Why Becoming Better Involves Vertical Development with Ryan Gottfredson

Episode Description: 

We’ve been sold the lie that self-improvement is about doing more, achieving more, and fixing what’s broken. But what if real transformation isn’t about doing better—it’s about being better? 

In this episode of Mission Driven You, Will sits down with Ryan Gottfredson, author of the powerful new book Becoming Better, to explore what it really means to grow. Ryan introduces the concept of vertical development, a framework for shifting our internal operating system—how we see ourselves, the world, and what's possible. 

Together, they dive into: 

• Why most personal growth stays stuck at the surface 
• How trauma, fear, and control sabotage our leadership 
• Why upgrading your “Being Side” is the key to deep transformation 
• The four pillars of vertical development 
• What it means to become a creator of value rather than a protector of self 

Whether you’re a leader, a founder, or someone in the middle of a quiet personal revolution, this episode will change how you think about growth. 

  Key Topics: 

• What vertical development is—and how it differs from typical self-improvement 
• The role of trauma and early life wiring in shaping how we lead 
• Why behavior change doesn’t stick without identity change 
• The four “Being Needs” that support deep growth: safety, worth, connection, and progress 
• How neurodivergence and mental health challenges intersect with leadership 
• The dangers of reactive leadership and control 
• Why mindset is not just a mental game—it’s a full-system orientation 

Quotes to Remember: 

“People don’t resist change—they resist being changed.” 

“Your current internal operating system got you here. It won’t get you there.” 

“We must stop protecting ourselves and start creating value.” 

 About the Guest: Ryan Gottfredson 

• Author of Becoming Better and Success Mindsets 
• Leadership and vertical development expert 
• PhD in Organizational Behavior from Indiana University 
• Works with Fortune 500 leaders to rewire how they think, feel, and show up 
• Connect with Ryan at ryangottfredson.com 

🔗 Resources Mentioned: 

• Book: Becoming Better by Ryan Gottfredson 
• Book: Immunity to Change by Kegan & Lahey 
• Book: Success Mindsets by Ryan Gottfredson 
• Will’s Substack: drwillsamson.substack.com 

✨ Reflection Questions: 

• Where in your life are you trying to change your actions without changing your identity? 
• Are you leading from a place of control or creation? 
• What old wiring might be holding you back from who you’re becoming? 

🎧 Subscribe & Share: 

• Follow Mission Driven You on Apple Podcasts & Spotify 
• Leave a review to help others find the show 
• Share this episode with a friend or team member who’s ready to grow deeper, not just bigger 

💡 Final Takeaway: 

Real transformation happens when we stop asking, “What should I do?” and start asking, “Who do I need to become?” 

Mentioned in this episode:

Speaking Enagements- Dr. Will Samson

Email admin@willsamson.com to learn more information about booking Dr. Will Samson to speak at an engagement or visit https://willsamson.com