3 - Why Great Leaders Misunderstand Their Teams (And How to Fix It) with Ryan Risling

On this episode of Coalescence Podcast with Jessica Culo, Jessica sits down with founder of the Patron Group, entrepreneur, commercial finance expert, and Pinnacle Guide Ryan Risling for an insightful conversation about one of the biggest challenges facing today's organizations: the gap between how we interpret people and what's actually happening beneath the surface. Drawing from decades of leadership experience, Ryan explores why so many workplace frustrations stem from assumptions rather than facts. Together, Jessica and Ryan unpack why leaders often label systemic issues as people problems, how unclear expectations create unnecessary conflict, and why slowing down to seek understanding is becoming one of the most valuable leadership skills in an increasingly fast-paced and technology-driven world. The conversation also examines generational misconceptions, hybrid work, neurodiversity, and the growing complexity of modern organizations. Ryan shares practical perspectives on creating role clarity, defining success more effectively, and building cultures where difficult conversations become opportunities for growth rather than sources of tension. Jessica adds her insights from more than two decades in the employment industry, highlighting why curiosity, communication, and intentional leadership remain essential despite rapid advances in technology. Whether you're a business owner, executive, people leader, or someone who simply wants to improve communication and build stronger relationships at work, this episode offers practical strategies and thought-provoking insights that will help you lead with greater clarity, empathy, and confidence. Chapters 00:00:00 Welcome to Coalescence 00:01:26 Meet Ryan Risling: Leadership, Entrepreneurship & Making Complexity Simple 00:03:34 Why Leaders Misinterpret People at Work 00:07:17 Fact or Feeling? Avoiding Assumptions in Leadership 00:10:26 Creating Role Clarity Instead of Managing Confusion 00:12:00 Hiring the Right People — Not the Perfect People 00:16:06 Reactive vs. Proactive Leadership 00:18:05 Technology, Human Connection & The Future of Work 00:21:24 Breaking Down Workplace Assumptions 00:24:43 Asking "Is That a Fact or a Feeling?" 00:30:11 Understanding Strengths, Trade-Offs & Team Dynamics 00:32:34 Why Great Leadership Starts on the Front Lines If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to the Coalescence Podcast so you never miss a conversation exploring the intersection of leadership, human behavior, emerging technologies, and the future of work. Connect with Jessica Culo: Website: www.axiomintelligence.ca LinkedIn:   / jessica-culo-b365806   🎯 Take Action & Connect with Ryan Risling Inspired by this conversation? Take a moment to reflect on the assumptions you make as a leader. Where could greater clarity, curiosity, or a more intentional conversation unlock stronger performance within your team? Sometimes the biggest breakthrough isn't finding better people—it's creating a better environment for people to succeed. Connect with Ryan Risling: Youtube:    / @ryanrisling9780   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryan.rislin... LinkedIn: ca.linkedin.com/in/rrisling