#166 Jul 15, 26

Influence Is a Feeling: Lessons in Authentic Leadership from [solidcore] CEO Bryan Myers

In this episode of Chief Influencer®, Anthony Shop sits down with Bryan Myers, President and CEO of [solidcore], to explore why the most effective leaders don't lead from a distance—they lead through experience, authenticity, and connection. Bryan shares how becoming a [solidcore] coach helped him build credibility with employees, clients, and industry peers, and why understanding the frontline experience is essential for any leader.

The conversation dives into personal branding, vulnerability, servant leadership, and the balance between staying authentic while adapting to different audiences. Bryan also explains why influence is less about persuasion and more about how you make people feel. From coaching under the blue lights to showing up in private equity boardrooms in a pink suit, Bryan offers a powerful reminder that leadership works best when people see the human behind the title.

Takeaways:

Credibility is built when leaders take the time to understand the frontline experience firsthand. By spending time alongside employees and learning what their work actually involves, leaders gain valuable perspective and earn trust that can't be achieved through a title alone.
Authenticity doesn't mean showing up the same way in every room—it means staying true to who you are while adapting to the audience. Great leaders understand how to adjust their communication style to different situations without compromising their values or identity.
Personal brands are built through consistency, not performance. A strong personal brand comes from regularly sharing your genuine perspectives and values, not from chasing trends or trying to create a polished image.
The strongest leaders create environments where vulnerability and honesty are encouraged. When leaders are transparent about challenges and willing to admit they don't have all the answers, they create a culture built on trust and open communication.
People connect with people, not institutions. Accessibility builds trust. Leaders who are approachable, visible, and willing to engage directly with employees, customers, and stakeholders create stronger relationships and deeper loyalty.
Successful brands know exactly who they serve—and who they don't. Rather than trying to appeal to everyone, the strongest brands stay focused on their core audience and consistently deliver an experience that aligns with their values.
Lasting influence comes from making people feel valued, capable, and understood. The most influential leaders help others recognize their potential and leave people feeling more confident, empowered, and supported.

Quote of the Show:

“Real influence is really about how you make people feel. When they are in your presence, when you are working alongside them, because when you figure out the unlock to making them feel the way that you want, that is when they will run through a brick wall for you.”

Links:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/myersb/
Website: https://www.solidcore.co/

Episode Video

Creators and Guests

Host

Anthony Shop

Anthony Shop believes in the power of people-centered branding and marketing to create a bright future. He chairs the National Digital Roundtable, the premier convener of digital innovators, leaders and policy shapers. Anthony also is the Co-Founder and Chief Strategy Officer of Social Driver, a digital services firm that helps companies and non-profits establish winning strategies with social media, websites, creative, and advertising. An enthusiastic presenter and teacher, he has led executive-level training for Amazon, PepsiCo, NASA, The British Embassy and the Bipartisan Policy Center. He has been recognized as an “OUTstanding LGBT Role Model” by The Financial Times, “40 Under 40” by The Washington Business Journal, and Business Leader of the Year by the DC Chamber of Commerce. A former newspaper reporter, Anthony was the first new media professional elected to the National Press Club’s Board of Governors. He currently serves on the boards of Leadership Greater Washington and LearnServe International. He earned his MBA from The George Washington University School of Business, where he teaches as an adjunct lecturer.

Producer

Amanda Goyette

Producer

Robert Krueger

Robert is an Executive Director for The Communications Board, an organization with the mission of providing high-quality professional development for every communicator in every location. He is also the Global Lead for Partnership Communications at Gensler, the world’s largest architecture and design firm. Prior to his current role, he performed executive and CEO communications for Gensler, and was the senior director of public relations and social media at the Urban Land Institute. He obtained an MA in Communications and an MA in History from George Mason University. He did his undergraduate studies at the University of Missouri-Columbia. In addition, Robert has taught communications at universities including George Mason University, West Virginia University, and the University of Florida. Robert currently serves as Immediate-Past President for the Public Relations Society of America’s National Capital Chapter (PRSA-NCC) -- the nonprofit’s largest chapter.