158: Relational Intelligence - The Leadership Advantage That Outlasts Strategy
Why people skills—not just strategic plans—create thriving teams and mission-driven momentum.
In this episode, Joey and Mike explore one of the most underrated leadership superpowers: Relational Intelligence—the ability to lead with authenticity, empathy, and wisdom inside complex human dynamics.
Based on Steve Saccone’s framework and infused with real stories from client experiences, this conversation offers a roadmap for leaders ready to move beyond technical skill and into the deeper work of relational impact.
Whether you’re running a department or an entire company, these six roles of relationally intelligent leaders will give you a clear mirror—and a hopeful next step.
Why Relational Intelligence Matters
Leadership isn’t just about strategic plans or bottom lines. People follow leaders they trust. Leaders who see them, hear them, and understand what drives them.
Joey puts it plainly: “Relational intelligence isn’t innate. It’s learned. And it costs you something—often, it costs your ego.”
Steve Saccone's Six Roles of Relationally Intelligent Leaders
The Story Collector: Listen deeply. Ask questions. Don’t just hear—understand. When leaders actively collect stories, they uncover what drives their people—and gain the trust to lead them.
The Energy Carrier: Leaders set the tone. Emotionally aware leaders know when to cool the room or turn up the heat—and how to bring consistency when others feel uncertain.
The Compelling Relator: Connection requires effort. The most relevant leaders stay close to their teams—not just through data, but through shared experience and intentional curiosity.
The Conversational Futurist: Every conversation is alive with potential. Great leaders help people explore what’s possible, clarify what’s true, and move forward with courage.
The Likable Hero: Approachable. Grounded. Credible. These leaders show up with warmth, optimism, and reality—guiding others through challenges without pretending it’s easy.
The Disproportionate Investor: You can’t invest in everyone equally—but you can invest wisely. Stewardship means giving more to those who will multiply it. Not favoritism—strategy.
Final Thought
Strategy matters—but people matter more. When you build relational intelligence into your leadership style, you’re not just being a better manager… you’re becoming the kind of leader people want to follow and grow with.
And, that’s how mission-driven momentum starts.
📚 Books Referenced In This Episode:
Relational Intelligence — Steve Saccone
How to Win Friends and Influence People — Dale Carnegie
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People — Stephen R. Covey
Good to Great — Jim Collins
Bringing Out the Best in People — Alan Loy McGinnis
✅ Take the Next Step
Need help building a team that thrives? We’d love to walk with you. Whether it's strategy, coaching, or clarifying your next move, reach out—we're in your corner.
And if this episode sparked something in you, share it with your team. Growth multiplies when it’s shared.
References and Downloadable Resources: