Episode Description

In this episode, Julia explores the need to disrupt stereotypes and norms in leadership, especially those tied to women. She talks to Lissa V. Young, Camilla Pontual, and Katya Guryeva to explore the theme of disruption in leadership. It’s crucial to not only advocate for disruption but to be open to it yourself.
She begins with Camilla from Brazil, who shares her frustration with leadership programmes that often overlook cultural and socioeconomic realities. Camilla critiques the Eurocentric lens of these programs, arguing that leadership should embrace the diverse experiences of women leading in their communities, particularly in countries like Brazil, where women often head households and play critical leadership roles in informal settings.
Lissa, a disruptor in the US Army, highlights the importance of driving change from within institutions while collaborating with external “radicals” to build momentum. She shares the strategy of using insider credibility to advocate for systemic changes, a tactic she has used successfully to challenge entrenched norms in her career.
Camilla emphasises, “Leadership isn’t just about being a CEO, it’s about addressing the realities of the communities we live in.” while Katya Guryeva, stresses upon the critical role of age diversity in effective leadership.
The conclusive argument arises that disruption is not just an act of rebellion but a necessary step to create leadership models that lead to real social change.
The episode offers an inspiring and pragmatic approach to redefining leadership, with insights into how disruption can lead to meaningful transformation at individual and systemic levels.

About the Guests