The True Strength of Vulnerability: A Reflection on Leadership and Humanity

In a world drawn to invulnerability, dare to reach for authenticity.

“Vulnerability is not winning or losing; it's having the courage to show up and be seen when we have no control over the outcome. Vulnerability is not weakness; it's our greatest measure of courage.” – Brené Brown

In a world increasingly drawn to displays of unyielding strength and invulnerability, Brené Brown’s words resonate like a beacon. Yet, all too often vulnerability is misunderstood and dismissed as weakness—particularly by those in positions of power.

I write as the United States is about to inaugurate Donald J Trump as the 47th President. The rest of the world looks on to see just where the next four years might take us.

This is not a political post, but a call to examine where humanity is headed. The global tilt toward autocratic and “strongman” leadership—leaders who see vulnerability as a flaw—reflects a profound misunderstanding of strength. Leadership devoid of vulnerability, authenticity and transparency cannot pave the way for meaningful progress.

True strength lies not in force or dominance but in the courage to be open, human and imperfect. This is the type of strength the world so desperately needs.

Vulnerability is a universal human trait, yet so few in positions of power are willing to embrace it. It requires courage to show up authentically, especially when the stakes are high and the outcomes uncertain. Whether it’s sharing a personal struggle, admitting to a mistake, or leading with transparency in times of crisis, vulnerability is what allows us to connect, grow and build trust.

Extrology has afforded me the privilege of hearing countless stories of vulnerability from guests who have faced unimaginable challenges. Their willingness to share has inspired lessons that extend far beyond personal or professional triumphs. These stories remind us that true power lies not in controlling others, but in being open and honest about ourselves.

The lessons these stories teach us are profound: vulnerability fosters empathy, drives resilience and ultimately inspires change. Yet, in a world that seems to glorify invulnerability, this strength often goes unnoticed.

Today’s global landscape reflects a troubling trend. Leaders who project certainty, dominance and “strength” are gaining ground. Autocratic and totalitarian approaches, which reject transparency and empathy, may seem appealing in the short term, especially in times of fear or uncertainty. But history is clear: this kind of leadership sows division, stifles progress and often ends in catastrophe.

The rejection of vulnerability by such leaders is not a sign of strength but of fear. Fear of appearing weak, of losing control, of being truly seen. And yet, humanity thrives on vulnerability. It’s what allows us to innovate, heal and connect. Without it, we’re left with a world that prioritises power over progress, domination over dialogue and appearance over authenticity.

Now, more than ever, the world needs leaders who embody vulnerability. Leaders who are unafraid to admit they don’t have all the answers, who listen before they speak and who value connection over control. Leaders who see strength not in dominance but in courage—the courage to show up, to be seen, and to lead with humanity.

This isn’t just about political leadership. It’s about how we all show up in the world. It’s about parenting with honesty, working with transparency and building relationships on a foundation of trust. Vulnerability is the antidote to division, and the starting point for a better, more connected humanity.

I’ve thought a lot about vulnerability in my own life. Sharing my MS diagnosis was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done, but it was also one of the most liberating. It allowed me to connect with others in ways I never thought possible. It showed me that when we share our stories—even the parts we’d rather keep hidden—we create space for growth, understanding and resilience.

It’s this same courage that I’ve seen in so many Extrology guests. Whether it’s Mark Reeves opening up about his childhood trauma or Colin Day sharing his battle with anorexia, their willingness to be vulnerable has been nothing short of transformative. These are the stories that change lives. They remind us that being human means being open and that true strength comes from showing up, even when it’s hard.

The question isn’t whether we need vulnerability—it’s how we can foster it. Start small. Share something that scares you. Listen to someone else’s story without judgment. Challenge the idea that strength means invulnerability and instead embrace the courage to be seen.

As Brené Brown so eloquently puts it, vulnerability is our greatest measure of courage. It’s time for all of us—leaders, parents, colleagues and friends—to step up and lead with it. Because in the end, humanity doesn’t succeed through power, but through connection, authenticity and the courage to show up.