Ever wondered why seemingly simple phrases like "as soon as possible" can lead to such hilarious misunderstandings? On this episode of the Leadwell Podcast, we're breaking down the comical chaos and confusion that arise from everyday language, especially in leadership and business settings. From the murky waters of "I'm available while I'm off" to the unintended directives hidden in "I think," we share personal stories—including the humorous perils of asking a child to do a chore—that underline the necessity of clear communication. Join us as we help you recognize and refine your communication skills to become a more effective leader and avoid the pitfalls of ambiguity.

Clear communication isn't just about avoiding confusion; it's a crucial ingredient for building strong relationships and achieving outstanding results. This episode emphasizes the power of asking clarifying questions to determine whether a statement is an idea, an update, a decision, or an action. We also touch on the importance of extending grace during those inevitable awkward moments of unclear communication. Ultimately, we aim to inspire honesty and clarity in all interactions, fostering a productive and harmonious environment. Tune in, take care, and keep communicating well!

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Order your copy of Jon's book at RedefineYourServantLeadership.com, and don't forget to utilize the additional resources, or purchase access to the Workbook and Coaching Videos.

Send your Leadership and Business questions to Jon at [email protected].

For more information visit https://leadwell.com

The Leadwell Podcast gives mission-driven leaders principled and practical advice to do just that, lead well.

In each episode, your host Jon Kidwell, interviews leaders with great stories, to share strategies that help leaders navigate complex, confusing, and often down-right challenging leadership, personal growth, business, and workplace culture situations.

Jon is a nonprofit executive turned coach, speaker, author, and CEO of a leadership development company. In working with nonprofits and businesses, big and small, he realized the unique challenges leaders face when they are committed to keeping the mission and people the top priority. Those leaders’ commitment to their principles and the people they lead, plus seeing the need for more leaders who strive to do the right thing, the right way, for the right reasons, is what inspired Jon to start a leadership development company dedicated to the success of mission-driven leaders and their organiza...

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by an endless list of tasks, unsure which to tackle first? In this episode of the Lead Well podcast, I share a personal experience with an executive team that was drowning in too many responsibilities. We'll talk about the vital practice of pruning less critical activities to focus on what truly matters, guided by insights from Henry Cloud's book, "Necessary Endings." I'll also open up about my own journey in cutting down my commitments, such as stepping back from multiple board positions, to better align with my primary goals and boost productivity.

In the latter part of our discussion, we delve into the crucial process of deciding what to stop doing, both in our professional and personal lives. We'll discuss assessing tasks based on their mission and profitability, and the necessity of shedding low-impact, low-profit activities. This episode underscores the immense power of learning to say "no" and creating space for impactful work. Plus, we highlight the importance of building a supportive network to encourage and assist each other in this endeavor. Tune in to discover strategies for eliminating the unnecessary and focusing on what truly drives success.

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Order your copy of Jon's book at RedefineYourServantLeadership.com, and don't forget to utilize the additional resources, or purchase access to the Workbook and Coaching Videos.

Send your Leadership and Business questions to Jon at [email protected].

For more information visit https://leadwell.com

The Leadwell Podcast gives mission-driven leaders principled and practical advice to do just that, lead well.

In each episode, your host Jon Kidwell, interviews leaders with great stories, to share strategies that help leaders navigate complex, confusing, and often down-right challenging leadership, personal growth, business, and workplace culture situations.

Jon is a nonprofit executive turned coach, speaker, author, and CEO of a leadership development company. In working with nonprofits and businesses, big and small, he realized the unique challenges leaders face when they are committed to keeping the mission and people the top priority. Those leaders’ commitment to their principles and the people they lead, plus seeing the need for more leaders who strive to do the right thing, the right way, for the right reasons, is what inspired Jon to start a leadership development company dedicated to the success of mission-driven leaders and their organiza...

What happens when feedback is given but ignored? Discover the consequences of inaction and the power of active listening in this thought-provoking episode of the Leadwell podcast. Drawing from real-life scenarios like NPS surveys and employee evaluations, we explore the frustration that arises when feedback isn't acted upon and how it can lead to dissatisfaction and distrust. Referencing Corey Shearer's insightful book "Closing the Trust Gap," we underscore the crucial role of responding to feedback to build and maintain trust within your organization.

Join us as we dive into the essential strategies for fostering open communication and sharing actionable feedback within your team. Learn how meaningful discussions and collaborative efforts can lead to better outcomes and healthier relationships. We encourage you to engage with this episode on social media, share your thoughts, and contribute to the conversation. Your feedback is invaluable to us—rate, review, and let us know what's on your mind. Let's lead with purpose, build trust, and ensure that feedback drives action. Stay well, be blessed, and keep leading with intention.

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Order your copy of Jon's book at RedefineYourServantLeadership.com, and don't forget to utilize the additional resources, or purchase access to the Workbook and Coaching Videos.

Send your Leadership and Business questions to Jon at [email protected].

For more information visit https://leadwell.com

The Leadwell Podcast gives mission-driven leaders principled and practical advice to do just that, lead well.

In each episode, your host Jon Kidwell, interviews leaders with great stories, to share strategies that help leaders navigate complex, confusing, and often down-right challenging leadership, personal growth, business, and workplace culture situations.

Jon is a nonprofit executive turned coach, speaker, author, and CEO of a leadership development company. In working with nonprofits and businesses, big and small, he realized the unique challenges leaders face when they are committed to keeping the mission and people the top priority. Those leaders’ commitment to their principles and the people they lead, plus seeing the need for more leaders who strive to do the right thing, the right way, for the right reasons, is what inspired Jon to start a leadership development company dedicated to the success of mission-driven leaders and their organiza...

Do you find yourself constantly saying "sorry" even when it’s unnecessary? This episode of the Leadwell Podcast tackles the delicate balance between apologizing and assertiveness in the workplace. Join us as we discuss how the habitual overuse of apologies can chip away at your credibility and self-worth. Drawing on expert insights from psychotherapist Beverly Engel and supporting data from various surveys, we shed light on the often-overlooked consequences of over-apologizing. We also share practical resources like "Redefine Your Servant Leadership" to guide you in refining your approach to leadership and communication.

Learn the art of effective communication by understanding when and how to apologize appropriately, focusing on the significant impact that avoiding unnecessary "sorries" can have on your professional relationships and self-respect. We cover strategies for reframing your contributions positively and setting clear boundaries, empowering you to confidently say no when needed. Through personal stories and actionable advice, this episode offers invaluable tools for fostering a more assertive and respected professional environment. Whether you're struggling to break free from people-pleasing habits or aiming to enhance your leadership skills, this episode is packed with tips and mutual support strategies to help you grow.

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Order your copy of Jon's book at RedefineYourServantLeadership.com, and don't forget to utilize the additional resources, or purchase access to the Workbook and Coaching Videos.

Send your Leadership and Business questions to Jon at [email protected].

For more information visit https://leadwell.com

The Leadwell Podcast gives mission-driven leaders principled and practical advice to do just that, lead well.

In each episode, your host Jon Kidwell, interviews leaders with great stories, to share strategies that help leaders navigate complex, confusing, and often down-right challenging leadership, personal growth, business, and workplace culture situations.

Jon is a nonprofit executive turned coach, speaker, author, and CEO of a leadership development company. In working with nonprofits and businesses, big and small, he realized the unique challenges leaders face when they are committed to keeping the mission and people the top priority. Those leaders’ commitment to their principles and the people they lead, plus seeing the need for more leaders who strive to do the right thing, the right way, for the right reasons, is what inspired Jon to start a leadership development company dedicated to the success of mission-driven leaders and their organiza...

How do you build a leadership style that goes beyond the paycheck and truly inspires your team? Megan Billnoske, president-elect for the National Speaker Association in Houston, joins us to share her transformative journey from the high-stakes world of international oil and gas to becoming a sought-after consultant, trainer, and coach. Megan opens up about the ethical dilemmas she faced early in her career, demonstrating why trust and integrity are the bedrock of genuine connections in leadership. Her story is a powerful reminder that effective leadership isn't just about directing work; it's about fostering relationships that motivate and engage your team on a deeper level.

Get ready to glean practical strategies for connecting with your team members beyond their job roles. From using personal preference sheets to organizing creative competitions, we discuss actionable methods to understand and support your employees' lives outside the office. Megan also shares the inspiring tale of a NASA janitor whose sense of purpose was tied to a greater mission, illustrating the profound impact of meaningful work. By recognizing individual strengths and encouraging a collaborative environment, you can empower your team to reduce burnout and thrive independently and harmoniously. Tune in to discover how you can transform your leadership approach and create a cohesive, motivated team.

Connect with Megan:

Megan Billnoske | LinkedIn
Megan Billnoske | Email
Imspire | Website | Youtube | Instagram

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Order your copy of Jon's book at RedefineYourServantLeadership.com, and don't forget to utilize the additional resources, or purchase access to the Workbook and Coaching Videos.

Send your Leadership and Business questions to Jon at [email protected].

For more information visit https://leadwell.com

The Leadwell Podcast gives mission-driven leaders principled and practical advice to do just that, lead well.

In each episode, your host Jon Kidwell, interviews leaders with great stories, to share strategies that help leaders navigate complex, confusing, and often down-right challenging leadership, personal growth, business, and workplace culture situations.

Jon is a nonprofit executive turned coach, speaker, author, and CEO of a leadership development company. In working with nonprofits and businesses, big and small, he realized the unique challenges leaders face when they are committed to keeping the mission and people the top priority. Those leaders’ commitment to their principles and the people they lead, plus seeing the need for more leaders who strive to do the right thing, the right way, for the right reasons, is what inspired Jon to start a leadership development company dedicated to the success of mission-driven leaders and their organiza...

Have you ever considered that no matter how hard you try, one-third of people will always support you, another third will oppose you, and the remaining third can be swayed? In this episode, we dive deep into the "Law of Thirds" communication framework with John Carroll, Executive Director of City Leadership in Memphis. Drawing from his extensive experience, including lobbying for a governor, John shares his insights on how leaders can effectively navigate this challenging dynamic. He explains the importance of stewarding your truth, passion, and communication, focusing especially on winning over the middle third to drive successful outcomes.

We explore the challenges of building consensus and navigating resistance within teams. One of the key strategies John discusses is categorizing people into 'for', 'against', and 'don't care' groups, and concentrating efforts on the ambivalent middle third to create momentum. We also cover the dangers of overconfidence and the need to win over the undecided without alienating supporters. Through relatable examples, such as friends left out of group texts due to green messages, we illustrate the necessity of sometimes letting go of those who won't join the journey. This conversation is a must-listen for leaders looking to harness the power of effective communication and strategic thinking.

Lastly, we delve into the principles of servant leadership, focusing on how leaders can engage their teams through active listening and clear communication. John emphasizes the significance of making everyone feel heard and understood, even in disagreement, to foster a cohesive and motivated team. He also shares the impactful work of City Leadership in Memphis, offering valuable lessons on leading with purpose and compassion. Join us for an insightful discussion on the art of guiding and inspiring teams, and learn how to make a meaningful difference in your organization and community.

Connect with  John:

John Carroll | LinkedIn
John Carroll | Email
City Leadership | Website  | Instagram  | LinkedIn

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Order your copy of Jon's book at RedefineYourServantLeadership.com, and don't forget to utilize the additional resources, or purchase access to the Workbook and Coaching Videos.

Send your Leadership and Business questions to Jon at [email protected].

For more information visit https://leadwell.com

The Leadwell Podcast gives mission-driven leaders principled and practical advice to do just that, lead well.

In each episode, your host Jon Kidwell, interviews leaders with great stories, to share strategies that help leaders navigate complex, confusing, and often down-right challenging leadership, personal growth, business, and workplace culture situations.

Jon is a nonprofit executive turned coach, speaker, author, and CEO of a leadership development company. In working with nonprofits and businesses, big and small, he realized the unique challenges leaders face when they are committed to keeping the mission and people the top priority. Those leaders’ commitment to their principles and the people they lead, plus seeing the need for more leaders who strive to do the right thing, the right way, for the right reasons, is what inspired Jon to start a leadership development company dedicated to the success of mission-driven leaders and their organiza...

Ever wondered how prioritizing self-care can transform your leadership style? Join us on the Leadwell Podcast as we sit down with Kevin Goodnight, a seasoned expert in sales and multifamily businesses who has shifted focus to support dads through his initiative, Dad Voted. Kevin candidly shares his journey from high-stress environments to adopting a "selfish before servant" mindset, demonstrating how morning routines, physical exercise, and setting boundaries can enhance leadership effectiveness and overall quality of life. Discover the balancing act of leading effectively while maintaining personal well-being, as Kevin reveals practical tips for achieving optimal performance.

Moving beyond the daily grind, we explore the transition from a retirement mindset to a legacy mindset in leadership. Kevin introduces us to the "BIN" principles—Boundaries, managing Expectations, avoiding Notification overload, and effective Delegation—that form a robust framework for preventing burnout and ensuring long-term success. We delve into how these principles can help you manage setbacks and stay focused on both professional and personal goals, even amid unexpected challenges. Kevin's insights provide a fresh perspective on influencing and impacting others daily, making a lasting difference in both your career and personal life.

In a lighter and more playful segment, Kevin and I explore the fun idea of coordinating outfits for a twin-like appearance and the amusing possibilities it brings, including surprising people at a taco restaurant. This episode wraps up with a heartfelt appreciation for Kevin's contributions and the enjoyable moments shared. Through humor and camaraderie, we underscore the importance of setting non-negotiables for work and family life, the necessity of fun, and continuous self-improvement for leaders. Tune in for an engaging conversation that promises both valuable insights and plenty of laughter.

Connect with Kevin:

Kevin Goodnight | LinkedIn
Kevin Goodnight | Email
Dadvoted | Instagram
Dadvoted | Website
Dadvoted: Dad's Devoted to Discovering... | Book

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Order your copy of Jon's book at RedefineYourServantLeadership.com, and don't forget to utilize the additional resources, or purchase access to the Workbook and Coaching Videos.

Send your Leadership and Business questions to Jon at [email protected].

For more information visit https://leadwell.com

The Leadwell Podcast gives mission-driven leaders principled and practical advice to do just that, lead well.

In each episode, your host Jon Kidwell, interviews leaders with great stories, to share strategies that help leaders navigate complex, confusing, and often down-right challenging leadership, personal growth, business, and workplace culture situations.

Jon is a nonprofit executive turned coach, speaker, author, and CEO of a leadership development company. In working with nonprofits and businesses, big and small, he realized the unique challenges leaders face when they are committed to keeping the mission and people the top priority. Those leaders’ commitment to their principles and the people they lead, plus seeing the need for more leaders who strive to do the right thing, the right way, for the right reasons, is what inspired Jon to start a leadership development company dedicated to the success of mission-driven leaders and their organiza...

Unlock the secrets to leading with kindness and accountability as we catch up with Kenneth Rose, President and CEO of UChicago Medicine AdventHealth Bolingbrook. After 16 years, Kenneth returns to share his remarkable journey from Grand Rapids to Chicago, emphasizing the critical role of genuine care in high-pressure environments like healthcare. Discover how establishing a people-centered culture, grounded in clear mission statements and intentional priorities, can build a robust and accountable team environment where staff members feel genuinely valued.

How do you build trust and morale in an organization? Kenneth and I examine the operational intricacies of an HR department, highlighting the importance of staying updated with team benefits and fostering educational and career growth. We dive into the significance of bi-annual team member engagement surveys and actionable plans designed to enhance workplace engagement and morale. Leaders will find valuable insights into striking the delicate balance between grace and accountability, setting clear expectations, and providing routine feedback. We also tackle the unique struggles faced by leaders who are natural people-pleasers, offering strategies for delivering constructive feedback while maintaining a caring atmosphere.

Kenneth's personal and professional journey is a testament to resilience and growth. From moving to Texas for his first executive role to enduring family highs and lows, his story includes opening a new hospital just before a major COVID-19 spike. Through these experiences, we explore the importance of balancing personal and professional growth, recognizing the dangers of pride and ego, and integrating personal and professional lives. Kenneth's wisdom on empathy, self-awareness, and leading oneself well provides practical leadership strategies that encourage us all to lead with heart and stay blessed. Join us for a conversation filled with heartfelt insights and powerful lessons in leadership.

Connect with Kenneth:

Kenneth Rose | LinkedIn
UChicago Medicine - AdventHealth Bolingbrook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Website

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Order your copy of Jon's book at RedefineYourServantLeadership.com, and don't forget to utilize the additional resources, or purchase access to the Workbook and Coaching Videos.

Send your Leadership and Business questions to Jon at [email protected].

For more information visit https://leadwell.com

The Leadwell Podcast gives mission-driven leaders principled and practical advice to do just that, lead well.

In each episode, your host Jon Kidwell, interviews leaders with great stories, to share strategies that help leaders navigate complex, confusing, and often down-right challenging leadership, personal growth, business, and workplace culture situations.

Jon is a nonprofit executive turned coach, speaker, author, and CEO of a leadership development company. In working with nonprofits and businesses, big and small, he realized the unique challenges leaders face when they are committed to keeping the mission and people the top priority. Those leaders’ commitment to their principles and the people they lead, plus seeing the need for more leaders who strive to do the right thing, the right way, for the right reasons, is what inspired Jon to start a leadership development company dedicated to the success of mission-driven leaders and their organiza...

What if there was a way to communicate your organization's vision so effectively that it transformed the way your team sees and achieves its goals? Join us as Stephen Smith, founder and lead strategist at Aerable, shares his innovative seven-ingredient process for strategic communication. Stephen uses a unique agricultural analogy to explain how cultivating ideas in a fertile environment can yield remarkable results. You'll learn how foundational faith and a clear, purposeful vision can set the stage for achieving the grand design of your organization.

Explore the concepts of seasonality and poise as Stephen reveals the importance of timing and emotional intelligence in leadership. Discover how aligning tasks with the appropriate season can maximize effectiveness, much like planting crops at the right time yields a bountiful harvest. Equally important is maintaining poise—Stephen describes this as having the self-control and emotional intelligence to navigate both the highs and lows of business, ensuring that your communication remains clear and consistent.

Effective leadership requires a delicate balance of poise, diplomacy, and creativity. Stephen discusses the critical role of understanding and valuing others' perspectives in enhancing strategic communication and organizational resilience. By fostering an environment ripe for innovation, leaders can respond to market demands and stakeholder needs more effectively. Wrap up with insights on connecting with Stephen and Aerable for more on their communication strategies, and hear our heartfelt gratitude for the collaboration and support from the Leadwell community. This episode is a treasure trove of actionable insights for any leader looking to elevate their communication game.

Connect with Stephen:

Stephen Smith | LinkedIn
Stephen Smith | Email
Aerable | Website
Aerable | Instagram

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Order your copy of Jon's book at RedefineYourServantLeadership.com, and don't forget to utilize the additional resources, or purchase access to the Workbook and Coaching Videos.

Send your Leadership and Business questions to Jon at [email protected].

For more information visit https://leadwell.com

The Leadwell Podcast gives mission-driven leaders principled and practical advice to do just that, lead well.

In each episode, your host Jon Kidwell, interviews leaders with great stories, to share strategies that help leaders navigate complex, confusing, and often down-right challenging leadership, personal growth, business, and workplace culture situations.

Jon is a nonprofit executive turned coach, speaker, author, and CEO of a leadership development company. In working with nonprofits and businesses, big and small, he realized the unique challenges leaders face when they are committed to keeping the mission and people the top priority. Those leaders’ commitment to their principles and the people they lead, plus seeing the need for more leaders who strive to do the right thing, the right way, for the right reasons, is what inspired Jon to start a leadership development company dedicated to the success of mission-driven leaders and their organiza...

Discover how you can transform your leadership approach by building strong networks with insights from David Gow, the visionary founder and chairman of Gow Media. David shares his inspiring journey, detailing how overcoming personal challenges like introversion and actively seeking help has led to the creation of genuine relationships and successful collaborations. Learn how community connections and partnerships have been a cornerstone in the resilience and shared success of his ventures.

Explore the rapidly evolving landscape of media entrepreneurship through David's experience. From the traditional roots of sports radio to the dynamic realms of digital platforms like Twitter and Instagram, David provides a front-row seat to the shifts in media and advertising. Hear the compelling story of Gow Media's strategic acquisition of CultureMap and the roller coaster ride of leading a media company through the trials of the COVID-19 pandemic, including the tough choices and sacrifices that kept the team united.

Finally, gain invaluable advice on leading with compassion and building networks that support professional growth. David reveals the excitement of storytelling, the pride in watching colleagues advance, and the essential practice of reaching out for help when needed. We also touch on the delicate process of terminating employees with respect and care, ensuring they continue to feel valued even after their departure. Tune in for a thoughtful conversation on leadership, community, and the profound impact of networks on personal and professional development.

Connect with David:

David Gow | LinkedIn
David Gow | Email
Gow Media | LinkedIn
CultureMap | Website

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Order your copy of Jon's book at RedefineYourServantLeadership.com, and don't forget to utilize the additional resources, or purchase access to the Workbook and Coaching Videos.

Send your Leadership and Business questions to Jon at [email protected].

For more information visit https://leadwell.com

The Leadwell Podcast gives mission-driven leaders principled and practical advice to do just that, lead well.

In each episode, your host Jon Kidwell, interviews leaders with great stories, to share strategies that help leaders navigate complex, confusing, and often down-right challenging leadership, personal growth, business, and workplace culture situations.

Jon is a nonprofit executive turned coach, speaker, author, and CEO of a leadership development company. In working with nonprofits and businesses, big and small, he realized the unique challenges leaders face when they are committed to keeping the mission and people the top priority. Those leaders’ commitment to their principles and the people they lead, plus seeing the need for more leaders who strive to do the right thing, the right way, for the right reasons, is what inspired Jon to start a leadership development company dedicated to the success of mission-driven leaders and their organiza...