Oct 7, 2025
What does it really mean to be ‘selfish’ and could it be the secret to truly effective leadership? Gary Parsons shares his candid journey from building a seven-figure business to stepping away for the sake of his own wellbeing. At the height of his success, he battled depression and the stigma surrounding mental health in business, discovering that prioritising yourself isn’t just acceptable, it’s essential. Through vulnerability and resilience, Gary shows that authentic leadership begins with self-awareness and wellbeing. If you’re ready to challenge convention, redefine success and lead with authenticity, focus on reinventing selfish leadership.
KEY TAKEAWAY
‘Being selfish isn't about taking from others, it's about having enough of yourself to give to others. When you prioritise your own wellbeing, you become a more effective, compassionate and authentic leader.’
ABOUT THE GUEST – GARY PARSONS
Gary Parsons is a keynote speaker, business mentor, creator of Selfish Leadership and the author of forthcoming Why Selfish Leaders Make the Best Leaders. After co-founding a multi-award-winning business, Gary experienced the cost of success built on burnout. Now, he helps growth-driven leaders prioritise their wellbeing through his SELF Framework (Set Boundaries, Elevate Wellbeing, Lead with Intention, Foster Growth). His mission is to break the stigma of mental health in leadership and prove that when leaders thrive, everyone benefits. Gary is also the founder of Leaders in Disguise, a podcast and movement inspiring authentic leadership stories and sustainable success.
CONNECT WITH GARY
https://www.linkedin.com/in/garyparsonsuk
https://instagram.com/garyparsonsuk
ABOUT THE HOST - AMY ROWLINSON
Amy is a purpose and fulfilment coach, author, podcast strategist and mastermind host who empowers purpose-driven leaders to boost productivity, engagement and meaning in life and work. Through transformational conversations, Amy helps individuals overcome overwhelm and live with clarity, building living legacies along the way.
WORK WITH AMY
If you’re interested in how purpose can help you and your business, please book a free 30 min call via https://calendly.com/amyrowlinson/call
KEEP IN TOUCH WITH AMY
Sign up for the weekly Friday Focus - https://www.amyrowlinson.com/subscribe-to-weekly-newsletter
CONNECT WITH AMY
https://linktr.ee/AmyRowlinson
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Focus on Why by Amy Rowlinson with George F. Kerr – https://amzn.eu/d/6W02HWu
HOSTED BY: Amy Rowlinson
DISCLAIMER
The views, thoughts and opinions expressed in this podcast belong solely to the host and guest speakers. Please conduct your own due diligence.
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