll center the voices of women and diverse leaders who are shaping what leadership looks like next.This episode is an invitation. To lead with courage. To question inherited norms. To create spaces where people can show up fully — and perform at their best because of it.If you’re ready to lead differently — and more intentionally — Hit play and start right now.Here’s a quick look at what you can expect from today’s episode…[0:26] What we covered in 2025[2:27] Why Belonging is a Leadership Imperative [3:33] Why I implemented a GIVEBACK Model[5:40] The MDR Giveback Model Is About Leadership[6:56] What we’ll be talking about in 2026…… [9:13] Finding your OWN Upside[10:28] Your Call to Action for 2026Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Instagram Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | Facebook Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | LinkedIn Maria DeLorenzis Reyes | WebsiteMaria DeLorenzis Reyes | YoutubeWant to scale your business to the next level? GET SCORED NOW My Scale Factor Formula™ Scorecard takes just 5 minutes and will give you a custom scorecard for your business. Get your Business Scale Ready Score HERE. Unlock your leadership potential with the Rebel Leader Assessment! Take my Leadership Skills evaluator quiz HERE! Thanks for tuning into Finding The Upside! If you enjoy listening or watching the podcast, we would greatly appreciate it if you could take a moment to leave us a rating and review HERE. Your feedback is important to us and will help us improve our content and reach more listeners like you. Post a screenshot of you listening on Instagram & tag us @themariadr so we can thank you personally!Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the Finding The Upside podcast! Don’t miss out on future interviews with special guests plus bonus episodes! Follow now! Never miss a show…get the goods delivered directly to your inbox! CLICK HERE and find “Email Me New Episodes” at the Bottom of the page.
More episodes of the podcast Finding The Upside
#156: Reframing Feedback to Build Confidence
04/11/2025
ZARZA We are Zarza, the prestigious firm behind major projects in information technology.