What if the biggest threat to your culture was the language you use?

As your firm scales, the way you talk about the people on your team can either create clarity or chaos. In this solo episode, I share a painful but powerful lesson I learned while building Triad Partners—from an underperforming team member we were too afraid to let go, to 100+ A-players aligned to a clear mission.

You’ll hear the exact mistake we made, why we had to course-correct fast, and how shifting a single word completely transformed how we hire, lead, and hold people accountable.

If you’re trying to scale your business without sacrificing your team’s trust or performance, this episode is for you.

3 of the biggest insights from Brad Johnson …

#1.) Why “Family” Sends the Wrong Message

Calling your team a “family” feels inclusive, but it clouds expectations. It creates hesitation when tough decisions need to be made and sends mixed signals about what’s acceptable. Replacing “family” with “team” gives you the clarity and confidence to lead with consistency.

#2.) Families Blur Boundaries but Teams Require Them

In a family, you show up no matter what, even when standards slip. But in business, that thinking weakens accountability. Teams work best when expectations are clear, responsibilities are defined, and everyone knows what it means to pull their weight.

#3.) Belonging Should Be Earned, Not Assumed

In a family, you belong by default. On a team, you earn your spot by aligning with the mission. This mindset shift helps you attract the right people, foster buy-in, and build a culture where everyone’s rowing in the same direction.

SHOW NOTES

https://bradleyjohnson.com/122

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DISCLOSURE 

DBDL podcast episode conversations are intended to provide financial advisors with ideas, strategies, concepts and tools that could be incorporated into their business and their life. Financial professionals are responsible for ensuring implementation of anything discussed related to business is done so in accordance with any and all regulatory, compliance responsibilities and obligations.

The Triad member statements reflect their own experience which may not be representative of all Triad Member experiences, and their appearances were not paid for.

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