What does an unguarded player in a basketball game have to do with leadership?

During a recent game with my daughter, a simple question stopped me in my tracks: “Why isn’t that player being guarded?” The answer wasn’t about laziness or missed assignments—it was about awareness. The team knew the player, understood the situation, and conserved their energy where it mattered most.

In this episode, I unpack that moment and draw a powerful parallel to leadership and business. Too many leaders are exhausted not because they’re doing the wrong things, but because they’re giving their best energy to the wrong places.

We talk about:

• How clarity prevents burnout

• Why great leaders don’t play hard everywhere

• The cost of guarding problems that aren’t real threats

• How knowing your direction helps you lead with intention instead of reaction

If you’ve ever felt worn down despite doing “everything right,” this episode will help you rethink where—and who—deserves your energy.

Sometimes the smartest move isn’t working harder.
It’s knowing who not to guard.