Episode 95

Anxiety Isn’t The Enemy — it’s The Signal

This week, Josh and Bob take on one of leadership’s most under-discussed realities: anxiety.

Leading is hard enough. Leading while anxious? That’s another level. In this raw and personal episode, they unpack what anxiety looks like in real leaders — not as something to suppress or “manage,” but as something to understand, even befriend.

They share personal stories about how anxiety has shaped their decisions, moments they’ve fumbled through tough conversations (including a very human “first time firing someone” story), and how anxiety can actually serve as a signal — a reminder of care, growth, and awareness.

This isn’t a “how to stay calm” episode. It’s a conversation about why anxiety exists for a reason — and how great leaders use it to stay self-aware, humble, and human.

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About the Podcast

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Meta-Cast
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About your hosts

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Josh Anderson

Josh Anderson is a seasoned software professional with a passion for agile methodologies and continuous improvement. As one of the hosts of The Meta-Cast podcast, Josh brings his wealth of experience and expertise to the table. With a knack for practical advice and a penchant for engaging storytelling, Josh captivates listeners with his insights on agile methodology, team dynamics, and software development best practices. His infectious enthusiasm and dedication to helping others succeed make him a valuable resource for aspiring software professionals.
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Bob Galen

Bob Galen is a recognized industry leader and an authority on agile practices and software architecture. With years of hands-on experience, Bob brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to The Meta-Cast podcast. As a co-host, he delves into topics ranging from agile fluency to organizational transformations, providing listeners with invaluable insights and strategies. Bob's charismatic and humorous style, combined with his ability to simplify complex concepts, makes him a fan-favorite among software professionals seeking guidance on navigating the challenges of agile development. His passion for continuous learning and his dedication to helping teams succeed shine through in each episode of the podcast.