Episode Details
Back to Episodes37: Leading Through the Messy Middle (with CEO Annie Bacci)
Description
Most leadership stories begin with a crisis and end with a comeback.
But what about everything in between?
In this episode, we're talking about the messy middle, that season where funding is uncertain, difficult decisions have to be made, your team is looking to you for answers, and you have no idea how the story will end.
My guest, Annie Bacci, CEO of TGTHR on a mission to end youth homelessness, shares an honest, behind-the-scenes look at what it really feels like to lead through organizational uncertainty. From navigating layoffs and rebuilding culture to balancing transparency with responsibility, Annie reminds us that leadership isn't about having all the answers...it's about continuing to move forward with courage.
If you're carrying the weight of leadership right now, this conversation will remind you that you're not alone.
Top 3 Takeaways
1. Leadership is often lonely, but it doesn't have to be isolating.
Annie shares why every CEO needs trusted peers, mentors, and advisors, while recognizing that some decisions ultimately rest on the leader's shoulders alone.
2. Progress through uncertainty is rarely linear.
Some weeks you'll feel like you're making real progress. Other weeks it may feel like you're back where you started. That's not failure. It's the reality of leading through change.
3. Focus on the next right step.
When the future feels uncertain, don't try to solve everything at once. Celebrate small wins, stay anchored in your priorities, and keep moving your mission forward one small step at a time.
In This Episode, We Discuss:
- Why most leadership stories skip the messy middle
- Making high-stakes decisions without knowing the outcome
- The difference between feeling lonely and feeling isolated as a CEO
- How to balance transparency with responsible leadership
- Practical ways to reduce rumors and build trust through communication
- Why celebrating small wins keeps teams moving forward
- Creating leadership anchors that help you decide what deserves your time and attention
- Building resilience when progress feels slow or uncertain
Remember: You don't have to know how the story ends to lead well today. Sometimes the most important work of leadership happens long before the breakthrough.
CONNECT WITH MARCIA
Join 10-Week CEO+ED CARES Mastermind → culturecares.com/mastermind
Free Weekly Leadership Insights → culturecares.com → Click Subscribe
Meet Marcia on LinkedIn → linkedin.com/in/marciabeckner
Visit the Culture CARES Website → culturecares.com
Explore the Podcast → culturecares.com/podcast
ENJOY THE SHOW? If this episode resonated, here's how you can support:
- Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify or your favorite platform
- Leave a review (it helps more nonprofit leaders find the show)
Don't forget to share this episode with a CEO or Executive Director who needs to hear it.