

How Wes Kao coaches founders to influence, lead, and get what they want | Wes Kao (Executive coach, co-founder of Maven)
89 snips May 22, 2025
Wes Kao, an executive coach and co-founder of Maven and the AltMBA, shares insights into effective leadership and communication. She introduces her 'personality-message fit' framework, debunking myths around charisma. Wes emphasizes the significance of self-awareness and authenticity in communication. She explains how to navigate the complexities of founder-executive dynamics and addresses the importance of clarity in strategic thinking. With anecdotes on raising personal standards, this conversation is a masterclass in influence and self-expression.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Charisma Is Being The "Meest Me"
- Charisma is about leaning into your unique self instead of copying others.
- Being more authentic by embracing your idiosyncrasies creates genuine influence.
Communicate With Ideal Outcome
- Start communication by clearly defining your ideal outcome.
- Work backward to frame your message strategically and increase receptiveness.
Adapt To Manager's Style
- Accept your founder's or manager's personality as a constraint.
- Adapt yourself to work better with them instead of trying to change them.