In the high-stakes world of corporate leadership, CEOs face immense pressure to perform, inspire, and adapt. The role demands clarity, vision, and the ability to navigate challenges with resilience. Gary Michels, host of the Turn It Up A Notch Podcast also a world renowned motivational author and speaker, has spent over 30 years helping leaders master these skills.
Through his work with industry giants like Bellagio, MGM Resorts, and Ameriprise Financial, Gary has shaped the leadership philosophies of some of the most accomplished executives. His message is simple yet profound: “Leadership is not about perfection—it’s about progress, purpose, and people.” Let’s explore how his insights can transform leadership in the modern business world.
1. Start with Purpose
At the core of Gary’s leadership philosophy is purpose. “Without a clear purpose, even the best strategies will falter,” he explains. CEOs must articulate their “why” and align every decision with their overarching mission.
For Gary, purpose isn’t just about profits; it’s about creating meaningful impact. Whether it’s driving innovation, fostering employee growth, or contributing to the community, purpose-driven leadership inspires teams and builds trust.
2. Build a Resilient Leadership Mindset
Corporate leaders face inevitable challenges—economic uncertainty, technological disruptions, or shifts in market dynamics. Gary believes that resilience is the cornerstone of effective leadership. “Resilience isn’t about avoiding failure—it’s about learning from it and moving forward stronger,” he emphasizes.
Resilient leaders focus on solutions, encourage adaptability within their teams, and maintain a calm and composed demeanor during crises. This mindset sets the tone for the entire organization.
3. Lead with Confidence and Empathy
Gary’s work with top executives has shown that the best leaders balance confidence with empathy. “Confidence earns respect, but empathy earns loyalty,” he says. CEOs who understand and value their teams create workplaces where employees thrive.
This means being approachable, listening actively, and recognizing individual contributions. Empathy doesn’t weaken authority—it strengthens connections and fosters a culture of collaboration.
4. Inspire Through Authentic Communication
Great leaders don’t just manage—they inspire. Gary advises CEOs to communicate authentically and transparently. “Your team wants to follow a leader they trust,” he explains. By sharing both successes and challenges openly, CEOs can create a culture of honesty and accountability.
Gary also emphasizes the power of storytelling in leadership. Sharing personal experiences, lessons learned, and the “why” behind decisions helps leaders connect with their teams on a deeper level.
5. Create a Legacy Beyond Numbers
Gary often challenges CEOs to think about their legacy. “Success isn’t just measured by the bottom line—it’s about the lives you impact and the values you instill,” he says.
For CEOs, this means focusing on more than quarterly performance. Investing in employee development, fostering innovation, and building a culture that values integrity and purpose ensures a legacy that endures long after their tenure.
6. Foster Balance for Sustainable Success
While the demands of leadership can be relentless, Gary reminds CEOs of the importance of balance. “You can’t pour from an empty cup. Taking care of yourself is part of taking care of your business,” he says.
Leaders who prioritize their well-being—whether through exercise, family time, or personal development—bring more focus, energy, and clarity to their roles. Balance isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity for long-term success.
A Leadership Blueprint for CEOs
Gary Michels’ insights provide a powerful blueprint for modern CEOs. His strategies emphasize purpose, resilience, empathy, and balance—qualities that define not only successful leaders but also impactful ones.
For today’s CEOs, his advice is clear: “Leadership isn’t about knowing all the answers—it’s about asking the right questions, inspiring your team, and staying true to your purpose.”
As you lead your organization through the complexities of today’s business world, remember that the most effective leaders are those who lead with purpose, inspire with authenticity, and create legacies that matter.
Written in partnership with Tom White
