Check out last week’s newsletter: If Your Career Feels Off, Read This First

What Coldplay Taught Me about Leadership Failure

I was going to talk about a topic related to this week’s podcast episode, but I’ve got to talk about what happened last week with Coldplay uniting the nation.

If you missed the tea this week, do you live another a rock?

JK… but let me catch you up in case you don’t know yet.

Andy Byron, the CEO of Astronomer, a major player in the data space is now out.

Why?

He was caught having an affair with his Chief People Officer, Kristin Cabot. You know the same person responsible for, you know… people. Trust. Culture. Integrity.

The irony is louder than a Coldplay chorus.
And it hits a little too close to The Scientist, doesn’t it?

Listen. I’m not here to throw stones from a glass planet. We’re all human.
But when you’re in a leadership position, especially in tech, where power can inflate faster than startup valuations… your personal choices will affect your professional legacy.

And when your title is CEO, that microscope is real.

So what’s the leadership lesson here?

It’s not just about the affair while that was horrendous. It’s about alignment.
Between your values and your actions.
Between what you say in the all-hands meeting and what you text after hours.

Because no matter how impressive your resume is.
If you can’t fix you, you’ll eventually break everything around you.

Real Talk for STEM Professionals

Whether you're leading a team of two or a department of 200, your integrity sets the tone.
And in STEM? Where logic, trust, and data drive decisions, your character is part of the algorithm.
When leaders cheat (in any sense), it’s not just gossip.

It’s a breakdown of psychological safety.

And people notice.

They might not say it out loud.
They might even keep working for you.
But the respect?

The loyalty?

The belief in your vision?

That’s gone.

Here’s the takeaway

Leadership isn’t about being perfect.
BUT It’s about being consistent.
And when you mess up.. because we all do. It’s about owning it before the headlines write it for you.

You can build a company that sends pipelines to the moon,
But if your values are crashing? You’re not a visionary. You’re a liability.

BACK TO REGULARLY SCHEDULED EPISODE…

We’re talking about how to blend your passions when it might seemingly feel impossible and for that I talk with none other than the HipHop MD himself, Maynard Okereke. You don’t want to miss this episode!

MORE DETAILS ABOUT EPISODE

In this episode of IncrediPaul Leadership, Paul Faronbi speaks with Maynard Okereke, also known as Hip Hop MD. He is an award winning Science Communicator, and received the Odyssey Award for Excellence in Social Media, the People of Change Award for his community outreach efforts, and was named NSBE's Entrepreneur of the Year! They discuss Maynard's journey from aspiring wildlife biologist to civil engineer, and ultimately to a successful career in entertainment and science communication. Maynard emphasizes the importance of pursuing one's passion, the role of authenticity in communication, and the need for representation in STEM fields. The conversation highlights the significance of making science fun and engaging, especially for minority youth, and the power of social media in education. Maynard shares insights on overcoming challenges, finding purpose, and inspiring the next generation of scientists.

PODCAST GUEST APPEARANCE

SCIENCE WITH IMPACT PODCAST HOSTED BY VANESSA ROSA, PH.D.

Vanessa was a Guest on EP 42 of IncrediPaul Leadership! I think this is the most comprehensive interview I’ve done in years! Don’t miss it. You can also stream wherever you get your podcasts.

BE INCREDIBLE STARTER PACK

What’s inside?

• Leadership Masterclass: Learn the secret to leading beyond titles and growing your leadership.

• Resume Template: For showcasing your experiences and leadership skills

• Interview Guide: How to prepare and ace your next interview

• Budget Template: For owning your financial leadership too

This is your launchpad to lead with confidence and get on your way to Be Incredible!

Only thing you have to do is be subscribed to the newsletter, so if you received the email just reply back, “Send me the Starter Pack!” If you’re reading this on the web and not subscribed yet, hit subscribe and you’ll be sent an email that includes the link to download everything!

KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM EPISODE

• Do what you love to stay motivated.

• Pursuing passion leads to fulfillment.

• Authenticity is key in communication.

• Science can be fun and engaging.

• Representation in STEM is crucial.

• Transitioning careers can be a journey.

• Social media is a powerful tool for education.

• Find your purpose to inspire others.

• Hard work is essential for success.

• Embrace your unique journey.

LEADERSHIP QUOTE

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