WELCOME!

Welcome to the Unarmored Leadership blog!

I'm Susan Eckstein. I'm an executive and leadership coach, and I help leaders LEAD without limitations—you know, those manufactured stories, beliefs, and assumptions that stop us from being our authentic selves and hinder our true potential—or, as I like to call it, ARMOR.

Before I started coaching senior leaders and executives, I worked in public relations, investment banking, and the fitness industry. I'm also a three-time IRONMAN finisher. I used to think my nontraditional path to the work I do was a weakness. Now, I know it's my superpower. Because I'm not like other coaches—I see what's possible through a different lens.

When I'm not coaching, you can find me at the gym, drinking strong coffee (I have a fantastic brew method that makes the perfect cup of coffee every time), or spending time out in nature. 

I'm glad you're here.

Armored → Unarmored Leadership

[insert video on intimidation]

A Book to Dismantle Your Armor

The Creative Act, by Rick Rubin

A dear friend gifted me this book last year, and it's one of the most impactful books I've ever read. Every chapter is a mic drop. Rick Rubin explores all the reasons why we don't share the things we create with the world and what we can do to cultivate an environment of creativity and be courageous. Here's one of my favorite excerpts from the book:

"All kinds of assumptions masquerade as laws: a suggestion from a self-help book, something heard in an interview, your favorite artist's best tip, an expression in the culture, or something a teacher once told you. 

Rules direct us to average behaviors. If we're aiming to create works that are exceptional, most rules don't apply."

The same is true if you want to be an exceptional leader. Most of the armor - aka the rules you're carrying around - don't apply to who you really are. Be willing to embrace vulnerability and challenge those rules. 

🗡️ Quick Tip to Dismantle Armor

Surround yourself with people who lovingly call you out on your bull%@&#. Share your goal of cultivating a more unarmored leadership style with a trusted colleague and ask for their feedback on your leadership approach, communication style, and more. Their support and perspective can be instrumental in your growth to becoming an unarmored leader.

If you're ready to dismantle your armor, schedule a discovery call here: