In this energizing episode of the Early Accountability Podcast, host Kimi Walker welcomes Dr. Ryan Gottfredson, a leadership development coach, author, researcher, and consultant, who specializes in helping leaders and organizations unlock their greatest potential through the power of mindset. Dr. Gottfredson shares his personal journey from a transformative high school sports psychology class to becoming a professor at California State University, Fullerton, and an internationally recognized consultant and author of three influential books, including Success Mindsets, The Elevated Leader, and his newest release, Becoming Better: The Groundbreaking Science of Personal Transformation.

Together, Kimi and Ryan dig deep into what it truly means to lead—not just in action, but in being. They unravel the crucial distinction between the “doing” and “being” sides of self-development and how traditional focus on skills and tactics often overlooks the inner operating system that shapes leadership, growth, and personal transformation. Dr. Gottfredson introduces practical strategies for vertical development, the role of self-awareness, and actionable techniques for cultivating foundational mindsets. Their conversation is packed with powerful analogies, real-world examples, and motivational reminders that elevating your impact always starts from within. Listeners will leave with a renewed understanding that sustainable progress and accountability are rooted in intentional self-elevation, not just checking off to-dos.

Topics Covered in This Episode

• The difference between “doing” and “being” in leadership and personal growth
• How vertical development upgrades your inner operating system for lasting transformation
• Mindset shifts foundational to consistent, resilient leadership
• Self-awareness as the critical early step toward meaningful change
• Practical tools to regulate reactivity and increase intentionality (e.g., meditation, journaling)
• Distinguishing between self-serving and service-oriented leadership for maximizing team impact

Dr. Ryan Gottfredson is a pioneering leadership development expert, best-selling author, and mindset researcher. As a professor at California State University–Fullerton, Ryan blends academic insight with practical strategies to help leaders elevate their thinking and performance. He is the author of acclaimed books including Success Mindsets, The Elevated Leader, and Becoming Better, all of which focus on the power of vertical development and mindset transformation. Through his consulting work, Ryan partners with organizations to create more self-aware, adaptable, and effective leaders by rewiring the way they think.

Connect with Ryan Gottfredson

• Website: https://ryangottfredson.com
• Email: [email protected]

• Visit: earlyaccountability.com
• LinkedIn: Kimi Walker
• Facebook: Kimi Walker
• Instagram: Kimi Walker
• YouTube: Kimi Walker