In this deep and transformative episode, I sit down with Eric Kelly—veteran, entrepreneur, integrator, and powerful truth-teller—for a vulnerable and candid conversation about leadership, identity, transition, and radical self-honesty. From stepping out of a successful home service business to embracing a 3.0 version of himself, Eric shares what it really means to lead from a place of clarity, courage, and truth.
We explore what happens when your business identity no longer fits, how to pass the torch without control, and why most of us are living as extras in a story we didn’t even write. If you’ve ever wondered how to move on powerfully, reclaim your voice, or uncover what’s really holding you back, this episode will call you higher in the best way possible.
🔥 Here’s what we cover:
Stepping Into Version 3.0
- How Eric transitioned from business owner to integrator at War Plan Studios.
- What it takes to move on from a business you built—and how to know when it’s time.
- The importance of reinventing yourself with intention and embracing the unknown.
Letting Go to Let Leadership Rise
- Why you can’t truly empower leaders without releasing control (and letting them fail).
- The danger of “co-parenting” your business and how to stop confusing your team.
- How Eric approached stepping out without diluting his team’s authority.
The Integrator-Visionary Dynamic
- Eric’s rare ability to operate as both a high Visionary and a high Integrator—and what that means in a leadership team.
- The mindset, structure, and nuance needed to translate big vision into action.
- Insights into tools like EOS, CliftonStrengths, DISC, and love languages that shape team culture and alignment.
Radical Ownership & Self-Leadership
- Why asking “why” five layers deep can unlock everything holding you back.
- How to stop living someone else’s story—and write your own.
- What true leadership looks like: leading yourself first, then others.
💬 Favorite Quotes:
“You have to be all in on the risk—or don’t step away at all.”
“Most people are extras in their own story. You’re the main character—you just forgot.”
“If you don’t like it, ask why. Then ask why again. Go five layers deep until you find the truth.”
“Don’t co-parent your business. Empower someone to lead, and then let them.”
💡 Want to Reflect?
Your challenge this week:
What’s one story you’re telling yourself that needs to be questioned?
Take one area of your life or business and go five layers deep with “why.” It might just change everything.
🙌 Stay Connected
- Subscribe to Unleash Your Unique Genius on Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app
- Connect with Eric and explore his work at War Plan Studios
- If you're looking for your own reinvention or new integrator/visionary alignment, we’d love to support you
Unique Genius
Hosted by Angela Schroeder, Unleash Your Unique Genius is a powerful podcast designed to inspire entrepreneurs, business leaders, and growth-minded individuals to lean fully into their unique strengths and live with intention. Through raw and empowering conversations with leaders, creatives, and changemakers, Angela uncovers stories of resilience, vision, and courage — highlighting how each guest has harnessed their unique genius to create meaningful impact.
The show equips listeners with actionable strategies for personal growth, leadership, and unlocking greater freedom and fulfillment in their lives and businesses. Whether you're building something new or seeking a deeper sense of alignment and purpose, this podcast is your space to be encouraged, challenged, and reminded that the most powerful thing you can be is unapologetically yourself.