Source: Fortune
Summary
Brené Brown, researcher and author, spoke at the Fortune Most Powerful Women Summit in 2025, discussing the challenges of leading in uncertain times. She said people are not okay and that modern leadership requires self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and vulnerability. Brown criticized Jack Welch’s leadership style, which emphasized performance over human qualities. She argued that the “rank and yank” approach, popularized by Welch, is no longer effective. Brown’s work focuses on courage, empathy, and authentic leadership, and she has written multiple bestsellers on the topic.
Our Reading
The numbers tell one story.
Brené Brown says people are not okay.
Leadership now needs vulnerability, not just performance.
Jack Welch’s old model is out of step with modern needs.
Uncertainty is hard, but courage is still required.
Author: Evan Null
Fortune’s Coverage of Brené Brown
Fortune has covered Brené Brown’s insights on leadership and the challenges of modern work. The article highlights her critique of traditional leadership models and her emphasis on emotional intelligence. It also notes her influence as a researcher and author, with multiple bestsellers and a strong presence in media and academia.
Brené Brown’s Background
Brené Brown is a well-known researcher and author, with a focus on vulnerability, shame, and leadership. She gained popularity through her 2010 TEDx Talk, which remains one of the most-watched. She has written six No. 1 New York Times bestsellers and hosts two award-winning podcasts. Her work has also inspired Netflix documentaries.
Jack Welch’s Leadership Style
Jack Welch, former CEO of General Electric, promoted a leadership model that prioritized performance over human qualities. His “rank and yank” approach ranked employees and removed the bottom 10% annually. Brown argues this model is outdated and ineffective in today’s complex and uncertain environment.
Modern Leadership Challenges
Modern leadership requires a different set of skills, including self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and the ability to manage uncertainty. Brown says that younger generations value authenticity and vulnerability, which are often missing in traditional leadership models. She emphasizes the importance of staying aligned with one’s mission and values.
Fortune’s Role in Sharing Insights
Fortune has featured Brené Brown’s insights as part of its coverage of leadership and workplace trends. The article was originally published on Fortune.com in October 2025. It reflects the publication’s focus on influential voices in business and leadership, providing readers with expert perspectives on current challenges.
