What if leadership development isn’t linear, but cyclical? In this episode of The Leadership Telos, we explore the Virtuous Cycle, a transformative model for becoming the kind of leader who grows on purpose rather than by accident.

Drawing from Aristotle, theology, and modern psychology, we examine how character is formed through a repeating cycle of seeing rightly, choosing wisely, acting consistently, and becoming continually. This episode integrates all 19 virtues from my research: Hope, Humanity, Prudence, Justice, Wisdom, Courage, Temperance, Humility, Grace, Gratitude, Forgiveness, Patience, Faithfulness, Truthfulness, Love, Phronesis, Lifelong Learning, Magnanimity, and Transcendence, to show how they work together as an ecosystem that strengthens leadership from the inside out.

You’ll learn:

• What the Virtuous Cycle is and why it’s essential for modern leaders
• How virtues shape how leaders see the world
• How virtues guide wise decision-making
• How virtues turn values into action
• Why virtues expand who leaders are becoming
• Practical steps to start practising the Virtuous Cycle in your leadership today

We’ll also connect the Virtuous Cycle to biblical principles of formation, showing how character compounds, how virtues reinforce each other, and how intentional growth transforms not just leaders, but the people and communities they influence.

If you’re ready to elevate your leadership, deepen your character, and embrace a development model rooted in faith, purpose, and psychological science, this episode will guide you into becoming a more whole and purposeful leader, one choice at a time.