Leaders in the Trenches

Have you ever considered how a hidden Leadership Gap could be draining your company's profits and potential? In this episode, I dive into the subtle yet costly Leadership Gap that shows up when your leaders lack the clarity, skills, or confidence to drive the business forward. I break down how to spot this issue early and give you the tools to close that Leadership Gap before it impacts performance and morale. I'm Gene Hammett, an executive coach with over ten years of experience working with CEOs and their executive teams. After studying the leadership of fast-growth companies, I've developed frameworks and insights to help you and your company grow—starting with the leadership habits that truly move the needle.

In this episode, I sit down with Greg Mulholland, co-founder and CEO of Citrine Informatics, to explore the power of Leading with Vision in scaling an AI-driven materials platform. Greg shares how Leading with Vision has shaped Citrine's mission, values, and impact—driving innovation and alignment throughout the organization. With a strong commitment to transparency and purpose, he explains how leadership clarity empowers teams to move faster and stay engaged. Citrine Informatics, ranked No. 2,350 on the 2024 Inc. 5000 list, has become a standout in the world of sustainable materials and AI-driven solutions. Tune in to learn how Leading with Vision is more than strategy—it's a catalyst for cultural and business transformation.

In this episode, I discuss the key components of creating a transferable company that thrives independently of its current leadership. I outline five essential elements: a strong, inspiring vision; effective communication through regular executive meetings; robust accountability systems that empower team members; distributed leadership to avoid dependency on a single individual; and the implementation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for operational continuity. I emphasize the importance of adopting these strategies early and invite listeners to join our upcoming training sessions for deeper insights into fostering organizational transferability and sustainable growth.

In this episode, I sit down with Eric McGrath, CEO of Facial Lounge Group, to explore how building a Culture of Psychological Safety can power high-growth companies. Ranked No. 2,345 on the 2024 Inc. 5000 list, Facial Lounge Group has transformed its leadership and performance by prioritizing an environment where team members feel safe to take risks and voice ideas. Eric shares how cultivating a Culture of Psychological Safety leads to better collaboration, innovation, and resilience within fast-growing teams. We dive into practical strategies leaders can use to reinforce this culture while scaling operations. Tune in to discover how a Culture of Psychological Safety can fuel sustainable growth and unlock your organization's full potential.

In this episode, I discuss the vital concept of leading with intention, focusing on self-reflection and key questions for personal growth: "Who are you being that gets in the way of what you want?" and "Who are you becoming as a leader?" As a CEO coach at Core Elevation, I've learned that my clients seek insight over traditional accountability. I share practical tools for documenting intentions that guide effective leadership, illustrated through a case study of a VP navigating a performance challenge by embodying her intentions. I emphasize that intentionality influences all interactions, laying the groundwork for lasting growth and offering resources for further development in leadership.

In this episode, I sit down with Greg Dobak, Founder and CEO of Standard Information, to explore how embracing a Hands-Off Culture can be a powerful driver of startup growth. Ranked No. 1684 on the 2024 Inc. 5000 list, Standard Information has thrived by giving its people the freedom to make decisions, take ownership, and innovate without constant oversight. Greg shares how cultivating a Hands-Off Culture leads to increased trust, faster execution, and stronger team performance. We dive into the practical steps leaders can take to build autonomy while staying aligned with company goals. If you're looking to fuel innovation and scale your business, don't miss this conversation on how a Hands-Off Culture can transform the way your team works.

Quiet Quitting is a silent issue that can erode your company culture and performance if left unaddressed. In this episode, I share how to have tough conversations about Quiet Quitting before it becomes a bigger problem. I'll walk you through practical ways to re-engage team members, set clear expectations, and foster real commitment. Addressing Quiet Quitting isn't just about performance—it's about leadership, clarity, and accountability. I'm Gene Hammett, an executive coach with over ten years of experience working with CEOs and their executive teams. After studying the leadership of fast-growth companies, I've developed frameworks and insights to help you and your company grow.

In this episode, I sit down with Tony Ricketts, founder and CEO of Lawnline Marketing, to unpack how scaling a Specialized Company through systems, culture, and AI drives remarkable growth. Under Tony's leadership, Lawnline Marketing secured the No. 306 spot on the 2024 Inc. As the leader of a specialized agency focused on the green industry, Tony shares how concentrated expertise and tailored processes helped Lawnline expand to support over 200 lawn and landscape businesses nationwide. We dig into how a Specialized Company leverages AI tools to automate content creation while preserving high-quality, industry-focused output. Tony emphasizes the importance of a strong cultural foundation—built intentionally—to sustain a Specialized Company as it scales. Tune in to learn how specializing strategically can give your business a competitive edge and set the stage for scalable success.

In this episode, I explore how growing companies can effectively maintain their culture as they scale. Drawing insights from my experience with over 800 CEOs from the Inc. 5000, I address the challenges that arise when transitioning from small teams to larger organizations. I argue that attempting to preserve the original culture can be misguided; instead, leaders should focus on adaptability while upholding core values. I emphasize the importance of establishing clear values, aligning new talent with these principles, and viewing hiring as fostering a shared mission. Additionally, I discuss the necessity of evolving cultural values to keep pace with rapid changes in technology and market demands. I invite listeners to connect for resources that can aid in cultivating an environment where growth and culture harmoniously coexist.

In this episode, I sit down with Marcos Rivera, CEO of Pricing I/O, to explore how Adaptable Leadership drives rapid expansion in fast-growing companies. Marcos shares how embracing Adaptable Leadership has allowed Pricing I/O to secure a spot at No. 1,915 on the 2024 Inc. 5000 list, thanks to a 27% three-year revenue growth. We dive into real-world examples of Adaptable Leadership, including how he adjusts strategies in response to changing market conditions and team needs. Marcos provides actionable insights on empowering leaders to stay flexible, decisive, and resilient as their companies expand. Tune in to learn how mastering Adaptable Leadership can help your organization scale intelligently and sustainably.

In this episode, I dive into the biggest Mistake When Scaling that I see leaders make—and how you can avoid it. If you're growing fast, it's easy to focus only on sales or systems, but ignoring the human side is often the critical Mistake When Scaling. I'll walk you through the leadership shifts that are essential as your team expands and your company evolves. I've coached hundreds of founders and CEOs through this journey, and today I'll share specific strategies to help you stay ahead of the most common Mistake When Scaling. I'm Gene Hammett, an executive coach with over ten years of experience working with CEOs and their executive teams. After studying the leadership of fast-growth companies, I have developed frameworks and insights to help you and your company grow.

In this episode, I sit down with Max Friar, founder and Managing Partner of Calder Capital, to explore how building a People-Centric Business has fueled the firm's impressive growth. Max shares how prioritizing team development, transparency, and a culture of ownership has been key to scaling a People-Centric Business in the competitive M&A industry. We discuss the systems and leadership philosophies that have enabled Calder Capital to thrive, even amid economic headwinds. Ranked No. 1,409 on the 2024 Inc. 5000 list, Calder Capital has achieved a remarkable 346% growth since 2020, a testament to the power of a People-Centric Business model

In this episode, I sit down with David Fan, founder and CEO of Fanale Drinks, to explore how Strategic Leadership Development has been instrumental in scaling his boba tea supply business. David shares how prioritizing Strategic Leadership Development enabled him to build a resilient team, adapt to market shifts, and sustain rapid growth. We delve into the specific leadership frameworks and mindsets that helped Fanale Drinks evolve from a small Hayward-based startup to a national supplier of boba ingredients and equipment. David emphasizes that Strategic Leadership Development isn't just about personal growth—it's about cultivating a culture that empowers others to lead. Tune in to learn how intentional leadership practices can drive long-term success in fast-growing companies.

In this episode, I sit down with Brian Hunter, founder and CEO of Tiny Rhino Group, to explore how Radical Transparency can be a powerful force in building a thriving company culture. Brian shares how embracing Radical Transparency has helped his team foster trust, accountability, and alignment across all levels of the organization. We discuss the challenges and breakthroughs that come with leading openly and how Radical Transparency can accelerate performance in fast-growth environments. Tiny Rhino Group, founded in 2018, has rapidly expanded its impact in the dental industry by focusing on people-first growth strategies. Tune in to learn how transparency isn't just a leadership buzzword—it's a catalyst for sustainable success.

In this episode, I share key insights from my journey of over 1,200 conversations with leaders from rapidly growing companies. A central theme emerges: prioritizing employees is essential for delivering exceptional customer experiences. I illustrate how a people-first approach fosters a culture where employees feel valued, leading to enhanced service. I take a moment to celebrate the milestone of 1,200 episodes, reflecting on the growth and learning that has occurred through engaging discussions with founders and influential figures. I emphasize the importance of aligning company practices with core values and maintaining transparency to build trust within teams. I also highlight the necessity of continuous personal growth as a leader, encouraging listeners to invest in their development to positively impact their organizations. This episode aims to inspire leaders to nurture meaningful relationships, prioritize personal growth, and embrace values that resonate throughout their teams.

In this episode, I sit down with Chris Hare, Founder and Chief Narrative Strategist at The Storied Future, to explore the transformative power of Story Telling In Leadership. Chris shares how Story Telling In Leadership can align teams, inspire innovation, and drive meaningful change within organizations. We delve into the process of building a new narrative that resonates with stakeholders and propels companies forward. Through real-world examples, Chris illustrates how Story Telling In Leadership has been pivotal in navigating complex business landscapes. Tune in to discover how crafting compelling stories can elevate your leadership and shape the future of your organization.

In this episode, I discuss the journey of Ray Reyes, founder of Coastal Growth Services, who launched his business during the COVID-19 pandemic. He shares his experiences overcoming financial fears, evolving from a home office to a team of 65 employees in just four years. Ray highlights the crucial mindset shifts from technician to strategic leader, the importance of delegation after a personal health scare, and how mentorship fuels growth. He reflects on the joy of helping his team succeed and his commitment to servant leadership, eager to guide others on their entrepreneurial journeys.

In this episode, I engage with Daria Leshchenko, co-founder and CEO of Support Your App, to discuss the challenges and strategies of business growth in the customer service sector. Daria shares her journey, highlighting the struggles of early entrepreneurship and the pivotal moments that drove her company's expansion, particularly into the tech industry. We delve into the significance of diversification and establishing standard operating procedures to maintain stability amid unforeseen changes. Daria also discusses the integration of artificial intelligence within her company, emphasizing the importance of balancing AI efficiencies with human touch to enhance customer interactions. We explore leadership's role in fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration, as well as the initiatives that help her team stay agile and informed. Our conversation reveals the complexities of navigating a rapidly evolving landscape while remaining resilient and adaptable in the face of challenges.

In this episode, I dive into the transformative journey of leadership, drawing from my experiences as a former CEO and coach. I highlight the common challenges leaders face regarding time and energy, and I share actionable strategies to empower teams and shift focus from daily tasks to developing others. By discussing the five levels of leadership, I emphasize the importance of continual growth and reflection. I encourage listeners to identify their energy drains and rethink their leadership approach to navigate complexity and foster both personal and organizational development.

In this episode, I and, Manfred Mahrle, explore the transformative power of positive intelligence for CEOs facing the challenges of leadership. I discuss the importance of adopting a "sage mode" mindset, drawing an analogy to the conflict between Darth Vader and the Jedi. Through my journey from a two-decade corporate career to founding ActiMind, I emphasize the necessity of overcoming fear to achieve fulfillment and innovation. I unpack the foundational elements of the sage mindset, such as empathy and activation, which help leaders navigate challenges effectively. Highlighting a client's breakthrough regarding perfectionism, I advocate for building healthier habits through mindfulness and adaptable strategies. Ultimately, I encourage listeners to engage in personal development and the ongoing practice of positive intelligence to enhance their leadership journey.

In this episode, we speak with Kristen Gwinn-Becker, founder and CEO of History IT, a pioneer in creating digital archives for museums, libraries, and historical societies. We explore effective leadership in mission-driven companies, focusing on trust and clear vision as foundational elements. Kristen shares her journey in building History IT, sparked by her passion for history and the urgency of digital transformation, especially highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic. We discuss how a strong company vision fosters team alignment and drives the mission of democratizing access to historical content. Kristen also highlights the role of technology, particularly AI, in enhancing efficiency while maintaining the need for human oversight. The conversation underscores the necessity of adaptability and continuous growth in leadership, reflecting Kristen's commitment to preserving history and inspiring her team as they navigate the digital landscape.

In this episode, I speak with Jacqui Chew, managing director of iFusion Consulting, about the marketing challenges of fast-growing companies. We discuss the identity crisis organizations face as they evolve, leading to a disconnect between their original value and current offerings. Jacqui highlights that unclear narratives often mask the real issue of differentiation in a competitive market. We explore the significance of voice-of-the-customer exercises to gain valuable insights and emotional drivers behind purchasing decisions. Additionally, we delve into the concept of a “rally cry” for strong messaging and discuss the role of AI in marketing while emphasizing the need for human creativity. This conversation offers strategies to help fast-growing companies navigate their unique marketing challenges.

In this episode, I address how leaders often become bottlenecks in their organizations by clinging to tasks that could be delegated. Through a client story, I illustrate the impact of a hands-on approach to decision-making on personal and team growth. We discuss the difference between transactional leaders and those who empower their teams, emphasizing the importance of creating a supportive environment. Listeners are invited to join my workshops for practical strategies to elevate their leadership and foster a thriving workplace.

In this episode, I sit down with Evan Katz and Josh Roberts, co-founders of Very Special Games, to delve into the principles of Trust-Based Leadership and its pivotal role in their company's success. Evan and Josh share how Trust-Based Leadership has been instrumental in fostering a collaborative and innovative environment, enabling their small team to create engaging party games like Ransom Notes and Charty Party. We explore how Trust-Based Leadership has guided their decision-making processes and contributed to their rapid growth, culminating in their recognition on the 2024 Inc. 5000 list of America's fastest-growing private companies. Their journey from launching a Kickstarter campaign to building a thriving business underscores the impact of trust and mutual respect in leadership. Tune in to discover how cultivating trust within your team can drive creativity, resilience, and sustained growth

In this episode, I chat with John Williamson, founder and CEO of Songfinch, a platform that transforms personal stories into custom songs. We discuss the challenges of leading an innovative brand in the music and gifting industry, focusing on the importance of resilience and transparency in leadership. John shares key moments that fueled Songfinch's remarkable growth, including the shift to emotionally-driven marketing strategies and the operational tactics that supported this success. He emphasizes the significance of fostering a culture of ownership among employees, highlighting the value of genuine connections in building a thriving brand.

In this episode, I sit down with Jensen Brehm, co-founder of Ombraz Sunglasses, to explore the transformative power of humble leadership in building a purpose-driven brand. Jensen shares how embracing humble leadership has guided Ombraz from its inception to becoming a standout in the eyewear industry. We delve into how humble leadership fosters innovation, resilience, and a strong company culture. Under Jensen's guidance, Ombraz has not only revolutionized sunglasses design but also earned #1244 spot on the 2024 Inc. 5000 list, highlighting its rapid growth and commitment to sustainability. Tune in to discover how leading with humility can drive both personal and organizational success.

In this episode, I share the real benefits of executive coaching and why it could be the key to unlocking your next level of leadership. Executive coaching is more than just advice — it's a powerful way to gain clarity, uncover blind spots, and accelerate your growth as a leader. I've worked with hundreds of CEOs and their teams, and I've seen firsthand how executive coaching can help leaders create high-performing teams and drive lasting results. If you've ever wondered whether investing in executive coaching is worth it, this episode will give you the insight you need. I'm Gene Hammett, an executive coach with over ten years of experience helping leaders like you grow faster and lead with more confidence.

In this episode, I sit down with Levi McClendon, Founder and CEO of OptSpot, to explore how to build and sustain a thriving remote culture. Under Levi's leadership, OptSpot has achieved significant growth, earning the 1786 spot on the 2024 Inc. 5000 list of America's fastest-growing private companies. We delve into the strategies and practices that have enabled OptSpot to foster a thriving remote culture, ensuring team cohesion and productivity across distances. Levi shares insights on maintaining company values and employee engagement in a remote work environment. Tune in to discover how cultivating a thriving remote culture can drive success and resilience in your organization.

In this episode of Grow Think Tank, I explore the transformative journey that led me to become a CEO coach, beginning with a defining moment in 2010 when I faced the loss of my business and home. I discuss how this challenging experience prompted deep introspection and reassessment of my values and purpose. Emphasizing the growth that can emerge from adversity, I share insights gained from my decade in corporate America and my transition into coaching, driven by a desire to positively impact others. Through personal narratives and coaching examples, I highlight the power of gratitude and emotional intelligence in fostering personal and professional growth. I invite listeners to reflect on their own journeys, embrace their purpose, and take courageous steps toward transformation in their leadership paths.

In this episode, I sit down with Chris Moran, CEO and founder of Solar Negotiators, to discuss the challenges and strategies of scaling a business while retaining your culture. Chris shares how Solar Negotiators has expanded its operations, completing nearly 60 projects a month, without compromising the core values that define their success. We explore the importance of retaining your culture during periods of rapid growth and how it impacts employee satisfaction and customer experience. Chris provides actionable insights on maintaining organizational identity and cohesion as a company scales. Tune in to learn how retaining your culture can be a driving force for sustainable growth and long-term success.

In this episode, I sit down with Scott Oldford, entrepreneur, mentor, and author of Million in the Red, to discuss the crucial leadership shifts required for scaling a business. Scott shares his journey of overcoming financial struggles and how he developed the strategies that help entrepreneurs grow sustainably. We dive deep into the leadership shifts that separate struggling businesses from those that thrive, focusing on mindset, decision-making, and team alignment. Scott provides actionable insights from Million in the Red that help leaders navigate uncertainty and scale with confidence. Tune in to discover how embracing key leadership shifts can accelerate your success and create a more resilient business.

In this episode, I sit down with Ethan King, co-founder and CEO of Zeus' Closet, to explore five innovative ways you can leverage AI to Improve Your Leadership. Ethan shares his journey from a starving artist to a celebrated CEO, embodying the spirit of small business innovation and resilience. citeturn0search1 We discuss how integrating AI to Improve Your Leadership can enhance decision-making, streamline operations, and foster a more dynamic team environment. Ethan provides practical insights and real-world examples of how embracing AI to Improve Your Leadership has transformed his approach to business. Tune in to discover actionable strategies that can elevate your leadership effectiveness through AI.

In this episode, we explore Building a Scalable Foundation for Growth with Christa Schott, President of Alliant Consulting. Under Christa's leadership, Alliant Consulting has achieved significant growth, earning the No. 4,509 spot on the 2024 Inc. 5000 list. We discuss how establishing a Scalable Foundation for Growth has been pivotal in their success, enabling the company to adapt and thrive in a competitive market. Christa shares insights into the strategies and practices that have allowed Alliant Consulting to maintain excellence while expanding operations. Tune in to discover how Building a Scalable Foundation for Growth can drive sustainable success in your organization.

In this episode, we delve into the significance of Scaling Culture with Brett Turner, Co-founder and CEO of Kalon Creative. Under Brett's leadership, Kalon Creative has earned the No. 4,421 spot on the 2024 Inc. 5000 list, reflecting their remarkable growth and commitment to excellence. We explore how Scaling Culture has been instrumental in their success, enabling them to adapt and thrive in a competitive market. Brett shares insights on the strategies and practices that have allowed Kalon Creative to maintain a strong company culture while expanding their operations. Tune in to discover how Scaling Culture can drive growth and sustainability in your organization.

In this episode, I sit down with Kyle York, co-founder and CEO of York IE, to discuss Redefining Startup Growth in today's dynamic business landscape. Under Kyle's leadership, York IE has achieved remarkable success, securing the No. 1,031 spot on the 2024 Inc. 5000 list with a three-year revenue growth of 493%. We explore how Redefining Startup Growth involves innovative strategies and a hands-on, tech-enabled approach to advising and investing. Kyle shares actionable insights on how startups can adapt and thrive by embracing new growth paradigms. Tune in to discover how Redefining Startup Growth can propel your business to new heights.

In this episode, I sit down with Anders Jones, co-founder and CEO of Facet, to delve into the intricacies of scaling leadership in today's dynamic business environment. Under Anders' guidance, Facet has achieved remarkable growth, securing the No. 961 spot on the 2024 Inc. 5000 list. We explore how scaling leadership principles have been pivotal in Facet's success, emphasizing the development of leaders at every organizational level. Anders shares actionable insights on fostering a culture that supports scaling leadership, ensuring sustained growth and adaptability. Tune in to discover strategies for implementing scaling leadership within your organization to drive performance and innovation.

In this episode, I sit down with John Williams, CEO of JCW Creative, to explore the concept of scaling through culture and its impact on business growth. Under John's leadership, JCW Creative has experienced remarkable success, earning a spot at No. 3,258 on the 2024 Inc. 5000 list. We discuss how scaling through culture helps businesses build strong, aligned teams that drive performance and innovation. John shares key insights and actionable strategies that leaders can implement to foster a culture that fuels sustainable growth. Tune in to discover how scaling through culture can be the foundation for long-term success in your organization.

In this episode, I sit down with John McKenna, CEO of Peachtree VA, to discuss the importance of Scaling with the Right People and how it impacts business growth. As the leader of Peachtree VA, John has helped countless businesses scale efficiently by building strong, dedicated teams. We dive into the strategies for hiring, developing, and retaining top talent to ensure long-term success. John shares insights on how Scaling with the Right People leads to increased productivity, better company culture, and sustainable growth. Tune in to learn how to avoid common pitfalls and set your business up for success by Scaling with the Right People from the start.

In this episode, I sit down with Jake Brenner, CEO of ShipLab, which ranked No. 1,775 on the 2024 Inc. 5000 list, to explore the significance of being an Adaptable Leader in today's fast-paced business environment. Jake shares insights into how embracing adaptability has been crucial to his leadership style and ShipLab's success. We discuss strategies for cultivating an Adaptable Leader mindset and fostering a company culture that thrives amidst change. Jake provides practical tips on how leaders can navigate uncertainty and turn challenges into opportunities. Tune in to discover how becoming an Adaptable Leader can drive innovation and resilience within your organization.

In this episode, I sit down with Larry Armstrong, Chairman at Ware Malcomb, to explore the power of Creative Leadership and how leaders can bring their whole selves to the table. Larry shares insights from his extensive experience in architecture and design, emphasizing how authenticity and innovation drive business success. We discuss the importance of fostering a culture of Creative Leadership, where teams feel empowered to think outside the box and push boundaries. Larry also breaks down practical ways leaders can cultivate creativity while maintaining strategic focus. Tune in to learn how Creative Leadership can transform your organization and help you stay ahead in an ever-evolving market.

In this episode, I explore the pervasive concept of the inner critic—the negative voice that often cultivates self-doubt and fear, obstructing our growth. I share my own experiences with this "asshole," recognizing its tendency to exploit our vulnerabilities while emphasizing that it shouldn't dictate our actions. The discussion highlights the significance of identifying this inner dialogue, especially during pivotal moments in our lives and careers. Through anecdotes from my work with ambitious leaders, I demonstrate how the inner critic surfaces and the importance of confronting it by naming and acknowledging its presence. Drawing parallels to my experiences in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, I stress the value of perseverance in overcoming fear to foster resilience against self-doubt and encourage continuous personal development. My aim is to provide insights that empower you to embrace challenges and drive meaningful change.

In this episode, I talk with Ryan Hutchins, founder and president of Peak Business Valuation, about the intersection of leadership, education, and business growth. Ryan discusses the overlooked risks small business owners face and the crucial role of leadership in navigating these challenges. He shares insights on business valuation, the company's impressive growth, and the importance of hiring for a growth mindset. Our conversation also touches on the dynamics of running a business with a spouse, emphasizing communication and support. Listeners will learn the value of continuous learning and resilience for sustainable organizational success.

Great leadership isn't just about making decisions—it's about practicing leadership skills consistently to inspire and guide your team. In this episode, I'll dive into why the best leaders don't just rely on experience but actively work on practicing leadership skills to improve their impact. I'll share insights from my work with top CEOs and executives on how daily habits and intentional development can shape stronger, more effective leadership. Leadership is a skill that requires dedication, not just a title. Join me as we explore how practicing leadership skills can elevate your influence and drive real results.

Your mindset shapes how you lead, make decisions, and inspire those around you. In this episode, I explore why shifting your Mindset for Leadership is crucial to driving success and growth in your organization. I'll share insights from my years of coaching high-level executives on how adopting the right Mindset for Leadership can help you overcome challenges, build stronger teams, and unlock new levels of performance. It's not just about strategies—it's about thinking differently to lead effectively. Join me as we dive into the power of a transformational Mindset for Leadership and how it can elevate your impact.

In this episode, I explore the key habits that CEOs should adopt to improve their effectiveness and leadership within fast-growing companies. I underscore the significance of daily practices like praising employees specifically to enhance morale and foster a culture of recognition. Weekly, I recommend reviewing calendars to optimize time management and reduce unproductive meetings. For monthly routines, I stress the value of one-on-one meetings that serve both as check-ins and coaching sessions, emphasizing the need for active listening to support employee development. Lastly, I discuss quarterly reflections on organizational goals, advocating for regular business reviews to assess progress and adaptability. My insights aim to guide CEOs towards refining their leadership style and strengthening their company culture.

In this episode, I explore the critical skill of effective communication for leaders, particularly in managing tough conversations that can significantly shape a company's direction. Drawing from my experience as an executive coach, I discuss observed challenges faced by CEOs in guiding their teams through uncertainties and aligning efforts around new opportunities. I introduce the concept of the "encouragement meeting" from my book, which emphasizes the importance of follow-up communication to reinforce progress or re-align team objectives. Additionally, I highlight the necessity of maintaining an ongoing dialogue that encourages continuous improvement. Ultimately, this episode highlights that courageous leadership and proactive communication are key to fostering accountable and high-performing teams.

In this episode, Rob Shallenberger, author of "Do What Matters Most," shares his insights on prioritizing our lives for greater personal and professional fulfillment. Drawing from his experience as an Air Force F-16 pilot and a leadership trainer, Rob emphasizes the importance of effective time management, revealing that 68% of people struggle with prioritization. He introduces the transformative habit of pre-week planning—an approach that encourages individuals to proactively design their schedules rather than reactively managing them. Rob outlines a structured process involving goal review, identification of key life roles, and actionable item scheduling, demonstrating how this practice can lead to significant productivity gains while reducing stress. Through impactful stories, he illustrates the profound effects of planning on relationships and overall well-being, encouraging listeners to adopt these habits for a more balanced and intentional life.

In this episode, I discuss the complexities of leadership and the drawbacks of excessive niceness. Drawing from my experience as an executive coach, I illustrate how being overly compassionate can hinder accountability and effectiveness, using a client's transition to private equity as a case study. I emphasize the importance of self-awareness and encourage feedback tools, like 360-degree reviews, to identify blind spots. Ultimately, I highlight the necessity for leaders to evolve by balancing firmness and compassion to effectively guide their teams. Tune in for insights to enhance your leadership approach.

In this episode, we explore the innovative strategies employed by Justin Johnson, the founder of BMP Creative, a thriving social media agency that has seen significant growth in recent years. Justin shares insights into his journey of scaling the company from a small team to nearly 30 employees while emphasizing the importance of innovation as a driving force behind their success. At the heart of BMP Creative's growth lies a unique internal tool called the Busy-O-Meter, designed to foster transparency and understanding of employee workloads within a remote work environment. Every day at 11 a.m., the Busy-O-Meter prompts team members to rate their busyness on a scale from 1 to 10, encouraging open communication about capacity and creating a cohesive company culture. This innovative approach allows the team to efficiently allocate resources and support one another, effectively eliminating any guesswork regarding who may need assistance. The discussion further delves into the vital role of core values in building a culture of innovation. Justin explains that BMP Creative actively hires individuals who demonstrate a natural affinity for creative problem-solving, often evidenced through their side projects and personal passions. He recounts an enlightening interview with a candidate who not only worked in strategy but also engineered custom video distortion tools as a hobby. This propensity for innovation, Justin argues, is essential for maintaining a dynamic and forward-thinking organization. The conversation also highlights the rapid evolution of video production tools, particularly in the realm of AI, which Justin integrates into his company's workflows to enhance creativity and efficiency. He discusses the importance of staying ahead of trends and experimenting with new tools, like the Submachine platform that his team developed to streamline the creation of dynamic subtitles for Netflix content. By leveraging technology, BMP Creative boosts its output while ensuring high-quality results, allowing the agency to handle substantial client demands more effectively. Justin's excitement for storytelling comes to the forefront as he shares his endeavors in film, including his latest documentary about his parents' unconventional business. Drawing parallels between filmmaking and corporate innovation, he emphasizes the necessity of human emotion and compelling narratives in driving impactful content creation. Closing the episode, Justin invites listeners to think about how they can harness their unique stories and experiences to illustrate their professional journeys. He offers to collaborate on creating innovative sizzle reels that encapsulate personal and professional milestones, showcasing how narrative can be intertwined with corporate growth and innovation. Overall, this episode serves as a wealth of knowledge for those looking to implement creative strategies in their organizations, urging leaders to embrace innovation, prioritize transparency, and recognize the importance of storytelling in both their work and personal lives. 00:00:10 Introduction to Scaling by Innovation 00:09:46 Tools for Scaling in Remote Work 00:12:12 The Busy-O-Meter: A Transparency Tool 00:14:24 Hiring for Innovation: The Secret Sauce 00:16:39 Core Values That Drive Innovation 00:18:58 Innovation as a Way of Working 00:22:58 Personal Projects and Career Stories

In this episode, I sit down with Ben Lamorte, a leader at OKRs.com, to explore the power of Using OKRs to bring alignment and focus to your team. OKRs.com specializes in helping organizations achieve clarity and measurable success through well-defined Objectives and Key Results. Ben shares actionable strategies for Using OKRs to foster accountability, drive performance, and keep teams aligned with company goals. We also discuss the challenges leaders face when implementing OKRs and how to overcome them. Tune in to learn how Using OKRs can transform your team's effectiveness and overall growth.

In this episode, I discuss the importance of self-awareness for leaders and liken it to a car's dashboard for assessing leadership health. I offer practical tools for enhancing self-awareness, such as personal reflection and soliciting candid feedback from teams. Emphasizing the value of 360-degree feedback with external facilitation, I highlight how it uncovers blind spots and strengths, fostering authentic team engagement. Ultimately, I encourage leaders to embrace self-awareness as a transformative tool for effective, trust-building leadership.