Season 4 Episode 11: The Leadership Glut: What Happens When No One Wants to Follow

We live in a culture obsessed with leadership. From classrooms to boardrooms, we’re told that the only way to matter is to lead. But what happens when everyone wants to be in charge—and no one wants to follow?

In this episode of Terrified Nation, Debilyn Molineaux explores the often-overlooked power of followership. Drawing from stories, research, and cultural reflections, she reveals how following is not passive or lesser—but an act of courage, dignity, and shared responsibility.

From the “first follower” who transforms a lone dancer into a movement, to the many faces of followership identified by leadership scholars, we uncover why teams, communities, and nations collapse when followership is undervalued. And we explore a different vision of leadership—one rooted in facilitation, trust, and co-creation—where leaders and followers work together to build something lasting.

This is an invitation to rethink the myths of the lone hero and embrace the balance of leading and following. Because real power doesn’t come from being the loudest voice—it comes from listening, supporting, and creating space for others.

If you’ve ever wondered why leadership alone isn’t enough, and what it really takes to build a movement worth following, this conversation is for you.

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Terrified Nation is part of the American Future project, fiscally sponsored by Mediators Foundation. You can support this podcast by making a tax-deductible donation here.