As I wrap up a recent contract, I find myself reflecting on a conversation with one of my mentees. When I asked why he chose me as his mentor for breaking into the motoring world, his response stopped me in my tracks: “I admire the work you’ve done.”
His words brought me back to one of those career-defining moments that still appears in my social media memories: the 2018 Porsche World Expedition – 80 days around the world in the latest Cayenne S.
What sounds like the ultimate automotive fantasy became something far more profound. Beyond the endless starry skies above the Simpson Desert, the campfires with black coffee and guitar music, crossing the Arctic Circle, and having Spa-Francorchamps entirely to ourselves, this experience taught me the true value of authentic leadership.
The Corporate Authenticity Challenge
In a business world that often rewards composure over passion, I’ve been told my emotional investment in my work isn’t ideal corporate behavior. One former boss dismissed my motorsport expertise as “just cars driving in circles.” Yet here I am, sought after by mentees and clients precisely because of what others see as professional weaknesses.
The disconnect is clear: while corporate culture preaches the importance of “bringing your whole self to work,” it often punishes those who actually do it.
Why Authenticity Drives Results
My unconventional approach has consistently delivered exceptional outcomes because:
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- Passion creates deeper connections. Clients and colleagues respond to genuine enthusiasm. When you truly care about your work, it shows and it’s infectious.
- Emotional investment drives innovation. The projects I’m most proud of came from moments when I allowed my passion to guide strategic thinking and not suppress it.
- Authenticity builds trust faster. In an age of personal branding and carefully curated professional personas, “what you see is what you get” has become a competitive advantage.
The Mentorship Perspective
Mentoring women in automotive and motorsport, along with empowering the next generation across all genders, has shown me something crucial: young professionals are hungry for authentic role models. They don’t need another polished executive speaking in corporate platitudes. They need someone who’s willing to show the real journey, complete with passion, emotion, and unconventional paths.
The Leadership Lesson
The Porsche World Expedition, among other passion projects, taught me that extraordinary experiences often feel ordinary when you’re living them. It’s the reflection and the ability to share those stories authentically that creates lasting impact.
In a professional landscape where everyone tries to maintain the perfect poker face, perhaps our greatest competitive advantage lies in being courageously, authentically ourselves.
What experiences have shaped your authentic leadership style? I’d love to hear your thoughts.
Currently mentoring the next generation of automotive professionals. Always open to connecting with passionate individuals looking to make their mark in this incredible industry.
