Listen "What Happens When Leaders Finally Get Honest With Themselves with Dr. Michael Brabant"
Episode Synopsis
Matt Drinkhahn sits down with Dr. Michael Brabant—transformational psychologist, spiritual guide, and Co-Founder of Candor & Coherence—for a deep dive into what it truly means to lead with clarity, coherence, and heart. Drawing from his journey through trauma healing, academia, and integrative spiritual practice, Michael reveals why traditional leadership tactics often fall short—and how cultivating psychological safety, embodied presence, and radical honesty can unlock authentic transformation in both life and business. If you’ve ever felt the tension between performing and truly being, this episode offers a powerful reframe on how real leaders grow.Chapters:00:00:00 - Step Inside The Eternal Optimist00:00:14 - Meet Dr. Michael Brabant: Depth Meets Clarity00:00:52 - A Childhood Gift: Curiosity Meets Sensitivity00:02:57 - Turning Sensitivity Into a Superpower00:05:24 - Healing the Past to Lead the Future00:08:58 - How Internal Validation Changed Everything00:12:21 - Finding the Self Beneath the Layers00:16:40 - Building Unshakable Trust Within Yourself00:21:45 - Why Self-Esteem Isn’t Optional00:24:56 - Facing Your Inner Critic Head-On00:25:26 - Feedback as a Catalyst for Growth00:29:14 - Vulnerability: The Gateway to Authentic Leadership00:32:36 - What Is Internal Family Systems, Really?00:36:47 - Practicing Empathy Without Losing Yourself00:38:36 - Why Leaders Must Do the Inner Work00:41:38 - Tools and Wisdom for the Growth Path00:45:29 - Parting Words on Presence and PossibilityLinks And Resources:Candor & Coherence WebsiteDr. Michael Brabant on LinkedInThanks so much for joining us this week. Want to subscribe to Eternal Optimist? Have some feedback you’d like to share? Connect with us on iTunes and leave us a review!
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