That's Pure Leadership

Chris DenHerder
  • 5.0 (4)
  • Management
  • Updated Monthly

Hosted by Chris DenHerder, That’s Pure Leadership is a Michigan-made podcast spotlighting the people behind the progress. Each week, dive into stories from bold leaders across the mitten—entrepreneurs, changemakers, creatives, and community builders who are making real impact and shaping the future of work and life. Whether you’re a young professional just finding your lane or a seasoned leader rethinking your path, these stories are for you. With humor, heart, and a whole lot of honesty, this show is about learning from real people doing meaningful work.

Episodes

  1. 06/13/2025

    The One That Stayed Authentic

    In this episode of That’s Pure Leadership, host Chris DenHerder explores the messy, powerful, and necessary path of staying true to yourself—especially when the pressure to perform, conform, or please is louder than your own voice. From early-career fears of rejection to the transformative year of “unschooling” that helped rebuild his confidence, Chris reflects on the moments that helped him stop toning it down and start showing up fully. He shares how chasing authenticity led to better relationships, unexpected opportunities, and even the courage to say “I’m not for you” when values didn’t align. This episode is a reminder that you won’t be for everyone—and that’s exactly the point. Because when you go where you’re celebrated, not just tolerated, that’s when the real growth begins.

    The One That Stayed Authentic

  2. 05/16/2025

    The One Who Embraced the Challenge

    In this first guest episode of That’s Pure Leadership, host Chris DenHerder sits down with J.R. VanderWall—small business owner, high school coach, Ironman triathlete, and Grandville city council member—for a powerful conversation about personal growth, navigating change, and the value of mentorship. J.R. shares his journey of balancing family, business, athletics, and community leadership, offering grounded wisdom like “control what you can control” and “every day is an opportunity.” From coaching youth sports to shaping character through discomfort, this episode is full of real-world leadership lessons rooted in resilience, humility, and heart. If you’ve ever struggled to find balance or wondered how to lead while growing yourself—this one’s for you.

    The One Who Embraced the Challenge

  3. 05/01/2025

    The One Where We Did It Scared

    Fear shows up every time we care about something deeply—and leadership is no exception. In this solo episode, host Chris DenHerder shares a personal and vulnerable look at what it really means to take action in the face of fear. From struggling to make phone calls to launching a podcast, Chris unpacks how growth comes after the leap—not before. Featuring stories of imposter syndrome, real behind-the-scenes doubt, and a bold business case that proves there’s always room in the arena (yes, even for canned water), this episode is a reminder that confidence doesn’t come from being fearless—it comes from showing up scared, and doing it anyway.

    The One Where We Did It Scared

  4. 04/23/2025

    The One That Got Real Curious

    In this solo episode, host Chris DenHerder unpacks one of the most underrated leadership traits out there: curiosity. From leaving a secure sales job to follow a gut feeling, to the lessons learned working alongside engineers and asking “What if?”—this episode explores how curiosity has shaped Chris’s leadership journey and opened doors to unexpected relationships and opportunities. Inspired by a powerful Ted Lasso moment and rooted in real-life reflection, this conversation reminds us that the best leaders don’t always have the answers—they just keep asking better questions.

    The One That Got Real Curious

  5. 04/03/2025

    The One That Got It Started

    In this kickoff episode of That’s Pure Leadership, host Chris DenHerder—aka Real Coach Chris—shares the story behind the podcast, what listeners can expect, and the lessons that shaped his journey from AV tech to coach, consultant, and storyteller. Born and raised in Michigan, Chris takes you on a quick tour through his career pivots, his love for the mitten state, and why real, approachable leadership matters now more than ever. If you're a growth-minded leader, young professional, or just someone figuring it out as you go—this is where it all begins.

    The One That Got It Started
  • 5 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Hosted by Chris DenHerder, That’s Pure Leadership is a Michigan-made podcast spotlighting the people behind the progress. Each week, dive into stories from bold leaders across the mitten—entrepreneurs, changemakers, creatives, and community builders who are making real impact and shaping the future of work and life. Whether you’re a young professional just finding your lane or a seasoned leader rethinking your path, these stories are for you. With humor, heart, and a whole lot of honesty, this show is about learning from real people doing meaningful work.

Information

  • Creator
    Chris DenHerder
  • Years Active
    2025
  • Episodes
    5
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Chris DenHerder
  • Show Website
    That's Pure Leadership