How Cohorts Create Safe Spaces for Vulnerability

In this episode of The Ross Simmonds Show,  Ross sits down with Dusty Holcomb, seasoned executive and founder of Arcqus Group, to talk about what it truly means to lead in today’s complex world. With over two decades of experience leading high-growth companies in logistics and eCommerce, Dusty shares powerful lessons on embracing vulnerability, building with intent, saying “no” to distractions, and remaining anchored in purpose.

Whether you're a CEO, entrepreneur, or people leader, this conversation offers insights on self-leadership, scaling effectively, and building transformative leadership habits. Packed with real-world stories, frameworks, and actionable wisdom, this episode is a must-listen for those playing the long game.

1. Vulnerability in Leadership

- How Dusty overcame surface-level transparency.

- Leadership as a learned, active behavior.

- Advice for leaders hesitant to open up.

2.  Leading Through Chaos and Saying No

- A Red Stag story: Saying no to a dream client to stay aligned with brand promise.

- Anchoring every decision in first principles and mission clarity.

- Use thinking time and decision frameworks to combat shiny object syndrome.

3. Challenges Facing Modern Leaders

- More decisions than ever before (hello, AI).

- Being “ruthlessly focused.”

- Framework: “Distill it to three—and then to one.”

4. Habits, Rhythms, and Self-Leadership

- Why self-care isn’t selfish.

- Quarterly reviews and morning/evening routines.

- Framework: Accountability through public commitment.

5. Creating Safe Spaces for Growth

- How vulnerability leads to transformation in small groups.

- Real stories of powerful breakthroughs and support in cohorts.

6.  Three Key Lessons Dusty Would Tell His Younger Self

- Trust your gut (and verify it).

- You’re in the seat for a reason.

- Surround yourself with good mentors and advisors.

7.  On Gut Feelings and Building Confidence

- Exercises to validate gut instincts.

- Frame tough decisions: “What’s the worst that could happen?”

8.  Breaking Imposter Syndrome

- Tools for building conviction and clarity in your role.

- Practice "the gap and the gain" mindset.

9 . Mentorship: How to Find and Add Value to a Mentor

- Don’t chase billionaires – start with thought leadership and inner circle.

- Great mentors learn from your questions.

- “We often teach what we most need to learn.”

10.  3 Pain Points Most Leaders Face

- Frustration vs. results gap.

- “Why does everything fall on me?”

- Leadership loneliness and isolation.

11. Coaching Execution Starts with Clarity & Alignment

- Execution problems often stem from unclear expectations.

- Solving upstream issues unlocks downstream performance.

14. The Role of CEOs: Vision and Connection

- A CEO’s job is connecting purpose, vision, and plan.

- Always be teaching and reinforcing the why.

Resources & Tools:

🔗Arcqus Group

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