A different approach to Thought Leadership

For many years, the term Thought Leadership has conjured images of experts in suits standing on stages, dominating conversations, publishing bestselling books, or leading global corporations. The idea was clear: the more knowledge and visibility you had, the more of a “thought leader” you became.

- BY Shanthini Ahangama

But, today the world is ‘different’.

Today’s audiences are overwhelmed by noise and underwhelmed by authenticity. People are no longer impressed by titles alone — they’re looking for leaders who speak from the heart, who understand the ground realities, and who are brave enough to share their truth, even if it’s far from perfect but pertinent.

That’s why we at Coconut Miracle Academy believe it’s time to redefine what it means to be a thought leader. The new path is not about showcasing your success but sharing your story. It’s not about broadcasting louder; it’s about connecting deeper. This is a different approach to thought leadership — one rooted in authenticity, humility, and human impact.Let’s give this some though.

Why Traditional Thought Leadership Is No Longer Enough

In the traditional model, thought leadership was closely linked to authority. You had to be a recognized expert, backed by credentials, corporate positions, or media appearances. This kind of leadership worked in an age where trust was top-down: if you were featured in a business magazine or introduced as a “keynote speaker,” your views were automatically valued.

But in today’s world — with information democratized and trust earned more through relationships than titles — people seek leaders who are real, accessible, and relatable. We want to learn from those who have walked the path, made mistakes, grown from the experience, and are willing to share it.

We no longer look for perfection; we look for presence. Interesting shift you may think.

The Pillars of a Different Approach

Here’s how we define thought leadership at Coconut Miracle Academy, especially for the next generation of conscious entrepreneurs, women changemakers, and creative professionals.

1. Authenticity over Perfection