The Joy Effect – How Great Leaders Inspire Energy and Excellence with Don Egle
In this episode of the Voice of Influence Podcast, Andrea interviews Dr. Don Egle, Vice President for Enrollment, Marketing, and Communications at Letourneau University and the Founder and CEO of the Kyer Group, a brand and leadership coaching company. With over 25 years of C-suite experience, Dr. Egle discusses the importance of preparation, clarity, and authenticity in crisis communications, and how empathy and slowing down can make a significant difference. Dr. Egle also delves into his dissertation on joyful leadership, explaining how joy, seen as a deep-rooted mindset and choice, impacts leadership and organizational success. Additionally, Dr. Egle emphasizes the intersection of brand and leadership, advocating for a clear and authentic promise. He offers insights on how Letourneau University navigates the evolving landscape of higher education by staying true to its mission and creating distinct value for its students.
00:00 Welcome and Introduction to Dr. Don Egle
01:22 Early Aspirations and Career Path
03:13 Discovering Public Relations and Communications
06:47 The Importance of Authentic Communication
11:57 Navigating Crisis Communications
23:45 Challenges and Strategies in Higher Education
36:06 Understanding Our Identity and Goals
37:27 The Importance of Joy in Leadership
37:47 The Story of Alan Mulally and Leadership Joy
51:58 Defining Joy and Its Impact on Leadership
01:03:34 Connecting Brand and Leadership
01:08:15 Final Thoughts and Advice
Summary
Leadership is often framed as a challenge, a responsibility, or even a sacrifice. But what if we viewed leadership through the lens of joy?
On the latest episode of the Voice of Influence podcast, I spoke with Dr. Don Egle, Vice President for Enrollment, Marketing, and Communications at LeTourneau University and founder of The Kyer Group. With 25 years of C-suite leadership experience, Don specializes in building transformational brands rooted in trust, love, and admiration.
Our conversation explored his unique leadership journey, the profound role of joy in influence, and why clarity and authenticity are vital for leaders today.
Leadership is a Privilege, Not a Sacrifice
Dr. Egle’s perspective on leadership was shaped in part by a powerful insight from Alan Mulally, former CEO of Ford Motor Company. Mulally challenged the idea that leadership is about sacrifice, instead arguing that “leadership is a true joy and privilege—we get to do this.”
This shift in mindset is critical. Rather than focusing on what leadership takes away, leaders should embrace the opportunities it provides to serve, influence, and inspire.
“It’s hard to see leadership as a joy if it’s all about you,” Don shared. Instead, great leaders cultivate a selfless motivation—one that prioritizes people, purpose, and progress over personal gain.
The Power of a Joyful Mindset
Joy in leadership isn’t about ignoring difficulties—it’s about choosing joy despite them. Joy is not happiness; it’s not dictated by circumstances. Instead, joy is rooted in something deeper—whether a strong sense of mission, faith, or the belief that one’s work truly matters.
“Joy is a choice, and it’s contagious,” Don emphasized. When leaders embrace joy, it spreads. It fosters resilience, strengthens teams, and creates cultures where people feel valued and empowered.
This perspective is especially relevant in crisis communication, an area where Don has extensive experience. He noted that in challenging situations, preparation, clarity, and authenticity are key—but so is slowing down, staying true to core values, and leading with empathy.
A Brand is a Promise You Keep
Don’s expertise in branding and leadership go hand in hand. He explained that strong brands—whether personal or organizational—are built on promises made and promises kept.
“A brand is not just a logo or marketing campaign. It’s about who you are, what you stand for, and how consistently you live that out,” he said.
For leaders, this means being crystal clear about their values, mission, and what they offer to others. The best brands—and the best leaders—don’t try to be everything to everyone. Instead, they stand firm in their unique identity, making trust and authenticity their foundation.
Progress Compounds: Keep Moving Forward
In closing, Don shared a powerful reminder for those who want to have a Voice of Influence:
“Progress compounds. Every step you take today, no matter how small, builds upon the last. Keep showing up, keep growing, and trust that your efforts will create lasting impact.”
I couldn’t agree more. Leadership isn’t about perfection—it’s about consistency, clarity, and the courage to lead with joy.
Listen to the full conversation with Dr. Don Egle on the Voice of Influence Podcast.
#Leadership #Influence #Branding #CrisisCommunication #JoyfulLeadership #VoiceOfInfluence
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