On this episode of Keep Hustling, host Aaron Gordon sits down with Jevon Gondwe, a three-time NCAA soccer champion and leadership development expert. Jevon discusses how a love for competition and the power of mentorship propelled him to athletic and professional success. He shares lessons on the importance of team culture, personal growth, and how leaders can inspire buy-in and engagement. Jevon also unpacks his "Culture of Champions" framework, explaining why developing personal growth habits is crucial for effective leadership. The episode wraps with Jevon's motivational advice: set bold dreams that push you to become your best self. If you're looking for fundamental strategies to elevate your hustle and leadership, this conversation is a must-listen.

Get To Know Jevon Gondwe Jevon Gondwe, a distinguished Leadership Transformation Architect, is the founder of a transformative movement dedicated to Building a Culture of Champions. As a 3x NCAA National Champion and an Inc. Magazine contributor, Jevon leverages his extensive expertise to empower leaders to foster high-performing, psychologically safe teams that thrive in the dynamic landscape of the new economy. His proprietary framework, Building a Culture of Champions, equips people leaders with a strategic edge to transform disengagement and conflict into catalysts for growth. By harnessing the mindset and leadership principles of elite athletic teams, he enables organizations to cultivate environments where teams consistently excel, driving sustainable success in today's fast-evolving business world. Jevon recognizes the critical need for organizations to adapt to the rapid pace of technological advancements. He warns that without fostering continuous learning and growth, businesses risk losing top talent to disengagement or turnover. Drawing from his extensive experience, Jevon has witnessed the hidden costs of a disengaged workforce, the uncertainty fueled by technological change, and the urgent need to rebuild culture in the post-pandemic era. His insights provide a wake-up call for leaders to create the future they envision. As a sought-after thought leader, Jevon's insights resonate across prominent platforms such as Inc. Magazine and Training Industry. With partnerships spanning universities, state governments, and both private and public organizations, he brings a wealth of practical knowledge earned through over 10,000 hours of mastery. Having delivered more than 500 dynamic presentations and trained over 30,000 professionals across seven industries, Jevon's expertise is grounded in real-world impact. His most requested speaking topics include Building a Culture of Champions, Maximizing Leadership through Personal Growth, Influential Communication Skills for the New Economy, and Transferring Leadership Skills from Elite Sports Teams to Business. Jevon Gondwe is a catalyst for transformation, empowering leaders to unlock their potential and build thriving, resilient organizations ready for the challenges of tomorrow.

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Influential Skills

3 Episode Key Takeaways 1. The Power of Belief and Teamwork: Jevon Gondwe highlights how crucial it is to have someone who believes in you, whether it's a coach or a teammate. His NCAA soccer journey showcases that true achievement is unlocked not just through personal drive, but when you're surrounded by people who support, challenge, and push you to be your best. Success becomes possible when your growth is tied to the collective vision of a team.

2. Personal Growth Fuels Leadership: Jevon stresses that effective team leaders must first focus on their own personal development. The episode reveals that habits like reading, reflection, and intentional learning aren't selfish—they're the foundation of authentic leadership. By continuously growing themselves, leaders create a culture that uplifts and inspires everyone around them. 3. Build Buy-In Through Vision and Listening: One major insight from Jevon's "Culture of Champions" framework is the importance of listening and understanding each team member's unique role and ambition. Leaders can spark engagement and genuine buy-in when they prioritize open conversations, value each person's vision, and help individuals see where they fit within the bigger picture. Teams thrive when everyone feels seen and their purpose is clear.

Show Overview 00:00 Know Your Why to Succeed

03:19 Mentorship and Soccer Success

08:30 Teamwork Drives Collective Success

10:10 Choosing the Right Mentor

14:45 From Expertise to Leadership

17:08 Closing the Growth Gap

22:06 Backup Hero Stops 3 Penalties

22:37 Embracing Iron Sharpens Iron