Building a business takes grit, strategy, and unwavering focus—but no one does it alone. At some point, every founder, executive, or creative leader asks:
“Am I ready to build and lead a team… or should I stick to running solo—for now?”
That question kept me tossing and turning more nights than I care to admit. So when I sat down with Mpho Vumbukani, one of Lesotho’s top business leaders, I knew this conversation would hit home for me and many of you.
In Episode 3 of The Open Korner Podcast, we explore the real work behind building high-performing teams: navigating culture, clarity, vulnerability, and leadership rooted in purpose.
Key Lessons from our conversation
1. Lead from a Place of Clarity
True leadership doesn’t come from loud commands—it comes from clarity of purpose.
When Ntate Vumbukani leads with intentional calm, his team feels anchored—even when the path ahead is uncertain.
2. Values Guide Decision-Making
Raised by a teacher mother, values like empathy, fairness, and respect became his foundation. These aren’t just words—they’re active behaviours that cultivate trust and alignment within his team.
3. The DNA of High-Performance
According to Ntate Vumbukani, high-performing teams are built on three essentials:
- Results + Empathy – combining a drive for results with human-centered leadership
- Ownership mindset – taking initiative without waiting for permission
- Psychological safety – being able to voice ideas and challenges openly
4. Hire for Attitude, Not Just Credentials
“Skills can be taught—attitude can’t,” he says.
“Skills can be taught—attitude can’t
He seeks humble confidence, curiosity, and coachability over perfect resumes. The right attitude shapes team chemistry and long-term success.
5. Culture Eats Strategy for Breakfast
Yes, structure is important. But culture? That’s your secret sauce.
Ntate Vumbukani emphasises that the best teams are built in environments where people feel seen, heard, and respected every day.
6. Purposeful Performance Management
Underperformance isn’t just flagged—it’s addressed with empathy and clear expectations. Ntate Mpho leans into questions like:
- “What’s holding you back?” (Coaching)
- “Here’s what we need to change—and why.” (Correction)
This balance of care and accountability drives growth.
7. Vulnerability is Leadership Strength
One of the most memorable moments was when Ntate candidly shared a leadership failure—and the guilt that followed. He discovered that owning his vulnerability fostered trust and sparked resilience within his team.
Why These Lessons Matter for You
If you’re navigating the journey to build a team—whether you’re a startup founder, a young executive, or scaling your organization—here’s why this matters:
You’re reminded that vulnerability fuels trust, not hesitation
You walk away with strategic frameworks to implement today
You gain empathetic leadership practices grounded in real stories
You realign your vision around values-based leadership
Want to Go Deeper?
Read my LinkedIn Newsletter recap and join the discussion
Watch the full Episode 3 on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z0iGG1-IO7c
Subscribe on Spotify and Apple Podcasts for more leadership conversations
I want to hear from you:
What questions or struggles are you facing right now on your journey to build a high-performing team?
Which insight resonated most—clarity, hiring for attitude, or culture-first leadership?
How have you woven vulnerability into your leadership style?
Until then, stay trailblazing!