Strategic Thinking, Blind Spots & the Power of Human-Led AI
“The essence of strategy is choosing what not to do.”
— Michael Porter
Welcome back to The Leader’s Brew—your weekly pour of leadership insight with heart, humor, and humanity.
This week’s blend explores the disciplines that define great strategy, how to spot what you don’t see, and the tech that’s bringing more humanity into business. We also look at the power of volunteering, innovative onboarding, and finding an environment that lets your creativity soar.
🔥 What’s Brewing?
🔹 The 6 Disciplines of Strategic Thinking
Good strategy isn’t about being clever—it’s about being clear. Learn the six foundational practices that separate strategic thinkers from scattered ones.
“Strategy is how you turn vision into motion.”
— Professor Perch
🔹 Leadership Blind Spots
The most dangerous risks are the ones you can’t see. Here’s how to uncover your blind spots before they cost you your best people.
“Sometimes self-awareness takes more courage than confidence.”
— Aspen
🔹 How Steven Bartlett Went From Dropout to Diary of a CEO
A bold, honest look at reinvention, purpose, and building a platform rooted in vulnerability.
“I had the same doubts as everyone else.. and I was convinced I had failed before I’d even begun.” Steven Bartlett
🔹 How AI Can Help Companies Become More Human
What if tech didn’t make us colder—but more connected? This piece explores how human-centered AI is changing how we relate to customers, teams, and purpose.
“Human-first tech is the future. Algorithms with heart.”
— Aspen
🏆 Refill Your Cup
🫠 Confidence doesn’t vanish—it just gets buried under doubt, comparison, and “what ifs.” One shaky moment turns into second-guessing everything - just like what Steven Bartlett went through.
But leadership isn’t about being fearless—it’s about showing up anyway. Great newsletters offer that steady nudge to trust your gut, speak up, and keep going.
Need a weekly boost to believe in yourself again?
⚡️ Click here for leadership reads that build courage one page at a time.
🍵 Try a New Blend?
🔹 Innovative Onboarding Practices
From swag bags to mentorship pods, these onboarding ideas actually make new hires feel seen and supported.
🐧 Aspen unpacks a welcome box:
“A warm welcome isn’t fluff—it’s foundational.”
🏡 Home Brew Aroma
🔹 Volunteering Can Give Us a Sense of Purpose
Whether it’s mentoring, community service, or lending a hand—volunteering isn’t just about giving back. It’s about reconnecting with what matters.
🦉 Professor Perch ties on an apron:
“Purpose grows when you give it away.”
💬 Let’s Brew Together
👉 Find the Best Environment to Set Your Creativity Free
Where you work changes how you think. Is it time to shift your space?
🧭 Final Tasting Notes
☑️ Think strategically, not reactively
☑️ Scan for blind spots—then invite feedback
☑️ Draw inspiration from real stories of reinvention
☑️ Lead with empathy—even in tech
Next week: Power Skills, Procrastination & Leadership Lessons from Post Malone
Until then—stay sharp, stay human, and stay caffeinated.
— The Leader’s Brew Team
(Featuring Professor Perch & Aspen—currently debating if onboarding should include hoodies and life coaches)