172: Why A-Players Crash as Managers (The 5 Truths New Leaders Must Learn) | Damon Lembi
Release Date:
June 5, 2025
Release Date: May 28
The 5 Truths Every New Leader Needs to Hear
Becoming a leader isn’t just a promotion—it’s a complete identity shift. You’re no longer just executing the work. You’re coaching others to do it well. And that requires a new mindset, a new skillset, and a new set of daily habits.
In this solo episode, Learnit CEO Damon Lembi breaks down the 5 truths he wishes every first-time leader knew. Whether you’re fresh in the role or mentoring someone who is, this episode is your tactical, no-fluff guide to making the leap from top performer to people-first leader.
What You’ll Learn:
Why leadership is about coaching, not doing
The #1 mindset shift you must make in week one
How to build trust by giving others autonomy (and space to fail)
Why the best leaders are great listeners—first
How to model the habits you want your team to follow
The key conversation to have with your boss (today)
What to do when your company won’t invest in your development
Why mistakes are inevitable—and what to do when you make one
How to lead without pretending to have it all figured out
In This Episode:
00:00 – The biggest professional shift: from player to coach
01:00 – Truth #1: You win through your people, not by doing it all
01:45 – Why delegation is really about building trust
02:00 – The mindset shift: you're building a team of heroes, not being the hero
02:30 – Truth #2: Don’t rush in—start by listening and learning
03:20 – Why curiosity builds credibility and connection
03:50 – Truth #3: Model the behavior you want from your team
04:30 – Leadership is a constant stage—how are you showing up?
04:45 – Truth #4: Own your success—don’t wait for others to invest in you
05:15 – How Damon recommends new leaders start growing (even on their own)
06:00 – The $14 tool that every new leader should use
06:30 – Truth #5: You will make mistakes—so learn fast and lead through it
07:10 – The hard lesson Damon learned about avoiding tough conversations
08:00 – The recap: 5 truths every new leader needs to thrive
08:30 – Final thought: Great leaders aren’t born or made—they’re always in the making
