The Driven Leadership Podcast
We believe that businesses don’t change until people do. Our programs give leaders and teams the tools to step up and create growth that lasts. This isn’t about an exciting afternoon….it’s about real change that sticks.

The Driven Leadership Podcast
With 14+ years of leadership development and training, the hosts, Mary and Eric, are experts in handling interpersonal conflict within teams and overcoming personal challenges within individuals that ultimately hinder their leadership ability. This podcast aims to share that expertise through conversation around:
leadership journey.

Conquering Imposter Syndrom Pt 1
In this the first part of this 2 part episode of the Driven Leadership Podcast, the hosts dive into the concept of imposter syndrome, exploring its impact on personal and professional growth. We discuss various types of imposter syndrome, share our personal experiences, and offer strategies for overcoming these feelings. We wanted our conversation to emphasize the importance of mindset, self-awareness, and the value of making mistakes as part of the learning process.
Embracing Adversity - The Path to a Growth Mindset
In this conversation, Connor, Eric & Mary explore the themes of adversity and the importance of developing a growth mindset. We discuss the differences between fixed and growth mindsets, share personal experiences, and provide practical tools for overcoming challenges. The conversation emphasizes the necessity of awareness, accountability, and the ability to learn from failure as essential components of personal development. The hosts encourage listeners to embrace adversity as a means of growth and to seek clarity in their goals.
Powering Through Adversity with Four Time Coach of the Year Kristina Hernandez
In this engaging conversation, Kristina Hernandez, head coach of the Stetson University beach volleyball team, shares her journey and insights on leadership, growth mindset, and overcoming adversity. This discussion with Mary highlights the importance of resilience, the role of trust in coaching, and the necessity of fostering a positive team culture. Kristina emphasizes that success is often born from challenges and that athletes must learn to embrace discomfort to grow. The conversation concludes with practical advice for coaches and athletes on navigating struggles and maintaining a forward-moving mindset.
Conquering Imposter Syndrome pt 2
In this episode of the Driven Leadership Podcast, Connor, Mary, Eric and Austin wrap up the conversation regarding the complexities of Impostor Syndrome and how it manifests in individuals, particularly in leadership roles. They discuss the importance of self-awareness, the challenges of asking for help, and the significance of focusing on controllables to overcome feelings of inadequacy. The conversation emphasizes that while Impostor Syndrome may never fully disappear, it can be transformed into a motivating force for personal and professional growth.
The Power of Personality Tests
In this episode of the Driven Leadership Podcast, hosts Connor Chaffin, Mary Belden-McGrath, and Austin Haydel delve into the world of personality tests and their application in business settings. They discuss various assessments, including DISC and ADVanced Insights, and emphasize the importance of understanding team dynamics to enhance communication and trust. The conversation highlights the potential resistance to personality tests and offers strategies for effectively implementing them within teams. The hosts stress the significance of self-awareness and the need to focus on strengths rather than weaknesses, ultimately advocating for the transformative power of personality assessments in fostering a positive workplace culture.
The Journey of Change Management
In this episode of the Driven Leadership Podcast, Eric, Mary, Austin and Connor delve into the complexities of change management within organizations. They discuss the emotional responses to change, the importance of communication, and the role of leaders in guiding their teams through transitions. The conversation highlights the change curve, which outlines the stages individuals go through during change, and emphasizes the need for empathy and understanding in leadership. The episode concludes with practical advice for leaders on how to effectively manage change and support their teams.
Building a Culture of Change w/Jen Bagley from CI Web Group
In this episode, Connor and Mary engage with Jennifer Bagley, CEO of CI Web Group, to discuss the critical role of Change Management in leadership. They explore the importance of embracing change, creating a culture that supports it, and the impact of AI on business processes. Jennifer shares her personal journey and insights on navigating change, coaching teams, and the mindset required for effective leadership. The conversation emphasizes the need for clarity in vision, the balance between change and stability, and the significance of personal growth in the face of evolving challenges.
Transformative Phrases That Changed Our Lives
In this episode of the Driven Leadership Podcast, hosts Connor Chaffin, Austin Haydel, and Mary Belden-McGrath explore phrases and mantras that have significantly impacted their lives. We discuss the importance of personal growth, the power of asking questions, and the necessity of taking action. The conversation delves into how to transform personal messes into messages of hope and resilience, the significance of staying curious in relationships, and the importance of focusing on what one can control. We conclude the episode with reflections on the value of these mantras and an invitation for listeners to share their own life-changing phrases.
The Balance of Introverts & Extroverts in Leadership
In this episode of the Driven Leadership Podcast, Austin, Connor and Eric react to Reddit submissions surrounding various aspects of leadership, including the importance of communication, the dynamics between introverts and extroverts, and the challenges faced by new leaders. They explore the significance of listening, the desire to lead, and the influence leaders have on their teams. The conversation also touches on the burdens of leadership and how to navigate these roles effectively, emphasizing the need for self-awareness and understanding within leadership dynamics.
Lou Hobacia on Building a Culture of Ownership
In this episode, Lou Hobaica shares his extensive experience in the HVAC industry, emphasizing the importance of leadership, team ownership, and creating a positive company culture. He discusses his journey from starting in the trades at a young age to becoming a successful business owner. Lou highlights the significance of hiring for attitude, the impact of an apprenticeship program, and the need for leaders to focus on the well-being of their employees. He advocates for a culture where team members feel empowered to own their roles and contribute to the company’s success, ultimately leading to higher employee satisfaction and business profitability
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