Lead Authentically—But Don’t Forget to Flex

Insights from “Between the Ones and the Zeros” with Dr. ChiChi and Anthony Piccolo

In the ever-evolving world of leadership, one principle remains constant: people follow people, not titles or job descriptions, but humans. That’s why authentic leadership continues to rise as a powerful and relevant approach, especially in today’s fast-paced, trust-hungry workplace.

On a recent episode of Between the Ones and the Zeros, a dynamic leadership and innovation podcast co-hosted by Anthony Piccolo and Dr. ChiChi, Dr. ChiChi offered a powerful perspective on leading authentically and effectively.

“You can’t lead someone else if you’re not first leading yourself,” she shared. “That requires knowing who you are—and being honest with others.”

But authenticity alone isn’t enough. Dr. ChiChi also emphasized that leadership isn’t about staying rigid in your natural style. It’s about knowing when—and how—to flex without losing your identity.

Authenticity Begins with Self-Awareness

Authentic leadership starts from within. It means understanding your values, motivations, strengths, and blind spots. As Dr. ChiChi explained, self-awareness is the gateway to self-leadership, the foundation for leading others with integrity and clarity.

But authenticity doesn’t mean using “that’s just who I am” as a shield. One of the most powerful things a leader can do is adapt while remaining grounded in their values.

Leadership Flexing: Adjusting Without Abandoning

In the episode, Dr. ChiChi reflected on moments when she must adjust her communication depending on who she’s engaging with—a direct report, a peer, or an executive. That kind of flexibility isn’t fake. It’s strategic.

This practice, known as leadership flexing, involves adjusting one's style based on need. You don’t change your core; you tailor your delivery. That’s not inauthenticity, it’s emotional intelligence in action.

Authenticity Is Stronger When It’s Supported by Range

While authentic leadership may be your anchor, it helps to understand and borrow from other leadership styles when needed:

• Transformational Leadership: Inspiring a shared vision and helping others grow. Authentic leaders often elevate others through their passion and purpose.
• Servant Leadership: Prioritizing the needs of others. Many authentic leaders naturally embody this by leading with empathy and humility.
• Situational Leadership: Adapting based on your team's needs and readiness. Flexing is essential here.
• Transactional Leadership: Offering structure, clarity, and accountability. Sometimes the moment calls for setting clear expectations and measurable outcomes.

Authentic leadership is about discernment—knowing which approach to take, when, and why. Dr. ChiChi captured this tension well: hold fast to who you are, but stay responsive to the people and environment around you.

The Leadership Sweet Spot: Authentic and Agile

The best leaders stay rooted in their values while evolving with their team. Dr. ChiChi reminds us that authenticity is a leadership superpower—but only when combined with adaptability.

So, the next time you think, “This is just how I lead, ”pause. Ask: Is this truly me? And is it what’s needed right now for the people I serve?

Because leadership isn’t about choosing between being real and being effective.

It’s about being both.

Want to hear the whole conversation? Catch this episode and more on Between the Ones and the Zeros—where tech, leadership, and humanity meet.

By Dr. ChiChi Anyanwu