Leadership Was Never About Control

A reflection from Tia Glave, Catalyst Food Leaders

I didn’t have to unlearn control—I never led that way.

My childhood friends would tell you I’ve always had a flair for connecting with others and appreciating their uniqueness.  I am genuinely curious about people.  I strived to create an environment where each person can show up as themselves - even if it’s on the playground.

In my career, I leaned into this strength. I knew that teams work best when they feel connected, and I saw myself as part of that responsibility - creating connection, whether I was the “official” leader or not.  I was shaping the culture around me, even before I knew to call it that. I’ve always believed that leadership isn’t about commanding compliance; it’s about creating how we want to be together.  It’s about belonging.

I’ve worked in environments where the culture was strong enough to push out a toxic leader. Not because we were exclusive, but because we were clear - clear about who we are, how we lead, and what it means to belong.

Belonging Isn’t Soft. It’s Strategic.

When people feel they belong, they show up with unmatched confidence.  This sense of value, acceptance, connectedness, security, and pure happiness fuels stronger, more productive teams.  It creates cultures of empowerment, collaboration, and ownership.

That’s why I lead with purpose. With presence. With the belief that when people feel seen, heard, and supported, they lead stronger - and better.

Leadership isn’t about control; it’s about creating capacity. My role as a leader is to create the conditions where people can rise to their greatest potential.

Ownership Starts with Trust

Ownership doesn’t come from rules. It comes from leaders who equip and trust their people enough to let them lead.

When teams are supported and empowered, they don’t need to be micromanaged - they need to be invited.  Invited to lead with purpose.

“Belonging creates commitment. That’s the kind of culture I build.”

This Work Isn’t New—But It’s Never Been More Needed

In the food and beverage industry, we’re facing big challenges. But control won’t get us through.

Belonging will. 

Clarity will. 

Cultures that prioritize people will.

If you’re a leader who wants to lead differently, this is your invitation.  Start building the culture you want to see.

Let Reset Week Be Your Spark

Reset Week isn’t a training. It’s a space to reconnect to what matters, so you can lead with more humanity, clarity, and purpose.

🧭 Save your seat for Leadership Reset Week
📥 Download the Culture Change Worksheet
🎧 Catch this week’s Real Talk: Command vs. Commitment

Because when people feel like they belong, they don’t just stay. They lead.