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:
- Real-life, challenging leadership scenarios (submitted by listeners)
- Common roadblocks in one’s leadership journey
- Topics at the forefront of leadership and organizational development
- Interviews with other industry-leading experts.
46. Building Trust in Teams
In this episode of the Driven Leadership podcast, Connor and Eric delve into the multifaceted concept of trust within teams and organizations. They explore how trust is defined, the importance of character and competence, and the role of emotional intelligence in fostering healthy conversations. The discussion highlights the symptoms of low trust, the actions that can kill trust, and the significance of accountability in building a high-performing team. The hosts emphasize that trust is not just a noun but a verb, requiring consistent effort and vulnerability in communication.
45. The Transformative Power of the Forge Class
In this episode of the Driven Leadership Podcast, Connor and Eric discuss the Forge class, a unique leadership training program designed to enhance team dynamics and personal leadership skills. They explore the structure of Forge, its emphasis on experiential learning, and the importance of trust and self-talk in leadership. The conversation also delves into the evolution of the Forge class, its connection to the Spartan Warrior philosophy, and the impact of emotional learning on business performance. Listeners are encouraged to consider the prerequisites for joining Forge and the transformative experiences that await participants.
You can find more and learn about Brad at braddavidson.com
44. Protecting Your Greatest Asset w/Brad Davidson
In this conversation, Brad Davidson shares his journey from being a high-performing athlete to understanding the importance of protecting one’s health and energy. He discusses the challenges faced by high achievers, the necessity of rest and recovery, and how to instill these values in the next generation.
You can find more and learn about Brad at braddavidson.com
43. The Chemistry of High Performance Teams
In this episode of the Driven Leadership Podcast, Connor and Eric discuss the intricate relationship between team chemistry and performance. They explore how accountability plays a crucial role in fostering high-performing teams, emphasizing the importance of clear expectations, resources, and communication. The conversation delves into the ESRC model, which outlines the components of effective accountability, and highlights the significance of onboarding and manager relationships in building a cohesive team culture. Ultimately, they stress that a strong vision and direction are essential for driving team performance and chemistry.
42. Unlocking the Uncommon Edge w/DJ Neuman
In this week’s conversation, Mary & DJ Neumann explore the journey of personal growth, the importance of leadership styles, and the impact of creating a positive culture within organizations. DJ shares his experiences in personal development, the significance of self-leadership, and how the ‘Me vs. We vs. Us’ framework can transform leadership dynamics.
41. Why Most Leadership Training Doesn't Stick
In this episode of the Driven Leadership Podcast, hosts Connor Chaffin and Eric discuss the principles behind effective leadership training, emphasizing the importance of experiential learning and emotional intelligence. They explore why traditional training often fails to engage participants and how their approach, which focuses on creating ‘sticky’ training experiences, leads to lasting behavioral change. The conversation also touches on the challenges of delivering experiential training and the significance of ongoing engagement in both in-person and online formats.
40. Breaking Through Self-Sabotage
In this episode of the Driven Leadership Podcast, Connor, Mary, and Eric delve into the topic of self-sabotage, exploring its roots, signs, and the journey of overcoming it. Mary shares her personal struggles and the inspiration behind developing a class on breaking through self-sabotage, while Eric provides his perspective on the topic. The conversation emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, understanding one’s identity, and the balance between self-care and self-sabotage. The hosts discuss how shifting from a mindset of discipline to one of desire can lead to personal growth and fulfillment.
39. How Do You Navigate Passive Aggressive Behavior?
In this episode of the Driven Leadership Podcast, Connor, Eric, and Mary discuss various topics related to leadership, including how to navigate passive-aggressive behavior in the workplace, the challenges of knowledge transfer within teams, and the importance of authentic leadership in the era of personal branding. They offer valuable insights and practical advice for leaders navigating these common challenges, emphasizing the importance of effective communication, trust-building, and personal development.
38. How Do You Use Empathy as a Leader?
In this episode of the Driven Leadership podcast, Connor, Eric and Mary discuss the role of empathy in leadership and debate if you can actually grow your empathy. They explore the differences between empathy and sympathy, the importance of empathy in fostering team dynamics, and practical tools for developing empathy in leaders. The conversation also touches on the balance between empathy and accountability, emphasizing that while empathy is crucial, it should not come at the expense of performance and results.
37. The Art of Feedback
In this episode of the Driven Leadership Podcast, Connor and Eric discuss the nuances of feedback in leadership. They explore the importance of defining feedback versus criticism, the challenges leaders face in giving and receiving feedback, and effective models for delivering feedback. The conversation emphasizes the need for a culture of feedback, the significance of timely and respectful communication, and personal experiences that highlight the impact of feedback on leadership development.
36. The Art of Storytelling in Leadership
In this episode, Connor, Eric and Mary discuss the importance of storytelling in leadership, emphasizing how stories can connect emotionally with teams, inspire action, and enhance communication. We share personal anecdotes and practical tips for incorporating storytelling into leadership styles, highlighting the balance between personal experiences and the need to connect with the audience. The conversation also touches on the impact of vulnerability in building trust and the effectiveness of using stories to convey complex ideas.
35. How to Know When Someone is NOT Ready to Lead
In this episode, Connor and Eric discuss the critical aspects of identifying when someone is not ready to take on a leadership role. They explore the importance of emotional intelligence, discernment, and the ability to motivate teams effectively. The conversation emphasizes the need for thorough evaluation and assessment of potential leaders to avoid common pitfalls in management promotion. Eric shares insights on how to connect with team members’ intrinsic motivations and the dangers of seeking personal significance in leadership roles.
34. What is Confidence and How to Build it
In this episode of the Driven Leadership Podcast, Connor, Eric and Mary delve into the multifaceted concept of confidence, exploring its definition, the journey to building it, and the critical role of self-talk and support structures. They share personal stories and insights on how confidence can be developed through action, positive self-perception, and the influence of those around us. The conversation emphasizes the importance of recognizing the difference between confidence and arrogance, and how vulnerability can lead to growth.
33. The Servant Leadership Dilemma (Reddit React)
In this episode of the Driven Leadership podcast, Connor and Eric explore various leadership challenges sourced from Reddit. They discuss how to handle argumentative team members in meetings, the balance between servant leadership and corporate goals, and the differences in leading other leaders versus employees. The conversation emphasizes the importance of communication, feedback, and adapting leadership styles to different contexts.
32. The Role of Emotional Intelligence in Change Management
In this episode, Connor, Mary, and Eric discuss the critical role of emotional intelligence in change management. They explore how understanding emotions can facilitate smoother transitions during organizational changes, the importance of empathy in leadership, and practical strategies for managing resistance. The conversation emphasizes the need for leaders to connect with their teams, recognize individual emotional responses, and build trust to navigate change effectively.
31. The Power of EOS
In this episode, Connor and Eric discuss the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) and its significance in leadership development and business growth. They explore the importance of having a structured system in place to support team alignment and organizational success. The conversation delves into the six key components of EOS, the role of an EOS implementer, and the ideal circumstances for implementing EOS in a business. Through engaging analogies and personal insights, they highlight how EOS can transform a company’s trajectory and foster a culture of accountability and growth.
30. Why Do Employees Leave?
In this episode of the Driven Leadership Podcast, Connor, Austin, and Eric delve into the critical issue of employee turnover. They explore the reasons behind why employees leave, emphasizing the importance of effective onboarding, strong management, and a clear understanding of core values. The conversation highlights the need for organizations to create a supportive environment that fosters growth and engagement among employees, particularly high performers. The hosts provide actionable insights for leaders to improve retention and build a positive workplace culture.
29. 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
28. 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.
27. 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.
26. 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.
25. 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.
24. 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.
23. 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.
22. 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.
21. 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.
20. 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.
We'll See You in 2025!!
We wanted to take a moment to say thank you for listening and being a part of this journey for us in 2024! We have such an amazing time putting these episodes together and can’t wait for what 2025 has in store. We’ll you all in the new year!
19. What Exactly is BOLD?
This week we’re diving into the BOLD: Advanced Leadership that we at Driven Leadership offer. We’ve talked about it so much on the show so we finally explore its origins, the psychological foundations, and the transformative impact it has on participants. Connor, Eric and Mary discuss the importance of emotional engagement, the 1% principle for lasting change, and the necessity of navigating the unknown in leadership. They emphasize that true leadership is about influence and personal growth, and they encourage listeners to embrace discomfort for meaningful development.
18. The Challenges of Leading UP
In this episode of the Driven Leadership Podcast, Austin, Eric and Connor discuss the concept of leading UP within organizations. We explore the challenges faced by middle managers in influencing those above them, the importance of building trust, and the role of vulnerability in leadership. The conversation emphasizes the need for curiosity, solution-mindedness, and effective communication in fostering healthy relationships with superiors. We share personal experiences and practical advice for navigating difficult managerial relationships and enhancing leadership skills.
17. Navigating Some Tough Conversations
In this episode of the Driven Leadership Podcast, Mary, Eric and Connor discuss various leadership challenges based on Reddit stories and submissions. They explore the complexities of holding staff accountable in a family-run business, managing emotional employees, and addressing cognitive dissonance within teams. At the end of it all, these submissions truly emphasize the importance of accountability, emotional intelligence, and effective communication in fostering a positive workplace culture.
16. The Essentials of Cultivating Leaders
In this episode, the team talks through what we believe to be the essential elements of cultivating and training leaders within organizations. We explore foundational principles necessary for effective leadership development, the impact of company size on leadership strategies, and the importance of creating a psychologically safe environment for leaders to learn from their failures. Our conversation also emphasizes the significance of followership, structured training programs, and the integration of internal and external training resources to foster a strong leadership culture. Ultimately, we want to highlight that intentional effort is crucial for developing effective leaders and achieving long-term business success.
15. The Art of Conflict Management w/ Dr. Ralph Kilmann
In this conversation, Ralph Kilmann shares his extensive experience in conflict management, discussing the origins of his work, the development of the Thomas-Kilmann Instrument (TKI), and the importance of understanding and managing conflict in organizations. He emphasizes the need for a supportive organizational culture, the role of leadership, and the significance of addressing both external and internal conflicts. Kilmann also reflects on his legacy and the impact he hopes to have through his work.
14. Burn Your Ships!!
13. Becoming a Leader Worth Following w/Brigham Dickinson of Power Selling Pros
12. Zone 2 Leadership
In this episode, Austin, Connor and Eric discuss the concept of Zone 2 leadership, which is inspired by Zone 2 cardio training in running. Zone 2 leadership focuses on finding a balance between effort and efficiency in leadership. Connor and Austin share their personal experiences with Zone 2 running and how it relates to their leadership journeys. They explain that Zone 2 leadership involves slowing down, being intentional, and finding a sustainable pace. The goal is to achieve a state of control and flow in leadership, where one can lead with less effort and greater effectiveness. The conversation explores the concept of zone two running and how it can be applied to leadership and life.
11. How To Be Conflict Effective
In this episode of the Driven Leadership Podcast, we’re talking about the often misunderstood topic of conflict in the workplace. We explore the concept of being ‘conflict effective’ rather than simply resolving conflict, emphasizing the importance of emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and understanding different conflict modalities. Today’s conversation highlights the significant costs of unresolved conflict in organizations and provides practical tools and techniques for managing conflict effectively. Mary and Eric share personal anecdotes and insights from their experiences, with the aim to equip listeners with the knowledge to navigate conflict in a healthy and productive manner.
10. What's the Endgame to Leadership?
Today, Eric, Connor and Tony react to submissions from the Leadership subreddit. They explore how leadership and startups can balance a fast-paced environment with building a strong and supportive culture. They also discuss how to develop a vision for a plant and change its culture. Finally, they answer a pretty big question: what is the end game of being a leader and what motivates individuals in leadership roles?
Submit your own questions or challenges here: https://forms.gle/GGFk7VqbBLtRAoaw6
9. Secrets Of Building A Winning Culture w/2024 National Champion Coach David Roditi
In this conversation, we talk with long time friend and partner David Roditi, head coach of TCU Tennis. He shares his insights on building a successful team culture, the importance of individual player development along with the strategies he employs to create a player-led environment. He discusses the challenges of recruitment, maintaining engagement among players, and balancing personal and professional life.
8. The Power of a Player-Led Team
7. How to Sustain Engagement With Your Team
6. What Does (Dis)Engagement Really Look Like In Your Business?
Engagement is a key aspect of leadership, but many leaders struggle to understand and measure it. Engagement can be categorized into three groups: engaged, disengaged, and actively disengaged. Engagement is influenced by management, with 70% of engagement determined by the manager’s leadership style.
5. Setting Goals and Staying Consistent w/Michael Venidis
Today we are joined by Michael Venidis from Ryno Strategic Solutions! This conversation revolves around the importance of goal setting and consistency. Mary and Mike discuss their personal experiences with goal setting and how it has impacted their lives. They emphasize the significance of writing down goals and the power of visualization through techniques like vision boards. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the role of why in goal setting and the importance of aligning actions with intentions. Mike emphasizes the need to have a strong Why and passion behind your goals, as well as the importance of character and building leaders. He shares practical tips such as using sticky notes and creating a journal to stay consistent. Mary highlights the significance of having hope and a clear vision, as well as the power of small actions and measuring progress. They discuss the role of mindset and the need to be coachable and open to learning. The conversation concludes with a focus on helping others and the importance of connection and empathy.
4. The ROI of Leadership Development
This week’s conversation revolves around the topic of ROI on leadership development. Eric, Mary, Austin and Connor discuss the importance of investing in leadership and the potential return on investment. They emphasize the need for training to be immersive, practical, and emotionally impactful in order to produce meaningful results. The conversation also touches on the role of culture in supporting leadership development and the challenges of measuring the quantitative and qualitative ROI of training.
3. Learning from Our Worst Leadership Moments
In this conversation, the team discuss their worst experiences with leadership conversations. They share stories of mishandled conversations and the negative impact they had on relationships and team dynamics. The hosts reflect on the importance of empathy, understanding, and collaboration in these conversations. They also discuss the need for leaders to take responsibility for their actions and to create a safe space for open dialogue and problem-solving. The conversation highlights the significance of building trust and strong relationships with team members to navigate difficult conversations effectively.
2. Why Driven Leadership Exists
In this episode, Connor, Eric, and Mary discuss the origins of Driven Leadership and the challenges they faced in the early years. They share how they came up with the name Driven Leadership and the vision behind it. They also talk about the importance of embracing adversity and how it shaped their mindset and approach to business. The conversation highlights the significance of effective communication and building a strong partnership in overcoming obstacles and achieving success. Driven is a leadership development company that focuses on helping individuals and teams reach their full potential. The founders, Eric and Mary, emphasize the importance of connection, authenticity, and continuous growth in leadership. They believe that effective leadership is about influencing others and creating a positive impact. Driven aims to provide online training and coaching to support individuals and organizations in their leadership journey. They also have a vision to work with college sports teams and help coaches build strong, connected teams. The future of Driven involves leveraging technology and innovative delivery methods to make a lasting impact on individuals and businesses.
1. Attributes of Effective Leaders
The conversation revolves around the topic of leadership and what qualifies someone to be a leader in a business or team. The Driven team discuss the common mistakes of promoting high performers to leadership positions without considering their leadership skills. They emphasize the importance of emotional intelligence in leaders and suggest ways to measure it, such as observing how well they connect with others and their ability to handle adversity. The conversation also touches on the natural leadership qualities seen in children and the need to define what leadership means in a specific role and organization. They also highlight the need for curiosity and the value of utilizing individuals who may not have leadership qualities but possess other valuable skills. The hosts stress the significance of finding the right person for the organization’s culture and the importance of ongoing support and development for leaders.
Driven Leadership Podcast Trailer
So, what does this look like practically? It means giving people permission to bring everything they have to every part of their life. It means building a culture that sticks, achieving record profits in their business, fostering healthy conflict, building a strong marriage, and forming authentic relationships with their kids – the impact is limitless! And we’ve seen it hundreds of times in our trainings.
We’re bringing you this podcast to help you discover that level of true, authentic leadership