E22 P1: Leaders Need Mentors Too ! A Search for the Perfect Mentor - with Chantal Kozar
Leaders, You Don’t Have to Go It Alone — Here’s Why
When we think of mentorship, we often picture an experienced guide helping someone newer navigate challenges. But here’s the truth: leaders need mentors too. In fact, the more responsibility you carry — whether as a parent, a business owner, or a community leader — the more essential it is to have someone pouring into you.
In this episode, we sit down with Chantal Kozar, a natural leader and integral member of The Mothertree Collective in Kelowna, BC. While Chantal is no stranger to supporting others, she’s on a quest to find someone who can hold space for her — someone who will challenge her to grow, encourage her in the hard moments, and help her reconnect with her vision.
What We Learned About Mentorship for Leaders
Even leaders need support. Carrying responsibility for others can be isolating; mentorship offers accountability and encouragement.
Friendship isn’t always enough. While peer support is valuable, leaders also need relationships where they’re not “on call” to serve.
Mentorship fuels growth. The right mentor can help leaders stay grounded, avoid burnout, and stretch into new possibilities.
Mentorship is reciprocal. While mentees receive guidance, mentors often gain renewed perspective and purpose.
Why Mentorship Matters (Especially for Leaders)
Being “the strong one” can make it hard to admit you need help — but without mentorship, leaders risk exhaustion and stagnation. Having someone who’s been where you are can:
Provide honest feedback you might not get from peers or employees.
Help you see blind spots and navigate challenges with more clarity.
Remind you that you’re human — and that rest and growth can coexist.
5 Practical Ways to Start Seeking a Mentor
Be clear about what you’re hoping to gain (guidance, accountability, inspiration) and what you’re willing to commit.
Stay open to informal mentorship — not every mentor relationship has to be long-term or official.
Start by observing people you admire. Notice who models the qualities, mindset, or balance you’d like to develop — sometimes a great mentor is someone quietly leading by example.
Look for alignment, not perfection. The right mentor doesn’t have to have it all figured out; they just need to be a few steps ahead of where you want to go.
Engage with curiosity first. Begin with conversations, questions, or collaborations rather than immediately asking someone to “be your mentor.” This helps both sides gauge a natural fit.
Try This at Home: Reflect on Your Mentorship Needs
Identify the gap. Ask yourself: Where in my life do I feel most unsupported or stretched thin?
Define what you need. List the qualities or experience you’d value most in a mentor — wisdom, honesty, encouragement, or lived experience.
Scan both near and far. Look at your current circle with fresh eyes — is there someone you’ve overlooked who already embodies these traits? If not, consider widening your search to new networks, communities, or industries.
Take a first step. Reach out to one person — whether familiar or new — to explore the possibility of a mentor relationship. This could be as simple as asking for a coffee chat or short conversation to learn from their experience.
The takeaway: Leadership doesn’t mean going it alone. When we allow ourselves to be mentored, we create space for fresh perspective, deeper growth, and the kind of support that strengthens not just us — but everyone we lead.