The Intentional Leaders Podcast: Helping ambitious leaders gain clarity, communicate with confidence, and lead with intention.

Top 10 Leadership Practices

1.      Goals & Expectations: The foundation of performance

 2.     Self-Management:  Is a key to credibility, be composed

3.     Accountability:  Starts with responsibility

 4.    Mindset:  Comes before skillset

 5.     Assertiveness:  It’s who you are

6.    Feedback: Tell anyone anything with intention

 7.     Collaboration:  Is hard

 8.    Problem Solving and Decision Making:  Are processes and practices

 9.    Cognitive Biases:  Are everywhere

 10. Learning:  The harder the better

Questions? Episode Requests? Send us a message!

Ambitious leaders know that real leadership goes far beyond titles—it’s about developing the clarity and mindset to guide others with confidence. In this podcast, you’ll explore what today’s leaders truly need, from navigating everyday problem solving to handling tough moments of workplace conflict with steadiness and respect. Episodes dive into setting healthy workplace boundaries, strengthening workplace collaboration, and building the emotional intelligence and emotional agility that make leadership sustainable. Whether you’re managing a growing team or refining your voice as a decision-maker, you’ll find insights that help you cultivate a resilient growth mindset and elevate your impact.

Top 10 Leadership Practices

1.      Goals & Expectations: The foundation of performance

 2.     Self-Management:  Is a key to credibility, be composed

3.     Accountability:  Starts with responsibility

 4.    Mindset:  Comes before skillset

 5.     Assertiveness:  It’s who you are

6.    Feedback: Tell anyone anything with intention

 7.     Collaboration:  Is hard

 8.    Problem Solving and Decision Making:  Are processes and practices

 9.    Cognitive Biases:  Are everywhere

 10. Learning:  The harder the better

Questions? Episode Requests? Send us a message!

Ambitious leaders know that real leadership goes far beyond titles—it’s about developing the clarity and mindset to guide others with confidence. In this podcast, you’ll explore what today’s leaders truly need, from navigating everyday problem solving to handling tough moments of workplace conflict with steadiness and respect. Episodes dive into setting healthy workplace boundaries, strengthening workplace collaboration, and building the emotional intelligence and emotional agility that make leadership sustainable. Whether you’re managing a growing team or refining your voice as a decision-maker, you’ll find insights that help you cultivate a resilient growth mindset and elevate your impact.

Top 10 Leadership Practices

1.      Goals & Expectations: The foundation of performance

 2.     Self-Management:  Is a key to credibility, be composed

3.     Accountability:  Starts with responsibility

 4.    Mindset:  Comes before skillset

 5.     Assertiveness:  It’s who you are

6.    Feedback: Tell anyone anything with intention

 7.     Collaboration:  Is hard

 8.    Problem Solving and Decision Making:  Are processes and practices

 9.    Cognitive Biases:  Are everywhere

 10. Learning:  The harder the better

Questions? Episode Requests? Send us a message!

Ambitious leaders know that real leadership goes far beyond titles—it’s about developing the clarity and mindset to guide others with confidence. In this podcast, you’ll explore what today’s leaders truly need, from navigating everyday problem solving to handling tough moments of workplace conflict with steadiness and respect. Episodes dive into setting healthy workplace boundaries, strengthening workplace collaboration, and building the emotional intelligence and emotional agility that make leadership sustainable. Whether you’re managing a growing team or refining your voice as a decision-maker, you’ll find insights that help you cultivate a resilient growth mindset and elevate your impact.

In this episode of the Intentional Leaders Podcast, host Cyndi Wentland interviews Melissa Hunt, a certified economic developer (CEcD) and economic development finance professional (EDFP). Melissa shares her journey in economic development, discussing the challenges and successes she has encountered while assisting communities in crafting and implementing effective growth strategies. She emphasizes the importance of collaboration among regional and state organizations, community leaders, business owners, and key stakeholders to foster sustainable development. Melissa also highlights the significance of visioning, data analysis, and master planning in supporting opportunities for community growth. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the intricacies of economic development and the leadership qualities necessary to drive positive change in communities. 

In Business 2022 40 Under 40:   https://www.ibmadison.com/40under40class2022/

LinkedIn:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/huntmelissam/

The Wisconsin Economic Development Association (WEDA) recognized Melissa Hunt as one of two 2022 Andy Lisak Young Professional Award winners at the 2022 Governor’s Conference on Economic Development held Feb. 9-11 in Madison, WI. 

Questions? Episode Requests? Send us a message!

Ambitious leaders know that real leadership goes far beyond titles—it’s about developing the clarity and mindset to guide others with confidence. In this podcast, you’ll explore what today’s leaders truly need, from navigating everyday problem solving to handling tough moments of workplace conflict with steadiness and respect. Episodes dive into setting healthy workplace boundaries, strengthening workplace collaboration, and building the emotional intelligence and emotional agility that make leadership sustainable. Whether you’re managing a growing team or refining your voice as a decision-maker, you’ll find insights that help you cultivate a resilient growth mindset and elevate your impact.

Speaking up with clarity and confidence is harder than it seems. When we’re in difficult situations, stress can trigger fight, flight, or freeze, making it even tougher to express ourselves effectively. Assertive communication helps us own our voice, speak with confidence, and set clear boundaries—all while maintaining respect for ourselves and others.

Why Assertive Communication Matters:

✅ Reduces misunderstandings and conflict
✅ Helps you express needs clearly without aggression or passivity
✅ Increases confidence, self-respect, and influence

The Power of “I” Statements:

Instead of aggressive, passive, or passive-aggressive communication, assertive communication follows a simple but powerful structure:

✔️ I feel… (Label your emotions)
✔️ When you… (Describe the behavior, not the person)
✔️ Because… (Explain the impact)
✔️ Can we/Will you/I need you to… (Make a clear request)

Next Steps to Strengthen Your Assertiveness:

1️⃣ Observe your thoughts and emotions for a week—what upsets you?
2️⃣ Identify where your needs, values, or expectations aren’t being met.
3️⃣ Write down and practice using assertive statements.
4️⃣ Get comfortable owning your voice—it’s a learned skill!

💡 Finding your voice is a process—but one that leads to stronger relationships, greater respect, and increased confidence.

🚀 Want to communicate with clarity and impact? The Confident Leader will show you how.

🔗 Join now at Intentionaleaders.com

Questions? Episode Requests? Send us a message!

Ambitious leaders know that real leadership goes far beyond titles—it’s about developing the clarity and mindset to guide others with confidence. In this podcast, you’ll explore what today’s leaders truly need, from navigating everyday problem solving to handling tough moments of workplace conflict with steadiness and respect. Episodes dive into setting healthy workplace boundaries, strengthening workplace collaboration, and building the emotional intelligence and emotional agility that make leadership sustainable. Whether you’re managing a growing team or refining your voice as a decision-maker, you’ll find insights that help you cultivate a resilient growth mindset and elevate your impact.

Boundaries are not about keeping people out—they are about keeping yourself emotionally and practically safe. In this episode, we explore how setting boundaries is essential for confidence, well-being, and integrity, both in your personal and professional life.

Discover the four key stages to setting and maintaining healthy boundaries: ✔ Know the value and purpose – Honor yourself and protect your rights. ✔ Understand your rights, values, and needs – Identify what truly matters to you. ✔ Be aware of signs and triggers – Recognize when a boundary is being crossed. ✔ Honor them – Clearly and respectfully communicate your boundaries.

Key insights include: ✅ How boundaries align with your values and priorities ✅ The role of assertive communication in setting and maintaining boundaries ✅ Recognizing the signs when a boundary is crossed and how to respond ✅ How to overcome fear and discomfort when standing up for yourself

Setting boundaries is an act of self-respect and empowerment. Tune in to learn how to proactively define your limits, handle difficult situations, and create healthier relationships.

📌 Stay tuned for next week’s episode, where we’ll dive into how to confidently articulate when a boundary has been crossed.

Questions? Episode Requests? Send us a message!

Ambitious leaders know that real leadership goes far beyond titles—it’s about developing the clarity and mindset to guide others with confidence. In this podcast, you’ll explore what today’s leaders truly need, from navigating everyday problem solving to handling tough moments of workplace conflict with steadiness and respect. Episodes dive into setting healthy workplace boundaries, strengthening workplace collaboration, and building the emotional intelligence and emotional agility that make leadership sustainable. Whether you’re managing a growing team or refining your voice as a decision-maker, you’ll find insights that help you cultivate a resilient growth mindset and elevate your impact.

In this episode of the Intentional Leaders Podcast, host Cyndi Wentland discusses the challenges and strategies involved in transitioning from being a peer to a managerial role within the same team. She emphasizes the importance of establishing clear boundaries, fostering open communication, and building trust to navigate this shift effectively. Cyndi also highlights the need for new managers to develop self-awareness and emotional intelligence to lead their former peers successfully. Listeners will gain practical insights into managing this transition while maintaining positive team dynamics and achieving leadership success. 

Questions? Episode Requests? Send us a message!

Ambitious leaders know that real leadership goes far beyond titles—it’s about developing the clarity and mindset to guide others with confidence. In this podcast, you’ll explore what today’s leaders truly need, from navigating everyday problem solving to handling tough moments of workplace conflict with steadiness and respect. Episodes dive into setting healthy workplace boundaries, strengthening workplace collaboration, and building the emotional intelligence and emotional agility that make leadership sustainable. Whether you’re managing a growing team or refining your voice as a decision-maker, you’ll find insights that help you cultivate a resilient growth mindset and elevate your impact.

In this episode of the Intentional Leaders Podcast, host Cyndi Wentland interviews Ryan Festerling, President of QPS Employment Group. Ryan shares insights from his leadership journey, discussing the challenges and successes he has encountered in the staffing and recruiting industry. He emphasizes the importance of building strong relationships, fostering a positive organizational culture, and adapting to change in a dynamic business environment. Listeners will gain valuable perspectives on effective leadership practices and strategies for navigating the complexities of leading a growing organization.

Find him here: Ryan Festerling, President of QPS Employment Group

Questions? Episode Requests? Send us a message!

Ambitious leaders know that real leadership goes far beyond titles—it’s about developing the clarity and mindset to guide others with confidence. In this podcast, you’ll explore what today’s leaders truly need, from navigating everyday problem solving to handling tough moments of workplace conflict with steadiness and respect. Episodes dive into setting healthy workplace boundaries, strengthening workplace collaboration, and building the emotional intelligence and emotional agility that make leadership sustainable. Whether you’re managing a growing team or refining your voice as a decision-maker, you’ll find insights that help you cultivate a resilient growth mindset and elevate your impact.

In our latest podcast episode, we delve into Tuckman's Team Development Model, focusing on the often misunderstood 'Storming' phase. Many teams view this stage with apprehension, associating it with conflict and discomfort. However, 'storming' doesn't always manifest as overt disputes; it can be subtle, characterized by unspoken disagreements and artificial harmony. Recognizing and navigating this phase is crucial for teams aspiring to reach high performance.

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding 'Storming': Learn how to identify this phase, even when conflicts are not apparent, and understand its role in team development.
• Promoting Healthy Conflict: Discover strategies to encourage open dialogue and address disagreements constructively, fostering an environment where diverse perspectives are valued.
• Leadership as Facilitation: Explore the leader's role in guiding teams through 'storming' by modeling candor, transparency, and effective conflict resolution techniques.
• Practical Tips: Gain actionable advice on educating your team about development stages, establishing norms for healthy conflict, utilizing assessment tools, and maintaining a focus on ideas rather than personal differences.

By embracing the 'storming' phase and implementing these strategies, teams can transform potential friction into opportunities for growth, leading to enhanced collaboration and performance.

Questions? Episode Requests? Send us a message!

Ambitious leaders know that real leadership goes far beyond titles—it’s about developing the clarity and mindset to guide others with confidence. In this podcast, you’ll explore what today’s leaders truly need, from navigating everyday problem solving to handling tough moments of workplace conflict with steadiness and respect. Episodes dive into setting healthy workplace boundaries, strengthening workplace collaboration, and building the emotional intelligence and emotional agility that make leadership sustainable. Whether you’re managing a growing team or refining your voice as a decision-maker, you’ll find insights that help you cultivate a resilient growth mindset and elevate your impact.

Not all groups are teams—and that’s okay. Understanding Bruce Tuckman’s Model of Team Development helps leaders navigate and accelerate their team’s journey from formation to high performance.

In this episode, we explore the four predictable stages every team experiences: ✔ Forming – Setting goals, defining roles, and establishing purpose ✔ Storming – Navigating disagreements, resolving conflicts, and overcoming tension ✔ Norming – Building trust, cooperation, and collective problem-solving ✔ Performing – Achieving flexibility, shared leadership, and sustained success

By recognizing these stages, leaders can take intentional actions to fast-track team growth, enhance collaboration, and boost productivity. Discover how to adapt your leadership style at each phase—from directing to coaching, facilitating, and ultimately delegating as your team strengthens.

Key insights include: ✅ The stages of team development and how they impact performance ✅ How leadership roles shift as teams evolve ✅ Strategies to assess team behaviors and foster open discussions ✅ The importance of revisiting the model when team dynamics change

Don’t just assume your team is high-performing—ensure it is! Listen now and explore ways to drive team success.

Questions? Episode Requests? Send us a message!

Ambitious leaders know that real leadership goes far beyond titles—it’s about developing the clarity and mindset to guide others with confidence. In this podcast, you’ll explore what today’s leaders truly need, from navigating everyday problem solving to handling tough moments of workplace conflict with steadiness and respect. Episodes dive into setting healthy workplace boundaries, strengthening workplace collaboration, and building the emotional intelligence and emotional agility that make leadership sustainable. Whether you’re managing a growing team or refining your voice as a decision-maker, you’ll find insights that help you cultivate a resilient growth mindset and elevate your impact.