Follow My Lead: Developing the Leaders of Tomorrow with John Eades

A group of porcupines huddling together in winter provides an unlikely but powerful metaphor for leadership. In this episode, John Eades dives into the critical importance of direct dialogue and the necessity of difficult conversations for team performance, accountability, and growth. You'll learn: Why avoiding conflict is more harmful than facing it The 3-part formula for effective direct dialogue: Standards, Evidence, and Courage How to act on the truth behind Alex Hormozi's quote: “Confronting someone in the short term always beats resenting them in the long term for things left unsaid.” Whether you're leading a team, managing a project, or striving for healthier relationships, this episode will equip you to speak up, lean into conflict, and lead with clarity. Check out LearnLoft Here

"Great leadership inspires followership.  It get people to follow the strategy. Followership doesn't happen by just telling people what to do." Adam Weber joins the show in this week's episode. He is the former Chief People Officer at 15Five, co-founder of Emplify, and author of Lead Like a Human. You can learn more about Adam here  Interested in booking a free workshop for your organization, go here.  

Talent gets the headlines, but character wins championships. In this episode, John Eades shares a story from NBA All-Star Draymond Green about his rookie teammate Trace Jackson-Davis — and the quiet, selfless act that every team leader should notice. Then, John introduces the Talent Cross Model, a practical tool for evaluating the people on your team through two powerful lenses: ability and selflessness. If you want to build a team that performs at a high level and elevates one another, this episode is a must.

Proficiency in leadership doesn't always follow tenure. While tenure provides experience, without a growth mindset and a desire to learn, skill doesn't automatically improve. Take golfers as an example; plenty of golfers have played for decades, and rarely do they improve. The same is true in leadership. Tenure doesn't always equal leadership. However, in leadership, there are a few basic principles that, if you know them, can help you shorten your timeline to proficiency and deliver better results. Before we get there, let's level set on what a principle is and where these came from.  A principle, by definition, is a concisely worded statement of truth that transcends circumstances. They are cornerstones to rely on and lean on to help with comprehension and application. Most of these principles are drawn from our research studying world-class leadership and my book Building the Best.  Hopefully, they help you focus your efforts and solve some of your people problems. So let's dig in.

Everyone is too busy focusing on themselves. "To get in the spotlight, you have to have a bias for action when no one is watching." In the latest episode, John Eades covers the Spotlight Effect, whereby we overestimate the degree to which other people are noticing or observing our appearance, actions, behaviors, or results. You can subscribe to the Optimistic Outlook for Free Here  You can check out Amy Eades '"They Told Me to Share Newsletter Here"  

"The voice in your head that's telling you to quit isn't real.  It's ego, and you can lower the volume of that voice."  In the latest episode, Craig Siegel joins the show.  He is the author of The Reinevention Formula, you can find it here. Subscribe to John's Optimistic Outlook Newsletter

"You won't get it if you don't ask." In the latest episode of the John Eades Podcast,  he covers five essential lessons from going to the Michael Marcagi concert.   "If you want people to know you for something, you must make something." You can watch the show here on Youtube  

In the latest episode of the podcast, John Eades covers 10 short messages to help you choose optimism today.  Which one is your favorite? You can get the simple daily message of Optimism via email by subscribing for free here. 

If you don't pick your optimistic voice, by default, you pick your pessimistic voice. In the latest episode, John Eades covers the Daily Free Three: Was how you thought today your best? Was what I did today my best? Was how you communicated today your best? You can subscribe to the free Optimistic Outlook Newsletter   You can talk to a team member about Leadership Development Here

Ever wondered how to deal with a toxic rock star employee? Or if it's okay to show frustration in front of your team? In this episode of The John Eades Podcast, I tackle five of the trickiest questions managers face every day. “How do I deal with a star employee who's becoming a toxic influence?” “What's the best way to hold someone accountable without micromanaging?” “We lost a big client. My team is discouraged—what's my first move?” “Is it ever okay for a leader to show frustration or cry in front of their team?” “One of my team members has great ideas but struggles to communicate them—how can I help?” This is your guide to navigating real-world leadership challenges with confidence. Tune in and level up your management game! Check out the Accelerate Leadership Program for Your Organization Here. Book John to speak at your next event here

"Just because you haven't doesn't mean you can't." In the latest episode of the John Eades Podcast, John covers how to make 2025 your best year ever.  Define Your Personal Purpose To uncover a purpose that's bigger than a goal, one might ask: "What impact do I want to have on others or the world around me?" "What values and passions drive me to keep going even when things get tough?" "If I achieved all my goals, what would still feel missing or unfulfilled in my life?" For the sake of today, and at the beginning of the year, think about what you want to become this year? Come up With Your Faith Words Faith Words are a simple phrase you are going to carry with you in 2025.  It's more than one word, it's a a mantra that you need to carry you, to inspire you.   This is so critical because the words you say to yourself are the most important words you say.  Your Voice is valuable.   You can learn more about hosting an Accelerate Leadership Program in Your Company Here You can learn more about The Leadership Growth Plan Here  

"Without reflection, we go blindly on our way, creating more unintended consequences, and failing to achieve anything useful." - Margaret Wheatley In the last episode of 2024, John Eades covers the 2025 Growth Audit.  Which includes 6 questions to reflect on your previous year before heading into the new one: How have you positively influenced your team or organization? When did fear cause a lack of action? How have your leadership skills evolved, and what actions contributed to the growth? What challenges did you face, and what did you learn from them? What do you need to remove to help me next year? What is your Catalyst for Growth Challenge for 2025? Want help developing leaders in 2025?  Check out LearnLoft Want John to deliver a keynote or workshop at your next event? Check this out  

Her team performance was down, voluntary turnover was escalating, and she was really starting to question herself.  Was she good enough for this position? Was she good enough for this role?  Was she worthy enough for this responsibility? She had doubt and fear running through her veins.  (The truth is we all do)  BUt she had two big things going for her. She had a growth mindset and courage.   In the latest episode, John Eades covers the fantastic story of a manager who did the hard work to skyrocket her confidence and change the trajectory of her team's performance.  If you want to sign up for the Accelerate Leadership Program Go Here  

"Being coachable is how you show the world that you have a hunger to get better and are willing to put in the work and effort." In the latest episode of the John Eades Podcast, John covers 3 practical ways to remain coachable your entire career.  According to Leadership IQ, if you aren't coachable, it's also tough to make a successful job move. They conducted a three-year study of 20,000 hiring decisions and asked, Why do 46% of new hires fail within a year and a half? The number one reason from hiring managers was lack of coachability. If you have big career advancement goals, you had better learn to be coachable, and show that trait to others. What's interesting about coachability is that it's not a technical skill or inherent to us. It's a mental mindset that anyone can embrace. You can sign up for the Accelerate Leadership Program Here.

“Don't get frustrated by what people are not, find joy in what they are." In the latest episode of the John Eades podcast, John dives into lessons learned from an experience with Jim Collins in Charlotte, NC.   Specifically he covers principles, models, and ideas around: People Action You can learn more about Jim Collins here You can hire John Eades as an executive coach or speaker here You can learn more about LearnLoft here. 

"Leadership doesn't guarantee success, but a lack of leadership guarantees there won't be success." In this week's episode, John covers the story of the Mexican Fisherman.  While you can take different lessons and takeaways from the story, he covers:  1. Meaningful Progress Takes Time  2. Small Impact Matters As Well 3. Just Because It's What Someone Else is Doing Doesn't Mean you Have To You can learn more about LearnLoft's leadership development program here or have John speak at your next event here.   

"Your beliefs and mindset have an enormous impact on your actions and outcomes." In the latest episode of the John Eades podcast, John covers The Dartmouth Scar experiment, an intriguing study about the power of your mindset.  Here are three ways to avoid the victim-mindset Change Your Mindset Adjust Your Language Develop Thick Skin    

"The team takes priority over the individual." In the latest episode of the John Eades podcast, John dissects the hard truths great leaders know about letting someone go.  John explored the decision from Carolina Panthers Head Coach Dave Canalas to Bench Quarterback Bryce Young.  Truth #1. Leaders make tough decisions Truth #2 - Someone's failure can be a reflection of your leadership Truth #3 - Leaders don't keep throwing good money after bad

"When there is a void in leadership, someone will fill it. In many cases, it's someone that might not  know what they are doing.” In the latest episode of the John Eades podcast Will Jones joins the show. He is the President and CEO of Thompson Child & Family Focus.  Looking for a partner to help develop leaders in your organization?  Check out LearnLoft.

"Leaders who utilize their time and attention properly create more time tomorrow." In the latest episode, John Eades breaks down a critical leadership principle and how to use Time Management like the best leaders.  You can learn more about the Accelerate Leadership Program Here Or you can get your copy of the 64 Day Excellence Planner Here  

"There is a lot to learn about how leaders handle success." In the latest episode, Jordan Montgomery, author of The Art of Encouragement, joins the show.  We cover: How leaders handle success How leaders handle failure How to encourage others around you Why Encouragement is key to success You can learn more about Jordan Montgomery here. Looking for a proven system to help managers in your organization to become leaders?  Check out the Accelerate Leadership System from LearnLoft.   

"If you struggle with confidence, focus on actions that build evidence." In the latest episode John Eades covers specific strategies and stories to help you build your confidence daily.  If you prefer video, you can watch it on YouTube Here.  How to build confidence: Demonstrate and Action Daily That Builds Evidence Shed Perfection Squash the Ant Build an Iron Council You can learn more about LearnLoft and the Accelerate Leadership Program Here: Hire John to speak at an upcoming company event here.

"A team is three or more people working together to achieve a common goal." In the latest episode of the John Eades Podcast, Dr. Will Sparks joins the show.  His latest book, Actualized Teamwork: Unlocking the Culture Code for Optimal Performance is now available.  Interested in improving performance, reducing turnover, and improving leadership skills in your organization, reach out at learnloft.com.  

“You have to want it, then you have to work for it in order to win it.” - Deion Sanders In the latest episode, John Eades covers: The difference in desire vs. dedication The Disappointment Gap How to increase Desire How to increase dedication You can get the 64-Day Excellence Planner here.   You can subscribe on YouTube Here

"A mediocre team can't suddenly become great on the day of the Superbowl."   "Leaders set the culture, culture produces activities and behaviors, and the activities lead to the results." In the latest episode, Pete Angstadt, Chief Revenue Officer at Ping Identity, joins the show.  We cover: Accountability High-Performance Mentality Culture Transparency  Growth Mindset Command & Control Leadership  

"The words you say to yourself are the most important words you say." In the latest episode of the John Eades Podcast, John covered the important topic of your internal dialogue.  Story of the lion and the sheep  The Illusory Truth Effect  Extreme Globalizing Words Act Differently Than You Feel Stop Saying "Can't" Get the 64 Day Excellence Planner or Schedule a Call to Develop Leaders in Your Organization  

"Great leaders make great decisions and aren't afraid to make them." In the latest episode of the John Eades Podcast, John covers specific stories and strategies to help demand better decision making from yourself.  In the show, he covers five key steps to better decisions: Identify the type of decision  Choose Your Character Avoid Either Or as much as possible Combine Logic and Emotion Demand a Deadline Now, if you lead a team, don't forget the bonus #6. You can get the 64-Day Excellence Planner Here or Check out inspiration items at the Excellence Shop.     

Believing in yourself is fantastic, but you know what's better? Helping someone else believe in themselves. In the latest episode, John covers how to navigate insecurity and transfer belief to others.  Lower the Stakes Label and Replace Show Gratitude for Opportunities You can get the 64-Day Excellence Planner.  Use the code "podcast" to get 20% off.

In this week's show, John covers a topic that everyone can improve upon; time management.   You can get the 64-Day Excellence Planner Here. Use the code "podcast" at checkout to get 20% off of the Wirebound version. The 64-Day Excellence Planner is: The Perfect Size 8x11 Has Big Spaces to Write Easy to Turn Strong and Sturdy It's a perfect planner to improve your focus and performance.  A few of the principles and stories John covers in the show includes: The story of the rock, pebbles, sand, and coffee When you are productive, confidence increases. When you procrastinate, insecurity increases. Most people don't have a talent problem; they have a focus problem. Successful people aren't just hard workers; they are quick workers too. Figuring out what is most important and get started on it right away.   

"Done is better than perfect."  In the latest episode of The John Eades podcast, Ryan Webber CMO of Thomas & Webber. You can now watch the episode on YouTube if you prefer video.  Check it out here.  You can subscribe to Ryan and Tiffany's Youtube Channel The Real Estate Show on Youtube  

In the latest episode of The John Eades Podcast, John covers the important story of "The Wreck of The Persona."  A few additional topics include: The Character of a Leader The Core Values of a Leader The Mindset of a Leader You can find The True Measure of a Man from Richard Simmons here.

"Leadership is responsibility." In the latest episode of The John Eades Podcast, he covers 5 Ways to Embrace Responsibility in your life.  Remember the Ancient Proverb: He who blames others has a long way to go on his journey He who blames himself is halfway there He who blames no one has arrived  Get the Leadership Lens newsletter for free  

"Without reflection, we go blindly on our way, creating more unintended consequences, and failing to achieve anything useful." - Margaret Wheatley In the latest episode of The John Eades Podcast, John covers 6 Questions to Challenge Your Mind from The Annual Growth Audit.  You can download the for free here.  What created energy and momentum this year? When did fear cause a lack of action? What did I learn this year? What did I change this year? What do I need to remove to help me next year? What are my goals for this year?      

"Your best performance tomorrow, requires you to remove weight today." In the latest episode, John Eades covered the essential topic of "The Weight You Carry." Everyone is carrying a backpack with them everyday.  In it is one of 5 things: The things you have to do The trauma you experienced The responsibilities of life The goals of tomorrow The guilt of mistakes from the past Learn more about how LearnLoft can help improve the performance of your people at learnloft.com.  Or have John speak to your team here.  

"Easy now means hard later, hard now means easy later." In the latest episode, John Eades covers the important topic of finding something hard to do. He challenges you to find something spiritually, professionally, personally, or physically top prepare you for 2024. 

Every act of kindness you've done, you've done to yourself. Every happy and sad moment ever experienced by any human was, or will be, experienced by you. In the latest episode of The John Eades Podcast, John covers the story of, The Egg, written by Andy Weir.  He challenges you to think deeply about your mindset and your actions.  You can learn more about developing leaders in your organizationa at LearnLoft.com or invite John to speak at your next event.   

"Easy doesn't make you better." In the latest episode, John Eades covers the Warrior in the Garden story.  He also covered the BALA Method, which stands for Believe, Act, Learn, Adjust.   You will also hear: The "Man in the Arena" speech by Theodore Roosevelt The open learning culture of airlines versus healthcare And much more Learn more about LearnLoft here or book John to speak to your organization here.   

The greatest act of leadership is believing in another person. Said differently, without a transfer of belief, there is no leadership. In the latest episode, John Eades covers the essential leadership topic of Transferring belief to others.   Have John speak to leaders in your organization here.   Learn more about developing leaders in your organization here. 

“Teamwork is achieved when individuals buy into the group's greater good over their self-interest.” In the latest episode of the John Eades Podcast, John covers specific ideas and strategies to manufacture teamwork to improve performance.

In the latest episode of the John Eades Podcast, Thomas R. Williams joined the show.  You can learn more about Thomas here. You can get a copy of his book Dig here.

Motivation is best defined as a condition inside us that initiates, guides, and maintains goal-oriented behaviors. In today's episode, John Eades covers the proven formula to have uncommon motivation in your professional journey.   You can hire John to speak in your organization or learn more about leadership development programs with LearnLoft. 

“Leaders aren't born with a great aura about them, that's developed” In the latest episode of the John Eades podcast, James Wall is the Chief Operating Officer at Accurate Staffing Consultants. In this insightful episode, James shares: Whether leaders are born or made How great leaders think about patience And much more You can learn more about James here or Accurate Staffing    

"Sometimes when you are in a dark place, you think you have been buried, but really you have been planted."- Christine Cain In the latest episode of the John Eades podcast, learn how to help yourself, and others overcome challenges.   Learn more about the Accelerate Leadership Program or have John speak at an upcoming event johneades.com  

In the latest episode, John covers the important topic of time management.  Specifically: Strategies to manage energy and attention Why calendars and clocks can hurt relationships And much more Interested in leadership development solutions?  Check out learnloft.com.

In the latest episode of The John Eades podcast, John is joined by two special guests, John Ellis Eades and Lucy Eades.  In the show, they ask their dad ten questions about work, leadership, and life lessons.   Learn more johneades.com or  learnloft.com

"Employees aren't mechanisms to get work done, they are assets to invest in so they can do their best work." In the latest episode of the John Eades podcast, John covers the five mindset shifts required to be a successful leader.   Here they are: People are assets, not mechanisms Tasks are empowered, not delegated Accountability requires standards, not rules Change must be unleashed, not remain the same Results need effort, not just outcomes Learn more about a leadership development program for your organization here. 

"The best leaders don't just have belief, they have an unwavering belief. " Listen to John's keynote, Bound By Belief, from the Catalyst for Growth Summit on the latest episode of the John Eades Podcast.  If you enjoyed it, drop him a message on LinkedIn or Sign Up to watch the Summit OnDemand here.     

"Stop reducing your career to how much money you can make.  Start raising it to the level of impact you can have." In the first episode of 2023, John covers 10 reliable lessons learned last year to help you lead better this year.  Reject the Firestation Mentality Learn to Serve Stop Being Someone You Aren't Leadership is Temporary, Impact is Lasting Assumptions in Communication Set You Up for Suffering No Team or Organization is Great Without its People One Person Can Completely Change the Energy on a Team or in a Room Connect Before You Correct A Compelling Vision Provides Hope No Team Can Overcome Toxic Team Members Register for the Catalyst for Growth Summit.

"Irrespective if positive outcomes happen exactly as you want them, hope allows you to continue seeking positive outcomes in your life and career even in the bleakest circumstances." In the latest episode of The John Eades Podcast, he covers why hope is the fuel to positive outcomes.   In the show, John covers:  - The three aspects of reality all humans face - Why Christmas provides hope to kids and adults alike - How to provide hope to yourself and others Sign up for the Catalyst for Growth Summit Here

"Most people don't lack talent, they lack confidence." In the latest episode of the John Eades Podcast, we cover: Why confidence is a key to your performance What happens when you have confidence How to build internal self-confidence Sign up for the Catalyst For Growth Summit 

"Life is not owed to us. It is gifted. It is up to us to openly accept life however it is packaged to us, never become the victim of difficult times." - Josie Sanctis In this special episode of the John Eades Podcast, John shares the difficult story of Josie Sanctis and three lessons to inspire you. Be a Hero at Home Stop Fretting Over Small Things Here You Don't Know How Long You Have, So Make an Impact Today. If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a friend or family member.  You can tag John @johngeades on LinkedIn, Instagram, or Twitter.   Don't wait and sign up for The Catalyst for Growth Conference on January 4th 2023.