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Are you really leading, or just managing? What separates an entrepreneur with a vision from someone stuck in “mediocre employee” mode?
On today’s episode of The M Word, Jennifer Mulchandani speaks with Rachel Saathoff from Break the Norm Leadership. They explore the true essence of entrepreneurship, emphasizing that it’s not just about having ideas but also about executing them effectively. Rachel points out the issue with “mediocre” employees who lack a sense of ownership and explains why she prefers to collaborate with individuals who possess an entrepreneurial mindset.
“[Entrepreneurs] start businesses and then are like, oh, I started two businesses and I didn’t even realize it.”
This episode is a must-listen for leaders who want to build lean, invested teams that own their work and contribute to the company’s success.
5 Key Takeaways:
- Entrepreneurship is about execution, not just ideas: True entrepreneurs combine vision with action.
- Mediocre employees don’t move businesses forward; entrepreneurial spirits do: Hire and empower people who take ownership.
- Behind every polished brand is operational chaos: Even big companies struggle with basics like digital asset management and continuity.
- Leadership training often misses the mark if it doesn’t address real team investment and accountability.
- Lean teams with high commitment drive better results: Building ownership and passion within your team is critical for success.
About Our Guest
Rachel Saathoff is the founder of Break the Norm Leadership, where she challenges outdated ideas about what leadership should look like. With over 7 years of experience and a Master’s Degree in Education and Human Development, specializing in Organizational Leadership and Learning, Rachel helps individuals and teams bridge the gap between positional authority and true influence.Rachel believes the best leaders are the ones who take ownership, invest in growth, and never stop learning. Connect with Rachel on LinkedIn. Read her favorite book, The Compound Effect by Darren Hardy.
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