Finding Inspiration in Music—and Applying It to Leadership

Most mornings, I wake up with a song in my head.

Sometimes it's Journey. Sometimes Lauren Daigle. Other days it's an 80s hair band or an old a cappella tune I can’t shake. I’ve always loved music—live, loud, stripped down, polished. Doesn’t matter. It sticks with me.

What I've come to realize is this: the music and leadership connection runs deeper than we think—the songs I carry with me can shift my perspective, reset my mood, and influence the tone I set as a leader.

Not every leadership lesson comes from a book or a training program. Some show up in the lyrics that hit at just the right time. The songs that help you push through, refocus, or reconnect with what matters.

This is a look at my Leadership Playlist—the songs that remind me how to show up, lead well, and keep going.

My Leadership Playlist

The Persistence Playlist: Staying the Course When It’s Easier to Quit

“Don’t Stop Believin’” – Journey

It’s more than a karaoke go-to. It’s a leadership mantra. When things feel uncertain, your belief matters. It sets the tone. Your optimism becomes the team’s anchor. When Journey sings about "streetlight people living just to find emotion,” I hear a reminder that people are wired for meaning—and leaders help them find it.

👉 This week, identify one area where your team needs renewed optimism, and intentionally communicate your confidence in the path forward.

“Whatever It Takes” – Imagine Dragons

This one hits with raw intensity. It’s not about perfection—it’s about willingness. Great leaders know it's not about the easy win, it’s about showing up again and again—even when it’s hard, messy, or unclear. It’s a reminder that doing whatever it takes isn’t about sacrificing your integrity—it’s about being resilient, adaptable, and brave enough to evolve.

“Even If” – MercyMe

This one hits me in the heart. Leadership doesn’t always mean having the answers—it often means holding steady in the unknown. This song reminds me that strength isn’t about pretending you’re unshaken. It’s about showing up, grounded in your values, even when the outcome isn’t certain. For faith-driven leaders, it’s a powerful reminder that trust and resilience often go hand in hand.

The Vision Tracks: Getting Focused, Staying Focused

“Eye of the Tiger” – Survivor

The ultimate anthem for mental discipline. It’s not just about motivation—it’s about preparation. Great leaders train for the moments that matter. They stay hungry, even when the stakes are high. They don’t wing it—they work for it.

“It’s a Great Day to Be Alive” – Travis Tritt

This one reminds me that leadership isn’t just about big moves and bold strategies—it’s about steady presence. Growth doesn’t always come in leaps. Sometimes it shows up in showing up. Leading well means finding joy in the grind, perspective in the pressure, and progress in the little things. When you stay centered in the everyday, your team feels it. And they grow from it, too.

“Humble and Kind” – Tim McGraw

This one grounds me. In a world that often celebrates hustle and ego, this song is a quiet call back to what really matters. True leadership isn't about the spotlight—it’s about integrity, empathy, and staying rooted in your values. It’s a reminder to lead with heart, treat people right, and never forget where you came from.

The Team Builders: Leadership is about others

“Lean on Me” – Bill Withers

Timeless. This track reminds me that leadership isn’t about being the hero. It’s about creating safety—emotional, psychological, human. When leaders admit they need help, they give others permission to do the same. And that creates a team that actually supports each other.

 At your next team meeting, share one area where you could use the team's support, modeling the vulnerability that builds psychological safety.

“High Hopes” – Panic! At the Disco

This one’s all about big dreams, bold belief, and chasing something greater—together. It reminds me that part of leading is helping your team see what’s possible, even when the odds look tough. It’s a celebration song—but one that acknowledges the hustle it takes to get there. Use this one when your team hits a big milestone—or when they just need to remember why the grind is worth it.

“Rise Up” – Andra Day

This one gives me chills every time. Because leadership at its best? It’s lifting others up. It’s helping someone else step into their strength—even when they don’t see it yet. Legacy isn’t in titles. It’s in the people you helped rise.

Find Your Soundtrack

Your leadership playlist is yours. It doesn’t have to sound like mine. What matters is that it speaks to you—and reminds you of who you are when things get tough, loud, or uncertain.

The next time you’re feeling stuck, press play. Let music bring you back to your center. There’s leadership wisdom baked into those beats.

Ready to Amplify Your Leadership Impact?

If you’re ready to go deeper in your leadership practice (and maybe build a playlist to match), let’s talk. Reach me anytime at pepper@mevelopment.co