Pack Leadership: The Most Life-Changing Concept I’ve Learned Since Intuitive Eating

The Innovative Therapist

Episode 138: Pack Leadership: The Most Life-Changing Concept I’ve Learned Since Intuitive Eating As women, as leaders, as humans striving for connection and authenticity, we often find ourselves navigating the delicate balance of strength and vulnerability. Our energy is fierce yet compassionate, loving yet boundaried. We do things differently, and our leadership should reflect that. This concept of Pack Leadership, which I explored in my conversation with Randi Rubenstein on The Innovative Therapist Podcast (Episode 138: Pack Leadership: The Most Life-Changing Concept I’ve Learned Since Intuitive Eating), has completely transformed how I approach not just parenting, but every aspect of my life. If you’re familiar with intuitive eating and its empowering framework for building trust with your body, think of Pack Leadership as its counterpart in relationships. It’s about cultivating connection, safety, and a deep sense of belonging in your “pack”—be it your family, your team, or your community. Let’s dive into why this concept is so powerful, how it connects to the bigger picture of empowerment, and why I’m so passionate about sharing it with you. What Is Pack Leadership? At its core, Pack Leadership is about creating an environment where everyone feels safe, valued, and like they belong. It rejects shame, blame, and perfectionism, replacing them with love, understanding, and calm, confident leadership. Here’s how Randi Rubenstein beautifully breaks down the key elements: Calm, Confident Leadership The leader sets the tone for the group. Think of a steady pilot during turbulence or a coach who believes in the team no matter the odds. This grounded energy instills safety and trust, helping the group face challenges together. Self-ish Leadership In a world that glorifies selflessness, Pack Leadership asks us to prioritize our own needs and well-being. True leadership comes from a place of fullness, where we can give generously because we’re not running on empty. It’s about rejecting the idea that martyrdom equals strength and instead embracing the idea that we lead best when we’re well-rested, supported, and nourished. Receiving Support Gone is the lone wolf mentality. Instead, Pack Leadership encourages us to embrace help, evolving family and group dynamics to better suit everyone’s needs. It’s about letting go of the societal expectations that demand constant self-sufficiency and perfection. Messy Humaning Leadership isn’t about being perfect. It’s about showing up authentically, owning mistakes, and laughing along the way. This “messy humaning” fosters connection and growth, creating a safe space for everyone to be imperfectly human. Why Pack Leadership Matters Addressing Loneliness and Unworthiness We live in an era where many people feel disconnected, lonely, and unworthy. Pack Leadership shifts this narrative by fostering a sense of belonging, giving each member of the pack a secure base from which they can grow, explore, and thrive. Parallel Lessons with Intuitive Eating Just as intuitive eating helps us navigate extremes—like rigid diet culture and chaotic eating—Pack Leadership helps us find balance between authoritarian and overly permissive approaches in parenting and leadership. Both frameworks center trust: trusting yourself, trusting your group, and cultivating mutual respect. Empowerment Across All Areas Pack Leadership isn’t just about parenting. It’s about showing up in all areas of life—business, relationships, and self-care—in a way that’s rooted in self-trust, love, and empowerment. When you lead your pack with calm confidence, you create a ripple effect that touches everything you do. What You’ll Hear in Episode 138 In my conversation with Randi, we explore: • How to get what you truly want: deeply connected relationships with your kids and the other humans you care about most.