In this episode of Lead Well Wednesdays, John Velez and Brad Conrado delve into the essential elements of effective leadership, focusing on the importance of mission and vision as foundational aspects. They discuss the significance of self-leadership, self-awareness, and the traits that make a leader worth following, such as selflessness and a positive attitude. The conversation emphasizes the necessity of caring for others and the role of humility in receiving feedback. They also highlight the importance of building a supportive circle of friends who can provide constructive criticism and accountability in the journey of personal growth. In this conversation, John Velez and Brad Conrado discuss the essential qualities of effective leadership, emphasizing the importance of authenticity, humility, and continuous learning. They explore strategies for personal growth in leadership roles, the significance of mentorship, and the journey of becoming a skilled fireman. The dialogue highlights the need for self-awareness, accountability, and the willingness to embrace failure as part of the growth process. The speakers share personal experiences and insights on how to cultivate leadership skills and the importance of being rooted in one's purpose.