Leadership isn’t about command—it’s about connection.
In this thought-provoking #ThroughlineThursdays segment, Travis Killion, Vice President at VitaminWorld, reflects on his leadership journey—from the camp counselor days of top-down control to building true, values-aligned partnerships with his teams and stakeholders.
As companies grow and dynamics shift, leaders must become multi-dimensional—understanding not just their own goals, but the motivations, challenges, and perspectives of those around them.
In this conversation, you’ll learn:
• Why intrinsic motivation is stronger than control
• How team and organizational alignment shape perception of success
• Why people don’t see the world as it is, but as they are
• The power of OKRs and clarity in leadership
• Why personal relationships are essential for long-term impact
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Timestamps:
00:10 – Learning to lead from summer camp to the boardroom
00:40 – From command-style to intrinsic motivation
01:15 – Building real partnerships with your team
01:40 – Why alignment beyond your team matters
02:20 – Communication, clarity, and overcoming misalignment
03:00 – The value of OKRs and personal relationships in leadership
03:30 – Leading with curiosity, perspective, and purpose
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Subscribe for more honest conversations on leadership, growth, and navigating modern work.
How has your leadership style evolved? Let us know in the comments below.
[00:08]
Question: “What tips do you have for job seekers to be patient instead of panicking? How do you manage that?”
Keisha Stephens:
Well, I’ll be honest—I’m not the most patient person either. Anyone who knows me can tell you that.
When I started job hunting, I had to become methodical. I had to accept that I wasn’t going to hear back from every company I applied to—and that I didn’t need to. I just needed one.
I remember getting those automated rejection emails. It was discouraging. But then a friend reminded me: You only need the right one. And just a few days later, I got an offer that actually felt aligned with what I wanted.
That moment taught me an important lesson:
You’re not looking for just any job. You’re looking for the right job. That means you have to be patient. You’re sifting through options, and some offers won’t be a fit—and that’s okay.
You don’t have to take the first opportunity that comes your way. And in many cases, you probably shouldn’t—unless it truly matches what you’re looking for.
It’s about being intentional—evaluating each role based on what you need, both for your career and your happiness.
People forget: We spend so much time at work. You’ve got to love what you do, who you do it with, and where you’re doing it. For me, all three of those factors need to line up for a job to feel truly right.
And sometimes, the timing just isn’t ideal. Maybe you’re managing homeschooling, caregiving, or other responsibilities. You might want to make a move, but it’s not the right moment. That’s valid too.
In the end, you have to balance what’s right for you—not just professionally, but personally. Take your time. Use your pros and cons list. And don’t be afraid to say “no” to a role that doesn’t fit.
