How to Lead Fearlessly in a Startup Hub Like Austin
Startups aren't chaotic. People just let them be.
In places like Austin, where every coffee shop has a founder pitching or coding, it’s easy to confuse energy with direction. But momentum without clarity is just motion.
If you want to lead in a startup, especially in a city buzzing with ambition, do this:
1. Create Clarity in Chaos
Clarity isn’t about certainty. It’s about direction.
Even saying “we don’t know yet” is a form of clarity. That’s powerful.
Set expectations. Define what done looks like. Map the first two milestones. Schedule a check-in.
Then do it again.
Startups don’t need less structure—they need more, because ambiguity is the default. That means your leadership begins the moment you bring even one layer of clarity.
2. Speak Up (Yes, Even to the Founder)
Forget hierarchy. It doesn’t matter.
What matters is progress. And progress doesn’t wait for permission.
Your founder? They want good ideas.
They’re praying someone on the team cares enough to challenge them.
You don’t get points for agreeing. You get influence by being useful—and honest.
This is why you joined a startup. Use your voice. Or you’re missing the biggest advantage you have.
3. Be Proactive. Overstep. Fail. Iterate.
Startups reward action.
You don’t get fired for trying—you get ignored for waiting.
See a problem? Fix it.
Have an idea? Test it.
Not in your job description? Who cares. Your title is “Whatever It Takes.”
Your ability to lead comes from your willingness to move first.
4. Build Real Relationships
Yes, the work matters. But the people matter more.
Startups are intimate. Everyone sees everything. So if you want to lead, be someone others trust.
Do what you say you’ll do. Ask questions because you actually care.
And yes, go to the happy hours. Or better—host them.
Culture isn’t built in the business plan. It’s built over tacos and kombucha on tap.
5. Lead Yourself First
You want to stand out? Start with how you show up.
Leadership isn’t a role. It’s a decision.
Own your outcomes. Embrace discomfort.
When you lead yourself—by being accountable, curious, and courageous—you’re already leading others.
Startups don’t need heroes.
They need people who act like everything depends on them... and trust that others will follow.
Final thought:
Leading fearlessly in a place like Austin is about clarity, courage, and connection.
That’s how you grow in startups. That’s how you become irreplaceable.
So be bold. Be clear. And start leading—now. Want some help? Here are 4 different ways that I can help you lead fearlessly.
1. Work with me as your private coach
If you’d like to work with me directly to create a fearless career and become the most important leader in your life... just send me a direct message with the word “Private." Tell me a little about yourself and what you’d like to work on together, and I’ll get you all the details. You can also schedule some time here.
2. Grab a copy of my book
Becoming Fearless is the roadmap to overcoming self-doubt and creating mastery in your career and life. Click here to get your copy.
3. Watch my free masterclass
Are you feeling stuck in your career or unsure of your next step? My free masterclass is designed to help you break through those barriers and unlock your full potential. Click here to check it out.
4. Explore my podcasts and media appearances
I'm passionate about helping leaders and individuals create meaningful careers and lead fearlessly. Through my podcasts and various media appearances, I share insights on leadership, personal growth, and career mastery. Listen here for our podcasts, and here for guest appearances.