The Lead Up Podcast

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour explores five powerful laws that are quietly influencing your leadership every day, whether you realize it or not. From fear-driven decision-making and unclear thinking to personal responsibility, leadership influence, and the power of better judgment, Mike breaks down how these invisible forces shape the way leaders communicate, make decisions, develop teams, and create culture. Drawing from decades of experience, Mike explains why many leadership challenges are not operational problems at all. They are thinking problems. He challenges leaders to become more aware of the assumptions, habits, and mental models that are running in the background and influencing how they show up every day. Throughout the episode, Mike unpacks: Why leaders who focus on failure often unintentionally create it The connection between clarity, communication, and organizational momentum How ownership and responsibility strengthen leadership influence The importance of adapting, growing, and challenging your own thinking Why leaders must create space to think instead of constantly reacting Why great leaders don't always need to have the answer How over-decision-making creates dependency and limits team growth The leaders who create the greatest impact aren't necessarily the busiest leaders. They're the leaders who learn to think more clearly, take greater ownership, develop stronger judgment, and intentionally shape the culture around them. Whether you lead a healthcare organization, a department, a frontline team, or an entire company, this episode will challenge you to examine what's really driving your leadership and what those hidden influences may be costing you. If you found this episode valuable, be sure to leave a 5-star review and share it with another leader. For questions or to continue the conversation, reach out to Mike at Mike@harbourresources.com.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, Mike sits down with Kurt Mosley and Neill Marshall of HealthSearch Partners to discuss one of the most critical periods in a leader's career: the first 90 days. Drawing from decades of experience placing healthcare executives and interviewing successful leaders across the country, Kurt and Neill share what separates leaders who build trust and momentum quickly from those who struggle to gain traction. They explore why many leaders fail by moving too fast, the importance of listening before acting, and how the most effective executives earn authority rather than relying on title or position alone. Mike, Kurt, and Neill also discuss the role of symbolic leadership actions, the power of first impressions, leadership recovery after early mistakes, and why understanding culture must come before attempting to change it. Throughout the conversation, they share memorable stories from healthcare CEOs who used intentional actions to build credibility, create trust, and establish their leadership presence from day one. This episode is packed with practical insight for healthcare executives, emerging leaders, boards, and organizations navigating leadership transitions, executive onboarding, succession planning, and organizational change. If you're stepping into a new leadership role, preparing a leader for success, or looking to accelerate trust and credibility within your organization, this conversation offers valuable lessons you can apply immediately. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your favorite streaming platform. Mike also encourages you to reach out at Mike@harbourresources.com to share your thoughts, leadership challenges, and ideas for future episodes.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, Mike sits down with Amanda Housh, co-founder and CEO of Oklahoma Pediatric Therapy Center, to discuss what it takes to build culture, develop leaders, and grow healthy organizations without leadership becoming the bottleneck. Amanda shares the journey of growing OPTC from a small startup into a multi-location organization while staying anchored to mission, values, and culture. They explore the tension many healthcare leaders face when transitioning from clinician to executive leader, the importance of leadership development at every level, and why organizations become exhausted when too much depends on one person. Mike and Amanda also discuss leadership succession, building alignment across growing teams, avoiding burnout as an executive leader, and creating systems that allow organizations to scale without losing clarity, accountability, or culture. This conversation is filled with practical leadership insight for healthcare executives navigating growth, staffing pressure, leadership development, and organizational change inside high-pressure environments. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike also encourages you to reach out at Mike@harbourresources.com to share your thoughts and suggest future topics.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour breaks down what separates average leadership from elite leadership through what he calls the 7 Pillars of the Elite Leader. Mike explains why most leadership breakdowns do not start externally—they start internally. While many organizations focus heavily on tactical leadership skills, Mike argues that sustainable leadership growth begins with self-awareness, emotional regulation, adaptability, and the ability to lead consistently under pressure. Throughout the episode, he walks through 7 critical leadership capacities that directly shape culture, execution, communication, and organizational trust. He explores why leaders must continually evolve as their responsibilities grow, how leadership behavior silently teaches organizations what to normalize, and why burnout, inconsistency, and team disengagement are often symptoms of deeper leadership gaps upstream. Mike also discusses: Why emotional intelligence remains one of the most important leadership competencies How leadership blind spots derail otherwise capable executives The connection between leader behavior and organizational culture Why elite leaders focus on multiplying leaders instead of creating followers How systems thinking helps leaders break down silos and improve organizational alignment The importance of managing leadership energy, not just time Why consistency builds trust faster than charisma One of the biggest takeaways from this conversation: elite leadership is not about doing more—it is about becoming the kind of leader who can create more clarity, and develop stronger people around them. Whether you lead a hospital, a department, a frontline team, or your family at home, this episode offers a practical framework for strengthening your leadership influence and building organizations that operate with greater alignment, trust, and resilience. If you found this episode valuable, be sure to leave a 5-star review and share it with another leader. For questions or to continue the conversation, reach out to Mike at Mike@harbourresources.com.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, Mike sits down with Aja Chavez, Vice President of Adolescent Services at AMFM Healthcare, to discuss the hidden organizational cost of unresolved leadership issues, culture during rapid growth, and what it takes to build mission-driven healthcare teams. They explore how leadership clarity reduces overwhelm, why organizations slowly adapt around unresolved problems, and the impact the wrong leadership hire can have on culture, retention, and operational trust. Aja also shares practical insight on helping leaders create ownership at the front lines while maintaining alignment during expansion. This conversation is packed with real-world leadership perspectives for healthcare executives navigating growth, retention, accountability, and leadership development inside high-pressure environments. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out at Mike@harbourresources.com to share your thoughts and suggest future topics.

On this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour sits down with Barbara Gustavson—author of Regroup and a brain health educator—to explore a reality many leaders are living but rarely naming: hidden depletion. From the outside, these leaders look steady and capable. Behind the scenes, they're running on low reserves while continuing to carry the weight of leadership, teams, and responsibilities that don't pause. At the center of the conversation is a practical truth: Leadership isn't just about output. It's about sustaining clarity and steadiness under pressure. Barbara shares her own experience navigating years of caregiving while leading and building a business—not a breaking point, but a slow erosion of energy, focus, and connection. The conversation unpacks why leaders are especially vulnerable. Responsibility becomes identity. Being the strong one feels non-negotiable. And over time, leaders normalize a pace that quietly costs them more than they realize. They also explore the organizational impact. When leaders are depleted or dysregulated, teams feel it. Communication tightens, risk tolerance drops, and culture shifts into survival mode. Barbara introduces the idea of “productive peace”—not as an escape, but as a way to think clearly, lead steadily, and make better decisions in high-pressure environments. This episode offers a grounded look at what it means to regroup—not by doing less, but by operating differently. If you're a healthcare leader carrying a heavy load and trying to stay effective under pressure, this conversation provides a clear and practical perspective. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out at Mike@harbourresources.com to share your thoughts and suggest future topics.

On this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour sits down with Anthony Stahl, President of White Oak Medical Center, to explore what it really takes to turn around performance in a complex healthcare environment. When Anthony stepped into the role, the organization was facing financial pressure, average quality and safety scores, and low morale. What followed wasn't a quick fix—it was a deliberate shift in how leadership showed up, how culture was built, and how daily operations were managed. At the center of the conversation is a practical truth: Leadership theory only works if it holds up under real conditions. The conversation highlights how culture directly impacts outcomes. As White Oak invested in leadership development and operational discipline, they saw measurable improvements in safety, quality, engagement, and financial performance—ultimately becoming one of the top-performing hospitals in their region. Anthony also shares his perspective on physician burnout and wellbeing, including the importance of reducing friction in daily work, creating space for connection, and addressing system-level challenges before they lead to disengagement. This episode offers a grounded look at how strong leadership, clear priorities, and consistent execution can transform an organization—even under significant constraints. If you're a healthcare leader focused on culture, performance, or developing leaders who can deliver results under pressure, this conversation provides a practical and honest perspective. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out at Mike@harbourresources.com to share your thoughts and suggest future topics.

On this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour sits down with Maggie Brennan, CEO of North Shore Community Health, to discuss what it really takes to address turnover, burnout, and workforce instability in healthcare. Rather than treating these as market-driven challenges, Maggie shares how her organization reframed them as signals of deeper system issues—and made deliberate changes to better support their people. The conversation walks through a pivotal moment when North Shore faced a significant provider exodus. Instead of blaming external factors, Maggie and her team looked inward, gathered direct feedback, and identified specific operational constraints that were driving dissatisfaction. From there, they implemented targeted changes—including eliminating call requirements for providers, building structured onboarding and development paths for new clinicians, and investing in tools that reduce administrative burden and restore time back to providers. Maggie also shares how leaders can create environments where people can succeed, not just expect more from them. That includes shifting from reactive problem-solving to deliberate leadership, developing other leaders instead of becoming the bottleneck, and designing systems that make the right behaviors easier to execute. If you're a healthcare leader navigating retention challenges, workforce fatigue, or pressure to deliver more with less, this episode offers a grounded look at how system-level changes can drive meaningful results. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him at Mike@harbourresources.com to share your thoughts and suggest future topics.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, Mike Harbour takes on a quieter, more dangerous breakdown in leadership—what happens when teams believe they're aligned, but that alignment never reaches execution. He walks through a pattern seen repeatedly in healthcare organizations: strong strategy, clear intent, and apparent agreement at the top—followed by slow, fragmented execution across the system. Not because leaders don't care, but because alignment stopped at words and never translated into behavior. Mike breaks this down in stages, showing how misalignment stays hidden early on, then surfaces through slowed decisions, siloed execution, and increasing pressure on middle leaders. As clarity fades, leaders begin optimizing for their own areas, managers are forced to interpret direction, and frontline teams create workarounds just to keep moving. The episode challenges a common assumption: that agreement equals alignment. In reality, most teams align on language—not on tradeoffs, risk, or what execution actually requires. One of the key takeaways: strategy doesn't fail at the point of intent—it fails in the gap between what's said and what's consistently reinforced through decisions and behavior. If you're trying to ensure your strategy actually shows up in day-to-day execution, this episode will help you see where that breakdown begins and what it takes to close it. If you found this episode valuable, be sure to leave a 5-star review and share it with another leader. For questions or to continue the conversation, reach out to Mike at Mike@harbourresources.com.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour sits down with Scott Becker, founder and publisher of Becker's Healthcare, to explore what separates organizations that grow from those that stall—and why leadership evolution is at the center of it. Drawing from decades of experience building businesses across healthcare, media, and professional services, Scott breaks down the stages leaders must move through as their organizations grow. He explains why many leaders become the limiting factor without realizing it, and how the shift from doing everything to delegating to building teams that outperform you is what ultimately determines whether an organization can scale. They discuss where companies—and hospital leadership teams—most often get stuck, particularly in the transition from individual contribution to true team-based execution. Scott highlights the risks of staying too involved, the hidden cost of leadership bottlenecks, and why organizations slow down when decisions, priorities, and direction continue to run through a single point. The conversation also explores the importance of focus, hiring, and role clarity. Scott emphasizes that growth doesn't come from doing more—it comes from knowing where you can win, building the right team around that, and consistently reinforcing it. He also addresses a common tension in healthcare: balancing team engagement with patient-centered outcomes, and why both must be held as top priorities. One of the key takeaways: the true measure of leadership is not how much depends on you—it's how well the organization performs without you as the constraint. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him at Mike@harbourresources.com to share your thoughts and suggest future topics.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour sits down with Tom Dahlborg, healthcare executive and author of From Heart to Head and Back Again, to examine what happens when leadership becomes overly transactional in a system that depends on human connection. Drawing from his experience as both a leader and a patient, Tom challenges the assumption that better outcomes come from better metrics—and instead points to the standard of leadership underneath them. They discuss why healthcare has seen limited progress in patient safety and experience despite decades of focus, and how an overreliance on measurement, incentives, and control has shifted leadership away from its core responsibility. Tom explains how well-intended systems can unintentionally strip away intrinsic motivation, turning meaningful work into transactional activity—and why that shift shows up as burnout, disengagement, and moral injury across teams. The conversation also explores the difference between managing outcomes and leading people, and why many leaders default to fixing systems without first examining their own role within them. Tom emphasizes the need for courage, self-reflection, and a willingness to make decisions that prioritize what is right—not just what is rewarded. One of the key takeaways: organizations don't get better results from new strategies alone—they get them from leaders who are willing to operate at a higher standard, especially when it's difficult. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him at Mike@harbourresources.com to share your thoughts and suggest future topics. You can learn more about Tom here and find his book on Amazon.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour sits down with Emily Craig, Vice President of Palliative Care at Constellation Health, to explore what it actually takes to build leaders in fast-growing, high-pressure healthcare environments. Drawing from her experience scaling a multi-state palliative care program, Emily shares how leadership—not strategy—is what ultimately determines whether priorities hold or begin to drift. They discuss the common mistake of promoting strong clinicians into leadership roles without preparing them for the decision-making demands that come with it. Emily explains why hiring for character and connection matters more than technical skill, and how leaders can identify the qualities that truly translate into effective leadership under pressure. The conversation also highlights how to develop leaders without compromising productivity, maintain culture across geographic scale, and build trust when you can't be physically present. Emily emphasizes the importance of strong onboarding, consistent communication rhythms, and treating people with humanity—while still holding high standards. One of the key takeaways: while skills can be taught, who someone is cannot—and that distinction shows up quickly in leadership and decision-making. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him at Mike@harbourresources.com to share your thoughts and suggest future topics.

On this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour talks with Joel Sylvester, Partner and Chief Client Officer at Five Star Call Centers, about leadership, workforce challenges, and how AI is transforming recruiting, training, and coaching across large, distributed teams. For healthcare leaders facing staffing shortages, rising labor costs, and the need for consistent patient experience, this conversation explores practical ways technology can support frontline teams. Joel shares how AI can dramatically speed up hiring and improve candidate fit by converting resumes into applications, enabling voice-based job applications, instantly screening candidates, and conducting avatar-based interviews. These tools can reduce time-to-hire by up to 70% while improving the experience for both candidates and hiring teams. The discussion also explores how AI-powered analytics can help leaders coach and retain employees more effectively. By analyzing recorded interactions, sentiment, and speech patterns, organizations can identify performance gaps, predict retention risks, and provide real-time coaching and personalized training. Mike and Joel also discuss how healthcare organizations can use AI to rapidly build SOPs, knowledge bases, and training resources, helping teams scale through complexity, maintain compliance, and close critical skill gaps across departments and locations. If you're a healthcare leader looking for ways to strengthen your workforce, improve operational consistency, and leverage technology to support your teams, this episode offers practical insights you won't want to miss. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike also encourages you to reach out at Mike@harbourresources.com to share your thoughts on the episode or suggest topics you'd like covered in future conversations.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour shares four non-negotiables that prevent most leadership failures, arguing that most performance problems stem from management shortcuts made months or years earlier. He outlines the fundamentals: select with intent, create clarity at the edge, lead through rhythm, not rescue, and develop through truth. Mike emphasizes that hiring is a leadership act and that bad hires carry major costs, while clear, documented expectations and strong onboarding prevent misalignment and conflict. He explains that consistent leadership rhythm (especially protected one-on-ones) builds trust, engagement, and retention, and that leaders should coach before crises arise. Finally, he stresses frequent, specific, balanced feedback to build psychological safety, prevent surprises in reviews, and accelerate growth through truth delivered with care and consistency. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him at Mike@harbourresources.com to share your thoughts on this episode and suggest topics you would like him to cover in the future.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour welcomes longtime healthcare executive Michael Korpiel for a conversation on values-based leadership in today's hospital environment. Michael shares insights from a career spanning public, private, academic, and faith-based health systems, including his experience as an interim CEO and how that season reshaped his leadership approach. The discussion explores the power of permission in leadership, the difference between long-term planning and decisive execution, and how servant leadership creates sustainable operational results. They examine what it means to lead a service-driven organization under financial and workforce pressure, why culture is never an HR initiative but a CEO responsibility, and how mission and values must move beyond statements on the wall to daily operational decisions. Michael also discusses the importance of leader visibility, physician engagement, continuous improvement, and building an organization you would trust with your own family's care. The episode closes with practical reflections for the next generation of healthcare leaders on anchoring to values, building trust across all levels of the organization, and leading with both clarity and humility in a high-pressure industry. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him at Mike@harbourresources.com to share your thoughts on this episode and suggest topics you would like him to cover in the future.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour welcomes Anney Perrine, Partner and Senior VP of Growth at Palm Health, for the Elite Leader Series The conversation explores how Palm builds leadership capacity and culture through director self-development, cross-department accessibility, leadership training, frequent check-ins around personal values, and shared frameworks like the five dysfunctions of a team. Annie also outlines Palm's focus on “caring and collaboration,” reinforced through five North Star metrics and day-to-day behaviors that support member retention. They discuss employee retention strategies, including treating employees as individuals, building community across diverse teams, celebrating wins at individual, team, and organizational levels, and hiring for values fit using a temperament and character assessment emphasizing cooperativeness and reward dependence. Annie closes by emphasizing meaning and purpose as central to sustainable performance, employee engagement, and the future of organizational culture. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him through Mike@harbourresources.com to share your thoughts on this episode & to share some topics you would like him to cover in the future.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour discusses why culture is a performance strategy and highlights a gap between employees who value strong culture and leaders who actively protect it. Drawing from research and ideas referenced in his book, ‘Quit Losing Talent,' Mike walks through 8 “silent” culture killers that often become normalized. For each culture killer, he outlines how it shows up in organizations, the cost to trust, engagement, decision speed, and retention, and the leadership shifts needed. Mike closes by challenging leaders to identify which of these issues they've normalized and invites listeners to share the episode and discuss it with their executive teams. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him through Mike@harbourresources.com to share your thoughts on this episode & to share some topics you would like him to cover in the future.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour talks with Hollie Johnson, Chief Operations Officer for Good Samaritan Hospice, as part of the Elite Leader series. Hollie shares her journey into healthcare leadership and discusses the importance of values-based leadership, emphasizing the role of character and empathy in building resilient teams. The discussion covers Holly's experiences in navigating cultural transformations, talent development, and her strategies for maintaining employee engagement and retention. Key insights include the significance of clarity, repeated communication, and the reinforcement of values to foster a strong organizational culture. Hollie also highlights the critical role of effective hiring processes and continuous leadership development in creating environments where excellence is sustainable and care remains compassionate. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him through Mike@harbourresources.com to share your thoughts on this episode & to share some topics you would like him to cover in the future.

In this episode, Mike Harbour and Robert McPhee collaborate on a co-podcast to discuss values-based leadership. The conversation dives into McPhee's book 'Living A Values-Based Life' and explores how aligning personal and organizational values can drive better leadership and decision-making. They share personal stories and practical frameworks to help leaders identify and live their highest values, ultimately enhancing team culture and engagement. Tune in to gain actionable insights on implementing values in both personal and professional life for more effective leadership. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him through Mike@harbourresources.com to share your thoughts on this episode & to share some topics you would like him to cover in the future. Learn more about Robert here.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour delves into effective strategies for attracting and hiring top talent in the healthcare industry. Mike emphasizes the importance of 'who' decisions over 'what' decisions, illustrating this point with a cautionary story of a misfit hire in a regional hospital. He introduces a structured approach to vetting candidates for cultural fit, resilience, and values alignment, and offers actionable advice on revamping job ads, conducting team interviews, and proactive onboarding. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him through Mike@harbourresources.com to share your thoughts on this episode & to share some topics you would like him to cover in the future.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour revisits with leadership expert Amer Kaissi to discuss his new book, 'The Positive Intent Mindset.' They delve into the critical strategies and mindsets necessary for elite leadership, focusing on the power of assuming positive intent and its connection to compassion. The conversation covers the impact of negative assumptions, the benefits of realistic optimism, and the importance of forgiveness in leadership. Amer shares practical advice and research-backed insights on how leaders can grow and develop their leadership muscles. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own leadership styles and consider the benefits of coaching and continuous development. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him through Mike@harbourresources.com to share your thoughts on this episode & to share some topics you would like him to cover in the future. You can learn more about Amer here.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour delves into the critical issue of burnout in the healthcare industry. Mike highlights the alarming turnover rates, particularly among early-tenured nurses, and the significant financial impact on hospitals. He identifies poor leadership as the primary driver of burnout and turnover, sharing a three-step process to combat these issues: assessing the current reality, engaging with intention, and acting and adapting. This episode emphasizes the importance of leadership development, effective communication, and micro-recognition. Mike also offers practical tools and resources, including his book 'Quit Losing Talent,' to help healthcare leaders create supportive and engaging work environments. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him through Mike@harbourresources.com to share your thoughts on this episode & to share some topics you would like him to cover in the future.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour engages in a thought-provoking conversation with John Rossman, renowned author of 'Big Bet Leadership'. The discussion delves into John's extensive experience in leading Amazon's marketplace launch, working with the Gates Foundation, and his principles on leadership transformation. Key topics include identifying organizational hurdles to transformation, the importance of clarity, and effective communication in leadership. John shares his insights on writing detailed memos for complex decisions, the importance of hiring the right leaders for big projects, and the critical habits necessary for successful transformational leadership. For leaders looking to drive meaningful change and innovation within their organizations, this episode offers valuable strategies and actionable advice. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him through Mike@harbourresources.com to share your thoughts on this episode & to share some topics you would like him to cover in the future.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour talks with Chris Robinson, EVP of Maxwell Leadership and author of 'Drift to Drive.' Chris shares his journey from humble beginnings to leading global leadership initiatives and offers practical advice on transforming goals into achievements. They discuss the dangers of complacency, the importance of clarity and intentionality, and the impact of the right relationships on personal and professional growth. Chris's seven-step framework for breaking complacency and driving success provides valuable insights for anyone looking to make the next year their best ever. You can find Chris's book here. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him through Mike@harbourresources.com to share your thoughts on this episode & to share some topics you would like him to cover in the future.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour discusses setting up for success in 2026 by embracing daily progress and sustained excellence. Mike emphasizes the importance of reflection, celebrating wins, and designing a future-focused plan for continuous improvement. He outlines practical steps for leaders to foster a thriving culture by focusing on small daily improvements, measuring progress, and creating sustainable systems for future success. If you want your team performing at a higher level in 2026, this is an episode you can't afford to miss!If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him through Mike@harbourresources.com to share your thoughts on this episode & to share some topics you would like him to cover in the future.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour speaks with Derek Coburn, author of 'Let's Retire Retirement.' Derek, with his extensive experience as a financial advisor, challenges traditional notions of retirement and emphasizes the importance of investing in health, relationships, and personal fulfillment. They discuss how working longer can alleviate financial pressures, the value of optimizing personal well-being, and how leaders can inspire their teams to rethink retirement and work-life balance. Tune in for fresh insights on creating a fulfilling life and career at any age. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him through Mike@harbourresources.com to share your thoughts on this episode & to share some topics you would like him to cover in the future.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour discusses how elite leaders prioritize growth and continuous improvement. Mike shares insights on making time for learning, the importance of feedback, and the value of surrounding oneself with people who push you to be better. Using real-life examples, including a dedicated hospital CEO and renowned swimmer Michael Phelps, Mike emphasizes that leadership growth is a continuous journey, not a destination. This episode also introduces the Elite Leaders community, a resource for leaders committed to achieving higher levels of success. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him through Mike@harbourresources.com to share your thoughts on this episode & to share some topics you would like him to cover in the future.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour engages in a compelling discussion with Pamela Potts, author of 'Every Leader is a Coach'. They delve into the transformative power of coaching in leadership, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, emotional energy management, and the skill of asking impactful questions. Pamela shares practical advice on avoiding biases, managing overload, and empowering teams to discover and leverage their strengths for optimal performance. For anyone looking to enhance their leadership abilities and foster a thriving team environment, this episode is a must-listen! Make sure to check out Pamela's new book, ‘Every Leader is a Coach' here!

In this episode of the Lead Up podcast, host Mike Harbour welcomes Brain Fitness expert Jill Hewlett for a deep dive into the world of brain health. Jill, a renowned author, speaker, and wellness authority, shares valuable insights on neuroplasticity, brain fitness, and the benefits of regular mental exercises. The conversation covers the importance of brain health in leadership, practical strategies to rewire old thought patterns, and easy-to-implement techniques to manage stress and improve cognitive function. Tune in for actionable advice to help leaders and individuals enhance their mental performance and overall well-being. Click here to get access to the FREE Brain Guide download. You can learn more about Jill here.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour interviews Jeff Mengenhausen, CEO of Montrose Regional Hospital and Health System. Jeff shares insights from his unique journey from Navy SEAL to healthcare executive, discussing how military leadership principles can be applied to civilian healthcare. The conversation covers topics like maintaining team morale, the importance of culture in retaining talent, and the strategies Jeff employs to foster a winning mindset among his staff. For anyone interested in leadership, resilience, and healthcare management, this episode offers valuable lessons and applicable insight. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him through Mike@harbourresources.com to share your thoughts on this episode & to share some topics you would like him to cover in the future.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour discusses the concept of the 'Resignation Revolution' and how elite leaders can transform employee resignations into opportunities for relentless growth. Based on insights from his book 'Quit Losing Talent,' Mike delves into effective offboarding strategies, the importance of gathering and utilizing exit insights, and how to manage transitions to maintain team morale. He emphasizes handling departures with respect and gratitude, fostering a positive offboarding experience to build a network of potential 'boomerang' employees. Mike also provides actionable strategies for leaders to improve retention and create a supportive culture. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him through Mike@harbourresources.com to share your thoughts on this episode & to share some topics you would like him to cover in the future.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour interviews Dr. Jaime Goff, a respected expert in psychology, human relationships, and leadership development. Discussing Dr. Goff's book, 'The Secure Leader,' they delve into how true leadership starts with understanding oneself. Dr. Goff explains attachment theory, its impact on leadership styles, and emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, mindfulness, and connection. She also covers the necessity of deconstructing personal stories to become better leaders and highlights the challenges and needs of leading the next generation. Tune in for an insightful conversation about the intersection of psychology and effective leadership. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him through Mike@harbourresources.com to share your thoughts on this episode & to share some topics you would like him to cover in the future. You can learn more about Dr. Jaime Goff here.

In episode 457 of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour delves into 'The Confidence Catalyst,' exploring how integrity and authenticity are essential for fearless leadership. Mike discusses the misconception that leadership is merely a position rather than a profession. He emphasizes the importance of building influence by earning trust and character and overcoming insecurities that can sabotage leadership effectiveness. Mike also shares practical daily habits to foster unshakable trust within teams and proposes actionable insights to elevate professional leadership skills. Tune in to learn how to cultivate an authentic presence and empower your team to thrive. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him through Mike@harbourresources.com to share your thoughts on this episode & to share some topics you would like him to cover in the future.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour shares a compelling conversation with Joe Davis, Managing Director and Senior Partner at Boston Consulting Group. The discussion centers around Davis's new book, 'The Generous Leader,' which emphasizes the importance of generosity in leadership. Joe elaborates on fundamental qualities like listening, humility, and vulnerability, sharing personal stories and key lessons from his extensive career. Listeners will gain insights into practical steps to foster a culture of generosity, improve communication, and drive organizational change. For anyone looking to enhance their leadership approach and impact, this episode is rich with actionable advice and real-world examples. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him through Mike@harbourresources.com to share your thoughts on this episode & to share some topics you would like him to cover in the future. Learn more about Joe and find his book here.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour explores the concept of leading with LOVE. Using the word LOVE as an acrostic, Mike breaks down its four components: Listening, Ownership, Valuing others, and Equipping others. He argues that love is not just an emotion but a powerful framework for effective leadership. Mike discusses the importance of active listening, taking ownership of attitudes and words, valuing team members, and equipping them for success. This episode highlights how leaders can apply these principles to transform their leadership and cultivate a more inclusive, productive environment amidst current societal challenges. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him through Mike@harbourresources.com to share your thoughts on this episode & to share some topics you would like him to cover in the future.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour engages in a compelling conversation with Greta Rosler, founder of Radius Leadership. The discussion centers on the primary challenges facing healthcare leaders today, ranging from the importance of leader wellness and self-care to the need for skills beyond academic credentials in nursing. Greta shares actionable insights on prioritizing personal wellness, establishing non-negotiables, and fostering effective leadership. Both emphasize the responsibilities of organizations and individuals in nurturing leadership skills to create future-ready healthcare environments. Tune in for practical advice on how to develop essential leadership skills and manage inevitable changes effectively. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him through Mike@harbourresources.com to share your thoughts on this episode & to share some topics you would like him to cover in the future. You can learn more about Greta here.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour explores how leaders can unlock elite team performance by leveraging individual strengths. Drawing on real-world examples, Mike shares practical strategies for identifying what each team member does best and aligning roles to maximize engagement and productivity. Tune in for actionable insights and a step-by-step guide for helping your team thrive by focusing on what makes each person a powerful asset. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him through Mike@harbourresources.com to share your thoughts on this episode & to share some topics you would like him to cover in the future.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour welcomes long-time friend and technology leader Paul Gustavson. The duo discusses Paul's latest book, 'Face The Mountain,' exploring its theme of resilience through inspiring personal stories and practical advice. Paul shares his near-death experience on Mount Princeton, which shaped his views on life's challenges and the importance of courage, competence, and compassion. The episode dives deep into the measures of resilience, the five levels of belief, and how leaders can navigate the toughest challenges while developing themselves and their teams. For a thought-provoking conversation on leadership, faith, and personal growth, tune in to this insightful episode. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him through Mike@harbourresources.com to share your thoughts on this episode & to share some topics you would like him to cover in the future. You can find Face the Mountain here.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour discusses effective strategies for recruiting and closing top talent. Drawing insights from his book 'Quit Losing Talent,' Mike delves into the crucial steps for transforming candidates into committed team members. The episode highlights the importance of negotiating with clarity and purpose, inspiring candidates through vision, and maintaining a positive relationship even with those not chosen. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him through Mike@harbourresources.com to share your thoughts on this episode & to share some topics you would like him to cover in the future.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour delves into the essential leadership principle of leading by example. He shares personal anecdotes from his career, including a pivotal experience during his Army days that taught him the importance of aligning actions with expectations. Mike explores how behaviors communicate values to teams, the significance of self-leadership in building trust and accountability, and provides actionable steps for leaders to embody the values they wish to see in their teams. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him through Mike@harbourresources.com to share your thoughts on this episode & to share some topics you would like him to cover in the future.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour delves into the crucial aspect of hiring the right people to build elite teams. Emphasizing that hiring for personality traits and values fit is more important than skills alone. Mike discusses how qualities like conscientiousness, emotional stability, and openness contribute to a successful team. He provides practical advice on aligning hiring practices with organizational values to reduce turnover, enhance engagement, and improve overall team performance. The episode offers leaders actionable insights and strategies to refine their approach to hiring, ensuring a better cultural fit and fostering high-performing teams. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him through Mike@harbourresources.com to share your thoughts on this episode & to share some topics you would like him to cover in the future.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour delves into the critical topic of workplace toxicity and how leaders can strategically address it. He highlights the importance of identifying toxic behaviors early and provides actionable strategies to confront and eliminate these behaviors effectively. Key points include the hidden costs of workplace toxicity, recognizing subtle signs before they escalate, and fostering a zero-tolerance culture. Mike emphasizes the role of leaders in creating supportive environments where all team members can thrive. He also references his book 'Quit Losing Talent' as an additional resource for tools and strategies in building elite teams and maintaining a positive workplace culture. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him through Mike@harbourresources.com to share your thoughts on this episode & to share some topics you would like him to cover in the future.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour sits down with Andrew Thompson, author of 'A High-Performing Mind.' They discuss the significance of mindset in personal and professional development. Andrew shares his experiences as a former professional athlete and a survivor of a rare illness, highlighting how mindset played a crucial role in his recovery and success. The conversation touches on the importance of clear goals, resilience, and turning weaknesses into strengths. Andrew also provides practical insights and actionable steps from his book to help individuals boost their performance and lead effectively. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him through Mike@harbourresources.com to share your thoughts on this episode & to share some topics you would like him to cover in the future. Learn more about Andrew and his book here.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour delves into the foundational element of leadership: mindset. He discusses how a leader's mindset shapes their approach to challenges, team engagement, and overall organizational success. Mike emphasizes the importance of building a shared vision and the power of belief in driving behavioral change. Through practical steps and real-life examples, he illustrates how leaders can foster a culture that empowers teams and promotes a mindset of possibilities. Tune in for actionable insights on transforming your leadership mindset and that of your team to achieve elite leadership. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him through Mike@harbourresources.com to share your thoughts on this episode & to share some topics you would like him to cover in the future.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour sits down with Lindsay Ellis, author of 'Beyond the Ordinary Leader.' Lindsay shares her journey from human resources to marketing leadership and discusses the importance of mentorship, introspection, and self-care in leadership. She provides insights into overcoming poor leadership experiences and highlights the significance of cultivating success in others. Tune in for valuable lessons on developing extraordinary leadership skills and creating a lasting legacy! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him through: Mike@harbourresources.com to let him know your thoughts on this episode & to share some topics you would like him to speak on in the future. You can learn more about Lindsay and her book here.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour dives into the art of tactical praise, outlining how leaders can use it to enhance team loyalty and motivation. He emphasizes the importance of specific, genuine praise, recognizing efforts as well as results, and balancing public and private recognition. Drawing from his book 'Quit Losing Talent,' Mike provides practical strategies for leaders to improve engagement and reduce turnover. Tune in for actionable insights on how to make your praise meaningful and foster a culture of appreciation within your team. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him through: Mike@harbourresources.com to let him know your thoughts on this episode & to share some topics you would like him to speak on in the future.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour sits down with Brad Englert, author of Spheres of Influence.' Brad discusses his career journey from Accenture partner to Chief Information Officer at the University of Texas at Austin. Diving into Brad's book, they focus on how leaders can develop influence and authentic business relationships. Mike and Brad discuss practical ways to build strong relationships with bosses, direct reports, and executive leaders, as well as differentiating between transactional and meaningful networking. Want to explore how to strategically and intentionally build strong, impactful relationships? Give this episode a listen! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him through: Mike@harbourresources.com to let him know your thoughts on this episode & to share some topics you would like him to speak on in the future. You can learn more about Brad here.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour dives into the topic of fearless leadership and how leaders can overcome fear while embracing challenges. Mike emphasizes that fear is a natural part of leadership and shares three actionable steps to harness it for growth and resilience. He recounts personal stories and examples of leaders who faced fear head-on, offering insights into the power of mindset shifts, focusing on mission, and celebrating progress over perfection. Give this episode a listen, and leave encouraged to reframe fear as an opportunity, use vulnerability and authenticity, and inspire courage within your teams. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him through: Mike@harbourresources.com to let him know your thoughts on this episode & to share some topics you would like him to speak on in the future.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour engages in a compelling conversation with Captain Mike Abrashoff. Captain Abrashoff shares his journey of transforming one of the worst-performing ships in the Navy into the best within two years by implementing innovative leadership techniques and fostering a culture of respect and curiosity. The discussion delves into the principles of servant leadership, the importance of self-awareness, and actionable strategies for driving engagement and retention in any organization. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him through: Mike@harbourresources.com to let him know your thoughts on this episode & to share some topics you would like him to speak on in the future. You can learn more about Mike Abrashoff here.

In this episode of The Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour delves into the significance of the first 90 days for new hires in any organization. Mike discusses tactics to engage and retain top talent, emphasizing the importance of a structured onboarding process he refers to as 'activation.' He shares actionable strategies for leaders to transform their onboarding stages, from pre-boarding to integration, and highlights the critical role of setting clear expectations and celebrating small wins. Drawing from his book 'Quit Losing Talent,' Mike provides insights on how investing time in new hires during their initial 90 days can significantly enhance their long-term productivity and engagement. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him through: Mike@harbourresources.com to let him know your thoughts on this episode & to share some topics you would like him to speak on in the future.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour and guest Mike Paton delve into the significance and importance of processes in leadership. Paton, co-author of the book 'Process: How Discipline and Consistency Will Set You and Your Business Free', discusses the myths and benefits related to processes, and the crucial mindset required for implementing discipline within an organization. The conversation highlights how structured processes can enhance employee performance, customer service, and overall organizational consistency. For leaders looking to improve operational efficiency and scale their business effectively, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him through: Mike@harbourresources.com to let him know your thoughts on this episode & to share some topics you would like him to speak on in the future. You can find Process: How Discipline and Consistency Will Set You and Your Business Free here