Framework
Inner First, Then Outer
Uma's sequenced leadership development model: self-awareness and inner story rewrites must precede communication tactics and executive presence, or tactics produce performance rather than authentic leadership.
How it works
- 1Inner work layer: self-awareness, identifying core strengths, and rewriting the limiting stories you tell about yourself ('I'm not strategic enough', 'I'm too direct').
- 2Outer work layer: communication frameworks, executive presence, stakeholder influence, and strategic visibility.
- 3Sequence matters: applying outer tactics without inner foundation produces a performance — technically correct but not felt as genuine by senior stakeholders.
- 4Common founder trap: jumping to 'how do I communicate better?' before diagnosing 'what story am I telling myself that's driving my default behavior?'
- 5Limiting stories are often invisible until surfaced — they masquerade as personality traits or cultural identity rather than optional narratives that can be rewritten.
- 6The payoff: once the inner work is done, the same communication frameworks land differently. Presence becomes real, not performed.
Hear it on the podcast
The Hidden Leadership GapListen to the episodeMore from this episode
Non-Violent Communication (NVC)Marshall Rosenberg's four-step framework for assertive, non-blaming communication that produces respect from even difficult conversations.Accountability with CompassionUma's framework for holding people to high standards while providing genuine support — replacing the false choice between being liked and being respected.
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