The Subconscious Blocks for Leaders to Unlock Influence and Scale Teams with Joanna Horton McPherson

In this episode of the Leaders of the Workplace of Tomorrow Podcast, host Steve Miksta sits down with Joanna Horton McPherson, Limited Partner at Stage 2 Capital, Founder and Master Coach of The True Influence Method: Leading from the Stage, to discuss authentic leadership, personal transformation, and the power of finding your true voice. Together, they explore how subconscious beliefs shape leadership, the importance of psychological safety, and how leaders can create greater impact by embracing their unique strengths, building trust, and leading with purpose in a rapidly changing world. Joanna shares her journey from acting, education, and personal growth to creating the True Influence Method and helping leaders find their authentic voice. She explains how subconscious beliefs shape confidence and leadership, why psychological safety is essential for growth, and how leaders can build trust, strengthen communication, and create greater impact by embracing their unique strengths and purpose. ### **Key Takeaways** Authenticity Builds Influence: True leadership starts with understanding and expressing your authentic self. Subconscious Beliefs Shape Growth: Hidden stories and beliefs can impact confidence, leadership, and communication. Psychological Safety Matters: People perform better when they feel valued, respected, and heard. Purpose Creates Impact: A clear purpose helps leaders inspire others and build stronger teams. Vulnerability Builds Trust: Honest conversations create deeper connections and stronger workplace relationships. Human Connection Remains Essential: Technology can support growth, but meaningful leadership depends on people. ### **Episode Timestamps** \[00:00] - Teaser \[01:16] - Intro to Joanna Horton McPherson & the True Influence Method \[02:34] - The power of perspective and subconscious blocks \[05:22] - The breakthrough process and finding your life purpose \[07:35] - Joanna's journey and why she serves "misfit" leaders \[13:07] - Why the old leadership model is failing \[18:39] - The paradox of "true influence" and letting go \[24:50] - Why leaders should focus on people, not AI tools \[28:33] - Joanna's view on AI and human connection \[31:05] - Joanna's personal story: from struggle to acting to coaching \[35:24] - How subconscious stories form in childhood \[40:33] - Moving from closed to open systems in leadership \[42:47] - Upcoming retreat, ABC show, and Forbes opportunities \[46:36] - How to connect with Joanna and join her monthly events 🔗 **Connect with the Guest Joanna Horton McPherson:** 👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanna-horton-mcpherson/ 🔗 **Connect with the Guest Companies:** 👉 LinkedIn - Stage 2 Capital: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stage-2-capital/ 👍 LinkedIn - The True Influence Method: Leading from the Stage: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mywomenofinfluence/ 👉 Website - Stage 2 Capital: https://www.stage2.capital/ 👍 Website - The True Influence Method: Leading from the Stage: https://trueinfluencemethod.com/ 👉 Portfolio: https://joannahortonmcpherson.com/ 🔗**Follow the podcast:** 👉Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/033rjH7T2gSv9KyUs4uC4x?si=db0aed8e99f84fc8 👉Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/leaders-of-the-workplace-of-tomorrow/id1896864216 👉 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@opptyunlimited9222 🔗 **Connect with the Host Steve Miksta:** 👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevemiksta/ 🔗 **Connect with the Host Company, Oppty Unlimited:** 👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/opptyunlimited/ 👉 Website: https://www.opptyunlimited.com/