Stop Asking “What Do I Do?” and Start Asking “Who Am I?” — with Dr. Chad Dumas

In this episode, Danny Bauer and Dr. Chad Dumas dive deep into the inner work required to lead effectively. They challenge the surface-level “what do I do?” mentality and replace it with a leadership identity rooted in humility, empathy, and self-awareness.

🧠 Key Insight #1: Start with Who, Not What

• What’s broken: Leaders jump straight to tactics — constantly asking, “What do I do?”
• The shift: Begin with who you are as a person and a leader. Your mindset, humility, and assumptions shape every result that follows.
• Impact: When leaders ground their actions in identity, they build trust, clarity, and authentic connection across their schools.

🧠 Key Insight #2: Leadership Speaks Before You Do

• What’s broken: Non-verbal cues are ignored — rushed meetings, shallow breathing, and reactive tones quietly erode safety and collaboration.
• The shift: Master the pause, breathe deeply, and use intentional body language that communicates calm, curiosity, and respect.
• Impact: The culture shifts from tense to trusting. People start showing up with ideas because they feel seen and safe.

🧠 Key Insight #3: Conflict Is a Catalyst — Not a Threat

• What’s broken: Leaders avoid hard conversations, turning tension into silence or resentment.
• The shift: Reframe conflict as a space for growth. Separate the person from the problem, focus on shared goals, and invite multiple perspectives.
• Impact: Teams move from defensiveness to collaboration. The best ideas emerge, and relationships deepen through honest dialogue.