#89 Wayland Lum: From Corporate Comfort to Purposeful Leadership

In this episode, Wayland Lum, CEO of Copperbox Leadership Advisory and former leader at Chicago Booth, Korn Ferry, and Nvidia, shares his journey from art supplies to boardrooms.

Blending creativity with business psychology, Wayland redefines what it means to be a modern leader. With a passion for helping leaders reach their full potential, he explains how betting on oneself can lead to transformational change—not just in business, but in life.

From navigating the balance of fear and courage to embracing core purpose, Wayland reveals the power of leadership grounded in authenticity and impact. His insights extend far beyond corporate walls, showing how intentional leadership can create a ripple effect that positively shapes the world. If you’ve ever considered stepping out of your comfort zone and betting on your own vision, this episode will leave you inspired—and maybe a little bit braver.

Key Highlights of Our Interview:

Breaking Free from Prestige

“Leaving prestigious organizations for my own leadership practice wasn’t easy. Many stick to the comfort of a stable paycheck and a corporate name—but I felt called to something more.”

Why Modern Leadership Matters

“In a world of constant flux, leadership grounded in systemic and timeless principles offers the resilience and clarity needed to navigate both societal and business challenges.”

The Private Equity Sprint

“Private equity moves fast. Our work helps leaders in portfolio companies close leadership gaps quickly, aligning their capabilities with quarter-by-quarter business demands.”

Inspiration Starts Within

“To inspire others, you must first be inspired. Your energy, your spark, comes from operating with purpose—and trust me, people can tell if it’s there or not.”

The Wisdom of Acceptance

“Modern leadership is about accepting the full spectrum of emotions—joy, fear, grief, and love—and leading with a wisdom that reflects this understanding of human nature.”

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Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Wayland Lum

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