2.3.10.6. Podcast Episode

Unlocking Us — “Brené and Barrett on Living Into Our Values”

This podcast episode explores the practical work of transforming values from abstract language into consistent behavior, especially in leadership contexts where pressure, urgency, and trade-offs are present. Rather than treating values as aspirational identity statements, the conversation focuses on how values must become behavioral commitments — clear enough to guide choices, priorities, and boundaries in real time.

Throughout the discussion, Brené and Barrett highlight how values gain meaning when they are observable, measurable, and reflected in consistent action. They explore situations where leaders must choose between efficiency and integrity, approval and honesty, pace and alignment. These examples reinforce the idea that values act as constraints that protect authenticity and prevent shortcuts or convenience from replacing principled action.

As you listen, pay attention to the emotional dimension of values-based leadership. Values influence not only what leaders decide, but how they experience those decisions internally. When values are firmly operational, decisions — even difficult ones — feel grounded and aligned. When values are unclear or selectively applied, leaders often experience hesitation, tension, or internal negotiation. These sensations are signals of misalignment and valuable data for reflection.

You are encouraged to revisit this episode later in the program, particularly when you are navigating rapid progress, increased opportunity, or added pressure. Leadership challenges often present subtle tests where compromise appears practical, strategic, or even deserved. This conversation serves as a reminder that consistency — not convenience — is what establishes credibility, culture, and trust.

Reflection Prompts

As you reflect on the episode, consider the following questions in relation to your own leadership:

• Where do your values already drive behavior automatically?
  Identify situations where you do not need to “decide” to act in alignment — your values are already embodied.
• Where do you still negotiate, delay, or justify deviations when conditions shift?
  Notice patterns where pressure, pace, or opportunity cause you to rationalize actions that conflict with your stated values.
• Which value would be hardest to uphold if success, comfort, or approval were at risk?
  This reveals where your internal hierarchy of values is still forming and where deeper commitment may be required.

Use this listening experience as a calibration checkpoint. Values shape leadership only when they are lived — especially when it would be easier not to. The measure of values is not what we say in moments of comfort, but what we choose in moments of pressure, trade-off, and accelerated opportunity.