If you're a business owner or leader who wants more clarity, stronger performance and a team that actually takes ownership — it’s time to step into the High-Impact Leader you’re meant to be. Click here.

Motivation is easy at the start of the year. Clarity is harder and far more important.

In this leadership podcast episode of Why Your Business Isn’t Growing and how to fix it, Brendan Rogers explains why clarity, not motivation, discipline, or hustle, is the real factor that determines how your year unfolds as a business owner or leader.

If you have ever started the year busy but unfocused, or motivated but overwhelmed, this episode will help you reset how you lead the business and how you lead your people so your effort actually turns into progress and real business growth.

In this episode, you will learn:

• Why motivation fades quickly without leadership clarity
• How lack of clarity quietly creates reactivity, overload, and drift
• The difference between being busy and being intentional as a leader
• How leadership clarity supports sustainable leadership development
• Practical questions to help you decide what truly deserves your attention now

This episode is ideal for business owners and leaders who want the year ahead to feel focused, deliberate, and lighter, not just busy.

Work With Brendan

If you want to stop overcomplicating leadership…
if you want to eliminate blind spots that quietly damage performance…
and if you want to build a business that scales through clarity, not confusion…

Book a Call to learn about becoming a High-Impact Leader

OR

Join the High-Impact Leader Club

Inside the Club, you’ll learn how to build leadership capability, lift team performance, and turn your business into a predictable, people-powered machine — without working 60-hour weeks.

Other Ways to Connect with Brendan

• Check out more podcast episodes
• Connect with Brendan on LinkedIn

About the Podcast

Why Your Business Isn’t Growing — and how to fix it! is a leadership podcast for business owners and leaders who want to scale their business, lift team performance, and sharpen leadership — without working 60-hour weeks.

If you're a business owner or leader who wants more clarity, stronger performance and a team that actually takes ownership — it’s time to step into the High-Impact Leader you’re meant to be. Click here.

As the year comes to a close, many business owners and leaders rush into planning for next year — without stopping to reflect on what actually worked. In this business growth podcast episode, Brendan Rogers shares a simple 30-minute leadership reset to help you pause, gain clarity, and prepare for a stronger year ahead by leading the business and leading the people more effectively.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

In this reflective, end-of-year episode of Why Your Business Isn’t Growing — and how to fix it!, Brendan walks you through a calm, practical reset designed for time-poor business owners and leaders who want clarity before setting goals for the year ahead.

You’ll discover:

• Why skipping reflection keeps leaders stuck in the same patterns year after year
• How a simple Stop / Start / Keep exercise can reset both business direction and leadership behaviour
• The difference between planning more and leading better
• How leading the business and leading the people must work together for real progress
• Why leadership capability — not another system — is the real growth lever

This episode is ideal listening after Christmas, when things finally slow down and space opens up to think clearly.

Key Takeaways

• Reflection must come before planning if you want meaningful change
• Leaders need to review both how the business ran and how they showed up for their people
• Small, intentional pauses can unlock clarity and momentum
• Leadership capability is what makes systems actually work
• A 30-minute reset now can prevent a year of frustration later

Work With Brendan

If you want to stop overcomplicating leadership structures…
if you want to eliminate blind spots that quietly damage performance…
and if you want to build a business that scales through clarity, not confusion…

• Book a Call to learn about becoming a High-Impact Leader

OR

• Join the High-Impact Leader Club

Inside the Club, you'll learn how to build leadership capability, lift team performance, and turn your business into a predictable, people-powered machine — without working 60-hour weeks.

Other Ways to Connect with Brendan

• Check out more episodes
• Connect on LinkedIn

About the Podcast

Why Your Business Isn’t Growing — and how to fix it! is a leadership podcast for business owners and leaders who want to scale their business, lift team performance, and sharpen leadership — without working 60-hour weeks.

If your business is growing but you’re working harder, feeling stretched, and losing control — this episode is for you. In this Why Your Business Isn’t Growing (and how to fix it!) business growth podcast, Brendan Rogers reveals how growth without balance quietly breaks many small businesses and SMEs — and the simple framework that helps you fix it for good. The SME Impact Triangle™ shows you how to balance three critical areas of growth:
Leader (You), Team (Them), and Business (It). When these grow together, you achieve long-term impact — sustainable business growth, stronger team performance, and a calmer, more confident leadership rhythm. In This Episode You’ll Learn

• Why unbalanced growth creates burnout, chaos, and “brittle success.”
• The 3 sides of the SME Impact Triangle™ and how to identify your weakest side.
• The mindset shifts from Reactive → Strategic, Directed → Empowered, and Volatile → Predictable.
• How to create balance across Leadership, Team, and Business.
  A simple next step: The Balance Audit to find where to focus first.
  
  

Who This Episode Is For

• SME owners and leaders who feel stuck doing everything themselves.
  
• Business owners ready to grow smarter, not just harder.
  
• Listeners of leadership podcasts and team performance podcasts who want practical systems for sustainable business growth.

️ Key Quote “Your business doesn’t grow because you push harder — it grows because you build balance.” Listen Now Tune in to Why Your Business Isn’t Growing (and how to fix it!) — the business growth podcast that helps SME owners lead with clarity, lift team performance, and grow their business without losing their life. Resources Take The Balance Audit
Visit Leader By Design
Follow Brendan Rogers on LinkedIn

Feeling unsure about your leadership doesn’t mean you’re failing — it means you’re paying attention.
In this episode of Why Your Business Isn’t Growing (and how to fix it!) — the business growth podcast for SME owners and leaders — Brendan Rogers flips the script on self-doubt and reveals why reflection is actually the clearest sign you’re a savvy business owner.

You’ll discover how awareness, curiosity, and a willingness to learn are the real drivers of business growth — not having all the answers.

In this episode you’ll learn:

• The #1 sign you’re a savvy business owner (and why you’re probably already doing it).
  
• Why reflection — not reaction — builds smarter decisions and stronger teams.
  
• How to turn self-doubt into your biggest growth advantage.
  
• The difference between “hands-on hustling” and high-impact leading.
  

Three simple questions to turn reflection into action.

This episode is for business owners and SME leaders who:

• Are growing a team but still second-guess their decisions.
  
• Want to build confidence, clarity, and consistency in leadership.
  

Listen to leadership podcasts that give real, practical takeaways for team performance and business growth.

Tune in to Why Your Business Isn’t Growing (and how to fix it!) — the team performance podcast helping SME owners grow themselves, grow their teams, and grow their business through simple, people-powered leadership.

Learn more about the High-Impact Leader Club here.

Connect with Brendan Rogers

Website: leaderbydesign.au
Podcast: Why Your Business Isn’t Growing

LinkedIn: Brendan Rogers

Most leaders think giving more feedback is the secret to better performance.
But the truth? The fastest way to build a genuine feedback culture is to ask for feedback yourself.

In this episode of Why Your Business Isn’t Growing (and how to fix it!) — the business growth podcast for SME owners and leaders — Brendan Rogers flips the traditional feedback mindset and shows why real leadership starts with curiosity, not control.

If you want to lift team performance, strengthen trust, and create a culture where people thrive, this short solo episode will help you lead the way.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

• Why most feedback cultures fail before they even start.
• The one leadership habit that builds trust faster than anything else.
• How asking for feedback accelerates business growth and team alignment.
• Simple, repeatable questions you can use in your next 1:1.
• The mindset shift that turns “giving feedback” into “growing together.”

This episode is perfect for:

• Small business owners and SME leaders ready to lead smarter, not harder.
  
• Listeners who love practical tools from a leadership podcast that focuses on people, performance, and growth.
  
• Anyone building a self-managing team or struggling to create a culture of honest communication.

If you're a SME Owner who aspires to become a High-Impact Leader, find out how at leaderbydesign.au/hil

Are you stuck in the “Networking Black Hole”?

You attend events, hand out cards, smile, and leave... but nothing happens. No new leads, no partnerships, no growth. If that’s your experience, this small business podcast episode is for you.

In this short solo episode of the Why Your Business Isn’t Growing business growth podcast, Brendan Rogers from Leader By Design flips the outdated belief that “the more business cards you hand out, the more successful your networking will be.”

You’ll learn:

• Why this old-school strategy no longer works
• What real connection looks like in modern networking
• How to shift from transactional to relationship-building
• The one small tweak that changes everything

If you’re a growth-minded small business owner or SME leader scaling a business, this is a must-listen for making your networking time actually pay off.

Want to grow your business?
Book a Fit Call to see if the High-Impact Leader Club is right for you.

Are your 1:1s driving team performance—or just chewing up time?

In the latest business growth podcast episode of Why Your Business Isn’t Growing, Brendan Rogers reveals the 5 most common mistakes business owners make that turn 1:1 meetings into status updates, instead of powerful performance meetings that actually drive business results.

You’ll discover:

• Why most 1:1s lead to vague updates, not ownership
• The simple shift to turn check-ins into performance tools
• How to use the CRAFT 1:1 Performance Pillars: Coach, Rhythm, Agenda, Follow-Through, Tracking
• A practical checklist to improve your meetings this week

If you’re a growth-minded business owner or SME leader, this is your roadmap to scaling a business through high-performing teams—without more micromanaging.

Want help applying the system inside your business?
Book a Fit Call to see if the High-Impact Leader Club is the right fit for you.

More rooms doesn’t equal more growth.

In this episode of the business growth podcast Why Your Business Isn’t Growing (and how to fix it!), Brendan Rogers shows why your networking may be slowing sales—and how to fix it in a week.

You’ll learn five signs (cards not relationships; dreading follow-up; pitching instead of connecting; entering events without a goal; a foggy one-liner) and simple fixes:

• a 24-hour follow-up script,
• the 90-second event goal,
• two coaching questions,
• and the one line that flips any room—“Who are you trying to help next?”

Built for time-poor owners, this small business podcast episode gives practical systems that lift referrals and delivery, accelerate leadership development, and make scaling a business feel sane. Expect team-friendly moves too—because networking is leadership in the wild—so you’ll build repeatable habits for leadership development and a stronger pipeline.

Created by Leader By Design, this leadership podcast and team performance podcast stays punchy, useful, and human. Ready to replace activity with outcomes? Listen now.

Want to learn which of the 5 stages you're in on your SME leadership journey? Get the Free SME Business Leadership Assessment here.

Long plans don’t grow a business—weekly execution does.

In this episode of the business growth podcast Why Your Business Isn’t Growing (and how to fix it!), Brendan Rogers hands you a one-page strategic plan for busy owners: five questions (12-month success, why it matters, one metric, 3 focus areas, 90-day outcomes), a 90-day rhythm (plan, review weekly, reset), and his three-word filter—Money • Momentum • Risk—to choose what moves the needle.

You’ll learn how a simple cadence turns this small business podcast insight into action, how clear ownership lifts delivery (real team performance podcast value), and how light-touch leadership development keeps scaling a business without 60-hour weeks.

Created by Leader By Design, this practical leadership podcast stays punchy: write the finish line, pick one metric, set owners, execute daily.

Listen now and put the one-page plan to work today—for momentum you can measure.

Get your FREE 1-Page Strategic Plan: leaderbydesign.au/strategicplan

Take the free High-Impact Leader Assessment at leaderbydesign.au/assessment

Still avoiding “micromanagement” and wondering why projects drift?

In this episode of the business growth podcast Why Your Business Isn’t Growing (and how to fix it!), Brendan Rogers shows why vagueness—not control—kills momentum. You’ll learn his 90-second Clarity Contract (Result, Evidence, When, Guardrails, Help) to set outcomes without hovering, plus scripts for handovers and check-ins that lift delivery speed and retention.

Using a real client story, Brendan proves how clear frames turn hands-off leadership into results—perfect for any team performance podcast listener. If you’re a small business podcast regular who wants practical leadership development, this leadership podcast episode gives you the exact words to lead the what and when while your team owns the how.

Brought to you by Leader By Design, it’s a simple shift that compounds into durable leadership development and measurable growth.

Ready to set clarity, end guesswork, and scale? Listen now and put the Clarity Contract to work today.

Get the 1-Page Clarity Contract: https://leaderbydesign.au/clarity-contract

Take the Free High-Impact Leader Assessment: https://leaderbydesign.au/assessment

Could a quiet money–trust wobble put you on the front page?

In this episode of Why Your Business Isn’t Growing (and how to fix it!), Brendan shares a 30-minute trust tune-up to protect reputation and speed business growth. You’ll get five simple moves:

1. Write clear “Money Rules”
2. Use two outside approvers
3. Keep a daylight conflict register
4. Run boring monthly controls
5. Create a safe Speak-Up path

These make growing your business steadier and safer. This is practical leadership development: small, repeatable habits that help you lead, not just fix. Use them to grow your business without drama, lift business growth with cleaner decisions, and model leadership development your team can copy.

If you take payments, sign leases, or approve spending, this is for you. Block 30 minutes, run the checklist, and watch growing your business feel lighter.

Ready to grow your business the right way? Listen now and put trust to work for business growth today.

Are performance reviews quietly stalling business growth?

In this straight-talking episode, Brendan Rogers shares three habits to retire—skipping the conversation, scoring people, and drowning everyone in forms—and the simple system to grow your business without HR drama. You’ll learn a light monthly check-in and deeper quarterly review, outcome-based goals with 360 input, plus a one-page guide and Start/Stop/Keep that accelerate leadership development and keep growing your business on track. Hear how consistent 1:1s lift trust and productivity, creating compounding business growth while you actually lead.

If leadership development has been in the too-hard basket, Brendan’s no-fluff approach shows exactly when to support, coach, and challenge so you truly grow your business.

Remember: Small improvements, every day — that’s how serious growth happens.

Listen now to swap clunky reviews for a people-powered engine for growing your business and durable business growth.

Access the 'One-Page Performance Review Form' here.

If you're a business owner or leader who wants more clarity, stronger performance and a team that actually takes ownership — it’s time to step into the High-Impact Leader you’re meant to be. Click here.

From the outside, a dual-CEO structure can sound collaborative, progressive, and even safer than relying on one person at the top.

But in reality?
For most organisations, two CEOs create more complexity, more politics, and less clarity — not better leadership.

In this episode, Brendan Rogers explores one of the most misunderstood leadership structures: the co-CEO model. Inspired by a recent leadership conversation, Brendan unpacks when (and why) this idea comes up, the theoretical benefits people often cite, and the very real risks it introduces — especially in mid-sized businesses, not-for-profits, and growing organisations.

Drawing on leadership research, real-world experience, and the High-Impact Leader Ecosystem, this episode challenges a simple question:

Why make leading the business harder than it needs to be?

If you’re a business owner, board member, or senior leader who has ever considered — or been approached about — a dual-CEO role, this episode will help you think more clearly before making a structural decision that’s hard to undo.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• Why dual-CEO structures often sound better in theory than they work in practice
• The most common reasons organisations consider co-CEOs — and what’s really underneath them
• How a dual-CEO model increases complexity internally and confusion externally
• The cultural risks most leaders underestimate: politics, factions, and blurred accountability
• Why clarity at the top is critical for team trust, performance, and execution
• When (very rarely) co-CEOs can work — and the conditions required
• Why leadership capability issues should be solved with coaching, development, or better appointments — not structural compromises
• How this decision impacts all three sides of the Impact Triangle: Leader, Team, and Business

Key Takeaways

• Leadership clarity is more valuable than shared authority.
• Most organisations don’t have the governance maturity required for co-CEOs.
• Dual leadership often amplifies politics instead of reducing pressure.
• Structure should support leadership capability — not compensate for its absence.
• If the issue is skills, behaviours, or experience, fix that directly.
• In almost all cases, one strong CEO outperforms two compromised ones.

Work With Brendan

If you want to stop overcomplicating leadership structures…
if you want to eliminate blind spots that quietly damage performance…
and if you want to build a business that scales through clarity, not confusion…

• Book a Call to learn about becoming a High-Impact Leader

OR

• Join the High-Impact Leader Club

Inside the Club, you'll learn how to build leadership capability, lift team performance, and turn your business into a predictable, people-powered machine — without working 60-hour weeks.

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What would your “Kiss Cam” moment reveal about your leadership?

In business, you’re always in the spotlight — even when you don’t know it. In this episode, Brendan unpacks Coldplay’s now-viral Kiss Cam moment, where six seconds on a stadium screen exposed two senior leaders, triggered resignations, and sent shockwaves through their company.

You’ll discover why growing your business isn’t just about strategy, but about leadership development that stands up under pressure. Using the PEOPLE Powered High-Impact Leader System, Brendan shares how to lead in a way you’d be proud to have broadcast to the world — and how small daily actions shape your culture more than any policy.

If you want business growth without risking your reputation, this episode will show you the habits, systems, and self-awareness that keep you ready for any spotlight.

Listen now to grow your business by growing the leader your team — and the public — can trust.

If you’re ready to grow yourself so your business can grow with you—Take the free High-Impact Leader Assessment. It’ll show you exactly what phase of leadership you’re in, and what to focus on next.

Still firefighting at 9 pm while growing your business feels impossible?

In this episode Brendan Rogers spotlights the five red-flag realities throttling business growth—decisions stalled on your desk, A-players bailing, daily firefights, a vision no one can repeat, and your mood hijacking the room.

You’ll unpack the three levers—clarity, capability, cadence—plus micro-habits like 60-second vision voice-memos, 15-minute teach-backs, and Friday “win-lose-learn” huddles that keep growing your business on track.

Hear how one boutique consultancy freed months of owner time and reignited sustainable business growth by applying these shifts. Ready to ditch the bottleneck and grow your business without 70-hour weeks?

Press play now and move from hands-on hustler to high-impact leader. Remember: Small improvements, every day — that’s how serious growth happens.

Grow yourself, grow your business.

 

FREE TRAINING

SME business owners and senior leaders—tired of 60-hour weeks while cash flow crawls?

Break free with my free 60-minute training, The 5-Habit Method to Boost Cash Flow without 60-Hour Weeks. Learn leadership habits that lift revenue, energise your team, and let you clock off by five. You’ll also see how the High-Impact Leader Membership delivers ongoing coaching, accountability, and plug-and-play systems to elevate your career and company.

Grab your seat at leaderbydesign.au/impact.

Think being “open to feedback” proves great leadership?

Brendan Rogers says it’s the hidden handbrake on business growth. In this punchy episode he dismantles the myth and unveils the Feedback Hunt: systemise, ask specific questions, close the loop, and seek the quiet voices. The result? Relentless business growth powered by teams that feel 4.6 × more empowered.

If growing your business feels stuck on idle, Brendan’s four-step rhythm shows exactly how to grow your business by hunting insights, not waiting for them. Expect ready-to-use scripts, calendar prompts, and his trademark “small improvements, every day” mantra guiding you toward unstoppable growing your business momentum.

Press play now and take the first step to grow your business today.

Think a new hire should smash KPIs in week one?

Think again.

In this raw, relatable episode Brendan Rogers unpacks how the first 90 days nursing Baby Sky through drug withdrawal unlocked a neuroscience-backed Regulate-Relate-Reason roadmap for leaders.

You’ll discover the daily micro-touchpoints, guided-autonomy phase, and weekly 1:1 rhythm that shrink ramp-up time, cut turnover, and ignite durable business growth.

If growing your business hinges on keeping high performers, Brendan’s three-stage 90-Day Workplace Attachment Cycle shows exactly when to intensify support, share stories, then stretch targets to grow your business—all while living his “small improvements, every day” mantra.

Expect simple scripts, performance-agreement templates, and Aussie straight talk that makes business growth feel doable.

Ready for a team that fuels growing your business while you sleep?

Hit play now and let Brendan show you how to grow your business in 90 days or less.

Are you the go-to expert in your business - but still feel stuck on the tools and buried in team questions? This episode uncovers why being too good at your job might quietly be slowing down your business growth. Brendan shares how technical mastery, while once your biggest asset, can become the bottleneck that limits team performance and stalls your ability to grow your business.

You’ll learn:

• Why relying on your own skills caps team ownership and decision-making

• Three daily habits that build leadership self-awareness and reclaim your calendar

• A 7-day challenge to shift from solving problems to coaching your team

If you want more freedom, more impact, and real traction in growing your business, this episode gives you the mindset and microhabits to get there. It’s time to stop being the hero - and start becoming the guide.

Listen now to accelerate your leadership and drive sustainable business growth.

Download the 'Calendar Control Checklist'.

Are your strengths secretly holding your business back?

In this episode of Why Your Business Isn’t Growing (and how to fix it!), Brendan reveals how being good at your job - the very thing that built your success - can quietly sabotage your leadership and stall business growth. If your team depends on your answers and you're constantly “fixing” instead of leading, this is the wake-up call you didn’t know you needed.

You'll discover:

• Why technical expertise becomes a hidden handbrake on growing your business

• The one daily self-awareness habit that can shift you from hero to high-impact leader

• A practical 7-day challenge that flips your leadership from reactive to empowering

Want to grow your business without burning out? It starts with letting go of the cape - and leading with a coaching lens. Remember: Small improvements, every day — that’s how serious growth happens.

Listen now to reclaim your time, your team’s potential, and your path to true business growth.

If you’re an SME owner stuck working in the business, this business growth podcast is your weekly reset.

Brendan Rogers shares practical tools to lift performance, sharpen leadership, and win back time—without 60-hour weeks. In every short episode you’ll get step-by-step frameworks from a team performance podcast perspective, plus real-world leadership development moves you can use the same day. Created by Leader By Design, this small business podcast blends Aussie warmth with clear actions.

Follow now, queue the episodes, and start compounding results with Brendan’s leadership podcast—Why Your Business Isn’t Growing (and how to fix it!).

Dive into the fascinating world of DISC profiles and explore how understanding working styles can lead to stronger, more effective collaborations. In this episode, Brendan Rogers and his co-host, Emi, reflect on their unique DISC profiles and how these insights helped them navigate their differences to achieve exceptional teamwork. From Emi's daring "I style" to Brendan's careful and conscientious "CS style," they discuss how opposites can complement each other, striking a balance between innovation and structure.

Discover practical applications of DISC profiling, including strategies for enhancing communication, managing feedback, and fostering a harmonious working relationship. Brendan shares highlights from recent leadership training sessions, including the power of strategic growth plans and 360-degree feedback to promote team alignment and individual development. Emi provides her perspective on how DISC insights enriched her learning experience, particularly as a young leader.

Whether you’re a seasoned leader, an aspiring one, or just curious about personality-driven collaboration, this episode offers valuable lessons on leveraging diversity in working styles for mutual success.

Timeline Summary

• (00:00) Introduction to DISC Profiles and Episode Overview
• (02:47) Brendan and Emi Reflect on Major Life Events
• (04:19) Strategic Growth Plans: Goal Setting for Success
• (06:04) Start-Stop-Keep Feedback: A Tool for Continuous Improvement
• (07:41) DISC Styles Explained: Emi’s "I Style" and Brendan’s "CS Style"
• (11:08) Leveraging DISC for Networking Success
• (17:25) Balancing Energetic and Calm Tendencies in Teamwork
• (20:11) Insights on Accommodating vs. Strong-Willed Approaches
• (22:34) The Art of Giving Tactful, Clear Feedback
• (29:14) Emi’s Reflections on Learning Through Interest (LTI)

Links & Resources:

• Join our waitlist for the Master One-on-One Meetings program: Leader by Design Waitlist

Closing Remarks
As we wrap up this insightful episode, we celebrate the power of understanding and embracing diverse working styles. Emi and Brendan’s dynamic partnership exemplifies how differences can become strengths when approached with awareness and respect. Their journey showcases the potential of tools like DISC profiles to foster communication, bridge gaps, and create meaningful connections in personal and professional settings.

Emi’s reflections underline the importance of trying new things, seeking feedback, and staying proactive—valuable lessons for leaders at any stage of their journey. We’ll miss Emi’s energy as co-host, but we look forward to seeing how she continues to lead and inspire.

If you’re ready to take your leadership to the next level, don’t miss the chance to join our Master One-on-One Meetings Program and transform your team’s performance. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast, leave a review, and follow us on your favorite platform. Until next time, remember: Leaders aren’t born; they’re designed. Be a leader by design today!

Discover the transformative power of feedback in personal and professional growth through this engaging podcast episode. Brendan Rogers and Emi (Amelia) Moran unpack why feedback is the single most effective tool for improvement. Drawing from Emi's recent presentation on Stephen Covey's Seven Habits of Highly Effective People, they delve into the importance of preparation, audience engagement, and the role of constructive criticism in achieving excellence.

Explore the concepts of "warm and cool feedback," where warm feedback celebrates strengths, and cool feedback highlights areas for growth, offering actionable insights for future success. Emi reflects on how specific and thoughtful feedback helped her refine her delivery, connect with her audience, and enhance their understanding through creative activities, such as a "Chinese whispers" exercise illustrating the habit "Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood."

The episode also addresses the challenges of delivering constructive feedback, especially within teams, emphasizing empathy and clarity to ensure the message fosters improvement rather than defensiveness. Brendan and Emi share strategies to create a feedback-rich culture in workplaces and personal interactions, highlighting how this practice enhances leadership, teamwork, and overall effectiveness.

Whether you're navigating leadership roles, coaching, or simply looking to elevate your communication skills, this episode provides practical takeaways to help you embrace feedback as a tool for continuous growth.

Timeline Summary:

• (00:00) Feedback
• (05:30) Effective Presentation Feedback and Improvement
• (11:16) Effective Feedback for Presentations
• (16:08) Mastering Constructive Feedback Conversations
• (24:08) Enhancing Employee Performance Through Meetings

Links & Resources:

• Join our waitlist for the Master One-on-One Meetings program: Leader by Design Waitlist

Closing Remarks:

As we conclude this enriching episode on the power of feedback, let’s take a moment to reflect on the transformative insights we’ve shared today. We’ve uncovered the pivotal role feedback plays in personal and professional development, emphasizing how warm and cool feedback can drive continuous improvement while fostering meaningful connections.

Our conversation explored Emi’s presentation on The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People, showcasing how preparation, creativity, and audience engagement can transform a simple talk into an impactful experience. Through her reflections, we learned how feedback—whether constructive or celebratory—can illuminate paths for growth and refine our approach in future endeavors.

As you move forward, consider adopting the principles shared in this episode. Seek feedback regularly, embrace it with an open mind, and use it as a tool to sharpen your skills and enhance your relationships. Whether you’re a leader, a teammate, or simply striving to be the best version of yourself, the power of feedback can propel you toward greater success and fulfillment in every area of your life.

If you’re a business owner or leader who wants to master one-on-one meetings to maximize employee performance, sign up for our Master One-on-One Meetings program. Don’t forget to follow or subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform, and leave us a five-star review to help other leaders find us. Until next time, remember: Leaders aren’t born, they’re designed. Be a leader by design today.

Join the Leader by Design podcast as Brendan and Emi, joined by special guest Tim Walsh, explore the final two habits from Stephen Covey's Seven Habits of Highly Effective People: Synergize and Sharpen the Saw. Discover how teamwork, collaboration, and personal renewal can transform both personal and professional life. Packed with analogies, practical tips, and reflections, this episode offers actionable insights on building stronger teams and maintaining balance across physical, spiritual, mental, and emotional dimensions. Tune in for inspiration, humor, and strategies to achieve sustainable success.

Timeline Summary:

• (00:00) Final Habits of Highly Effective People
• (13:24) Sharpening the Saw
• (23:35) Four Dimensions of Personal Growth
• (34:30) Impactful Takeaways From Podcasting Discussion

• Join our waitlist for the Master One-on-One Meetings program: Leader by Design Waitlist

Closing Remarks:

In this episode, we delved into the transformative power of synergy and the importance of sharpening the saw. By embracing collaboration and valuing diverse perspectives, we learned how teamwork can create outcomes far greater than the sum of individual efforts. Additionally, we reflected on the four dimensions of personal renewal—physical, spiritual, mental, and emotional—and how maintaining balance in these areas is key to sustained growth and effectiveness.

As we close, we invite you to think about how you can incorporate these habits into your daily routine. Whether it's through seeking feedback, building trust, or taking time for self-care, small, intentional steps can make a significant difference. Remember, being effective isn't just about achieving results—it's about fostering meaningful connections and staying energized for the journey ahead.

If you’re a business owner or leader who wants to master one-on-one meetings to maximize employee performance, sign up for our Master One-on-One Meetings program. Don’t forget to follow or subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform, and leave us a five-star review to help other leaders find us. Until next time, remember: Leaders aren’t born, they’re designed. Be a leader by design today.

If you're a business owner or leader who wants more clarity, stronger performance and a team that actually takes ownership — it’s time to step into the High-Impact Leader you’re meant to be. Click here.

Most business owners think they need more complex marketing strategies to grow — funnels, SEO, content machines, paid ads…
But the truth?
The biggest growth lever is often the simplest one you’re ignoring.

In today’s episode, Brendan shares a powerful real-world story of a business owner who stopped chasing complicated tactics and instead leaned into the strengths he already had:
his relationships, his network, and his natural ability to connect with people.

That single shift didn’t just grow his business —
it stabilised his income, transformed his confidence, and created life-changing opportunities for his family.

You’ll learn how aligned leadership, simplicity, self-awareness, and strategic decision-making (core parts of the PEOPLE Operating System and the High-Impact Leader Eco-System) can accelerate your business faster than any marketing hack.

If you’ve been overthinking growth or drowning in advice, this episode will help you hit reset — and focus on what actually works.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• Why business owners default to complexity — and how it blocks growth
• The simple leadership truth that transformed one business owner’s results
• How to leverage your strengths and relationships for predictable business growth
• Why funnels and SEO aren’t your first step (and what is)
• How the PEOPLE Operating System helps you use what you already have
• How the Impact Triangle helps you move from reactive → strategic
• Why stability is the first milestone of the High-Impact Growth Path
• How aligned action creates confidence, momentum, and business predictability

Key Takeaways

• Stop chasing complexity; start leveraging what already works for you.
• Your network is often the fastest path to predictable growth.
• Leadership starts with self-awareness — knowing your strengths and using them intentionally.
• Growth becomes easier when your actions align with who you naturally are.
• Stability is the first milestone to scaling sustainably.
• The strongest leaders don’t rely on hacks — they rely on clarity, consistency, and connection.

Work With Brendan

If you want to stop overcomplicating growth…
if you want to uncover the simple levers already around you…
and if you want to become the kind of leader who builds a business that grows because of your strengths — not despite them…

• Book a Call to learn about becoming a High-Impact Leader

OR

• Join the High-Impact Leader Club

Inside the Club, you'll learn how to build leadership capability, lift team performance, and turn your business into a predictable, people-powered machine — without working 60-hour weeks.

Other Ways to Connect with Brendan

Unlock the secrets to becoming a more effective leader with insights into essential leadership habits that can transform your management style. Discover how to prioritize what truly matters, as we explore Stephen Covey's principle of "Put First Things First" through engaging anecdotes and practical tips. Emi shares her inspiring journey on the Six Foot Track and reveals how embodying positivity and encouragement can elevate team dynamics and leadership skills. Alongside, I share a personal health revelation that underscores the vital role health awareness plays in leadership resilience. Learn the art of fostering win-win relationships that can reshape your organizational culture.

We delve into the dynamics of mutual benefit through real-life scenarios, highlighting how maintaining balance in interactions ensures success without compromise. Our personal experiences in nurturing a win-win philosophy in relationships offer valuable takeaways, emphasizing continuous, meaningful engagement over outdated performance reviews. These insights are tailored to help you align personal and organizational goals effectively, paving the way for sustainable success. Elevate your communication prowess by mastering effective listening that places understanding at the forefront.

We share stories of common listening challenges and the importance of being genuinely interested in others to build stronger connections. Our discussion extends to the nuances of conducting impactful one-on-one meetings, especially in hybrid work environments, offering strategies to boost employee performance and motivation. Get ready to transform your leadership approach by embracing curiosity, respect, and intentionality in all your interactions.

Timeline Summary:

• [00:00] – Powerful Habits for Effective Leadership
• [06:58] - Prioritizing Big Rocks for Success
• [18:36] - Creating Win-Win Relationships
• [26:28] - Effective Listening Skills for Leadership
• [37:09] - Mastering Effective Communication in Leadership
• [44:21] - Mastering One-on-One Meetings for Performance

Links & Resources:

• Join our waitlist for the Master One-on-One Meetings program: Leader by Design Waitlist

Closing Remarks:

As we wrap up this insightful episode on transformative leadership, let's reflect on the powerful habits and principles we've explored today. We've delved into the essential elements of effective leadership, from prioritizing what truly matters to fostering win-win relationships and mastering the art of effective communication.

Our journey began with the exploration of powerful habits for effective leadership, where we learned how positivity and encouragement can elevate team dynamics. Emi's inspiring Six Foot Track trek illustrated the impact of using one's strengths to inspire and lead effectively. We were reminded of the importance of health awareness in nurturing leadership resilience, a vital component for any leader.

As you go forward, remember to embrace these transformative habits and principles in your leadership journey. Whether you're a seasoned leader or just beginning to explore these concepts, integrating them into your daily life will undoubtedly elevate your leadership style and drive meaningful success.

If you’re a business owner or leader who wants to master one-on-one meetings to maximize employee performance, sign up for our Master One-on-One Meetings program. Don’t forget to follow or subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform, and leave us a five-star review to help other leaders find us. Until next time, remember: Leaders aren’t born, they’re designed. Be a leader by design today.

Join the Leader by Design podcast as we unpack two transformative habits from Stephen Covey's Seven Habits of Highly Effective People: being proactive and beginning with the end in mind. With co-host Emi, we explore actionable insights for success, blending real-life stories, humor, and strategies for proactive living, goal-setting, and personal growth.

Timeline Summary:

• [00:00] – Introduction to the episode and today’s topic.
• [00:15] – Seven Habits of Highly Effective People
• [13:50] – Setting Goals for Success
• [17:00] – Embarking on Path to Success

Links & Resources:

• Join our waitlist for the Master One-on-One Meetings program: Leader by Design Waitlist

Closing Remarks:

Throughout our conversation, we've explored how taking initiative and setting clear goals can propel you toward personal and professional growth. By envisioning your future and maintaining accountability, you can chart a successful path while balancing ambition with leisure. Our humorous anecdotes, like the go-karting adventure, illustrate the importance of balancing diligence with downtime, reinforcing the need to enjoy the journey as much as the destination.

As we wrap up, we encourage you to reflect on how you can apply these habits in your own life. Remember, designing your life with purpose is not just about setting goals, but also about taking proactive steps to achieve them.

If you’re a business owner or leader who wants to master one-on-one meetings to maximize employee performance, sign up for our Master One-on-One Meetings program. Don’t forget to follow or subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform, and leave us a five-star review to help other leaders find us. Until next time, remember: Leaders aren’t born, they’re designed. Be a leader by design today.

This week Brendan Rogers and Emilia Moran speak about the unexpected yet fascinating ways AI is reshaping business and education. From AI-driven customer service that blurs the line between human and machine to ChatGPT empowering students and educators alike, they navigate the cutting-edge tools that are changing the landscape. Emi share personal stories illustrating these impacts, including the surprising realism of AI voices and the creative possibilities AI offers for educational projects, making learning more interactive and engaging.

Lastly, they explore how AI is weaving its way into everyday life, influencing personal interactions and decision-making. They touch on the potential for AI to assist in communication, akin to having a persuasive sibling at your fingertips, and address the dual nature of technology—its benefits and potential risks. Through personal anecdotes, they highlight AI's role in fostering creativity and connection, ensuring it serves as a catalyst for growth rather than a hindrance. Join us as they navigate these themes and share insights into mastering technology to enhance human experience.

Timeline Summary:

• [00:00] – Introduction to the episode and today’s topic.
• [00:15] – Exploring AI in Business and Leadership
• [09:05] – AI's Impact on Business and Education
• [17:00] – ChatGPT in Everyday Life
• [25:52] – Improving Employee Performance With Meetings

Links & Resources:

• Join our waitlist for the Master One-on-One Meetings program: Leader by Design Waitlist

Closing Remarks:

Thank you for joining us on this enlightening journey through the transformative world of artificial intelligence. From personal GPTs like "Inspire with Emi" to the remarkable applications in customer service and education, AI is reshaping how we approach challenges and opportunities.

We explored the dual nature of AI as both a friend and a foe, recognizing its potential to foster creativity and connection while being mindful of its risks. Whether in business, education, or personal growth, AI is proving to be an invaluable ally when used thoughtfully and responsibly.

If you’re a business owner or leader who wants to master one-on-one meetings to maximize employee performance, sign up for our Master One-on-One Meetings program. Don’t forget to follow or subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform, and leave us a five-star review to help other leaders find us. Until next time, remember: Leaders aren’t born, they’re designed. Be a leader by design today.

Join us on the Leader by Design podcast as Emi Moran and I, Brendan Rogers, explore the world of networking and creating connections. From the perspective of a young leader, Emi shares her insights into how networking isn't just a business buzzword but an everyday activity. Listen in as we discuss how reframing networking as building connections can make it more approachable for younger generations.

Emi highlights how her informal friendship network at school has been instrumental in her growth and opportunities, including her internship with my business. We touch on the challenges that young people face with traditional networking events and emphasize the importance of stepping out of comfort zones to build real-world relationships.

In our conversation, we also introduce the concept of Connection Quest, a strategy aimed at fostering team and advisory bonding through connection-building exercises. By sharing personal stories, including one where the power of relationships and trust saved my job, we illustrate how connections can have a profound impact on both personal and professional life.

We explore the notion that networking is about adding value and creating opportunities for others, not just personal gain. As we wrap up, we express our gratitude for the insights shared and look forward to continuing our discussion on the importance of creating connections and networking in future episodes.

Timeline Summary:

• [00:00] – Introduction to the episode and today’s topic.
• [02:38] – The Power of Friendship Networks
• [06:38] – Building Success Through Connections
• [13:17] – The Power of Networking
• [17:00] – Young Leaders Creating Connection and Networking

Links & Resources:

• Join our waitlist for the Master One-on-One Meetings program: Leader by Design Waitlist

Closing Remarks: Thank you for tuning into this episode of the Leader by Design podcast, where we reimagined the concept of networking as a powerful tool for building genuine connections that enhance both personal and professional growth. Throughout our discussion, Emi and I explored the transformative potential of reframing networking from a transactional exchange to a more intuitive and value-driven practice.

If you’re a business owner or leader who wants to master one-on-one meetings to maximize employee performance, sign up for our Master One-on-One Meetings program. Don’t forget to follow or subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform, and leave us a five-star review to help other leaders find us. Until next time, remember: Leaders aren’t born, they’re designed. Be a leader by design today.

Emilia Moran, known affectionately as Emi, brings her youthful ambition and unique perspective to the Leader by Design podcast. As a student from Central Coast Sports College with dreams of becoming a school captain, Emi shares her journey of understanding leadership through the lens of Patrick Lencioni's Ideal Team Player model.

Her experiences in team sports and her role as a netball coach serve as a backdrop to our discussion, where we unravel the importance of traits like being smart, hungry, and humble. Emi's time working with my business has armed her with strategic insights that she applies to both her school projects and her parents' small business, making her an inspiring figure for young leaders aiming to make an impact.

Our conversation unveils the delicate balance of personality traits that contribute to effective leadership and team dynamics. Emi reflects on her growth and the potential to foster a stronger drive for success, which is crucial for her aspirations in leadership roles such as a school captain. We also explore the concept of a "lovable slacker" and the value of recognizing these traits in ourselves and others.

By applying these principles, Emi shares how she strategically leverages her team's strengths in netball to achieve victory on the court. This engaging episode is rich with insights into personal growth and team dynamics, offering valuable lessons for aspiring leaders and team players.

Timeline Summary:

• [00:00] – Introduction to the episode and today’s topic.
• [00:13] - The Ideal Team Player Model
• [01:65] - Exploring the Ideal Team Player Model
• [06:53] - Hospitality Work Ethic and Customer Service
• [13:18] - Analyzing the Ideal Team Player Model Highlights
• [16:00] - Analyzing Personalities for Better Relationships

Links & Resources:

• Join our waitlist for the Master One-on-One Meetings program: Leader by Design Waitlist

Closing Remarks: Thank you for joining us on this insightful journey with Emi Moran, as she explores leadership through Patrick Lencioni's Ideal Team Player model. I hope Emi's reflections on smart, hungry, and humble traits inspire you to enhance your leadership potential. Stay tuned for more enriching discussions in upcoming episodes. If you’re a business owner or leader who wants to master one-on-one meetings to maximize employee performance, sign up for our Master One-on-One Meetings program. Don’t forget to follow or subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform, and leave us a five-star review to help other leaders find us. Until next time, remember: Leaders aren’t born, they’re designed. Be a leader by design today.

Welcome to the Leader By Design podcast!

If you’re fortunate enough to earn a living doing something you love, then it’s not just luck—you’ve had the courage to follow your passion and take steps every day to turn it into a business. In this episode, I share my story, how it fueled me to follow my passion, turn it into a business, and work on it every day to impact more business owners and ‘up and coming’ leaders.

Stay tuned to hear about the trials, tribulations, and triumphs that shaped my journey and how you can apply these lessons to your own leadership path.

Timeline Summary

[00:00:00] – Introduction: Why following your passion is key and what this episode will cover.

[00:00:30] – G’day!: Introduction of Brendan Rogers and the core principles of confident leadership.

[00:00:53] – Early Challenges: My first experience leading a corporate team in 2000 and the struggles I faced.

[00:03:00] – The Turning Point: Deciding between giving up and battling on to learn and grow as a leader.

[00:04:15] – Learning and Action: How reading and applying new knowledge transformed my leadership approach.

[00:06:30] – Building Relationships: Improved team dynamics and my promotion to department leader.

[00:08:15] – Career Growth: Gaining international business experience and leading significant projects.

[00:09:30] – Reflection: The importance of not giving up and supporting new leaders to prevent them from feeling lost.

Links & Resources

• Learn more about mastering 1:1 meetings: leaderbydesign.au/waitlist
• INSEAD Business School: insead.edu

Closing Remarks

Thanks for listening! If you enjoyed the show, please give us a 5-star review on your favorite podcast platform. It really helps get the show out to more people, improving the quality of leadership everywhere.

Until next time, remember: Leaders aren’t born—they’re designed by developing character, building competence, and creating connection. Become a Leader By Design today.

 

Welcome back to another episode of the Leader by Design podcast! I’m your host, Brendan Rogers. Today, I’m thrilled to share the most crucial piece of advice from Brad Sugars, the world’s number one business coach and founder of ActionCoach. In this episode, we delve into the essence of continuous learning, its profound impact on personal and professional growth, and how it has fueled Brad’s ambition to grow ActionCoach into a $1 billion business present in 120 countries by 2030. Join me as I unpack Brad’s insights and provide practical tips on how you can integrate continuous learning into your daily routine to drive your business and leadership skills to new heights.

Timeline Summary:

• [00:00] – Introduction to the episode and today’s topic.
• [00:17] – Overview of the podcast’s focus on developing character, building confidence, and creating connection.
• [00:38] – Introduction of Brad Sugars, founder, and CEO of ActionCoach, and his ambitious goals.
• [02:15] – Brad Sugars’ core advice: The importance of continuous learning.
• [04:50] – The significance of applying knowledge and taking action.
• [07:30] – Practical tips for integrating continuous learning into your daily life.
• [10:20] – Staying curious and asking better questions.
• [12:00] – How to find time for learning in a busy schedule.
• [14:00] – Staying motivated and celebrating achievements.

 

Links & Resources:

• Join our waitlist for the Master One-on-One Meetings program: Leader by Design Waitlist

 

Closing Remarks: Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Leader by Design. Remember, the journey to success is paved with continuous learning and action. Take Brad Sugars’ advice to heart—learn something new every day and put it into practice. If you’re a business owner or leader who wants to master one-on-one meetings to maximize employee performance, sign up for our Master One-on-One Meetings program. Don’t forget to follow or subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform, and leave us a five-star review to help other leaders find us. Until next time, remember: Leaders aren’t born, they’re designed. Be a leader by design today.

Welcome to another episode of Leader by Design, where I, Brendan Rogers, delve into the art of coaching — not as a specialized skill but as an everyday tool that we all wield, often without knowing. Today, we explore how simple acts, like helping a child wear shoes, embody the core principles of effective coaching. Whether you're a business leader, a parent, or simply someone interested in personal development, this episode will shift your perspective on coaching from a professional necessity to a natural part of human interaction.

Episode Timeline

• [00:00] - Introduction to the mystique of coaching as an everyday skill.
• [00:16] - How developing character, competence, and connection can make you a confident leader.
• [00:40] - Personal update and the significance of mastering one-on-one meetings.
• [01:40] - The stairs analogy for coaching: simple steps to significant growth.
• [05:22] - A heartwarming story of helping a foster child learn to wear shoes, illustrating everyday coaching.
• [10:55] - Practical tips on how to approach coaching in your daily life and business.
• [15:47] - Upcoming training on one-on-one meetings to enhance employee performance.

Links & Resources

• Join our waitlist for exclusive tips on one-on-one meetings: Leader by Design Waitlist

Closing Remarks

If today's insights on coaching resonated with you, don't forget to follow or subscribe to Leader by Design on your favorite podcast platform. Your ratings and reviews not only help us reach more listeners like you but also enable us to continually bring valuable content your way. Keep coaching, keep growing, and remember, leaders aren't born—they're designed.

In this episode of “Leader by Design,” join me, Brendan Rogers, as I unpack a strategic review of my past 90 days and outline my future plans to enhance my impact through digital programs. We’ll dive into the key achievements and learnings from the previous quarter and explore the upcoming changes I’m committed to making. As a leader and business owner, balancing the demands of foster care with professional responsibilities, I’ll share the real challenges and adjustments needed to keep pushing forward. If you’re looking to scale your leadership impact or need insights into managing both personal and professional life, this episode is a must-listen!

Episode Timeline:

• Opening remarks and what to expect from today’s strategic debrief.
• Brendan Rogers introduces his leadership philosophy and the focus on developing character, competence, and connection.
• A personal update on the new foster care placement and its impact on the podcast schedule.
• A review of the past 90 days’ strategic achievements and the setbacks faced.
• Insights into the digital products pillar, including challenges with launching the beta program for “Master One-on-One Meetings.”
• Achievements in marketing, including the launch of the Leader by Design website and social media strategies.
• Discussion on the podcast’s progress and lessons learned from aiming for ambitious download targets.
• Reflections on speaking engagements and adapting to new models of podcast participation.

Links & Resources:

• Leader by Design Website: Visit here
• Sign up for “Master One-on-One Meetings” Beta Program: Join the Waitlist
• Connect with us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook for regular updates and insights.

Thank you for tuning into “Leader by Design.” If you found value in today’s episode, please follow or subscribe on your favourite podcast platform. Reviews help us reach more leaders like you, so consider leaving us a five-star review. Stay tuned for our next episode, where I’ll link coaching techniques to real-life fostering experiences. Until then, remember, great leaders are made, not born—be a leader by design.

Welcome back to the Leader By Design podcast. In today’s episode, I, Brendan Rogers, delve into a topic that’s crucial for any leader striving for excellence: the top 5 mistakes leaders make during one on one meetings. Through years of experience and countless coaching sessions, I’ve identified these common pitfalls that can significantly impact the effectiveness of these critical interactions. Whether you’re new to leadership or looking to refine your skills, this episode will equip you with insights to transform your one-on-one meetings into powerful tools for development and connection. Join me as we explore how to avoid these mistakes and foster a culture of confident leadership.

Episode Highlights:

• The Importance of One-on-One Meetings: Unpacking why mastering 1:1 meetings is a non-negotiable skill for leaders.
• Mistake #1: Canceling or Rescheduling: Learn why consistency in scheduling sends a powerful message of commitment and respect to your team members.
• Mistake #2: ‘Conversation’ Creep: I share strategies to keep meetings focused and productive, preventing the shift into unrelated topics.
• Mistake #3: Too Much Talking: Discover the ideal talk-listen ratio that facilitates effective dialogue and employee engagement.
• Mistake #4: Not Following Up: I emphasize the importance of accountability and the impact of follow-through on performance outcomes.
• Mistake #5: Avoiding Difficult Conversations: Insights on how confronting challenges head-on can lead to growth and improvement for both leaders and their teams.

Links & Resources:

• Join our waitlist for the ‘Master One-on-One Meetings’ program to learn our complete system on maximizing employee performance: leaderbydesign.au/waitlist

Thank you for tuning in to another episode of Leader By Design. If you’ve found value in today’s content, please rate, follow, share, and leave us a review. Your support helps us reach more leaders like you, committed to growing their business and creating an impact. Stay tuned for our next episode, where I’ll share insights from my personal journey with my 90-day goals. Let’s continue to grow together and remember, leadership is not about being born at the top; it’s about designing your path there. Be a Leader By Design today.

If you're a business owner or leader who wants more clarity, stronger performance and a team that actually takes ownership — it’s time to step into the High-Impact Leader you’re meant to be. Click here.

Most leaders aren’t held back by what they see — they’re held back by what they don’t.
And the biggest leadership blindspot inside growing teams is also the one almost no one talks about:

Avoiding tough conversations.

Avoidance doesn’t protect relationships.
It doesn’t preserve culture.
And it rarely keeps the peace.

It quietly kills performance.
It erodes standards.
It creates resentment.
And it chips away at your confidence as a leader.

In this episode, Brendan Rogers unpacks why avoiding tough conversations is the hidden blindspot sabotaging your team — and how to close it for good.

You’ll also hear a powerful example of a director who avoided conflict until it grew, overcorrected when she finally raised the issue, and what changed when she built real leadership capability.

Most business systems teach you how to lead the business.
This episode shows you how to lead the people.

What You’ll Learn

• Why avoiding tough conversations is the leadership blindspot you rarely see coming
• How avoidance quietly destroys performance and culture
• The psychological reasons leaders hesitate
• How to reframe tough conversations as clarity and care, not conflict
• A simple path to start tough conversations confidently
• How the High-Impact Leader Ecosystem helps you close this blindspot
• Why the PEOPLE Operating System builds the capability most systems miss

Key Quote

“Avoiding tough conversations doesn’t keep the peace — it just postpones the conflict.”

Next Step

If you’re ready to eliminate the leadership blindspots that quietly sabotage your team’s performance,
book a call to learn how the High-Impact Leader Club helps you build the capabilities that most systems never teach.

• Book a Call to learn about becoming a High-Impact Leader
• Join the High-Impact Leader Club
• Check out more episodes
• Connect on LinkedIn

Welcome back to the Leader By Design podcast. I’m your host, Brendan Rogers, and today we’re diving deep into how to elevate your leadership game through effective one-on-one meetings. If you’ve ever wondered how to turn these interactions into a powerhouse of performance and connection, this episode is your playbook. We’re building on the critical importance of one-on-one meetings discussed in episode 3, introducing a simple yet transformative three-question framework designed to create genuine conversations and clear performance outcomes. So, if you’re ready to lead with confidence, clarity, and creativity, you’re in the right place.

 

Key Highlights

• Introduction to the importance of one-on-one meetings and the episode’s focus on a three-question framework.
• The power of structure in fostering creativity and effectiveness in leadership, debunking the myth that structure hinders creativity.
• Insights into the common reasons why one-on-one meetings get rescheduled or canceled, emphasizing the lack of clear intent and structure.
• Introduction to the three-question framework designed for performance-focused and effective one-on-one meetings.
• Deep dive into the first question of the framework, aimed at acknowledging employee achievements and setting a positive tone for the meeting.
• Discussion on the second question, focusing on future achievements and aligning employee efforts with broader team and business goals.
• Explanation of the third question, which opens up the conversation about the support and resources employees need to succeed.
• Real-life success stories and the impact of implementing the three-question framework in one-on-one meetings.

 

Links & Resources

• Previous Episode: “One-on-One meetings are a game-changer“
• ‘Master One-on-One Meetings’ Program Waitlist: leaderbydesign.au/waitlist

 

Closing Thoughts

As we wrap up this episode, remember, the essence of leadership lies in guiding your team to success through clear, structured, and supportive interactions. The three-question framework is your tool to unlock this potential in every one-on-one meeting. If you’ve found value in today’s episode, I encourage you to rate, follow, share, and review the Leader By Design podcast. Your support helps other business owners discover the transformative power of effective leadership. Until next time, remember, great leaders aren’t born; they’re designed. Be a Leader By Design today.

Welcome to this episode of the Leader By Design podcast, where we dive into the power of one-on-one meetings. I’m Brendan Rogers, your guide on this journey to confident leadership through developing character, building competence, and creating connection. Today, we uncover why mastering one-on-one meetings is the ultimate ‘game-changer’ for business owners and leaders alike. If you’re aiming to elevate your leadership game and drive unparalleled business results, this episode is your not-to-be-missed playbook!

Key Highlights:

– Introduction to the Power of One-on-One Meetings: Discover the myriad benefits of mastering one-on-one meetings, from increasing employee engagement and productivity to fostering stronger relationships and early issue identification.

– A Personal Leadership Journey: Hear about my pivotal experience with one-on-one meetings during a significant corporate project, emphasizing their role in personal growth, confidence building, and project success.

– The Underrated Leadership Tool: Despite extensive leadership training, the critical importance of one-on-one meetings was often overlooked. This segment explores the missed opportunities in traditional leadership development programs.

– Real-World Learning vs. Theory: Insights into how practical experiences and sports leadership influenced my understanding and execution of effective one-on-one meetings.

– The Impact of Regular One-on-Ones: Delving into research and case studies from Gallup, Microsoft, Adobe, and GE that highlight the significant positive outcomes of regular one-on-one engagement.

– Maximizing Employee Performance: A conclusive argument for the indispensability of one-on-one meetings in any working environment, underscored by personal anecdotes and industry data.

– Top Do’s and Don’ts for One-on-One Meetings: Practical advice to enhance the quality and effectiveness of your one-on-one meetings, ensuring they are a cornerstone of your leadership strategy.

Links & Resources:

Leader By Design Waitlist for the ‘Master One-on-One Meetings’ Program

Gallup Study on Employee Engagement

Harvard Business Review on Microsoft Workplace Analytics Team Study

Closing Thoughts:

Today’s deep dive into the world of one-on-one meetings illuminates their critical role in achieving leadership excellence and business success. As we’ve explored, these meetings are not just conversations but strategic tools that can dramatically enhance employee engagement, productivity, and overall organizational health.

If you’re ready to transform your leadership approach and propel your team to new heights, the journey begins with mastering the art of one-on-one meetings. Remember, leadership isn’t a title; it’s a behavior. Leaders aren’t born; they’re designed.

I encourage you to start scheduling regular one-on-one meetings with your team members if you haven’t already. And if you are, think about how you can make these interactions even more impactful.

Tune in for our next episode, where we’ll explore a simple yet powerful structure for your one-on-one meetings that promises to foster genuine conversations and clear performance outcomes.

Until then, remember to rate, follow, share, and review the Leader By Design podcast if you’ve found value in our discussions. Your support helps us grow and reach more leaders like you. Always remember, become a Leader By Design today by developing character, building competence, and creating connection.

Thank you for joining us, and see you in the next episode!

In this episode of the Leader By Design podcast, I dive into the ‘5 Question Framework’ that simplifies strategic planning for business owners. If you’ve ever found yourself overwhelmed by the thought of creating a strategic plan, this episode is for you. I reveal how strategic planning doesn’t have to be a daunting task and can actually be condensed into a single page that drives your business forward. By focusing on developing character, building competence, and creating connection, this episode not only aims to enhance your leadership skills but also provides a clear, actionable path for your business’s future. Don’t miss out on discovering how to streamline your strategic planning process to achieve the success you’ve always envisioned for your business.

Key Highlights:

• Introduction to the ‘5 Question Framework’ for strategic planning.
• Exploring the first question: What does success look like by the end of December 2024?
• The importance of identifying ‘Why’ achieving success is crucial.
• Measuring success: How to set clear, attainable metrics.
• Identifying the 3-5 key areas of focus to achieve your vision of success.
• The 90-day action plan: What steps to take next.
• Bringing it all together: How to document your strategic plan on a single page.
• The significance of commitment and discipline in executing your plan.

 

Links & Resources: Download the 1-page strategic plan template with a real-life example from my business, Leader By Design: https://leaderbydesign.au/strategicplan

Join the waitlist for the ‘Master One-on-One Meetings’ program: https://leaderbydesign.au/waitlist

 

Closing Remarks: Thank you for joining me on today’s episode where we explored the ‘5 Question Framework’ to revolutionize your approach to strategic planning. Remember, leaders are designed, not born, and every step you take in leadership development is a step towards achieving the success you deserve.

If you found value in today’s episode, please rate, follow, share, and leave a review. Your support helps spread these valuable insights to more aspiring leaders. Let’s continue to grow together as Leaders By Design.

Welcome to the Launch of Leader By Design Podcast with Brendan Rogers!

Hey there, you’ve just hit play on something special – the very first episode of the Leader By Design podcast. I’m Brendan Rogers, your host and guide on this journey towards mastering leadership development and crafting confident leadership by design, not by chance.

In This Episode:

• Why Leader By Design? Curious about what it takes to be a confident leader who not only achieves fantastic results but also lives their dream lifestyle? It boils down to focusing on developing your character, building your competence, and creating connections. I’m here to spill the beans on how to unlock that innate leadership potential within you, with simple, practical steps to put your leadership development journey on steroids!
• Brendan’s Backstory: From leading teams at the tender age of 10 to captaining a state league football team at 21, and navigating the choppy waters from sports to business leadership, I’ve had my fair share of ups and downs. Dive into my personal leadership development journey and discover how a fork in the road at 24 propelled me to where I am today.
• Podcast Perks: Looking for actionable insights? You’re in the right place! Leader By Design is your go-to FREE resource for learning how to lead with confidence. Each episode challenges you to take action because that’s the real secret to becoming a more confident leader.
• Guest Insights: On occasion we will hear heartwarming success stories from my coaching clients. This podcast is a treasure trove of experiences and lessons in leadership development you won’t find anywhere else.

 

Actions to Elevate Your Leadership Game:

1. Follow Us: Make sure to follow us on your preferred podcast platform.
2. Spread the Word: Share the show with another aspiring business owner (leader). Your support helps us amplify our impact. Thank you!
3. Stay Tuned: Don’t skip Episode 2 for even more insights into leadership development.

 

Why Tune In?

If you’re a small business owner or team leader thirsty for growth, Leader By Design is crafted for you. With a blend of personal stories, expert insights, and actionable advice, we’re here to fuel your leadership development journey. Let’s transform challenges into opportunities and aspirations into achievements.

Ready to lead with confidence and achieve the results you’ve always wanted? Let’s make it happen, together.

See You in the Next Episode!

Remember, leading by design means taking the reins of your leadership development journey with intention and purpose. And I’m here to guide you every step of the way. Here’s to your leadership success!

If you're a business owner or leader who wants more clarity, stronger performance and a team that actually takes ownership — it’s time to step into the High-Impact Leader you’re meant to be. Click here.

Most business owners and leaders believe their business system is the problem — EOS, OKRs, Lean, SOPs, L10s, dashboards, workflows.
But the truth is far more uncomfortable:

Systems don’t fail because they’re flawed.
Systems fail because leadership capability is missing.

In this episode, Brendan Rogers breaks down why even the best frameworks fall apart when the human side of leadership isn’t developed. You’ll learn the three leadership capability gaps that silently destroy systems — and what to do to strengthen the leaders inside your business.

If you’ve ever thought “But we’ve put systems in place… why are we still stuck?” — this episode has the answer.

What You’ll Learn

• Why systems aren’t the real barrier to growth
• The difference between leading the business and leading the people
• The 3 leadership capability gaps that cause systems to collapse
• How self-awareness, communication, and coaching determine system success
• Why the PEOPLE Operating System creates sustainable performance

Key Quote

“A system gives you structure. Leadership gives you movement.
And without both, your business stalls.”

Next Step

If your structure is strong but your people performance is inconsistent, book a call to learn how the PEOPLE Operating System helps you lead both — the business and the people.

• Book a Call to learn about becoming a High-Impact Leader
• Join the High-Impact Leader Club
• Check out more episodes
• Connect on LinkedIn

Want a self-managing team and a business that grows without you doing it all?

If you're a business owner or leader who wants more clarity, stronger performance and a team that actually takes ownership — it’s time to step into the High-Impact Leader you’re meant to be. Click here.

The Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) is powerful for structure, clarity, and accountability — it helps you lead the business. But most owners and leaders discover a hard truth: EOS doesn’t teach you how to lead the people.

In this episode of Why Your Business Isn’t Growing (and how to fix it!), Brendan Rogers reveals the five failings of EOS that leave teams disengaged and growth stalled. Then he introduces the PEOPLE Operating System — the complete approach to lead both the business and the people inside it.

You’ll learn why structure alone won’t create commitment, how to connect accountability with motivation, and what real leadership looks like when systems and people work together.

In This Episode You’ll Discover How To …

• Recognise the gap between leading the business and leading the people
• Turn operational clarity into human capability
• Build accountability through motivation — not just metrics
• Strengthen trust, communication, and coaching inside your system
• Combine structure + people to create sustainable business growth

Key Quote

“EOS helps you lead the business.
The PEOPLE Operating System helps you lead both — the business and the people.”

Next Step

If your structure is solid but your people still aren’t performing at their potential, book a call with Brendan to explore how to combine system structure with human performance through the PEOPLE Operating System.

Resources & Links

• Join the High-Impact Leader Club
• Check out more episodes
• Connect on LinkedIn

Most business owners and leaders say they need better time management.
But here’s the truth: you can’t manage time — you can only manage your priorities inside it. In this episode of Why Your Business Isn’t Growing (and how to fix it!), Brendan Rogers shares a real coaching conversation that flips the traditional idea of “time management” on its head. You’ll learn how to plan weekly, decide daily, and create the simple leadership rhythm that drives business growth — without 60-hour weeks or constant reactivity.   In This Episode, You’ll Discover How To:

• Shift from managing time to owning it
• Build a weekly rhythm that keeps priorities visible and achievable
• Protect focus with boundaries and short sprints
• Create breathing space so urgent issues don’t hijack your day
• Treat your most important tasks like meetings with your best client

  Key Quote “You don’t manage time — you manage priorities inside time.”   Next Step If you’re tired of feeling reactive and want a proven rhythm to lead with calm, confidence, and control, book a call to see if the High-Impact Leader Club is right for you.

 

Resources & Links

• Join the High-Impact Leader Club
• Take the free Balance Audit
• Follow Brendan on LinkedIn
• Check out more episodes
  

When only a few team members are doing the wrong thing, sending a group email might feel easier — but it rarely fixes the real issue.
In this episode of Why Your Business Isn’t Growing (and how to fix it!), Brendan Rogers shares a real story of a new SME leader who took a “broad-brush” approach to correcting team behaviour… and how it backfired. You’ll learn why direct conversations build trust, improve clarity, and create accountability — while avoiding the frustration and disengagement that come from blanket messages. This episode is a must-listen for business owners and leaders who want to strengthen their leadership communication, improve team performance, and grow their business through people-powered systems.

 

In This Episode, You’ll Discover:

• Why addressing everyone to fix one person’s behaviour damages morale
  
• The difference between broadcasting clarity and targeting accountability
• How to “see something, say something” — without creating tension
• The simple mindset shift from comfort to clarity that builds respect and results
• How direct feedback drives performance and helps your team self-manage

  Key Quote “You can’t build team trust by avoiding individual discomfort.”   Next Step Ready to handle tough conversations with calm confidence?
Join the High-Impact Leader Club — where SME owners and leaders learn the simple leadership rhythms that build self-managing teams.
leaderbydesign.au/club   Resources & Links

• Join the High-Impact Leader Club
• Take the free Balance Audit
• Follow Brendan on LinkedIn

You’ve built success — but you’re still stuck. In this Why Your Business Isn’t Growing (and how to fix it!) business growth podcast, Brendan Rogers shares the five critical signs your business isn’t built for scale, even if it looks successful from the outside. Many SME leaders are unknowingly trapped by the very habits that made them successful — personal oversight, reactive decision-making, and systems that only work because they’re watching. In this episode, you’ll learn how to recognise when your success is actually your ceiling — and how to redesign your business for scalable business growth, stronger team performance, and sustainable leadership impact. In This Episode You’ll Learn

• 5 clear signs your business can’t scale (even if it’s growing).
• Why “working harder” makes scale impossible.
• The leadership mindset shift from control to empowerment.
• How to build systems that thrive without your constant involvement.
• A practical 30-day challenge to build independence into your business.

Who This Episode Is For

• SME owners or leaders who feel stuck doing everything themselves.
• Business leaders who want scalable business growth and more freedom.
• Listeners of leadership podcasts and team performance podcasts who value practical, real-world strategies.
  
  

️ Key Quote “Your goal isn’t to be less involved — it’s to be less essential.”

 

Listen Now Tune in to Why Your Business Isn’t Growing (and how to fix it!) — the business growth podcast that helps SME owners scale through clarity, systems, and leadership growth.

 

Resources Take The Balance Audit
Visit Leader By Design
Follow Brendan Rogers on LinkedIn