016: Leadership Lessons from Season 1 with Erik & Rachel
S1 #16

016: Leadership Lessons from Season 1 with Erik & Rachel

Season 1 wasn’t just about retreat tall tales—it was a masterclass in real leadership. In this wrapped-up chat, hosts Rachel and Erik unpack the key lessons that surfaced across the season—from stepping into leadership despite imposter syndrome and the power of a single invitation, to why retreats are where connections happen and how humble gestures become leadership in action. This episode isn’t a recap—it’s a reflection on what it means to lead, together.

Key Takeaways
  • You don’t need to feel ready to start leading—action builds confidence.
  • An ask is powerful—leadership often begins with someone saying, “Hey, we’d love you here.”
  • Retreats shape us more than events do—they’re where people evolve into leaders.
  • Small, messy actions matter—gracious leadership often happens offstage.
  • People are our legacy—connections outlast work portfolios.
  • Mentorship completes the circle—being invited and then inviting others is leadership in motion.
  • Season 1 was the structural foundation—and it’s only getting stronger in Season 2.

Episode Chapters
  1. 00:02 – Why this episode exists: Rachel shares how reviewing transcripts with GPT revealed stunning leadership insights hidden just below the retreat stories.  
  2. 01:11 – Lesson 1: Leadership starts before you feel ready: Imposter vibes are universal, but leadership grows in the doing.  
  3. 04:27 – Lesson 2: One invitation can change everything: A simple “Wanna join?” unlocked leadership paths for many guests.  
  4. 09:18 – Lesson 3: Retreats aren’t events—they’re origin stories: From Grand Rapids energy to hot tub bonding, these aren’t just trips—they’re accelerators of belonging.  
  5. 13:10 – Lesson 4: Real leadership is small, messy & generous: It’s not always the mic, but the unseen gestures—like greeting at the check-in table.  
  6. 16:29 – Lesson 5: This community is the product: It’s the people that turn chapters into ecosystems—relationships matter more than portfolios.  
  7. 21:05 – Lesson 6: Full-circle moments make it worth it: From mentee to mentor, the loop of giving back is the heartbeat of design community.  
  8. 29:48 – Behind the scenes love: Erik and Rachel reflect on how much this podcast—Season 1—has meant to them personally.  
  9. 33:22 – What’s next for Season 2: A teaser—returning by August with duo interviews, a bi-weekly rhythm, and subscriber exclusives.  


About the Hosts

Rachel Elnar & Erik Cargill continue their journey shaping Cheers & Tiers, curating design leadership stories with warmth, levity, and honesty. From pulling insights out of transcripts to building community one episode at a time—they lead by listening, storytelling, and lifting others.


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