Ep 10: A Personal Code of Ethics: Four Pillars That Guide My Leadership
Bryan Runion ·
Discover how to write a personal code of ethics and lead with clarity in challenging environments through growth, courage, and self-awareness.
Years ago, I sat down to explore how to write a personal code of ethics, and that process became a foundational turning point in how I lead. At the time, it was just a reflective exercise—something I scribbled down at the end of a long contract. But I’ve returned to that code time and time again, especially during high-stakes moments or moments of doubt.
This episode explores what I wrote back in 2019, how it's held up, and why I still stand by those principles today. It’s not a checklist or a polished statement for others to read. It’s a compass I use to keep myself grounded, especially when the pressure rises and decisions aren’t black and white.
In fast-moving environments like theater and live events, we’re often pulled in a thousand directions. The work is urgent, the stakes are high, and leadership can feel reactive. But a personal code of ethics gives you a way to lead proactively—with values at the center, not just actions.
How to Write a Personal Code of Ethics: What You’ll Learn
Why I wrote my personal code—and why I still use itI break down the original moment of reflection, and how those intentions have evolved over time, but never lost relevance.
The four pillars that shape my leadership:Growth, Relationships, Adaptability, and Courage. Each one shows up in different ways, but together they shape how I show up in teams, conflicts, and creative spaces.
How leadership and self-awareness are deeply connectedI share how noticing your own patterns, strengths, and blind spots can make or break your ability to lead with integrity.
What adaptability really looks like in live entertainmentIt’s not just about solving problems fast—it’s about staying grounded while everything else shifts.
The role of courage in backstage leadershipCourage isn’t about bold speeches. It’s about showing up honestly in hard moments and advocating for what’s right even when it’s uncomfortable.
A simple process for how to write a personal code of ethicsYou don’t need to overthink it. I share a few steps to help you begin writing your own code, so you can lead from a place of clarity, not chaos.
If you liked this episode, you’ll also get value from:➜ What Stage Management Teaches Us from Backstage Banter➜ The Ultimate Stage Manager Guide
➜ Explore the concept of personal ethics further at Ethical Leadership.org
Key Takeaways
Knowing how to write a personal code of ethics gives you a tool for navigating uncertainty with confidence.
Values like growth, adaptability, and courage become anchors, not just ideas.
Leadership isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being intentional.
Self-awareness is the root of meaningful leadership.
Anyone can write a code. What matters is that it’s real and that you return to it when it counts.