In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour revisits with leadership expert Amer Kaissi to discuss his new book, 'The Positive Intent Mindset.' They delve into the critical strategies and mindsets necessary for elite leadership, focusing on the power of assuming positive intent and its connection to compassion. 

The conversation covers the impact of negative assumptions, the benefits of realistic optimism, and the importance of forgiveness in leadership. Amer shares practical advice and research-backed insights on how leaders can grow and develop their leadership muscles. 

Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own leadership styles and consider the benefits of coaching and continuous development.

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him through [email protected] to share your thoughts on this episode & to share some topics you would like him to cover in the future.

You can learn more about Amer here.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour delves into the critical issue of burnout in the healthcare industry. 

Mike highlights the alarming turnover rates, particularly among early-tenured nurses, and the significant financial impact on hospitals. He identifies poor leadership as the primary driver of burnout and turnover, sharing a three-step process to combat these issues: assessing the current reality, engaging with intention, and acting and adapting. 

This episode emphasizes the importance of leadership development, effective communication, and micro-recognition. Mike also offers practical tools and resources, including his book 'Quit Losing Talent,' to help healthcare leaders create supportive and engaging work environments.

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him through [email protected] to share your thoughts on this episode & to share some topics you would like him to cover in the future.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour engages in a thought-provoking conversation with John Rossman, renowned author of 'Big Bet Leadership'. 

The discussion delves into John's extensive experience in leading Amazon's marketplace launch, working with the Gates Foundation, and his principles on leadership transformation. Key topics include identifying organizational hurdles to transformation, the importance of clarity, and effective communication in leadership. 

John shares his insights on writing detailed memos for complex decisions, the importance of hiring the right leaders for big projects, and the critical habits necessary for successful transformational leadership. 

For leaders looking to drive meaningful change and innovation within their organizations, this episode offers valuable strategies and actionable advice.

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him through [email protected] to share your thoughts on this episode & to share some topics you would like him to cover in the future.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour talks with Chris Robinson, EVP of Maxwell Leadership and author of 'Drift to Drive.' 

Chris shares his journey from humble beginnings to leading global leadership initiatives and offers practical advice on transforming goals into achievements. They discuss the dangers of complacency, the importance of clarity and intentionality, and the impact of the right relationships on personal and professional growth. 

Chris's seven-step framework for breaking complacency and driving success provides valuable insights for anyone looking to make the next year their best ever.

You can find Chris's book here.

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him through [email protected] to share your thoughts on this episode & to share some topics you would like him to cover in the future.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour discusses setting up for success in 2026 by embracing daily progress and sustained excellence. 

Mike emphasizes the importance of reflection, celebrating wins, and designing a future-focused plan for continuous improvement. He outlines practical steps for leaders to foster a thriving culture by focusing on small daily improvements, measuring progress, and creating sustainable systems for future success. 

If you want your team performing at a higher level in 2026, this is an episode you can’t afford to miss!
If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him through [email protected] to share your thoughts on this episode & to share some topics you would like him to cover in the future.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour speaks with Derek Coburn, author of 'Let's Retire Retirement.’ Derek, with his extensive experience as a financial advisor, challenges traditional notions of retirement and emphasizes the importance of investing in health, relationships, and personal fulfillment. 

They discuss how working longer can alleviate financial pressures, the value of optimizing personal well-being, and how leaders can inspire their teams to rethink retirement and work-life balance. 

Tune in for fresh insights on creating a fulfilling life and career at any age.

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him through [email protected] to share your thoughts on this episode & to share some topics you would like him to cover in the future.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour discusses how elite leaders prioritize growth and continuous improvement. 

Mike shares insights on making time for learning, the importance of feedback, and the value of surrounding oneself with people who push you to be better. Using real-life examples, including a dedicated hospital CEO and renowned swimmer Michael Phelps, Mike emphasizes that leadership growth is a continuous journey, not a destination. 

This episode also introduces the Elite Leaders community, a resource for leaders committed to achieving higher levels of success.

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him through [email protected] to share your thoughts on this episode & to share some topics you would like him to cover in the future.

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour engages in a compelling discussion with Pamela Potts, author of 'Every Leader is a Coach'. 

They delve into the transformative power of coaching in leadership, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, emotional energy management, and the skill of asking impactful questions. 

Pamela shares practical advice on avoiding biases, managing overload, and empowering teams to discover and leverage their strengths for optimal performance. 

For anyone looking to enhance their leadership abilities and foster a thriving team environment, this episode is a must-listen!

Make sure to check out Pamela’s new book, ‘Every Leader is a Coach’ here!

In this episode of the Lead Up podcast, host Mike Harbour welcomes Brain Fitness expert Jill Hewlett for a deep dive into the world of brain health. 

Jill, a renowned author, speaker, and wellness authority, shares valuable insights on neuroplasticity, brain fitness, and the benefits of regular mental exercises. The conversation covers the importance of brain health in leadership, practical strategies to rewire old thought patterns, and easy-to-implement techniques to manage stress and improve cognitive function. 

Tune in for actionable advice to help leaders and individuals enhance their mental performance and overall well-being.

Click here to get access to the FREE Brain Guide download.

You can learn more about Jill here. 

In this episode of the Lead Up Podcast, host Mike Harbour interviews Jeff Mengenhausen, CEO of Montrose Regional Hospital and Health System. 

Jeff shares insights from his unique journey from Navy SEAL to healthcare executive, discussing how military leadership principles can be applied to civilian healthcare. 

The conversation covers topics like maintaining team morale, the importance of culture in retaining talent, and the strategies Jeff employs to foster a winning mindset among his staff. 

For anyone interested in leadership, resilience, and healthcare management, this episode offers valuable lessons and applicable insight.

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a 5-star review on your streaming platform. Mike encourages you to reach out to him through [email protected] to share your thoughts on this episode & to share some topics you would like him to cover in the future.