In a recent conversation for Impact Leaders, Magda Petryniak spoke with Dr. John Scherer, a globally recognized leadership and change expert, about his transformative approach to personal and organizational development. Dr. Scherer, who has worked with leaders in 55 countries, is known for his groundbreaking executive development intensives that help individuals unlock their full potential.
Recognized as one of America’s Top 100 Thought Leaders in Personal Leadership Development by Stephen Covey and Executive Excellence Magazine, he originally came to Poland in 2008 for a six-month project—only to stay for 16 years. In this interview, he shares insights on authentic leadership, navigating change, and why bringing one’s true self to the workplace is crucial for success.
Six months turned into 16 years in Poland! What kept you here for so long?
I initially came to Poland at the invitation of a woman in Kraków who ran a leadership training company. She heard my talk in California on “Work and the Human Spirit” and asked me to deliver the same session for her client, an oil company. The opportunity to visit a former communist country and talk to executives about something as deep as the human spirit intrigued me. I thought, “I’ll do it for free!” Once I arrived, I saw the impact of my work and realized that in this region, people often hide their true selves in professional settings. I wanted to challenge that.
With more than 50 years of experience in leadership and organizational transformation, how would you encapsulate your mission?
My mission is about unleashing human potential. I discovered this during my time in the U.S. Navy when I was placed in leadership positions without prior experience. I had to figure out how to lead 12 people effectively. That experience made me realize that leadership is about bringing out the best in others. This lesson has guided me ever since.
You frequently use the phrase “unleashing the human spirit.” Could you elaborate on what that means?
Absolutely. When I first arrived in Poland, my translator had to explain to the audience that my use of “human spirit” wasn’t about religion or ghosts. It’s about the inner force that drives us to get up every morning and engage with the world. Leadership is not just about titles; it’s about who you are as a person and how you bring your authentic self to work. Too often, people suppress their true selves in professional environments. My goal is to help them break through those barriers.
Polish culture, influenced by history, often encourages people to be reserved. Why is it so important to bring one’s full self to work?
It’s a shame to spend your whole life not being fully yourself. Many people in Poland were taught to be cautious outside their homes. But organizations need individuals to bring their whole selves to work. Authentic leadership fosters engagement, creativity, and innovation. My commitment is to help leaders create spaces where people can be who they truly are.
How do you balance leadership styles in hierarchical cultures that emphasize command and control?
It’s about adapting. When I first arrived in Poland, the country was figuring out how to turn newfound freedom into effectiveness. Leadership in such environments requires balancing structure with flexibility. Successful organizations engage employees at all levels, particularly middle management, to facilitate transformation.
In today’s turbulent times, what characteristics define organizations that thrive through change?
Organizations that succeed embrace conscious change. Kurt Lewin, a pioneer in change management, introduced the concept of “unfreezing” situations to create opportunities for transformation. Thriving organizations are those that engage their teams, encourage participation, and foster a culture of continuous learning.
How does your leadership development intensive program support transformation?
True transformation starts from within. Leaders cannot facilitate external change without experiencing internal change. My intensives provide a space for self-reflection, helping leaders understand their strengths, blind spots, and areas for growth. Hundreds of Polish organizations have incorporated this approach to create meaningful change.
You often talk about the importance of facing one’s “tigers.” Can you explain this concept?
Tigers represent the challenges we face in life and work. When you avoid them, they control you. But when you turn and face them, you create the possibility for a different outcome. My five-question framework helps leaders confront their tigers, understand what drives them, and take meaningful action.
How do you maintain your energy and motivation after so many years in the field?
Mark Twain said, “If you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life.” I’m passionate about helping people discover their full potential. Every conversation, every breakthrough, keeps me going. I don’t see this as work; it’s my calling.
You’ve spent a significant part of your life in Poland. Do you consider it your home?
Poland holds a special place in my heart. It’s been an incredible journey to witness the country’s transformation and be a part of it. However, I continue to travel between Poland and the U.S., embracing both cultures.
What’s next for you?
I’m currently exploring ways to take my work online, reaching a broader audience through digital platforms. The world needs authentic leadership now more than ever, and I’m excited to continue making an impact.
