Leadership Starts with Ownership
In this thought-provoking episode of the Intentional Movement Podcast, hosts Rasheed and Jay sit down with business strategist, leader, and mentor Torrian Scott to discuss the essence of leadership, ownership, and self-discovery. Through vulnerable stories and impactful insights, Torrian shares what it truly takes to lead with intention and how personal accountability is at the heart of every great leader.
Taking Responsibility: The Foundation of Leadership
Torrian emphasizes a key principle: true leadership starts with ownership—taking 100% responsibility for everything in your life.
“Leadership is all about ownership. It’s not just the good, the bad, or the sexy parts. It’s taking accountability for the failures, the pain points, and everything in between.”
He reflects on lessons from his own life, including growing up under the leadership of his entrepreneurial father and hardworking mother. These examples taught him that owning your life’s outcomes—whether in business, family, or personal growth—sets the foundation for true leadership.
The Three Questions Every Leader Must Answer
According to Torrian, personal discovery is at the core of leadership. He challenges listeners to reflect on three pivotal questions:
Who am I?
Understanding your identity beyond labels and societal expectations.
What can I do?
Discovering the potential already planted within you.
Where am I going?
Creating a clear vision for your future.
Torrian explains:
“We are designed to be fruitful, not just seedful. The seed of greatness is already within us, but it’s our job to nurture it and produce fruit—not for ourselves, but for others.”
Handling Failure and Moving Forward
Leadership often involves facing failure, disappointment, and rejection—both from others and within ourselves. Torrian shares the importance of learning how to process these experiences:
“Every leader needs a safe space where they can take off their armor, be vulnerable, and let someone pour into them.”
He highlights the necessity of having a trusted confidant or community to lean on, noting that isolation often leads to burnout, escapism, and poor decision-making.
“Even trees go into hibernation. Leaders must learn to rest, reset, and reroot themselves to produce more fruit in the next season.”
Redefining Success: Owning Your Journey
Torrian and Rasheed discuss the power of taking extreme ownership—not just in the external world, but in personal transformation. Torian shares a powerful personal story of his own growth:
“I messed up. I took ownership of my mistakes, but I also had to accept that some people wouldn’t accept my apology or let me make things right. You can’t take ownership for their forgiveness—you can only take ownership for your growth.”
For Torrian, growth is a marathon, not a sprint. He advises others to focus on becoming the best version of themselves, not for applause or validation, but for the intrinsic value of leading a purpose-driven life.
The Role of Faith in Leadership
Faith plays a critical role in Torian’s leadership journey. He credits his relationship with God as the foundation for his resilience and purpose.
“God has been the father I never had. He reminds me that my worth doesn’t come from the applause of men, but from fulfilling my purpose and serving others.”
This faith-driven perspective allows Torian to lead with humility, strength, and a deep sense of responsibility.
Practical Steps for Leaders to Take Ownership
Reflect on Your Identity:
Spend time understanding who you are beyond your roles and titles.
Own Your Failures:
Acknowledge mistakes without excuses. Use them as lessons for growth.
Build a Support System:
Surround yourself with trusted confidants or communities that encourage vulnerability and growth.
Embrace Rest and Renewal:
Recognize the importance of taking time to reset and refocus.
Focus on Long-Term Growth:
Leadership isn’t about quick wins. Commit to the process of becoming your best self.
Torrian’s Next Move: Becoming the Man He Needed
When asked about his future plans, Torrian shares an intentional and heartfelt vision:
“My next move is to become the man I’ve been looking for—the father I never had, the leader I always needed. I want to guide others to restore life, love, leadership, and legacy in their lives.”
Through his organization, Lions Leading Lions, Torrian is focused on helping men find their roar by building safe spaces for vulnerability, growth, and purpose-driven leadership.
Key Takeaways
Ownership Equals Leadership:
Take 100% responsibility for every aspect of your life.
Know Your Safe Space:
Leaders need a community or confidant to process emotions and avoid burnout.
Faith Fuels Leadership:
True leadership is rooted in purpose, not the pursuit of validation.
Growth Is a Journey:
Leadership requires a long-term commitment to self-discovery and accountability.
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