The Accidental Leader

I am so thrilled to be sharing today's episode with you! I am joined today by special guest Dennis McIntee, CEO of the Leadership Development Group, author of Drama-Free Teams, and host of the Drama Free Living podcast. Dennis shares insights into creating self-directed, self-motivated work teams that yield great results. Our conversation delves into the challenges of leadership, overcoming overwhelm, and the power of understanding the stories we tell ourselves.

Listen in as Dennis and I explore the concept that feelings are just information, not facts. As leaders, we must refrain from coaching feelings directly but instead focus on coaching the underlying thoughts. Dennis encourages us to ask, "What are you thinking?" when team members express frustration or other emotions. By understanding the thoughts behind the feelings, leaders can guide their teams effectively, shaping positive narratives and fostering a drama-free workplace.

Join Dennis and me as we navigate the world of leadership, sharing experiences and discovering valuable insights on creating thriving, drama-free teams. If you're ready to enhance your leadership skills and explore the power of self-directed teams, dive into this episode with Dennis McIntee!

Time Stamps:

[1:10] - Today’s guest is Dennis McIntee!

​​[3:14] - Shifting from counseling to business, Dennis seeks adult-to-adult conversations for self-directed, efficient work teams.

[5:39] - Reflecting on a parenting class, Dennis emphasizes personal growth as a foundation for effective leadership.

[8:56] - Dennis advocates for leaders to clarify results, use tools like intent documents, and empower teams.

[11:45] - Dennis emphasizes the need for diverse facilitators to avoid shutdowns, encourages team-led meetings, and values individual strengths.

[14:00] - Dennis groups busy, overwhelm, and stress together, viewing feelings as information influenced by thoughts.

[17:07] - Dennis advises leaders against coaching feelings directly, instead focusing on understanding thoughts and fostering problem-solving discussions.

[19:02] - Feelings convey stories, often fabricated; wisdom lies in deciphering their narrative. Assigning meaning is subjective.

[21:43] - Dennis explores the concept that everything is made up; leaders shape meaning through storytelling.

[23:20] - Dennis reiterates viewing feelings as information and coaching thoughts instead of trying to directly coach feelings.

Resources Mentioned:

Leadership Development Group - Website

Dennis’ Books

Dennis’ Podcast

Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance: An Inquiry Into Values by Robert M Pirsig

Welcome back to your favorite leadership podcast with your host, Bo McDonald! This episode is dedicated to the stutters of life, our self-imposed limitations and traumas that hold us in a vice - a tale intertwined with my journey and that of the unforgettable Scatman John!

Scatman John's story's connection with my own reveals similarities and gems about embracing our authentic selves and overcoming seemingly insurmountable barriers, so, join me as we dig into the grip of past traumas, the fear of vulnerability and how these affect the leadership path!

From my childhood classrooms to Scatman's John stuttering journey, I hope to illuminate lessons about overcoming what we think is holding us back and turning it into a catapult for extraordinary success. Get ready to redefine your setbacks into setups and awaken the dormant possibilities in your life. Here's to becoming better, not just as leaders but as individuals as a whole. Spoiler alert - every "stutter" has a silver lining!

Time Stamps:

[1:24] - I am reflecting on a song quote and how Ash Davis's book transformed my life.

[2:43] - I recollect childhood lessons about self-limitations and overcoming past traumas.

[4:08] - I discuss overcoming my public speaking trauma and embracing my leadership positions.

[6:14] - I spun Scatman John's upbeat hit at the skating rink, a song which made him rise from a struggling jazz musician to a global sensation.

[9:12] - Scatman John overcame a severe childhood stutter, taking a huge musical risk blending jazz, scat, dance, and hip hop, creating a new genre that resonated globally.

[11:13] - Scatman John, overcoming substance abuse and childhood questions, found clarity, realizing that his identity extended beyond his stutter.

[12:34] - I encourage you to redefine yourself beyond perceived limitations.

[14:47] - Scatman John transcended his stutter, receiving applause for his unique sound, proving that he was more than his perceived limitations.

[17:02] - In a keynote speech, Scatman John revealed that success didn't “fix” him; he just embraced being different.

[19:20] - I encourage reflecting on your own "stutters," reframing them as potential talents; past trauma shouldn't hinder progress.

[22:12] - It’s very important that leaders allow themselves to be vulnerable.

Resources Mentioned:

The Accidental Leader, Episode 3 - “Special Guest: Author and Speaker Ash Davis - Finding Joy In Our Journey”

A Life Through Letters: An Aging Father's Legacy, a Son's Revelation, the Birth of a Movement by Ashley Davis

Scatman John - “Scatman”

Scatman John’s Keynote Speech at the NSP Convention

Welcome back to the show, everyone. Join me in this episode as I dive into the intricacies of leading through change and fear. Joined by first-time podcast guest Denise Hackendahl, Executive Director for Inspire Culture, we unpack the challenges leaders face while trying to navigate comfort zones and push into new territories.

Denise also shares insightful thoughts on her experiences in managing organizational culture, nurturing new leaders, and emphasizing HR's critical role in shaping a successful working environment.

Broaden your understanding on the significance of brushing up on your HR 101 knowledge to ensure your leadership remains well-rounded and effective! Get set to uncover the secret ingredient in fostering a supportive environment, promoting professional growth, and masterfully balancing the challenge of leadership with personal life!

Tune in to this episode to hear about inspiring leadership legacies and how introspection can reboot your leadership journey, even amid chaos. You won’t want to miss this!

Time Stamps:

[0:51] - We talked a lot about fear back in episode 8.

[3:58] - Denise points out how promotions to leadership entail a complex mix of emotions; misconceptions hinder smooth transitions.

[6:18] - Recognizing diverse talents, role clarity, and understanding individual capabilities are crucial for effective leadership.

[9:20] - Denise emphasizes the importance of realistic expectations and comprehensive development plans following promotion.

[11:56] - Leadership transitions, like those at Apple, Disney, and T-Mobile, often face challenges in maintaining authenticity and navigating cultural shifts.

[13:03] - Embracing authenticity in assuming significant roles involves acknowledging fear, diverse emotions, and necessary change for growth.

[14:10] - I point out how new leaders often imitate iconic figures like Steve Jobs, facing failure without genuine understanding.

[15:36] - Denise has observed a shift toward shaping organizational culture, emphasizing understanding over formalities and compliance.

[17:37] - Promoting mid-level managers to the next level requires addressing challenges in understanding team dynamics and managerial skills.

[19:57] - I reflect on a strategic planning session, prioritizing basic infrastructure.

[21:55] - Buying a house with a great kitchen but neglecting basics mirrors leadership mistakes. Prioritizing fundamentals, like H.R. 101, reduces chaos and ensures success.

[23:35] - Denise argues that starting with a clear baseline enhances efficiency, instilling confidence in leaders.

[25:27] - In a crisis, introspection, acknowledging challenges, and methodical change ensure progress for leaders.

[27:24] - Acknowledging setbacks isn't failure, Denise points out; it's transparent self-awareness.

[28:59] - Effective leadership, exemplified by humility and fair treatment, fosters professional growth and confidence.

[31:24] - I started this podcast to emphasize the profound impact of a leader's actions on others.

[33:36] - Leading for four years now, Denise finds fulfillment in building partnerships and supporting clients nationwide.

[35:45] - In summary, as an accidental leader matures, the focus shifts from changing the world to self-improvement; acknowledging this fosters better leadership.

[37:02] - How can Denise be contacted?

Contact Denise:

Inspire Culture First - Website

Denise’s LinkedIn Page

Listen today as I take you on a journey back to episode 9, going into a topic that resonates with all of us: the fear of change.

Drawing from personal experiences and a powerful book I recently discovered, I explore the resistance many of us have towards change, even when it's inevitable. I share stories of individuals and organizations attempting to recreate past successes, clinging to familiar waters, only to find that change is constant.

Using a river analogy, I illustrate how life, like a flowing stream, is perpetually changing, and we must learn to embrace it. I reflect on my own challenges, including trying to revive the magic of my early radio days and resisting changes in my career. I also discuss the concept of "rugged flexibility," the ability to accept change and find opportunities within it.

Join me as we confront our fears, ask the right questions, and embark on a journey toward a brighter, more adaptable future.

Time Stamps:

[1:41] - We are revisiting a topic discussed in episode 9 today.

[3:43] - No one ever steps into the same river twice.

[4:32] - Change is inevitable, and we can either accept it or deny it.

[5:43] - I reflect on examples of how I have had to embrace change within my organization.

[6:56] - I offer an example of football coach Sean Payton trying to recreate past success.

[8:52] - Hear another example of how attempts to revive past radio success faltered due to change.

[11:00] - Think back on a time in your life when you feared change and tried to recreate past success.

[13:33] - I give another example from my time in radio.

[14:44] - I am currently reading Master of Change by Brad Stulberg.

[16:18] - I explain the concept of rugged flexibility.

[17:47] - Hear an example of a CEO whose CU was failing because he refused to embrace change.

[19:13] - Disorder events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, disrupt normalcy.

[21:47] - Resisting change can be harmful to your health, amplifying stress.

Books:

Master of Change: How to Excel When Everything Is Changing - Including You by Brad Stulberg

A lot of times, founders adopt a mindsight of "my way or the highway". But one of the best things they can do is get out of the way.

Randy Smith, the Co-Founder of CUInsight, joins me to have a candid conversation about how he went from a brokerage to owning his own marketing company. Randy shares how he was able to get out of his employees' way and let them succeed outside of his vision for success. 

Time Stamps:

[2:15] - Randy discusses how CUInsight started as a side hustle.

[6:25] - Not many people like change, but Randy is one of them.

[9:45] - There was a lot of fear for Randy when he changed his career.

[13:14] - Randy had no idea what to expect from CUInsight.

[15:36] - Leaders in Randy's past weren't the type of leader he wanted to be.

[18:19] - Getting out of the way of your team's progress is essential to a successful business.

[22:41] - Empowering your employees is a sign of success as a leader.

[24:44] - There are no bad data points.

[27:00] - Active listening is where Randy sees the most improvement.

[29:30] - Entrepreneurs hire six months too late.

[32:15] - If you're not growing, you're dying.

[34:40] - Urgent and important aren't synonyms.

[36:50] - We create the space and time that we want.

Books:

Permission to Screw Up: How I Learned to Lead by Doing (Almost) Everything Wrong

"You're not a perfectionist. You're insecure about how your best effort will be received." 

After a summer break, Bo is running solo to share one of his recent leadership struggles as an accidental leader. These struggles almost caused the end of the Accidental Leader Podcast. Listen in for a transparent and vulnerable conversation where Bo discusses his struggles with stoicism and relearning some things he's spent a lot of time learning.

Time Stamps:

[2:00] - Bo shares a quote that he needed to hear.

[6:11] - What do Bo's current and former employees say about the podcast?

[8:06] - Stoicism is something Bo's been struggling with.

[11:45] - Downtown Liberty, South Carolina, has become a passion project.

[16:06] - Learning to accept what's out of our control is important.

[19:20] - You will lose your peace and happiness if you try to control things out of your control.

[22:23] - Bo tells a story about when his flight was delayed.

[25:00] - The only things we have control over are the goals we set ourselves.

Everyone tells themselves lies. These lies hold us back. Having the strength to push forward with truths is essential.

Today, I'm joined by Amber Harsin. Amber is the CEO at Prodigy. We have an eye-opening discussion about the lies Amber had told herself throughout her journey to leadership. She talks about how her attitude shifted from just wanting a seat at the table while not being the head of the table to being a CEO of a company. 

Time Stamps:

[2:40] - Amber introduces herself.

[7:50] - When she was in High School, Amber never imagined she'd become a CEO.

[9:40] - Lean into the fear and try it.

[12:00] - Trust the people you know love you about the lies you tell yourself.

[15:40] - There's more to being a leader than having a degree.

[19:00] - Karen recounts how she became a leader.

[23:13] - When you're a leader, you have to be able to take risks.

[29:00] - Don't avoid risk. Manage it.

[31:30] - Karen remembers a specific polarizing leader who helped shape her as a leader.

[37:09] - Finding a balance between work and life is essential

Pushing yourself outside your comfort zone is essential to being a leader.

Today, I get over my fear and step outside my comfort zone to interview Evan Leaphart, someone I don't know very well. Evan is the Founder of Kiddie Kredit and the Co-Founder of the Black Men Talk Tech Conference. We have a [something] discussion about Evan's entrepreneurial journey filled with ups and downs. 

Time Stamps:

[3:08] - Evan introduces himself.

[5:30] - Inspired by his own "financial ruin," Evan created Kiddie Kredit.

[7:12] - Learning from people smarter than you and always taking feedback is the key to success.

[9:20] - Fear is always going to be there.

[12:18] - There's a lot of value in the middle.

[13:20] - Evan discusses the impact his father had on him.

[16:56] - Evan's Mount Rushmore of leaders.

[21:16] - People who bridge gaps are who Evan admires the most. 

[24:42] - No one's perfect.

[26:20] - Staying true to his vision is how Evan has been successful. 

[30:00] - Evan gives his advice to fellow accidental leaders.

Find Evan Online:

Evan on LinkedIn

Kiddie Kredit

A leader's root system is what makes them the leader they are today. Our root systems tell us what to do, how to react, communicate, and think about things. It's not a choice. It's how we were taught.

Today, I'm flying solo to discuss in-depth what a root system is. I get vulnerable and share a specific instance in my life that played a major role in negatively shaping the way I saw myself. And I detail what it took to stop seeing myself in that negative light.

Time Stamps:

[1:00] - Bo is flying solo for this episode.

[2:30] - Your root system is like wine.

[6:00] - Bo talks about a moment that shaped who he is.

[9:12] - Sometimes, you need to get out of your head.

[11:23] - Bo wonders what it would be like if he hadn't experienced a specific trauma.

[14:14] - Our root system tells us what to do.

[15:20] - What issue do you wish you could be better at?

When new leaders come into an organization, it can cause a lot of fear. It's important to keep your head down and worry about what you can control.

Today, I'm joined by Bob Quick, a Director of Radio Partnerships & Traffic at Motor Radio Network. Bob has been through numerous acquisitions in various companies he's worked for. He shares what he did to get through each one and the leaders that helped him. We also share a few laughs as Bob recounts his career path and our shared time in radio.   

Time Stamps:

[2:26] - Bo recounts the importance of thanking those who impacted your life.

[4:20] - Bob introduces himself.

[7:00] - The Motor Radio Network combines two of Bob's passions.

[9:30] - The sitcom, WKRP in Cincinnati, inspired Bob to get into radio.

[12:00] - Bob relates how he ended up in North Carolina working at his dream job.

[15:00] - Having a good support system is everything.

[17:05] - Bo and Bob share a laugh about their old boss.

[19:08] - When an organization is sold, it can cause a lot of fear.

[21:13] - Getting a job with someone else creates a bond.

[24:44] - Being empathetic is essential to being a leader.

[27:09] - For leaders, sometimes it's best to give employees the tools they need to succeed and get out of the way.

[31:20] - Few people say they want to grow up to lead people.

[35:15] - Not everyone who's good at their job is the right person for a leadership position.

[37:00] - Bob recalls what it was like leading Bo.

[40:13] - Bo remembers when his ego was out of control.

[43:10] - Finding a mentor is the key to being a better leader.

Links

Bob on LinkedIn