From an outsider’s perspective, Tech Innovators seemed to be thriving. Sales were climbing steadily, the brand was gaining recognition, and John’s rapidly growing tech startup was making headlines for its innovative products. Success by any measure. However, John and his core team of superheroes—the people who’d been with him since the beginning—knew a different truth. Beneath this veneer of success, there were significant challenges that threatened the company’s future. Internally,

David Reynolds had always led with a clear vision and decisive action, steering his company from a scrappy startup to a dominant industry force. Over the years, he’d instilled a shared leadership model, empowering his team to take ownership and make decisions independently. This collaborative approach had fueled innovation and growth, allowing the company to thrive. But now, with the business in Mature Growth, everything seemed to be on autopilot.

Sarah hadn’t taken a real vacation in three years. Her health tech company was thriving on paper: orders pouring in, investors interested, headlines celebrating their innovative products. Everyone called her the “go-to person,” which sounded like a compliment until she realized what it actually meant. Nothing moved forward without her. She made every critical decision. Solved every urgent problem. Kept the team motivated through sheer force of will. Moreover, she