The Problem with No Problems with Brooke Brzozowske Pt. 1

May 21, 2025

Leadership is full of phrases we repeat without really questioning, like “Don’t bring me problems, bring me solutions.” It sounds efficient, empowering even. But what if that mindset is actually shutting down the conversations that matter most?

In this week’s episode of the Leading With Heart podcast, I had the honor of sitting down with leadership communication coach Brooke Brzozowske, founder of Up Until Now Coaching and a seasoned leader with over two decades of experience in federal leadership and strategic communication. And let me tell you… this conversation cracked open a powerful new lens on how we lead.

When “Solutions Only” Misses the Mark

Brooke challenges a narrative that’s deeply embedded in many leadership cultures: that bringing problems without a solution is a sign of weakness or incompetence. But what happens when we shut the door on problems too early?

We risk missing the actual issue altogether. We limit collaboration. And, perhaps most dangerously, we create environments where our teams stop sharing the raw, messy truth because they don’t feel safe doing so.

As Brooke shared, “People have problems, but they are not problems themselves.” That distinction matters. And real leadership starts with creating a space where problems are not just tolerated, but welcomed.

From Performative to Present Leadership

One of the most resonant parts of our discussion was Brooke’s perspective on performing leadership versus living it. She spoke from years of experience advising senior military and federal leaders—and now coaching them—on how to shift from surface-level performance to grounded, present, and emotionally intelligent leadership.

When we lead with heart, we don’t pretend to know it all. We ask better questions. We stay curious. We create room for dialogue, not just directives. And in doing so, we unlock better outcomes, deeper trust, and healthier teams.

What You’ll Learn in Part 1

In this episode, we explore:

Why “bring me solutions” can be a barrier to real leadership
How to build trust by asking better questions
The dangers of only valuing polished answers
How to create a culture where people feel safe bringing the hard stuff

This is Part 1 of a two-part conversation, and you’re going to want to hear the rest. In Part 2, we go even deeper, talking about self-awareness, the fear of not having the answers, and what it really takes to lead through transition.

Stay tuned next week for the continuation of this rich and important dialogue with Brooke.

Until then, lead with heart, and leave room for the messy middle.

If you want to chat more about this topic, I would love to continue this conversation with you, over on Instagram, or in my Facebook community!

RESOURCES:

Connect with Brooke:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upuntilnow_leadership_coaching/

Website: www.tilnowcoaching.com

LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/brooke-brzozowske

Workbook: https://thislittleconsultingfirm.kit.com/products/overwhelm-to-action-workbook

The Coaching Habit - Michael Bungay Stanier: https://www.amazon.com/Coaching-Habit-Less-Change-Forever/dp/0978440749

The Advice Trap - Michael Bungay Stanier: https://www.amazon.com/Advice-Trap-Humble-Curious-Forever/dp/1989025757/

Join the Strong and Resilient Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/336774597179247