Disrupt Yourself, Digital Purpose & Leading with Authenticity | DisrupTV Ep. 52
On DisrupTV Episode 52, hosts R “Ray” Wang and Vala Afshar are joined by three thinkers who bring unique perspectives on personal disruption, digital leadership, and change:
- Whitney Johnson — Author of Disrupt Yourself, expert on personal growth, innovation, and leadership change
- Dr. David Bray — Former CIO of the FCC; Harvard Visiting Executive in Residence; Eisenhower Fellow; leader focused on people-centered internet and public good in digital governance
- Brian Fanzo — Change Evangelist and social video trendsetter; early voice around community, authenticity, and digital storytelling in transformation
They discuss how individuals and organizations can disrupt themselves from the inside out, lead with purpose, lean into authenticity, and prepare for a world where digital tools and values intersect.
Key Takeaways
Self-Disruption is the Starting Point
Whitney Johnson pushes the idea that change begins at the individual level. Growth, innovation, and adaptability require people to challenge their own assumptions, comfort zones, and leadership styles.
Purpose & Public Good in Digital Leadership
Dr. David Bray’s background in public service frames leadership beyond profit or efficiency: emphasizing trust, the future of work, inclusivity, and purpose in digital transformation. Leadership must be leveraged for societal benefit as well as organizational success.
Authenticity & Community in Communication
Brian Fanzo emphasizes storytelling, human connection, and authenticity—especially in digital and social media contexts—as core to inspiring change. Trust is built when leaders show realness, vulnerability, and community engagement.
Change Requires Both Vision & Vulnerability
Underlying all speakers is the idea that disruption and leadership aren’t just about bold visions but also about admitting uncertainty, being willing to iterate, learning, and being open to change both inside and out.
Alignment of Personal & Organizational Values
For disruptive leadership to stick, your personal values, mission or purpose, and the organization’s values must align. When misaligned, organizational change loses power; when aligned, leadership becomes more resonant and sustainable.
Final Thoughts & Implications
- For Individuals: Consider where in your life or work you need to “disrupt yourself”: shift mindsets, question status quo, build skills to be more adaptive.
- For Leaders & Executives: Purpose matters. Leading with authenticity, showing vulnerability, and aligning mission with action strengthens trust, culture, and resilience.
- For Organizations: Disruption is not only about external competition or digital tools—it’s about internal culture, values, and how you enable people to be agents of change. Leaders who invest in authenticity and purpose will likely outperform those only focused on tech or growth.
- For Change & Transformation Initiatives: Blend vision with human connection. Use digital tools meaningfully, but ensure they support values, allow community, and preserve trust.
Related Episodes
If the themes in this episode resonate with you, here are a few others you might find valuable:
- DisrupTV Episode 53: Steven Kotler, Mayur Gupta & Ron Miller — exploring peak performance, growth marketing, and how disruption is narrated through media.
- DisrupTV Episode 54: Jason Lemkin, Amy Chang & Arik Hessedahl — scaling SaaS, professional networks, and navigating evolving work environments.
