Episode Details

In this Mind Over Masculinity conversation, executive coach Maren Perry (Founder & CEO, Arden Coaching) breaks down why “brilliance isn’t the same as effectiveness.” We unpack the traps many men in leadership fall into—over-indexing on structure, shielding with results, and avoiding vulnerability—and how to shift toward people-centered performance without losing accountability. We get practical on emotional intelligence, the urgent vs. important grid, 360 feedback, building followership, and starting again with a beginner’s mindset. If you lead a team (or want to), use this episode to trade lone-hero habits for durable culture, retention, and results—through better relationships, clarity, and consistency.

About the guest  :

Maren Perry is the Founder & CEO of Arden Coaching, a leadership development firm serving senior leaders across industries. She helps executives turn insight into repeatable behavior change using assessment, feedback, and human-centered coaching that strengthens culture and results.

Key takeaways :

• Results matter—but people are the strategic path to results; optimize for both.

• Brilliance ≠ effectiveness: smart leaders still need relational skills to scale impact.

• Common pitfall: seeing roles and org charts over relationships; influence > authority.

• Ego blocks learning; vulnerability (owning mistakes, uncertainty) builds trust and followership.

• Use 360s and real data to reveal blind spots and create willingness to change.

• Accountability isn’t “mean” vs “nice”: be clear, specific, and humane about expectations.

• Prioritize what’s important but not urgent (development, culture, clarity) on your calendar.

• Upgrade emotional intelligence to listen, relate, and coach—not just direct.

• Ask: “What’s happening now? Where do we want to be? What are the gaps?” Then act.

• Starter step: adopt a beginner’s mindset in one area this week; test, learn, repeat.

How to connect with the guest  :

• LinkedIn: Arden Coaching

• Website: ardencoaching.com

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Disclaimer: This video is for educational and informational purposes only. The views expressed are the personal opinions of the guest and do not reflect the views of the host or Healthy Mind By Avik™️. We do not intend to harm, defame, or discredit any person, organization, brand, product, country, or profession mentioned. All third-party media used remain the property of their respective owners and are used under fair use for informational purposes. By watching, you acknowled