Change and Pivots: The Risk (and Reward) of Transformation
In this episode of The Leadership Vision Podcast, Brian Schubring and Nathan Freeburg reflect on 25 years of personal growth in leadership as they navigate a new pivot point in their company’s journey. What began as an unplanned conversation unfolds into a meaningful exploration of risk, transformation, and the evolving role of a leader. Brian shares how embracing change, letting go of control, and trusting others have shaped his leadership style and the company. Whether you’re leading through transition or facing uncertainty, this episode offers timeless insight into the inner work of becoming a more effective leader.
The Pivot Point: When Comfort Collides with Calling
“We are at that pivot point. We know there’s going to be a change in direction… some of the fundamentals will stay the same, but how we do the work is definitely going to change.” – Nathan Freeburg
Leadership Vision is preparing for a significant shift with the upcoming release of Unfolded: Lessons in Transformation from an Origami Crane. Brian and Nathan reflect on what it feels like to stand at the edge of change, recognizing the pressure, excitement, and discomfort that come with new beginnings. For both leaders, this moment mirrors many previous pivots, each requiring courage, clarity, and commitment to the values that define their work.
Risk, Reflection, and the Birth of a Business
“Once I had the chance to talk to people about their unique identity… I saw them light up. And I knew I needed more of that.” – Brian Schubring
Brian revisits Leadership Vision’s humble, unplanned beginnings—a speaking engagement at a Disney retreat center that paid $1,200 and sparked a lifelong calling. With no business plan, but a growing desire to help others uncover their unique strengths, Brian slowly transitioned into an entrepreneur. One of the biggest takeaways? Risk feels less risky when you’re passionate, supported, and financially prepared.
Lessons in Letting Go: Trust, Team, and Control
“Deb looked at me and said, ‘Are you willing to let me lead this?’ That was the invitation to truly trust her.” – Brian Schubring
As our team grows and our work expands, Brian discusses his personal evolution as a leader. One of his biggest challenges is letting go of control. But with leaders like Deb Dixon stepping in, he’s learning to trust others in new ways—releasing the need to know every detail and allowing others to shine.
The Power of Strengths and the Process of Transformation
“I believe in the goodness of people. And there’s a tool out there that can help us amplify that.” – Brian Schubring
The core ideas remain even as Leadership Vision has evolved beyond being solely a “Strengths-based” company. Strengths, for Brian, are not just about naming talents but about catalyzing transformation. They’re about uncovering the brilliance and beauty in others and helping them live into it, whether through CliftonStrengths or other tools rooted in positive psychology.
Dreams Require Change
“Dreams are birthed where we’re at. But they’re achieved somewhere else. And the journey requires change.” – Brian Schubring
Perhaps the most powerful reflection in the episode is this idea: the deception of dreams is thinking you can achieve them without changing. Unfolded tells the story of OC, the origami crane, whose dream of flight could only be realized through transformation. Leaders, too, must unfold to become what they were always meant to be.
Reflection Questions:
- What pivot points are you currently standing at in your life or work?
- What values are you committed to carrying forward—and what might you need to leave behind?
- Who are the people you need to trust more or ask for help?
- What “dreams” are quietly calling you to change?
Action Steps:
- Reflect on a recent (or upcoming) change and identify what you’ve learned—or still need to learn—from it.
- Identify one area of your life where you’re holding on to too much control. Practice delegation this week.
- Share this episode with someone navigating a pivot or transformation of their own.
- Pre-order Unfolded: Lessons in Transformation from an Origami Crane to deepen your understanding of purposeful growth.
About The Leadership Vision Podcast
The Leadership Vision Podcast is a weekly show sharing our expertise in the discovery, practice, and implementation of a strengths-based approach to people, teams, and culture. We believe that knowing your Strengths is only the beginning. Our highest potential exists in the ongoing exploration of our talents.
Please contact us if you have ANY questions about anything you heard in this episode or if you’d like to talk to us about helping your team understand the power of Strengths.
If you’d like to be featured on the Leadership Vision Podcast, let us know how you are using Strengths and what impact it has made. Contact us here!
