Part 2 shifts from insight to application. Dan breaks down how leaders can translate long-term vision into focused, repeatable execution — without burning out or losing adaptability.

Dan walks through the structure and mindset of the 12-Week Year, explaining how shorter planning cycles, weekly scorekeeping, and fewer priorities help leaders move faster and smarter. Mike connects the framework to leadership behaviors, strategic thinking, and real-world performance in uncertain environments.

• Why shrinking timeframes increases energy and focus

• How weekly feedback loops improve performance

• The danger of treating plans as to-do lists

• Why strategic thinking requires protected time

• The 12-Week Year as a leadership mindset

• Why five priorities outperform ten

• How weekly reviews replace annual frustration

• Intensity paired with recovery sustains performance

• Strategy lives in execution, not intention

• Shorter cycles create faster learning

• Planning is leadership work, not admin work

• Focused systems outperform motivated chaos

• Define 3–5 priorities for your next 12 weeks

• Schedule a weekly 10–15 minute review

• Protect time for thinking, not just doing

Connect with Dan Mintz on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-mintz/

Why Leaders Feel Busy — But Still Fall Behind

In Part 1, Mike and Dan explore why capable, driven leaders still struggle to execute — especially in a world defined by speed, uncertainty, and constant change. This episode reframes productivity as a leadership challenge, not a time-management problem.

Dan shares his experience as a CEO who felt stuck on a treadmill — planning, reacting, and falling short despite deep expertise. Together, they unpack why annual and quarterly planning fail to create urgency, how uncertainty amplifies execution gaps, and why feedback is now one of the most critical leadership tools.

• Why knowledge and effort aren't enough

• The illusion of progress created by long planning cycles

• How uncertainty affects focus and confidence

• Why feedback is tied directly to engagement and retention

• "Busy" doesn't mean effective

• Annual thinking delays accountability

• Uncertainty demands clarity, not paralysis

• Feedback helps people understand their value

• Execution breaks down when timelines are too long

• Leaders need shorter cycles to stay grounded

• Feedback is no longer optional — it's foundational

• Focus creates confidence in uncertain environments

• Identify where your plans lose momentum

• Reflect on how often you receive or give feedback

• Ask: What would change if progress was reviewed weekly instead of yearly?

Connect with Dan Mintz on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-mintz/

Intro:
In Part 2, we move from principles to practice—how mission guided product choices (like co-viewing), how to tell your people's stories, and how to balance transparency with judgment so you don't create "us vs. them." 

Summary:
We cover building for community (e.g., co-watching during lockdowns), using story to connect head and heart, and showing up in outages to refocus teams on the customer. We also tackle transparency: share enough signal to empower people, but curate it so it builds unity, not silos. We end on a core message: building stretches you—it's how you learn who you are as a leader. 

Highlights & Key Takeaways:

• Mission Guides Features: When the mission is clear, smart features follow. 

• Tell Stories That Reflect Your Users: Don't just tell; collect and echo their stories. 

• Show Up in the Mess: Presence in crises rallies commitment. 

• Transparency + Judgment: Share what people need to act; avoid "us vs. them." 

• Build to Discover Yourself: You learn who you are by building under real stakes. 

Next Steps:

• Define one feature your mission demands this quarter.

• Capture three customer or employee stories you can retell internally.

• Audit a recent "transparent" update: did it inform action—or fuel factions

Connect with Michael Cerda: 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelcerda/

In this second episode of my visit with Art Lucas, founder of the Lucas group, one of the largest executive search and contract staffing firms in the country, Art continues to discuss the art and science of the recruiting industry. He shares steps in engagement strategies and how to retain the best of our team. If you haven't listened to the first part, make sure you schedule time to hear how one of the pioneers in the recruiting industry scaled from a start up into a global force.  Art Lucas.

--

For more Leadership Strategies for Tomorrow's Leaders visit: http://lightingthepath.net/blog/

Impact is a word that drives careers. What you accomplish is based on how you impact your job, your clients, your company.

Today's guest Art Lucas has lived a life of impact, one that has impacted an entire industry. He founded the Lucas group in 1970 based in Atlanta, GA as a small one-man business with the important vision of helping military personnel transition to the civilian workforce after completing their military service.

Today, Lucas Group has transformed into a major enterprise with locations worldwide focusing in Accounting and Finance, Human Resources, Legal, Marketing and Sales, Operations, Information Technology, and Military Transition. Art shares his story of building one of the largest firms in the executive search and contract staffing industry in this first part of a 2 part series by focusing on the art form and science of creating value for clients and candidates.

--

For more Leadership Strategies for Tomorrow's Leaders visit: http://lightingthepath.net/blog/

Scott Eblin president of The Eblin Group is a leadership expert, global speaker, best-selling author, and executive coach, Scott works with some of the best-known companies and organizations in the world.  

What struck me about Scott is he works with leaders across all stages of their careers to learn how to lead as well as live at their best in a constantly changing world. He does this by confronting head-on the reality of today's 24/7 environment and helping clients create repeatable actions that lead to positive outcomes. He advocates simple, practical and immediately applicable steps that help leaders consistently be at their best – not just in their professional lives, but also at home and in their communities.  

Scott's work and experience is captured in two best-selling books: The Next Level: What Insiders Know About Executive Success whose third edition is being released October 2108 and Overworked and Overwhelmed: The Mindfulness Alternative. 

--

For more Leadership Strategies for Tomorrow's Leaders visit: http://lightingthepath.net/blog/

If the thought of building a strategic plan makes your eyes glaze over, welcome to the club. Harvard Business Review has a library of articles on the importance and how to's of building a strategic plan. Yet, I've found most approaches stay in the realm of concept without implementation at an operating level. Until I met Jill.  

I still vividly remember when I first saw our next guest Jill Hickman in action. She was facilitating a Board of Directors retreat that I had been a part of and I was amazed by the way she created synergy and wrangled naysayers and outliers and developed this vibrant energy. The reason why I wanted her to be a guest on our show is because strategic planning is a gift for her. But more importantly, it is her process to move it from the vague, feel-good event to a key part of a tactical executable plan.  

The term strategic planning for many people causes their eyes to roll towards the back of their head because people get caught up in meetings and discussions don't come out with anything that is executable. For more than 20 years, the Jill Hickman Company has been providing coaching and consulting services to executive leaders, creating corporate universities and facilitating strategic planning retreats for teams and Boards. Jill's extensive corporate background spans both public and private sectors from small startup firms to Fortune 500 companies, including those in manufacturing, healthcare, retail, and business services. Her entrepreneurial spirit has built an amazing company with a global reach. 

Topics covered in this episode:

• Why Strategic Plans matter 
• Putting feet to a plan so it matters 
• Demystify the strategic planning process 
• Traps that submarine the plan 

Jill Hickman, president 

Jill Hickman Companies 

jill@jillhickman.com 

(281) 358-8580 

----

For more Leadership Strategies for Tomorrow's Leaders visit: http://lightingthepath.net/blog/

Total Performance Leadership™ (TPL), is a research-based architecture that identifies the common characteristics shared by organizations driven by a common purpose. TPL organizations look and feel good – the deeper you look, the better the view Rob's passion is long lasting and meaningful relationships. Helping CEOs and boards drive revenues, cut costs, maximize the effectiveness of human and capital resources, and build enterprise value are hallmarks of his practice. Rob's clients have run the gamut from $6 million privately held enterprises to $75+ billion publicly held multinational corporations, The disciplines of TPL increases engagement, fuels productivity and reduces turnover. 

Topics covered in this episode:

• The Disciplines of Total Performance Leadership
• Case Study of QuikTrip 
• It starts with a Cohesive Leadership Team
• The driving force of a defined sense of purpose
• The Key mistake Leaders make

---

Based in Houston, Rob Andrews is Founder & Chief Executive Officer of Allen Austin, a leadership advisory and executive search firm. Rob leads Allen Austin's global CEO, Consumer Packaged Goods & Durables Practice, and is also a member of the firm's Leadership Advisory, Private Equity, Industrial and Marketing Officer practices. Building on his earlier career experience as an operating president with major convenience store and supermarket chains, Rob conducts searches for board members, CEO and senior officers across a broad range of sectors. His prior experience with national retail brands includes senior operating, marketing and administrative assignments with revenues of up to $2.4 billion and headcount of 10,600.

Rob is also the architect of Total Performance Leadership. Purpose-driven companies make more money, have more engaged employees and more delighted customers, and are better at innovating than companies without a purpose. At the core of these organizations are authentic and passionate leaders capable of communicating, aligning and mobilizing the entire organization around a shared purpose.

Website: http://allenaustin.com

Phone: 713.489.9724 

Email: randrews@allenaustin.com

----

For more Leadership Strategies for Tomorrow's Leaders visit: http://lightingthepath.net/blog/

Dr. Rob Pennington is an Award Winning Professional Speaker and Author of an amazing book, Find The Upside of the Down Times. He has a rare gift of cracking barriers we fight to reduce conflict, anxiety and stress, and helps people raise their expectations to see the what they are truly capable of.  

Rob is the Co Founder of Resource International, an organizational Consulting and Executive Coaching group.  One of his many programs Successfully Managing the Stress of Change and Successful Work Relationships which has become standard "flagship trainings" in some of the largest organizations in the country. 

In this episode, he shares: 

• How to engage people in the middle of change 
• Managing stress, Wrestling with conflict 
• Release the baggage for stronger communication 
• Helping to process emotions is more than a soft skill 
• Helping leaders process anger 

---

Resource International co-founder, Dr. Rob Pennington, is an educational psychologist who specializes in improving the performance of leaders and teams through a balance of authority and collaboration. Trained through the National Training Laboratory (NTL) in organizational development in the early 70's and a former faculty member of three universities, Dr. Pennington's decades of research and experience support organizations in developing executives who can successfully lead massive change. His extensive work with CEOs and their Leadership Teams allows him to efficiently produce more effective results than might otherwise be achieved, always with an eye on the bottom-line and the ROI of his engagements.  

In his award winning autobiographical self-help book, Find the Upside of the Down Times: How To Turn Your Worst Experiences into Your Best Opportunities (Amazon & Kindle), Dr. Pennington provides readers with insights and tools to turn life's challenges into opportunities for growth and even blessings. He shares his own very personal journey of survival and discovery after some of the biggest challenges life can throw.  

Website: http://drrobpennington.com

Products: http://drrobpennington.com/get-access

For more Leadership Strategies for Tomorrow's Leaders visit: http://lightingthepath.net/blog/

I couldn't think of a better voice for our first show than Mark Sanborn president of Sanborn & Associates, Inc., an idea studio dedicated to developing leaders in business and in life. Mark is an international bestselling author and noted expert on leadership, team building, customer service and change.  

Mark is one of the people I've heard whose message is a wonderful mixture of high intellect with awesome engaging style delivered with a charismatic heart. I've followed his work over the years, using his book The Fred Factor as training for my company on world class customer service. His most recent release is the Productivity Principles – closing the gap between how good you are to how great you can be. 

Listen in as we discuss: 

• How Better beats Best 
• Overcoming lack of awareness 
• The Importance of Clarity 
• The Art of Slowing Down 
• The Power of Re Focus 

---

Mark Sanborn, CSP, CPAE, is president of Sanborn & Associates, Inc., an idea studio dedicated to developing leaders in business and in life. Mark is an international bestselling author and noted expert on leadership, team building, customer service and change. 

He has created and appeared in 20 videos and numerous audio training programs. His video series Team Building: How to Motivate and Manage People made it to the #2 spot for bestselling educational video series in the U.S. 

Mark's list of over 2600 clients includes Costco, Enterprise Rent-a-Car, FedEx, Harley-Davidson, Hewlett Packard, Cisco, KPMG, Morton's of Chicago, New York Life, RE/MAX, ServiceMaster, ESPN, GM, IBM, Avnet, Sandvik and John Deere. 

Website: https://marksanborn.com

Resources: https://marksanborn.com/resources

For more Leadership Strategies for Tomorrow's Leaders visit: http://lightingthepath.net/blog/

Intro:
In this second half, the conversation turns to real-world coaching challenges, building resilience in uncertain times, and making difficult conversations productive.

Summary:
Mike and Dave tackle why leaders avoid tough conversations, how to reframe them as two-way dialogues, and why consistent investment in people drives performance. They share strategies for bridging the gap between "can't" and "potential" and for creating trust when times are uncertain.

Highlights:

• The three questions to ask before replacing a team member.

• Why leaders sometimes fail their people before people fail their leaders.

• Turning limiting beliefs into growth opportunities.

• How clarity and trust cut through uncertainty.

• "Care and candid" as a formula for transformation.

Key Takeaways:

• Invest in people before deciding they can't succeed.

• Resilience grows from clarity, trust, and consistent communication.

• Avoidance kills relationships faster than conflict—lean into the hard talks.

Next Steps:
Identify one conversation you've been avoiding. Reframe it as a two-way exchange, prepare open-ended questions, and create space for real dialogue.

Connect with Dave Reynolds on LinkedIn:
linkedin.com/in/dave-reynolds-99a71047/

Intro:
This episode explores why transformation—not just change—should be every leader's goal, and why coaching is the bridge to get there. You'll hear how intentional coaching builds resilience, fuels growth, and unlocks the hidden potential in your team.

Summary:
Mike and Dave dig into the difference between change and transformation, the roots of Dave's "radical growth" approach, and why leaders today must master both storytelling and coaching. They break down why questioning is more powerful than directing, how to prepare for a coaching conversation, and the 80/20 principle for listening vs. talking.

Highlights:

• Why transformation is lasting, while change can be temporary.

• How the radical growth concept came from a seed's first breakthrough.

• The 80/20 rule for coaching conversations.

• Questions as the "keys to unopened doors" in problem solving.

• Why leaders should speak less so their teams think more.

Key Takeaways:

• Transformation happens below the surface before it shows.

• Leaders who ask better questions get deeper buy-in.

• Coaching isn't about having all the answers—it's about guiding discovery.

Next Steps:
Reflect on one area where your team needs transformation, not just change. Ask three open-ended questions this week to help them discover their own answers.

Connect with Dave Reynolds on LinkedIn:
linkedin.com/in/dave-reynolds-99a71047/

Introduction:

How do you dig deeper with your team to create real engagement? In part two, Shannon Nutter shares advanced strategies for innovation, avoiding the whack-a-mole trap of constant firefighting, and the critical skill of asking better questions as a leader-facilitator.

Summary:

This episode dives into the practical side of leadership development. Shannon explains why leaders should function as facilitators rather than directors, how to balance innovation with results, and the importance of slowing down to truly know your people. She shares personal stories about recognizing when team members need human connection over business conversations.

Highlights:

• Why successful innovation requires a 70% failure rate (like baseball batting averages)
• The whack-a-mole syndrome that keeps teams busy but not productive
• How great leaders facilitate rather than dictate solutions
• The power of asking "What are we missing here?" and "How could that work?"
• When to pause business conversations for human moments

Key Takeaways:

• Innovation means creating customer value in new ways, not just building new features
• Experimentation should include budget for learning, not just success metrics
• Leaders are facilitators who pull knowledge from the room rather than pushing their own
• Knowing your people deeply means understanding their motivations, frustrations, and insecurities
• Sometimes the most important conversation isn't about work at all

Next Steps:

• Start one project as an experiment with defined learning goals, not just success metrics
• Practice facilitating meetings by asking questions instead of giving answers
• Create space in your schedule for unplanned human moments with team members

Connect with Shannon on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannon-nutter/

Introduction:

What does culture really mean beyond the buzzwords and ping pong tables? In this episode, we explore the real foundations of engaged teams with Shannon Nutter, former C-suite leader who led global operations. We'll uncover why 79% of employees are disengaged and what leaders can do to create environments where people actually want to contribute their best work.

Summary:

Shannon breaks down the difference between surface-level culture initiatives and the deep work of creating psychological safety. She shares practical insights on balancing efficiency with effectiveness, the power of clarity in leadership, and why treating symptoms instead of root causes keeps teams stuck in endless cycles of firefighting.

Highlights:

• Why engagement scores are at a devastating 21% despite all the "collegial culture" talk
• The T-bar concept: balancing human needs with business results
• How to create psychological safety where teams can fail, debate, and challenge ideas
• The difference between compliance (capturing minds) and commitment (capturing hearts)
• Real examples of when technology should step back and humans should step forward

Key Takeaways:

• Culture isn't benefits or perks - it's how work gets done AND how it makes people feel
• Leaders must create focus, alignment, clarity, accountability, and psychological safety
• Ask yourself: "When was the last time someone disagreed with me publicly?"
• Efficiency without effectiveness is just busy work that doesn't solve real problems

Next Steps:

• Evaluate your team's psychological safety by tracking when people last disagreed with you
• Review your current processes - are you solving problems or just making things faster?
• Schedule one-on-ones focused on understanding what motivates each team member

Connect with Shannon on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannon-nutter/

In part 2, we go deeper into the emotional side of leadership—how leaders create safety, why self-regulation matters more than charisma, and what to do when culture starts to drift. Adam shares how the best leaders he's seen are relentlessly curious, not just confident. If you've ever wondered how to lead with both clarity and care, this one's for you.

This half of the conversation dives into trust, communication, and team growth. Adam and I unpack how misalignment shows up before it explodes, why "tough conversations" are actually moments of deep connection, and how to build a culture that self-corrects. You'll walk away with practical ways to notice drift, course correct early, and foster alignment that lasts.

Highlights:

• What emotional safety looks like in growing teams
• Why trust is the core multiplier in leadership
• The role of humility in hiring and coaching
• How to rebuild trust after it's broken
• Why great leaders ask better questions, not give better answers

Key Takeaways:

• Culture isn't built in offsites—it's shaped in everyday decisions
• Listening deeply is one of your most powerful leadership tools
• People will only be as honest as they feel safe
• Trust takes intention, not just time

Next Steps for You:

• Schedule 1:1 time with someone on your team and just listen
• Reflect: What's one misalignment you've been avoiding?
• Start tracking what you tolerate—not just what you preach

Connect with Adam Jackson here.

How do leaders grow their business without losing touch with their team—or themselves? In this episode, we explore the quiet skills behind sustainable leadership. From slowing down to speeding up clarity, Adam Jackson and I talk about the mindset shifts leaders must make to stay grounded while everything else scales.

Adam shares what he's learned from leading through hypergrowth—when your role changes every 3 months and everyone around you is stretched thin. We talk about the danger of clinging to what worked in the past, why feedback systems need to mature with your org, and how leaders must outgrow their own need for control. It's a candid look at what real leadership looks like when you're building fast—and trying to build well.

Highlights:

• Why scaling fast can hide broken systems
• How leaders accidentally become bottlenecks
• The myth of "hiring your way out" of problems
• What emotional clarity looks like in practice
• Why slowing down is sometimes the fastest way forward

Key Takeaways: 

• Leadership is about subtraction, not just addition
• Systems that worked at 10 people won't work at 100
• Good culture isn't what you say—it's what you allow
• Letting go of control is an act of trust, not failure

Next Steps for You:

• Ask: Where am I holding on too tightly?
• Revisit your onboarding process—does it reflect your current size and pace?
• Write down what you're modeling without saying a word

Connect with Adam Jackson here.

Jevon Wooden shares his personal transformation—from a jail cell at 17 to becoming a leadership consultant and military veteran. This episode explores how life's hardest moments shape emotional intelligence, and why self-awareness is the first step toward empathetic leadership.

Summary:
Mike and Jevon explore how early life challenges shaped Jevon's leadership philosophy. They unpack what it means to lead with empathy, how emotional intelligence differs from mindset, and how both leaders and organizations can create cultures where people are seen and valued.

Highlights:

• Jevon's story of nearly serving 7 years in prison at 17
• Emotional intelligence as the bridge between mindset and connection
• How EQ separates good leaders from great ones
• Why self-leadership is the starting point of real influence
• The link between empathy and mission in military and business settings

Click here to connect with Jevon Wooden on LinkedIn.

What happens when leaders are promoted for technical skills but never taught how to lead people? Jevon and Mike dig into this common gap—and how to close it. Part 2 focuses on organizational culture, psychological safety, cultural agility, and building buy-in that actually works.

Summary:
Jevon shares his experiences working across cultures—from tech teams to Saudi Arabia—and unpacks how feedback, clarity, and empathy shape performance. Mike challenges outdated leadership norms and explores what it really takes to lead across differences today.

Highlights:

• Why soft skills are the hardest skills
• The real reason talented people fail as new managers
• What cultural agility looks like in global and local teams
• Why psychological safety drives retention and innovation
• The problem with email layoffs and feedback sandwiches

Click here to connect with Jevon Wooden on LinkedIn.

Frankie Berkoben joins Mike Lejeune to explore how her path from climate science to coaching unfolded. She opens up about navigating a "career wobble," discovering she had ADHD, and how that transformed her understanding of leadership, systems thinking, and the way people show up at work.

Summary
This episode explores the intersection of neurodiversity and leadership. Frankie shares how her ADHD diagnosis helped her redefine success, the power of self-coaching, and why curiosity and emotional intelligence are vital for leaders who want to create truly inclusive environments.

Highlights & Takeaways

• Frankie's transition from engineering to leadership coaching.
• Why ADHD can be a leadership strength.
• The importance of recognizing your mental wiring.
• How "career wobbles" lead to deeper clarity.
• The difference between managing and coaching.

Next Steps

• Reflect on how your wiring affects your leadership. 
• Ask: What challenges energize me? What "simple" things trip me up? And how might others experience the same?

Connect with Frankie on LinkedIn.

What happens when fear, uncertainty, and limiting beliefs start driving leadership decisions?

In this episode of Strategies for Tomorrow's Leaders, we explore how leaders can rewire fear, shift their thinking, and lead themselves more effectively — especially in times of change.

This conversation looks beneath strategy and tactics and focuses on the inner work that shapes how leaders show up. We talk about fear and curiosity, how language rewires the brain, why labels quietly limit growth, and what it really means to lead from awareness instead of reaction.

Rather than pushing motivation or quick fixes, this episode offers grounded insights and practical reflections leaders can apply immediately — at work and in life.

If you're navigating uncertainty, pressure, or self-doubt, this episode will help you slow down, ask better questions, and make decisions from clarity instead of fear.

What You'll Learn in This Episode

• Why fear doesn't exist in the present moment — and why that matters for leaders
• How curiosity helps leaders overcome fear and uncertainty
• The hidden cost of labels and limiting beliefs in leadership
• Why the words leaders use shape how they think and decide
• How self-awareness strengthens leadership confidence and choice

About the Guest

Martine Cohen is a transformational life strategist, leadership coach, and award-winning author of No More Layers. Her work focuses on self-leadership, awareness, and helping leaders reclaim personal power from the inside out.

Why This Episode Matters

Leadership isn't just about having answers — it's about understanding what's driving your decisions. This episode helps leaders step out of fear-based patterns and into intentional, values-driven leadership.

Connect with Martine Cohen:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/martinecohennml/
Email: martine@martinecohen.com

In Part 2, Mike and Frankie explore the deeper layers of effective leadership—from creating psychological safety to clarifying priorities and building trust through communication. The conversation shifts toward emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and how leaders can adapt to support diverse thinkers.

Summary
Frankie breaks down the role of processing styles, verbal communication, and emotional clarity in building high-performing teams. Mike brings humor and real-world reflection as they unpack what happens when leaders slow down, explain the "why," and truly listen.

Highlights & Takeaways

• Zooming in vs. zooming out: managing detail vs. seeing the big picture.
• Why clarity builds trust and trust builds buy-in.
• The role of rest and rhythm in sustainable leadership.
• Making room for different processing styles in communication.
• Emotional intelligence as responding vs. reacting.

Next Steps
Ask your team how they like to receive info. Do they need visuals? Pre-reads? Talk time? Then practice giving them just enough structure to thrive—without boxing them in.

Connect with Frankie on LinkedIn.

Mike and Stephen dive deeper into what makes a team consistently excel. They explore why humility is such a powerful trait in a leader and how staying curious can unlock new ideas from your team. Stephen shares how genuine listening – not just hearing words – builds trust and uncovers issues leaders might otherwise miss.

The discussion shifts to the art of asking great questions. Stephen explains that sometimes posing the right question can lead your team to find the answer themselves, which empowers everyone. They also talk about getting your whole team involved in problem-solving, instead of the leader tackling every challenge alone. Throughout the conversation, Stephen highlights the often underestimated impact of appreciation. He reveals how something as simple as a heartfelt "thank you" can energize your team and motivate people to go the extra mile. It's a down-to-earth, insight-packed conversation that leaves you with practical ideas you can start using with your own team right away.

Highlights

• The surprising way humility makes a team perform better
• How a leader's genuine curiosity can spark creativity in their team
• What "listening like a leader" really means in practice
• Why asking questions often works better than giving your team answers
• Engaging your team in problem-solving instead of tackling every issue alone
• A fresh take on showing appreciation – how a sincere thank-you boosts morale

Key Takeaways

• Embrace humility: Admit you don't have all the answers and ask your team for input.
• Stay curious: Keep asking "why?" and learning from your team members every day.
• Listen actively: Give your full attention, and ask follow-up questions to truly understand your people.
• Ask rather than tell: Guide your team with thoughtful questions instead of just issuing orders.
• Solve problems together: Involve your team in brainstorming solutions to build buy-in and confidence.
• Show genuine appreciation: Let people know you value their work – small thank-yous go a long way.

Connect with Steven on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevengaffneycompany/

In Part 1 of Mike Lejeune's interview with Stephen Gaffney on Strategies for Tomorrow's Leaders, they delve into what it takes to build a consistently high-achieving team. Stephen emphasizes that trust and honest communication are essential for great teamwork. 

He and Mike discuss how leaders can create an environment where team members feel comfortable sharing concerns and real feedback—without fear. Stephen explains that when people feel emotionally safe, they're more likely to speak up about problems and contribute ideas, which ultimately drives better results. In fact, he shares a story of a struggling team that turned their performance around once they made open, honest conversations a daily habit.

Another key theme of this episode is the importance of focusing on outcomes instead of just effort. Stephen challenges leaders to rethink how they define success: it's not about how hard people try, but what they actually accomplish. He offers practical tips for shifting a team's mindset toward results, like setting clear goals and rewarding achievements. Throughout the conversation, you'll hear real-world examples and simple strategies that any leader can use to boost trust, encourage open dialogue, and keep their team focused on what really matters.

Highlights

• Why people don't tell the truth at work: Stephen shares the top reason and how to fix it
• A team transformed: How a struggling team turned around once honest feedback became the norm
• Results vs. effort: The culture shift that happens when you reward outcomes instead of hours worked
• Inviting tough feedback: Stephen's tips for making it safe for your team to speak up (even with bad news)
• No more "shooting the messenger": What to do as a leader when you hear uncomfortable truths
• Consistency in performance: Why high-achieving teams focus on repeated wins, not one-off successes

Key Takeaways

• Create psychological safety for honesty. Teams perform best when people feel safe to speak up with the truth.
• Measure success by results, not effort. Emphasize outcomes achieved instead of hours spent or "trying hard."
• Invite candid feedback often. Regularly ask your team for honest input and listen without getting defensive.
• Lead by example. Admit your own mistakes and share your honest thoughts respectfully – it sets the tone for everyone else.
• Make accountability a team effort. Encourage team members to hold each other responsible for results, not just rely on the boss.
• Focus on solutions, not blame. When things go wrong, discuss how to improve and reach the goal next time rather than pointing fingers.

Connect with Steven Gaffney on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevengaffneycompany/

Your Free Leadership Gravitational Pull Assessment:
https://stevengaffney.com/leadership-gravitational-pull/

Introduction
In Part 2, Aneace Haddad dives into leading teams in chaotic times. Learn how to ditch the "addiction to certainty" and build a C-suite that thrives in ambiguity.

Summary
Aneace reveals why even seasoned leaders struggle with uncertainty in teams – and how to foster collective resilience. He shares practical steps to shift from "closing the deal" to staying open, using neuroscience and real-world examples.

Highlights

• Why "herding cats" fails: Building a C-suite team ≠ stacking superstar individuals.

• The paradox: Comfort with uncertainty grows with age, but teams resist it.

• How to expand your "ownership" beyond your role (like driving a bigger vehicle).

Key Takeaways

1. Certainty is a trap. Teams that rush to answers miss innovative solutions.

2. Practice "radically empowering presence." Your calm fuels others' confidence.

3. Lead like a coach, not a CEO. Your role isn't to fix – it's to fan flames.

Next Steps

• Audit your team: Do we default to "closing" discussions too fast?

• Pre-order Aneace's upcoming book The First Rule of Herding Cats for C-suite strategies.

• Share this episode with your leadership team to spark a "certainty detox."

Introduction
Join Mike Lejeune and global leadership expert Aneace Haddad as they explore how midlife challenges can unlock unexpected leadership strengths. Aneace shares his journey from tech CEO to executive coach, revealing why midlife's turbulence is a catalyst for growth.

Summary
Aneace discusses the "perfect storm" of midlife – a time when leaders often face burnout, identity shifts, and the need to redefine their value. He unpacks why clinging to old habits (like "telling" instead of empowering teams) limits growth and how embracing humility and uncertainty can reignite purpose.

Highlights

• Why midlife isn't about age – it's a crossroads of energy and reflection.

• How parenting teenagers mirrors the shift leaders need to make: from "manager" to coach.

• The neuroscience behind midlife: Slower prefrontal cortex ≠ decline. It's a gateway to wisdom.

• Why humility + iron will = unstoppable leadership (and why most leaders discover this later).

Key Takeaways

1. Stop "telling," start empowering. If your team feels like teenagers ignoring you, it's time to shift energy.

2. Your value isn't in having answers. It's in asking questions that unlock others' potential.

3. Midlife isn't a crisis – it's a rebirth. Burnout often signals a need to redefine purpose, not retire.

Next Steps

• Reflect: Where am I still "managing" instead of leading?

• Read Aneace's book The Eagle That Drank Hummingbird Nectar for a fictional take on midlife transformation.

• Tune into Part 2 for strategies to build teams that thrive in uncertainty.

Introduction:

Welcome back! In Part 2 of our conversation with Ernesto Gomez, we dive deeper into the practical aspects of fostering engaged, purpose-driven teams. Ernesto expands on his framework introduced in Part 1, focusing on the three crucial dimensions that unlock potential: talent density, culture, and mindset. Learn actionable strategies to cultivate these areas within your own organization and empower your team to reach new heights.

Summary:

Building on the foundation laid in Part 1, Ernesto Gomez elaborates on his "talent density, culture, and mindset" system for maximizing team potential. He explains how intentionally designing for the right talent mix, nurturing a supportive and growth-oriented culture, and fostering both individual and collective positive mindsets are essential. Ernesto emphasizes that creating the right "spark" of ideas and purpose can awaken dormant energy within individuals and drive collective performance. He provides a framework for leaders to think strategically about these three interconnected dimensions to cultivate an environment where people can thrive.

Highlights:

• Understand the interconnectedness of talent density, culture, and mindset in driving performance.
• Learn how fostering a "spark" of ideas and purpose can unlock dormant energy within your team.
• Explore the importance of intentionally designing for the right "talent density" within your organization.
• Gain insights into how to cultivate a company culture that supports growth and high performance.
• Discover the significance of nurturing both individual and collective mindsets to overcome limitations.

Key Takeaways:

• Unlocking team potential requires a holistic approach that considers talent, environment, and individual/collective beliefs.
• Purpose and meaningful ideas are powerful catalysts for engagement and performance.
• Strategically building teams with the right mix of skills and perspectives is crucial.
• A positive and growth-oriented culture provides the context for individuals to flourish.
• Cultivating a strong individual and collective mindset empowers teams to overcome challenges and achieve more.

Next Steps:

• Reflect on the current talent density within your teams. Are you bringing together the right mix of skills and perspectives?
• Assess your current company culture. Does it actively support growth, collaboration, and a positive mindset?
• Consider how you can foster a stronger sense of purpose and generate energizing ideas within your organization.
• Think about strategies to nurture a more resilient and growth-oriented mindset in both individuals and your team as a whole.

Introduction:

Ever wonder why even the most talented teams sometimes underperform? In this episode of Strategies for Tomorrow's Leaders, we kick off a fascinating two-part conversation with Ernesto Gomez, a seasoned leader who served as the CHRO of a major global corporation. Ernesto shares his unique perspective on unlocking team potential, drawing from his experience leading a massive workforce and engaging with top executives. Get ready to rethink how you're building your teams and fostering growth.

Summary:

In Part 1 of our interview with Ernesto Gomez, we delve into the fundamental question of why so many leaders believe their teams are operating at only half of their potential. Ernesto shares his experience surveying CEOs and their surprising consensus on this issue. We explore the idea that while individual talent is crucial, organizational systems and culture play a significant role in enabling or hindering performance. Ernesto introduces the core concepts that led to his book, "Regrowth," emphasizing the inherent drive for growth in both individuals and organizations and the barriers that can stifle it.

Highlights:

• Discover the surprising statistic Ernesto uncovered from CEOs about their teams' potential.
• Understand why simply having talented individuals isn't always enough for high performance.
• Learn about Ernesto's motivation for writing his book "Regrowth" and its central theme.
• Explore the concept of "self-inflicted wounds" in organizations that limit team potential.
• Hear Ernesto's initial thoughts on the three key dimensions for unlocking potential: talent density, culture, and mindset.

Key Takeaways:

• Leaders often recognize a significant gap between their teams' actual performance and their potential.
• Organizational systems and structures can unintentionally create barriers to achieving full potential.
• Both individuals and organizations have a natural desire for growth and improvement.
• Understanding and addressing systemic issues is crucial for fostering a high-performing environment.
• Creating the right conditions is essential to help individuals connect with and contribute their full potential.

Next Steps:

• Reflect on your own team's performance and consider if you see a gap between their current output and their potential.
• Think about any existing organizational processes or structures that might be unintentionally hindering your team's effectiveness.
• Stay tuned for Part 2 where Ernesto will dive deeper into the three dimensions of talent density, culture, and mindset and how to cultivate them.

In this second part of "Reset Before You Lead:  Emotional Awareness in High-Stakes Environments", Mike Lejeune and Andrea Wanerstrand continue their discussion on leadership, emotional intelligence, and building effective teams. They delve into the nuances of productive versus destructive tension, the power of kindness over niceness, and the importance of clarity in communication. Andrea shares insights from her experience at Microsoft, particularly the shift from a "know-it-all" to a "learn-it-all" culture. They explore the transition from transactional to relationship-based selling and the critical role of asking open-ended questions. The conversation culminates in a discussion about balancing empathy and authority, emphasizing the importance of trusting one's intuition and understanding the emotional landscape of team members.

Show Notes:

• Productive vs. destructive tension in leadership.
• The difference between kindness and niceness.
• The importance of clear and validated expectations.
• Transitioning from "to do" to "to think" mentalities.
• The power of asking open-ended questions.
• The importance of clarity in communication.
• Balancing empathy and authority in leadership.
• Trusting intuition and understanding emotional landscapes.
• The importance of curiosity in leadership.
• The 3 categories of evaluation: known fact, educated guess, and assumption.

In this captivating first part of "Reset Before You Lead:  Emotional Awareness in High-Stakes Environments",Mike Lejeune welcomes Andrea Wanerstrand, founder and CEO of A3 Culture Lab. Andrea brings a wealth of experience from global giants like T-Mobile and Microsoft, where she led global performance management.

Today, she focuses on cultivating human-centric cultures, emphasizing authenticity, autonomy, and accountability. Mike and Andrea dive into the concept of "what worries you masters you," exploring how fear and uncertainty impact leadership and team dynamics.

They discuss the importance of emotional awareness, intentional leadership, and the power of authenticity in building trust and driving performance. Andrea shares her insights on managing energy, setting clear expectations, and the impact of a leader's emotional state on their team. This episode is a must-listen for leaders seeking to create a more human and effective workplace.

Show Notes:

• Introduction to Andrea Wanerstrand and A3 Culture Lab.
• Andrea's experience at T-Mobile and Microsoft.
• Defining human-centric culture: authenticity, autonomy, and accountability.
• The impact of fear and worry on performance.
• The importance of intentional leadership and emotional awareness.
• Managing energy and setting clear expectations.
• The role of authenticity in building trust.
• The impact of a leader's emotional state on the team.
• The importance of resetting emotional state between meetings.

Connect with Andrea:
linkedin.com/in/andreawanerstrand/

In this second part of my conversation with Dr. Sarah Glova, we dive deeper into leadership, entrepreneurship, and the hidden power of intentionality. Sarah shares insights from her journey as an entrepreneur, educator, and consultant, offering a fresh take on how leaders can inspire action without overwhelming their teams. From finding the right spark in people to the simple yet powerful act of asking the right questions, this episode will leave you rethinking how to engage, lead, and connect.

Summary:
We explore what it truly means to empower others, whether you're leading a boardroom or building a business from scratch. Sarah discusses the importance of "fanning the flame"—nurturing the sparks in others rather than trying to ignite them yourself. We also tackle the entrepreneurial mindset, overcoming procrastination, and why action (even imperfect action) is the real key to success.

Highlights & Key Takeaways:

• Fan the Flame, Don't Light the Spark: Great leaders don't create motivation—they nurture the drive already within their teams.
• Intentional Leadership: Small, thoughtful actions—like remembering personal details—can significantly boost engagement.
• Entrepreneurial Truths: You don't need to be perfect—just get started. Every step forward is a lesson learned.
• The Power of One Page: Sarah's TEDx talk breaks down how a single sheet of paper can bring clarity and crush procrastination.
• Action Over Possibility: Dreaming is great, but real growth comes from taking action, even when it's messy.

Next Steps for Listeners:

• Ask your team questions that help reveal their true passions and strengths.
• Watch Sarah's TEDx Talk on achieving goals with a single page—link in the show notes.
• Reflect on your leadership style: Are you trying to light sparks, or are you fanning flames?

In a world where the word most leaders use is "uncertain," what does it really take to build something that lasts?

In this episode, Mike talks with Sarah Englade, Founder and CEO of Monarch Talent Solutions, about launching and growing a recruiting firm in 2020—when companies were laying people off, not hiring. Sarah shares how a COVID layoff pushed her to bet on herself, why KPIs and processes are non-negotiable, and how she built a relationship-first recruiting brand in a noisy, skeptical market.

They dig into the mindset shifts that separate entrepreneurs who keep going from those who quietly quit, the role of belief when the numbers aren't there yet, and how time blocking keeps you out of "tension-relieving" activity and focused on what truly moves the ball.

If you're leading a business, a team, or your own career through uncertainty, this conversation gives you practical handles—not theories—you can put to work this week.

Highlights

• How a COVID layoff became the catalyst for Sarah to launch Monarch Talent Solutions

• The difference between working in KPI-driven environments vs. "no metrics, total chaos"

• Why Sarah "lives for KPIs and processes" and how they actually protect culture and standards

• The candidate and client follow-through processes that turn transactions into long-term relationships

• Building a credible brand without "infomercial" content or constant self-promotion

• Using market intel and real conversations to position yourself as a trusted guide

• The biggest early hurdle: mindset, not circumstance

• How time blocking keeps you out of the swirl and focused on goal-achieving work

• Starting each day with the task you least want to do — and why that moves the needle most

Next Steps for Listeners

• Audit your KPIs:
  Ask yourself, "What are the 3–5 activities that actually drive results for my team or business?" Turn those into visible, trackable KPIs.

• Design one follow-through process:
  Choose either candidates, clients, or customers and map a simple sequence:
  How often will you touch them? Through which channels? What value will you bring each time?

• Time block your week:
  Take Sarah's playbook and dedicate specific days or blocks to different priorities (e.g., candidates early in the week, business development later).

• Start tomorrow with the hard thing:
  Before you end your day, write down the one task you're resisting — and commit to tackling it first thing.

• Connect with Sarah:
  Reach out to Sarah Englade on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-englade/) or email her at sarah@monarchtalentsolutions.com if you want to go deeper on recruiting, branding, or building a relationship-first search firm.

• Stay in the conversation:
  Follow Strategies for Tomorrow's Leaders and share this episode with another entrepreneur or leader who's navigating uncertainty right now

In this episode of Strategies for Tomorrow's Leaders, I'm joined by Dr. Sarah Glova—educator, consultant, and expert communicator. As a faculty member at Duke University and North Carolina State, Sarah works with some of the brightest technical minds, helping them harness one of the most underrated skills in leadership: clear, effective communication. We dive deep into what separates high achievers from the rest and why intentionality and active listening are game-changers for personal and professional growth.

Summary:
We explore why technical skills can only take you so far without the ability to communicate effectively. Dr. Glova shares her journey working with global brands and teaching top-tier students, emphasizing the power of intentionality, clarity, and curiosity. This conversation will reshape how you think about leadership, goal-setting, and, most importantly, how you connect with those around you.

Highlights & Key Takeaways:

• Communication as a Career Catalyst. Technical skills open doors, but communication propels advancement.
• The Power of Intentionality. Achievement stems from clarity and purpose, not innate talent.
• Active Listening: The Secret to Empowerment. Listening builds trust, safety, and innovation.
• Leadership's Clarity Crisis. In a data-saturated world, clarity is a leader's superpower.
• Building Community for Success. Achievement is a team sport

Next Steps for Listeners:

• Practice active listening in your next conversation—summarize before you respond.
• Reflect on your personal goals: Are they as unique and clear as your fingerprint?
• As a leader, clarify your team's priorities this week. Make sure everyone knows the "why" behind the work.

In a world where digital isolation is at an all-time high, how can you build authentic relationships that truly stand out? In this episode, I continue my conversation with Scott Grates, bestselling author of Referrals Done Right, to uncover the power of human connection in a disconnected world.

Topics Covered:

• The rise of loneliness and its impact on modern business relationships
• Why influencers like Mr. Beast and Joe Rogan have millions of followers—people crave connection
• The importance of being seen and valued in today's world
• How to ask better questions to drive more meaningful business relationships
• Why solving real problems is the key to success (Jeff Bezos' Amazon example)
• How to earn the right to ask for business instead of spamming people
• The contrarian approach to networking: focus on fewer, deeper relationships
• How to leverage social media to create value, not just noise
• Podcasting & content creation as a referral tool – How Scott uses his Love Living Local 315 podcast to grow relationships and business
• Why referrals aren't just about asking—they're about consistently providing value to connectors

Want to connect with Scott? Visit scottgrates.com or find him on LinkedIn. Just don't spam his inbox! :)

How do you stand out in a saturated, digitally dominated world? In this episode, I sit down with Scott Grates, TEDx speaker and USA Today bestselling author of Referrals Done Right, to uncover the power of relationships, consistency, and creating memorable customer experiences.

Topics Covered:

• The challenge of standing out in today's digital world
• The Purple Cow and Blue Ocean Strategy approaches to differentiation
• Why the most competitive industries demand a unique customer experience
• The importance of consistency in building brand awareness and customer loyalty
• How relationships drive referrals and business growth
• Why asking better questions leads to better business opportunities
• How small business owners can compete against corporate giants
• The role of connection agents in today's marketplace

Resources Mentioned:

• Referrals Done Right – Scott Grates' book on mastering referral-based growth
• Purple Cow by Seth Godin – Standing out in a crowded marketplace
• Blue Ocean Strategy – Creating uncontested market space

Want to connect with Scott? Visit scottgrates.com or find him on LinkedIn (but no spam, please!).

What does it take to truly lead? In this second part of our powerful conversation, we explore how great leaders build trust, cultivate meaningful relationships, and create cultures where people feel valued and empowered.

Marnie shares insights on balancing work and life, the importance of patience in leadership, and how prioritization fuels both personal and professional success. We also dive into why face-to-face connection still matters in a digital world and what leaders can do to create lasting impact.

If you're a leader looking to refine your approach, build a stronger team, or simply be reminded of the deeper purpose behind what you do, this episode is for you.

Meet Our Podcast Guest:

Marnie Byford This week, we're joined by Marnie [Last Name], COO of Supreme Staffing, a national leader in talent solutions. With 17+ years in staffing and recruiting, Marnie specializes in strategic growth, operations, and team development. Her expertise in healthcare administration and education brings unique insight into workforce challenges and solutions.

Show notes:

01:17 – The difference between finding time for what you want vs. what you have to do
03:18 – The key to effective delegation: Training the next generation of leaders
04:30 – Why patience is a leader's greatest tool
05:50 – The importance of face-to-face conversations in leadership
07:22 – How communication and listening skills impact leadership success
09:10 – The power of a strong workplace culture and what it really means
10:00 – Why investing in employees signals trust and commitment
11:20 – What leaders get wrong when making assumptions about their team
12:35 – The connection between slowing down and making better decisions
14:10 – The importance of servant leadership and putting people first

Key Takeaways:

• The difference between finding time and making time for what truly matters
• How prioritization and delegation can drive both personal and team success
• Why slow leadership can sometimes be the fastest path to real impact
• The importance of servant leadership and investing in people
• How to create trust and build a culture of family within your team
• Why face-to-face connection still holds unmatched value in leadership

A Thought to Leave You With:

"A leader's greatest responsibility isn't just to grow the business—it's to grow the people. Trust, patience, and intentionality make all the difference."

Ways to Connect & Learn More:

LinkedIn: Marnie Byford
Email: mbyford@sstaffing.com

In this episode of Strategies for Tomorrow's Leaders, we explore the power of leadership that prioritizes culture, training, and strategic hiring. Our guest, Marnie Byford, shares insights on how to build a strong, mission-driven team, the importance of hiring for attitude over skills, and why slowing down can be the key to long-term success.

Meet Our Podcast Guest: Marnie Byford

This week, we're joined by Marnie [Last Name], COO of Supreme Staffing, a national leader in talent solutions. With 17+ years in staffing and recruiting, Marnie specializes in strategic growth, operations, and team development. Her expertise in healthcare administration and education brings unique insight into workforce challenges and solutions.

Tune in for a conversation on leadership, talent strategy, and building high-performing teams!

Key Takeaways:

• How to hire for attitude and train for skill
• The role of leadership in creating a high-performance team culture
• Why slowing down in hiring and onboarding leads to long-term success
• The impact of hands-on leadership and understanding frontline challenges
• Strategies for effective delegation as a tool for leadership development
• The evolving job market and how to adapt hiring strategies for 2025

Show notes:

00:00 – Introduction to the episode and guest background
00:29 – The importance of hiring right and what most companies get wrong
01:07 – How our guest started in staffing and what led to their leadership journey
02:42 – The hiring philosophy: Attitude over skills
03:53 – Inside the interview process: How to assess hunger and motivation in candidates
04:59 – The unique assessment process: Placing candidates in real work scenarios
07:01 – Why every leader should understand frontline operations before managing people
07:53 – The role of onboarding in long-term retention and success
09:22 – What clients do wrong in their hiring process (and how to fix it)
10:30 – The consequences of rushed interviews and why slowing down is key
11:29 – The biggest hiring mistakes companies make
12:46 – The impact of culture fit vs. culture add in hiring
14:33 – How investing in employee growth leads to better retention

Ways to Connect & Learn More:

LinkedIn: Marnie Byford
Email: mbyford@sstaffing.com

In Part 2 of this conversation with Tim Silk, discover how the 4 Cs—clarity, curiosity, connection, and confidence—can help you navigate uncertainty, inspire your team, and lead with impact. Packed with actionable insights, this episode is a must-listen for leaders ready to elevate their influence and effectiveness.

What You'll Learn:

• Clarity as a Superpower: Why defining what truly matters is essential in reducing uncertainty and driving results.
• The Curiosity Advantage: How developing an inquisitive mindset uncovers new possibilities and fuels innovation.
• Authentic Connection: The importance of listening deeply and being fully present to build trust and meaningful relationships.
• Confidence Rooted in Humility: How true confidence inspires others without arrogance and transforms how leaders are perceived.
• Time Ownership: Strategies to reclaim control of your time and prioritize what matters most in your leadership journey.

Practical Applications:

• Use the "4 Cs" framework to shift from reactive to proactive leadership.
• Learn how to reframe your time management practices to align with your values and goals.
• Discover how presence and listening can deepen connections with your team, clients, and loved ones.

In this episode of Strategies for Tomorrow's Leaders, Mike Lejeune connects with Tim Silk, founder of Acacia Days, to explore leadership principles that endure through uncertainty. Together, they delve into self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and the power of soft skills to build resilient teams and lasting legacies. Discover how curiosity, reflection, and engagement can transform not only workplaces but also the leaders steering them.

Topics discussed

• Redefining Leadership for the Uncertain Future
• The Misunderstood Power of Soft Skills
• Curiosity as a Leadership Superpower
• The Leader's Role in Driving Engagement
• Navigating AI's Role in Leadership
• Reflection as a Leadership Action

Connect with Tim Silk

In this episode of Strategies for Tomorrow's Leaders, Mike Lejeune welcomes Larry Long Jr., president of the National Speakers Association Carolina's chapter and author of Jolt: Get Zapped Into Intentionality. Together, they explore how intentionality, emotional intelligence, and a people-first mindset drive productivity and engagement in today's workplace. Larry shares his journey from overcoming personal challenges to becoming a top sales influencer and motivational speaker. With practical insights for leaders and actionable strategies for growth, this conversation sets the stage for creating high-performing teams.

Highlights:

• The importance of igniting not just minds but hearts.
• Key lessons from Jolt: Intentionality and transformation.
• What today's leaders wrestle with most: motivating and inspiring people
• Building Relationships That Matter

Don't miss the next part of this conversation where Larry and Mike dive even deeper into actionable strategies for leading with impact. Be sure to subscribe, rate, and share this episode with fellow leaders looking to ignite productivity and build meaningful connections.

Follow Larry Long Jr.:
🌐 Visit Larry's website: LarryLongJr.com
💼 Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/longjr7/

Stay tuned for Part 2! 🚀

In this episode, Mike Lejeune chats with Larry Long Jr., diving deep into the challenges and strategies leaders face when transitioning from individual contributors to influential managers. Together, they discuss the importance of seeing situations from others' perspectives, asking thoughtful questions, and leading with intentionality. Along the way, they share personal stories of resilience, accountability, and the power of investing in people for long-term success.

Key Topics Covered:

1. Seeing Beyond Your Perspective:

   • The importance of understanding others' viewpoints.
   • Why leaders must ask the right questions to truly know their team members.

2. Barriers to Effective Leadership:

   • Common stumbling blocks for leaders, such as not asking enough questions or prioritizing short-term results over long-term investment in people.
   • Larry's example of Intuit's employee-first strategy and its impact on business outcomes.

3. Personal Accountability and Change:

   • Larry and Mike share personal health journeys, highlighting the role of intentionality and discipline in achieving meaningful goals.
   • Mike's reflections on his family history and how it motivates his health decisions.

4. Leadership Transition Challenges:

   • The shift from excelling as an individual contributor to leading others effectively.
   • Insights into why great performers don't always make great leaders, using examples from sports and business.

5. The Role of Clarity in Leadership:

   • Why clarity is the cornerstone of effective leadership.
   • How leaders can align their teams around a shared vision and focus on solutions rather than problems.

6. Navigating Team Dynamics:

   • Recognizing and addressing dysfunction within teams.
   • Strategies for building cohesion and resolving conflicts in diverse groups.

This episode is a masterclass in leadership, offering actionable insights for anyone looking to elevate their management style and create high-performing, engaged teams. Whether you're a seasoned leader or just stepping into a leadership role, the lessons shared will inspire and equip you to lead with clarity, intentionality, and empathy.

Connect with Us:

• Mike Lejeune: Website | Podcast
• Larry Long Jr.: LinkedIn

Subscribe, rate, and review to stay updated on more leadership strategies and stories!

In this episode, Mike Lejeune and Dustin Norwood discuss the evolving role of leadership in modern organizations, emphasizing the importance of empathy and meaningful engagement. Dustin shares insights into how leaders can connect employees' roles to the organization's mission, fostering a sense of purpose. They explore the importance of micro-credentialing in professional development, addressing its relevance in bridging skill gaps and enhancing employee growth. The conversation delves into practical strategies for leaders to adopt a consultative mindset, leveraging empathy to build trust and genuine connections within their teams.

Key topics covered: 
The Role of Purpose in Leadership 
Empathy as a Key Leadership Tool
The Power of Vulnerability in Leadership  
From Training to Development: Shifting the Focus
Micro-Credentialing: A Modern Solution 
Creating a Culture of Continuous Learning

Contact Information:
Connect with Dustin Norwood for more information about the ASA's ProStacks program or for leadership development insights: dnorwood@americanstaffing.net 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustindnorwood/

Visit the American Staffing Association website for additional resources on employee development and leadership training:
https://americanstaffing.net/asa-events/

Making Belief Practical—From Hiring to Customer Experience

Introduction:
In Part 2, we get into the how. Matt walks through what belief looks like in action—from hiring people who align with your culture, to defining values in ways people can actually use, to building customer experiences that transform relationships. This is packed with real stories from Apple, Nordstrom, and other brands that got it right, plus Matt's CADET framework that changes how you think about every interaction.

Summary:
We tackle the practical side of building belief-driven cultures. Matt shares how to hire for cultural fit and belief (not just skills), and walks through his experience scaling Apple retail from 10,000 to 25,000 employees without losing their DNA. We dig into why values are meaningless without tangible definitions, the power of storytelling in creating shared understanding, and the CADET framework for customer experience. Matt also explains why incentives must align with desired behaviors, using real examples of what happens when they don't.

Key Highlights:

• Apple hired for people who loved the brand and wanted to serve, not for product expertise—then trained them
• Values need tangible definitions: what does "kindness" look like, sound like, feel like in your specific organization?
• The CADET framework: Connect, Assess, Deliver, Exceed, Transform—and why you can't skip steps
• Incentives and behaviors must align, or your culture breaks down (the e-commerce returns example)

Key Takeaways:

• Hire for belief, train for skill. Look for alignment with your mission and values first, then build competence.
• Define your values in observable terms. Don't just say "kindness"—describe what it looks like in action and what it doesn't look like.
• Use storytelling to build culture. Get your team to share transformational experiences, then identify the common threads.
• Deliver flawlessly before trying to exceed. Master the basics (stated needs) before attempting to wow people with extras.
• Remove barriers to desired behaviors. If you want certain actions, make sure your incentive structure supports them, not fights them.

Next Steps for Listeners:

• Pick one of your company values. Can you describe it in specific, observable terms? If not, gather your team and define it together using stories.
• Review your last few hires. Did you prioritize skills or cultural alignment? What would change if belief came first?
• Walk through a customer or employee experience using CADET. Where are you trying to "exceed" before you've "delivered"?

Connect with Matt on LinkedIn.

In this episode, Mike Lejeune speaks with Dustin Norwood about the transformative power of employee development and engagement. They explore why investing in development is the number one tool leaders have to retain and engage talent. Dustin shares his journey from education in Japan to his leadership role at the American Staffing Association (ASA), offering insights into how companies can prioritize meaningful employee development. They also discuss the changing landscape of leadership, emphasizing the need for leaders to foster environments where employees find purpose and meaning in their work.

What was covered:
The Importance of Employee Development 
Dustin's Journey and Expertise  
The Challenge of Prioritizing Development  
Adapting to Technological Change with Empathy  
Servant Leadership and the Shift from Transactional Models  
Micro-Learning and Connectivism  
Creating Purpose in the Workplace 

Contact Information:
Connect with Dustin Norwood for more information on ASA's development programs and micro-credentialing opportunities: dnorwood@americanstaffing.net 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustindnorwood/

Visit the American Staffing Association website for additional resources on employee development and leadership training:
https://americanstaffing.net/asa-events/

In this episode, Mike Lejeune interviews Alejo Orvananos, a Gen Z professional working in the tech startup space. Alejo shares insights into his generation's approach to work, leadership, and the growing value of experiences over material possessions. As an entrepreneur working with BarBoards, Alejo explores how artificial intelligence is shaping the bar and restaurant industry.

Key Topics Covered:

Understanding the 'experience economy' and its impact on Gen Z's values
Alejo's career journey from UT Austin to working with a tech startup
The role of leadership in connecting with younger generations
The importance of effective communication and emotional intelligence
The challenges and opportunities in the tech startup world
How AI is transforming customer experiences in hospitality

Show Notes:

[00:06:00] - The Shift in Values
[00:11:00] - Leadership Through the Lens of Gen Z
[00:15:45] - The Role of Technology in Building Connections
[00:20:30] - Navigating the Startup World
[00:25:10] - The Experience Economy Explained
[00:30:00] - Emotional Intelligence in Leadership
[00:35:00] - Looking Ahead: The Future of Work and Leadership

Connect with Alejo:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/alejoorvananos/

#Podcast #Leadership #GenZ #TechInnovation #ExperienceEconomy

In this powerful episode, Mike Lejeune sits down with Russell Harvey, the renowned Resilience Coach, to delve into the profound connection between emotional intelligence and resilience.

• Together, they explore how our inner voice shapes our response to life's challenges and how self-awareness can transform our leadership. 
• Get ready for practical strategies to reframe adversity, shift from reactivity to proactivity, and navigate today's chaotic world with clarity and purpose.
• Discover how to turn setbacks into springboards for growth and build a more resilient mindset that empowers you to face whatever life throws your way.

Show notes:

Introduction (00:00 - 00:04)
Mike introduces Russell Harvey and the core theme: resilience through emotional intelligence.

Self-Talk and Resilience (00:04 - 00:10)
The impact of self-talk on resilience and practical tips to reframe negative thinking.

Reframing Challenges (00:10 - 00:18)
Russell's story of overcoming setbacks and moving from a victim mentality to proactive resilience.

Leading in a VUCA World (00:18 - 00:25)
How VUCA Prime (Vision, Understanding, Clarity, Agility) can help you lead in uncertain times.

Emotional Intelligence in Leadership (00:25 - 00:34)
The role of self-awareness and empathy in fostering resilient teams and effective leadership.

Toxic Positivity vs. Real Optimism (00:34 - 00:42)
How to balance honest challenges with grounded optimism to inspire real resilience.

The Resilience Wheel (00:42 - 00:50)
Russell's Resilience Wheel and how to leverage your strengths for personal and professional growth.

Takeaways (00:50 - 01:00)
Final thoughts: Reflect on your own resilience and start integrating emotional intelligence into your leadership.

Feeling inspired? Reach out to Russell and share how you're building resilience in your own life. Let's keep the conversation going!

Connect on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/russelltheresiliencecoach/

What if resilience wasn't just about bouncing back, but springing forward with new insights? In this episode of Strategies for Tomorrow's Leaders, Mike Lejeune talks with UK-based resilience coach Russell Harvey to explore how leaders can turn challenges into opportunities for growth. Curious about how adaptability, reflection, and purpose fuel resilience? Tune in to discover practical ways to thrive in an ever-changing world.

Show Notes:
[01:11] What Is Resilience, Really?
Resilience isn't just about pushing through hard times. Mike introduces it as the key to overcoming obstacles and driving professional success. What if resilience was more than just "bouncing back"—how could that change the way you lead?

[01:32] Meet Russell Harvey
Get to know Russell Harvey, a resilience coach on a mission to positively impact 100,000 people. With 74,000 lives already touched, hear how Russell's journey has shaped his passion for resilience and leadership.

[04:11] Redefining Resilience: "Springing Forward with Learning"
Russell shares his fresh perspective on resilience. Rather than simply returning to a previous state, true resilience means learning from challenges and growing stronger. How can you adopt this mindset in your personal and professional life?

[06:09] Surviving vs. Thriving in Unpredictable Times
What's the difference between just surviving and truly thriving? Russell explains how resilience enables leaders to not just cope with change but excel in a fast-moving world. Are you thriving in today's unpredictability?

[11:31] The Power of Reflection
Reflection isn't just about looking back—it's about learning and growing. Mike and Russell discuss how stepping outside your comfort zone and making time for reflection can accelerate your leadership growth.

[16:40] Introducing The Resilience Wheel
Russell walks us through his Resilience Wheel, which includes seven essential components like adaptability, confidence, and purpose. How strong are these elements in your own leadership? Learn how to assess and develop them.

[18:06] Building Resilience Through Adaptability and Learning
How can leaders build resilience? Russell shares tips on cultivating curiosity and staying adaptable to make learning a lifelong habit. How open are you to change, and what can you do to embrace it more fully?

[20:50] Purpose vs. Meaning: Key to Resilience
Russell distinguishes between purpose (your reason for being) and meaning (the story you tell yourself). Both are crucial for resilience, but how do they shape your ability to grow from adversity?

[24:15] Final Takeaway: Spring Forward with Learning
Resilience isn't about going back to who you were before. Russell leaves us with a powerful message: use challenges as a springboard to become even stronger. What will you take forward from your challenges?

Actionable Insights:

• Reflect on Your Challenges: How often do you make time to reflect? Take a moment to think about your key learnings from recent adversity.
• Assess Your Adaptability: Are you resistant to change, or do you embrace it? Evaluate your openness to new experiences and ideas.
• Reframe Setbacks: Next time you face a challenge, ask yourself, "How can I grow from this?" Turn obstacles into opportunities for growth.

Connect with Russell Harvey:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/russelltheresiliencecoach/

#LeadershipGrowth #ResilienceMatters #ResilienceCoach #LeadershipDevelopment #Adaptability #GrowthMindset #ThriveNotSurvive #LeadershipTools #PurposeDrivenLeadership #LeadershipPodcast #ContinuousImprovement #ShareTheKnowledge

🎙️ Part 2 of the podcast with Robin Mee is now live! Dive deeper into Robin's valuable insights as she shares more about leading in the staffing industry, fostering a culture of continuous learning, and advocating for diversity and inclusion. Don't miss this episode filled with actionable takeaways and inspiration!

Show notes:

01:50 Continuous Learning and Development

09:00 Resilience and Leaning Forward with Learning

14:00 Challenges and Opportunities in the Staffing Industry

19:40 Advocating for Diversity and Inclusion

22:20 The Importance of Mentorship and Sponsorship

Connect with Robin:
linkedin.com/in/robinmee/

Visit Mee Derby's website:
meederby.com

#Podcast #StaffingIndustry #Leadership #ContinuousLearning #Resilience #DiversityAndInclusion #WomenInLeadership #Mentorship #CareerDevelopment #RemoteWork #Inspiration

In this episode of "Strategies for Tomorrow's Leaders," Mike Lejeune speaks with Graham Wilson on "Building Authentic and Resilient Leaders." They discuss the essence of leadership in today's unpredictable world, highlighting the importance of self-confidence, psychological safety, and genuine connection with teams. 

Drawing from his military and business experience, Graham shares insights on how leaders can elevate both themselves and those they lead, emphasizing the critical roles of empathy, authenticity, and adaptability in guiding through challenges.

Show notes:

02:05 Graham on creating a high-performance environment and the motivational impact of small progress.

04:15 Looking ahead: What leaders need to cultivate in themselves and their teams to navigate the future.

12:15 Balancing results with relationships: The essential role of soft skills in long-term success.

17:00 Leading through connection: How empathy and emotional intelligence build trust and inspire teams.

20:15 The cost of disengagement and the impact of making every team member feel valued.

Connect with Graham:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/leadershipwizard/

#Leadership #HighPerformance #FutureOfWork #SoftSkills #Empathy #EmotionalIntelligence #TeamBuilding #EmployeeEngagement #LeadershipJourney #TrustBuilding #GrahamWilson #MikeLejeune #Podcast

In this episode, Mike Lejeune sits down with Robin Mee, the CEO of Mee Derby, an award-winning executive search staffing firm. With over 35 years of experience in the staffing industry, Robin shares her insights on leading a remote workforce, fostering a community of trust and collaboration, and the importance of continuous learning and development. She also discusses her advocacy for women in leadership and the challenges and opportunities in the staffing industry today. Whether you're a leader navigating the complexities of remote work or someone interested in the evolution of the staffing industry, this episode is packed with valuable lessons and inspiration.

Show notes:

01:30 Robin's background and extensive experience in the staffing industry
03:10 The Shift to Remote Work
7:15 Leadership Adjustments in a Remote Environment
10:25 Building a Community of Trust and Communication
13:10 Driving Results Through Communication and Relationships
18:20 Managing a Remote Workforce: The Importance of Sharing and Trust
25:05 Supporting Senior Staff in Challenging Times

Connect with Robin:
linkedin.com/in/robinmee/

Visit Mee Derby's website:
meederby.com

#StaffingIndustry #RemoteWorkforce #Trust #Collaboration #Learning #Development #WomenInLeadership #Leadership #RemoteWork #Inspiration #Communication #Relationships #SeniorStaff

In this episode of Strategies for Tomorrow's Leaders, Mike Lejeune sits down with Graham Wilson, a renowned global leadership consultant, often referred to as the "Leadership Wizard." The conversation dives deep into the essence of leadership in today's fast-paced world, emphasizing the importance of resilience, authenticity, and the art of slowing down to speed up.

Graham shares his journey into leadership consulting, highlighting how his title of "Leadership Wizard" was born out of his clients' experiences of extraordinary results through his guidance. He discusses the significant challenges leaders face today, including the need to unlearn outdated practices and embrace new ways of thinking. A key takeaway is the concept of building real, authentic leadership that resonates with teams, fostering environments where people feel genuinely engaged and valued.

Mike and Graham explore the crucial role of self-awareness and purpose in leadership. Graham stresses that true leadership begins with understanding oneself and having a clear vision of one's purpose. The episode also touches on the importance of creating high-performance teams, the necessity of adaptability in leadership, and the balance between driving results and maintaining human connections.

Show Notes:

01:00 Overview of Graham's background as a global leadership consultant
The story behind the nickname "Leadership Wizard"

02:50 Key Leadership Challenges
The importance of unlearning outdated leadership practices

07:45 Building Resilient Leaders:
The necessity of slowing down to achieve better results
Creating a high-trust, psychologically safe environment for teams

12:01 Leadership in the Modern World:
Crafting leadership disciplines tailored to the current context
The role of simplicity and clarity in decision-making
Adapting leadership styles to different cultural and organizational contexts

Connect with Graham:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/leadershipwizard/