On September 24, 2025, the School of Business hosted a powerful session with its nationally ranked Acrobatic and Tumbling Team, where Chuck Saia shared his journey, his book You Got This, Kid!, and the leadership lessons that have shaped his life.
Vulnerability and Storytelling
Chuck began by opening up with vulnerability—sharing his story of resilience, from repeating the 5th grade to his father’s memorable words on the Delaware River: “You got this.” He recounted how his mentors invested in him and his mission inspired him to write You Got This, Kid!—a book aimed at empowering young leaders and supporting those with Lupus.
Leadership is About Authenticity
Throughout the conversation, Chuck emphasized that leadership starts with self-reflection: “Leadership is about you, first step is looking at yourself. But it’s not ALL about you.” He underscored the importance of authenticity: “You cannot lead people if you are not being your true self.”
The team resonated deeply with this message. One member admitted, “I think I’m a little different, and my personality pushed people away. I changed myself to keep people. Now I feel so much better being myself.” Another added, “A lot of people conform to the norms. For me, branching out and finding what I liked—and not what people liked—has been freeing.”
Animals as Symbols of Strength
The discussion turned to animals as symbols of leadership and resilience. Chuck connected with the eagle, a reflection of his many mentees and the joy he finds in watching them soar: “There’s no better thing in my life than watching my mentees soar.”
He also drew on the armadillo, a reminder of the “thick skin” he developed after surviving 9/11. While it was a life-altering low, he used the experience to shift his perspective and lead with gratitude: “Life is a contact sport.”
The team members also embraced animal metaphors. One chose the armadillo: “We get knocked down a lot. I related to never giving up through hardship and injuries. I stuck through when it got hard—it’s my version of thick skin.” Another shared their eagle-like inspiration, speaking of “Eagle moms” in their lives—mentors ranging from parents to coaches to friends who pushed them to grow.
The Power of Mentorship and Belief
Mentorship emerged as a central theme. The athletes shared openly about the people who guided them through self-doubt, hardships, and personal growth. Chuck encouraged them with a lasting reminder: “If you are with people who aren’t valuing you, swim to a different pond.”
The session was more than a leadership talk—it was an exchange of stories, resilience, and authenticity. By opening up and inviting the team into his journey, Chuck sparked a conversation that bridged life lessons, athletic perseverance, and the importance of true self-leadership.
The Acrobatic and Tumbling Team left the session not only inspired but also empowered to carry forward the mindset of resilience, mentorship, and authenticity—proof that when vulnerability and leadership meet, extraordinary growth happens.
