Redefining Leadership: The Power of Quiet with Megumi Miki

I first met Megumi Miki back in 2009, and even then, I could feel the quiet power she carried into every room. Megumi is a Japanese-Australian speaker, author, and leadership consultant whose work has deeply influenced how I think about leadership. She’s the author of the award-winning book Quietly Powerful: How Your Quiet Nature Is Your Hidden Leadership Strength, and she’s on a mission to challenge outdated assumptions about what leadership should look and sound like. 

In this episode, Megumi and I dive into the idea that you don’t need to be loud to lead powerfully. We explore how quiet leaders often bring deep listening, humility, and intentionality that transform team cultures. This conversation felt like a breath of fresh air—and a much-needed reframe for anyone who’s ever felt pressure to be someone they’re not in order to lead. 

Whether you’re a leader, a team member, or someone simply curious about different leadership styles, this episode offers powerful insights on inclusion, psychological safety, and the true nature of influence. 

In this episode, we cover: 

(00:00) – Introduction

(04:35) – Why Quietly Powerful is not an oxymoron—but essential

(10:20) – How Megumi’s personal and professional experiences sparked the Quietly Powerful movement (28:37) – The real reasons people are quiet

(30:47) – The double-glazed glass ceiling: quietness, gender, and cultural bias in leadership

(34:51)– What inclusive decision-making really looks like

(46:30) – How leaders can create space for all voices—especially the ones not being heard

(43:45) – Final Thoughts

Quiet doesn’t mean introverted or less. In fact, it might mean more. This conversation reminded me that some of the most impactful leaders I’ve worked with led not from the front—but from beside, behind, and within. The ones who create space, not just take it. 

If this episode resonated with you, I’d love to hear what stood out. Share your thoughts, leave a review, and forward this episode to someone whose quiet strength deserves to be seen and celebrated.