Meet The Unlit Leader: Guiding Leaders Without Titles to Confidence and Influence

With 26 years of leadership experience and a passion for authenticity, I help cultural minority leaders navigate complex environments, overcome imposter syndrome, and thrive without formal authority.

Brian D. Matthews, a.k.a. The Unlit Leader

Military strategist. Leadership author. Quiet influence builder.

I’ve spent 26+ years leading in high-stakes environments—first as an intelligence professional, then as a cyber operations expert. But what shaped me most? Leading without a title. Influencing systems that weren’t built for me.

Now, I help high performers—especially cultural minorities—overcome self-doubt, reclaim their leadership voice, and navigate power structures with clarity and confidence.

Why Work With Me?

  • Military Leadership Expertise – Led diverse teams under pressure for 26+ years.

  • Certified Coach & DiSC Facilitator – Helping informal leaders grow with proven tools.

  • Personal Experience with Imposter Syndrome – I’ve been in your shoes, and I know the pathway forward.

  • Proven Results – Leaders I've coached report greater clarity, confidence, and influence—even without formal authority.

Ready to get started?

Download a free chapter of Mastering the Inner Game and explore the same tools I’ve used to help leaders build clarity and confidence—even without the title.