When I was younger, I would watch TV and movies, and the way they portrayed the “El hefe” or the boss was far from the truth. They made me think that the work of a CEO was simple—sit behind a big desk, give orders, and sign checks. That was the picture I carried in my mind: power, authority, and control.
But stepping into the role has taught me something entirely different. The job isn’t about hiding behind a desk. It’s about showing up.
The Reality of Leadership
Staff don’t just want a boss—they want a leader who understands their challenges, notices their efforts, and equips them to succeed. They want to see you walk the floor, listen to their concerns, and make sure they have the tools to thrive.
Clients don’t just want your company’s product or service—they want you. They want your presence when questions arise, your reassurance when doubts surface, and your commitment when challenges come.
And then there are the stakeholders: the city, the state, and the broader community. They don’t just expect reports and numbers; they expect accountability, vision, and partnership.
What I Don’t Do as a CEO
Here’s the truth—I rarely sign checks. Accounts payable handles the bills, HR takes care of payroll, and most day-to-day tasks are delegated. That’s not where my value lies.
What they expect from me is vision. My role is to set the direction for where we’re headed, to ensure the ship is moving toward growth, sustainability, and meaningful impact.
The CEO as Coach and Captain
If I could describe the role in one sentence, I’d say: a CEO is more coach than commander, more captain than king. Sometimes you’re steering directly, and other times you’re guiding from the sidelines, but the goal is always the same—to bring out the best in your team while keeping everyone aligned on the bigger picture.
Leadership, I’ve learned, is less about giving orders and more about creating clarity, trust, and momentum.
My Mini MBA in Leadership
This journey has been its own kind of MBA, not taught in classrooms but learned in the daily grind of responsibility, people, and vision. And if there’s one big lesson, it’s this: being a CEO is not about having power—it’s about empowering others.
What I’ve Learned as a CEO
Presence matters more than power. Titles don’t inspire people—your presence does.
Vision beats paperwork. Your team can run the systems, but only you can chart the course.
Leadership is coaching. Success is about guidance, encouragement, and helping others win.
👉 Thus, leadership isn’t about the desk you sit behind—it’s about the people you stand beside.
Anthony Ndungu PhD RN
CEO
Home health and Hospice of Kansas
http://www.kansashomehealth.com
http://www.meadowlarkcarehomes.com
