Podcast Summary

Podcast: Mick Unplugged
Episode: Dr. Adriane Johnson-Williams: Why Every Leader Needs a Brushstroke Strategy
Host: Mick Hunt (appears as “C” in transcript)
Guest: Dr. Adriane Johnson-Williams (appears as “A” in transcript)
Date: June 28, 2025

Episode Overview

This episode explores the concept of the “Brushstroke Strategy” in leadership, advocating for leaders to move beyond defining their “why” to embracing their “because”—their deeper purpose. Dr. Adriane Johnson-Williams, a scholar, strategist, and advocate for equity, joins Mick to discuss bridging individual action and systemic impact, equity in leadership, the critical distinction between mentorship and sponsorship, and reflective practice for growth.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Discovering Dr. Adriane’s ‘Because’ (01:15–02:50)

• Dr. Adriane’s ‘because’ is rooted in her belief that every human being has value and potential, and that societal systems often diminish this collective power.

  • Quote:

    “There should be nothing standing between any individual human being and their absolute best potential, selfishly, because I think that we would all benefit from it.” (02:33, Dr. Adriane)

• Her passion for equity began when, at 14, she saw first-hand the opportunities at her boarding school that her equally talented friends back home in Memphis could not access. This seeded her life-long mission to eliminate gaps in opportunity.

2. From Intention to Action in Leadership (05:10–07:39)

• Dr. Adriane only works with individuals and organizations truly ready for challenging, meaningful work, emphasizing a “disposition to do.”
  • She vets her clients and requires mentees to take actionable steps before proceeding.
  • Organizations need to see their role as a singular “brushstroke” on a large canvas—each contribution is small but essential.
  • Memorable metaphor: She credits Gloria Ladson Billings with the idea that “in our lifetime... we may only be able to make one brushstroke on a huger canvas, but we have to make sure that our brushstroke is the right brushstroke and the best brushstroke for us.” (06:24, Dr. Adriane)

3. The Role of Self-Reflection in Leadership (07:39–09:23)

• Dr. Adriane asserts that reflective practice is vital for personal and professional growth, as it helps individuals ensure their actions are valuable, not just busywork.

  • Self-reflection is integral to emotional intelligence—understanding one’s motivations and interactions improves decision making.
  • Quote:

    “If we don’t start with ourselves... then we’re really just out there judging what other people do. That doesn’t help us either.” (08:35, Dr. Adriane)

• Mick reflects on how leadership has evolved, with emotional intelligence now at the center, replacing the outdated “the buck stops with me” attitude.

4. On Knowledge, Authenticity, and Building Expertise (10:53–11:21)

• Dr. Adriane shares a practical tip for leaders:
  • Quote:

    “If you only talk about the things you know, people think you’re really smart because when they fact-check you, everything you say is true.” (10:53, Dr. Adriane)

  • Both agree that speaking authentically and from one’s own experience builds trust and credibility.

5. Frameworks for Tough Conversations on Equity (11:43–14:51)

• Dr. Adriane’s “special sauce” is starting tough conversations, especially about race, by first examining the identities of those in power—often whiteness—fostering honesty while maintaining dignity and humanity.
  • She encourages leaders to be introspective about their own place and power in systems of inequity, especially when working with white leaders.
  • Framework for action:
    1. Clarify the vision: Know what equity should look like in your context.
    2. Diagnose the present: Understand why things are the way they are; focus your energy on what you can influence.

6. Mentorship vs. Sponsorship (15:16–21:33)

• Dr. Adriane outlines her career trajectory was shaped not just by mentorship but by sponsorship—individuals “walking her to the door, introducing her, and backing her in new spaces.”
  • Sponsorship involves using one’s influence to give others access and support in powerful spaces.
  • Quote:

    “Sponsorship is the thing that really helps you get down the path... you really have to perform. But when that opportunity comes... you have to do it. You can’t hem and ha about it.” (16:43–17:32, Dr. Adriane)

  • She highlights the importance of being prepared and courageous when offered sponsorship.
  • Dr. Adriane uses the analogy:

    “That is sponsorship. It is the thing where... you take the power you have, and you literally stamp those people with your power, and that is sponsorship.” (20:37, Dr. Adriane)

  • Mick adds that mentors should consider sponsorship as a key part of their responsibility.

7. Notable Personal Stories and Insights (19:41–21:33)

• Dr. Adriane recounts a pivotal moment: being sent to represent a powerful leader at a high-level meeting, feeling the “palpable difference in energy” when she wielded his authority—illustrating the real power and importance of sponsorship.

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On the impact of exclusive systems:

  “We diminish what we can become as an entire human society because we don’t value human beings.” (02:12, Dr. Adriane)

• On sponsorship:

  “Literally, you’re going into meetings and sitting at tables... when someone asks a question and that person who’s sponsoring me says, ‘I think Adrienne has some really good thoughts on this,’ you got to show up.” (17:40, Dr. Adriane)

• On her key value:

  (Quick Five round): Q: “One word that captures your mission?” A: “Humanity.” (25:37, Dr. Adriane)

Quick Five – Lighthearted and Personal Insights (21:33–25:37)

• Favorite Memphis Meal: Vinegary collard greens and well-seasoned pulled pork—with or without cornbread. (21:59–22:33)
• Favorite self-care ritual: Sitting outside, listening to audiobooks after quitting social media. (22:57–23:20)
• Recent book recommendation: The “Fourth Wing” Romantasy series—a novel with themes of leadership and overcoming adversity. (23:42–24:17)
• Most inspiring colleague: Mariana Orzilla, founder of the Center for Community Investment—a big thinker and demanding teacher. (24:27–25:28)
• One word for her mission: “Humanity.” (25:37)

Final Takeaways and What’s Next (25:56–26:41)

• Dr. Adriane is focusing on supporting white men in business leadership around issues of racial equity, launching a research project to better understand their struggles and needs.
• Connect with Dr. Adriane:
  • Standpoint Consulting (Instagram, LinkedIn)
  • LinkedIn: Adrian Johnson-Williams or Dr. AJW

Key Timestamps

• Dr. Adriane’s ‘because’ and formative experience: 01:50–04:47
• Action over talk & 'brushstroke' strategy: 05:10–07:39
• Reflective practice & emotional intelligence: 07:39–09:23
• Speaking with expertise: 10:53–11:21
• Framework for leading tough conversations on equity: 11:43–14:51
• Mentorship vs sponsorship: 15:16–21:33
• Quick Five/fun questions: 21:33–25:37
• Current work and contact info: 25:56–26:41

Tone & Style

The episode is candid, grounded, and energizing—balancing personal storytelling, candid advice, and actionable frameworks. Dr. Adriane combines academic insight with practical realism and deep care for humanity. Mick matches her candor and warmth with sharp, actionable commentary.

This episode is a must-listen for leaders seeking to move from reflection to action, build real equity, and empower future leaders—not just with wisdom, but with opportunities and influence. Dr. Adriane’s approach is a powerful example of leadership for lasting impact.