Maxwell Leadership Executive Podcast

The Maxwell Leadership Executive Podcast provides leadership training and coaching based on the principles of its founder John C. Maxwell.

#371: The Positive Power of Confrontation 11/20/2025

#371: The Positive Power of Confrontation In this episode, Perry Holley and Chris Goede explore the positive power of confrontation and how leaders can use it effectively. They provide a framework for leaders to approach confrontation with the right mindset, focusing on clarity, purpose, and building trust rather than conflict. They also share practical steps for preparing for and engaging in confrontation, such as preparing one's heart, choosing the right time and place, and collaborating on a path forward. Additionally, they discuss the benefits of healthy confrontation, including restored trust, improved performance, and higher engagement levels. Overall, the episode equips leaders with valuable insights and tools to navigate confrontation positively and productively. /episode/index/show/5d127a9f-64ff-4023-b539-a9c0d0ccac3c/id/38969875

#370: Is Burnout Affecting Your Team? 11/13/2025

#370: Is Burnout Affecting Your Team? In this episode, Perry Holley and Chris Goede discuss the concerning trend of "quiet cracking" affecting employees. They explain that quiet cracking is a persistent feeling of unhappiness and being overwhelmed that leads to disengagement, poor performance, and increased desire to quit. Holley and Goede offer practical suggestions for leaders to address this issue, such as providing training and development, giving recognition and connection, and creating psychological safety. They also emphasize the importance of leaders being aware of their own well-being and modeling healthy behaviors for their teams. /episode/index/show/5d127a9f-64ff-4023-b539-a9c0d0ccac3c/id/38969825

#369: How Leaders Develop the Potential of Others 11/06/2025

#369: How Leaders Develop the Potential of Others In this episode, Perry Holley and Chris Goede explore how leaders can identify and cultivate the potential in their team members. They discuss the importance of having the right mindset and seeing people as valuable assets to develop, rather than just means to an end. The hosts also share practical strategies for encouraging and nurturing growth, such as providing opportunities that stretch people beyond their comfort zones and offering specific, authentic encouragement. Throughout the episode, they stress the significance of tailoring the development approach to each individual and creating clear pathways for growth within the organization. /episode/index/show/5d127a9f-64ff-4023-b539-a9c0d0ccac3c/id/38727880

#368: The Evolution of Servant Leadership 10/30/2025

#368: The Evolution of Servant Leadership In this episode, Chris Goede and Perry Holley explore the evolution of servant leadership and its increasing relevance in today's business landscape. They discuss how servant leadership now prioritizes emotional resilience, empowering team members, and leveraging technology to create personal connections at scale. They also emphasize the importance of connecting daily work to a greater purpose, which is especially crucial for engaging younger generations in the workforce. Additionally, they highlight that true servant leadership begins with taking care of oneself to effectively serve and lead others. /episode/index/show/5d127a9f-64ff-4023-b539-a9c0d0ccac3c/id/38587210

#367: Soloist to Conductor – What’s the Organization to Do? 10/23/2025

#367: Soloist to Conductor – What’s the Organization to Do? Perry Holley and Chris Goede stress the need for organizations to intentionally develop their leadership pipeline before promotions. They advise identifying emerging leaders by competencies—not just technical skills—and offering stretch assignments, mentoring, and shadowing to build influence early. They also recommend separate tracks for technical and leadership growth and celebrating when leaders apply what they’ve learned to reinforce a culture of development. /episode/index/show/5d127a9f-64ff-4023-b539-a9c0d0ccac3c/id/38587205

#366: Soloist to Conductor – What’s a Soloist to Do? 10/16/2025

#366: Soloist to Conductor – What’s a Soloist to Do? In this episode, Perry Holley and Chris Goede discuss the transition from being an individual contributor to becoming a leader. They provide practical tips for soloists to prepare themselves for leadership roles, such as leading without a title, building relationships, and managing themselves effectively. They also encourage soloists to let go of being the expert and celebrate team wins, fostering an abundance mentality. Additionally, they emphasize the importance of studying leadership, asking questions, and seeking feedback to enhance personal growth and influence. The episode offers valuable insights for individual contributors looking to develop their leadership skills and increase their impact within their organizations. /episode/index/show/5d127a9f-64ff-4023-b539-a9c0d0ccac3c/id/38559880

#365: The Multi-hat Leader 10/09/2025

#365: The Multi-hat Leader Perry Holley and Chris Goede explore the concept of the multi-hat leader and the importance of adapting to different leadership situations. They outline four essential hats—coach, advisor, leader, and mentor—and share insights on when and how to switch between them. Drawing from personal experiences, they offer practical advice for overcoming the challenges of wearing multiple hats and choosing the right one to lead effectively. /episode/index/show/5d127a9f-64ff-4023-b539-a9c0d0ccac3c/id/38441755

#364: How Do Leaders Drive Team Unity? 10/02/2025

#364: How Do Leaders Drive Team Unity? In this episode, Chris Goede and Perry Holley explore the importance of team unity and how leaders can drive it within their organizations. They discuss the need for leaders to define what unity looks like in terms of behaviors and actions, setting a shared expectation for the team. They also suggest ways leaders can build trust and vulnerability among team members, such as having each person share their strengths, areas for improvement, and personal stories. Additionally, they propose creating a team agreement or unity charter that outlines how team members will communicate, handle disagreements, and support each other, even when not in the same room. Throughout the episode, Goede and Holley provide practical tips and insights to help leaders foster a strong, cohesive team culture that drives performance and success. /episode/index/show/5d127a9f-64ff-4023-b539-a9c0d0ccac3c/id/38381735

#363: What Were You Thinking? 09/25/2025

#363: What Were You Thinking? In this episode, Perry Holley and Chris Goede explore the importance of critical thinking for leaders. They explain how critical thinking helps leaders enhance their problem-solving skills, make informed decisions, and communicate more effectively. The hosts also share practical tips for developing critical thinking skills, such as asking thoughtful questions, evaluating information sources, and considering multiple perspectives. Additionally, they encourage leaders to engage in diverse conversations and embrace uncertainty as part of the critical thinking process. /episode/index/show/5d127a9f-64ff-4023-b539-a9c0d0ccac3c/id/38311400

#362: Developing Confidence as a Leader 09/18/2025

#362: Developing Confidence as a Leader In this episode, Perry Holley and Chris Goede explore how leaders can develop confidence in themselves and their abilities. They share insights from Bill Belichick's book, The Art of Winning, which emphasizes the importance of preparation, mastering details, and owning mistakes in building confidence. They also discuss the value of creating challenging scenarios for teams to help them perform under pressure and be ready to respond in real-world situations. Furthermore, they examine the paradox of balancing confidence with humility, noting that while confidence earns followers, humility earns trust. The episode offers practical strategies and a thought-provoking perspective on cultivating authentic confidence as a leader. /episode/index/show/5d127a9f-64ff-4023-b539-a9c0d0ccac3c/id/38226945

#361: Gravitas That Drives Connection 09/11/2025

#361: Gravitas That Drives Connection Perry Holley and Chris Goede explore gravitas as a key element of leadership presence and influence. They share practical ways to develop it—building self-awareness, communicating with confidence and humility, and staying calm under pressure. With consistency and integrity, leaders can inspire trust, command attention, and strengthen connections with their teams. /episode/index/show/5d127a9f-64ff-4023-b539-a9c0d0ccac3c/id/38143195

#360: Can You Really Work with Complicated People? 09/04/2025

#360: Can You Really Work with Complicated People? In this episode, Perry Holley and Chris Goede explore strategies for working effectively with complicated people. They discuss the importance of seeing individuals as people rather than problems and offer practical tools for fostering collaboration and understanding. They also emphasize the role of clear communication in reducing friction and frustration when working with difficult colleagues. Additionally, they highlight the value of setting boundaries to protect time, energy, and productivity while still maintaining positive working relationships. /episode/index/show/5d127a9f-64ff-4023-b539-a9c0d0ccac3c/id/38058845

#359: Mastering the Push and Pull of Leadership 08/28/2025

#359: Mastering the Push and Pull of Leadership In this episode, Chris Goede and Perry Holley explore the concept of balancing the push and pull of leadership. They discuss the importance of building positive relationships, demonstrating technical competence, and showing consistency in order to establish trust with team members. The hosts explain the dangers of focusing too heavily on either the push (driving for results) or the pull (inspiring and empowering others) aspects of leadership, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach. Throughout the conversation, they provide practical insights and strategies for leaders to effectively navigate the tension between pushing for performance and pulling for growth, ultimately leading to a more engaged and productive team. /episode/index/show/5d127a9f-64ff-4023-b539-a9c0d0ccac3c/id/37857125

#358: How to Live Out the Law of Victory 08/21/2025

#358: How to Live Out the Law of Victory In this episode, Chris Goede and Perry Holley explore the key attributes and mindsets leaders need to embrace to lead their teams to victory. They discuss the importance of taking full responsibility as a leader, especially in times of difficulty or setbacks, as this builds trust and accountability within the team. They also stress the significance of having a unified vision that is clearly communicated and understood by all team members, ensuring everyone is working towards the same goals. Furthermore, they emphasize the need for leaders to develop a winning mindset and create a culture that supports resilience and perseverance in the face of challenges. /episode/index/show/5d127a9f-64ff-4023-b539-a9c0d0ccac3c/id/37857075

#357: Stop Killing My Momentum 08/14/2025

#357: Stop Killing My Momentum In this episode, Chris Goede and Perry Holley unpack the power of momentum and why it’s a game-changer for leadership and team performance. They explore how momentum starts—with a clear vision, realistic goals, and a culture of collaboration—and why leaders must protect the “spark” that sets it in motion. You’ll hear practical strategies and real-world examples to help you build, sustain, and amplify momentum, while avoiding common missteps that can bring it to a halt. /episode/index/show/5d127a9f-64ff-4023-b539-a9c0d0ccac3c/id/37773930

#356: Can an Introvert Be a Leader? 08/07/2025

#356: Can an Introvert Be a Leader? In this episode, Perry Holley and Chris Goede address the common assumption that only extroverts can be effective leaders. They highlight the unique strengths and abilities that introverted leaders bring to the table, such as their ability to steady a room, think deeply, and listen closely. They also discuss how introverted leaders excel in one-on-one situations, providing motivation through empathy and supporting people with intention and care. Additionally, they explore how the 5 Levels of Leadership model applies to both introverted and extroverted leaders, emphasizing that leadership is about influence, regardless of personality type. /episode/index/show/5d127a9f-64ff-4023-b539-a9c0d0ccac3c/id/37674260

#355: How Inclusive Is Your Communication? 07/31/2025

#355: How Inclusive Is Your Communication? Inclusive communication is key to building trust and belonging on any team. This episode explores practical ways leaders can communicate more effectively—by listening actively, using inclusive language, and encouraging diverse perspectives. You’ll also get tips for running more inclusive meetings, like sharing agendas in advance, setting clear expectations, and making space for all voices to be heard. /episode/index/show/5d127a9f-64ff-4023-b539-a9c0d0ccac3c/id/37589155

#354: The Unwritten Rules of the Inclusive Leader 07/24/2025

#354: The Unwritten Rules of the Inclusive Leader Perry Holley and Chris Goede explore the concept of unwritten rules and their impact on inclusive leadership. They explain how these implied expectations can unintentionally exclude team members and hinder their sense of belonging within the organization. Holley and Goede provide practical strategies for leaders to identify and address their own unwritten rules, such as asking the team for feedback and auditing decision-making processes. They also stress the importance of celebrating curiosity, learning about team members' backgrounds, and leading with vulnerability to foster a more inclusive culture. The episode offers valuable insights for leaders striving to create an environment where every team member feels valued, safe, and able to bring their authentic selves to work. References: /episode/index/show/5d127a9f-64ff-4023-b539-a9c0d0ccac3c/id/37485495

#353: What’s the Big Deal with Empathy? 07/17/2025

#353: What’s the Big Deal with Empathy? Perry Holley and Chris Goede explore the importance of empathy in leadership and how it shapes a culture where people feel seen, valued, and cared for, ultimately driving higher retention and engagement. They share practical strategies for developing empathy, including staying curious, asking open-ended questions, and leading with vulnerability and transparency. The conversation highlights the role of emotional intelligence, authenticity, and modeling empathetic behavior to foster a culture of understanding and respect across the organization. /episode/index/show/5d127a9f-64ff-4023-b539-a9c0d0ccac3c/id/37385905

#352: I Don't Mind You Thinking I'm Perfect 07/10/2025

#352: I Don't Mind You Thinking I'm Perfect Perry Holley and Chris Goede explore the importance of authenticity in leadership, offering insights on how leaders can cultivate self-awareness, recognize their unique strengths and weaknesses, and consistently communicate their core values. They emphasize the power of vulnerability and transparency in building genuine connections with team members and highlight the value of daily self-reflection as a catalyst for personal growth and greater compassion for others. /episode/index/show/5d127a9f-64ff-4023-b539-a9c0d0ccac3c/id/37281550

#351: But I Don't Feel Charismatic 07/03/2025

#351: But I Don't Feel Charismatic Join Perry Holley and Chris Goede as they share strategies for developing charisma and its role in effective leadership. They explain that charisma is not an innate trait but a learnable skill that involves focusing on others, making them feel valued, and connecting with them genuinely. They introduce a three-part model for developing charisma: becoming interested in people, investing in people, and being interesting to people. References: /episode/index/show/5d127a9f-64ff-4023-b539-a9c0d0ccac3c/id/37162925

#350: Strategies for Leading a Remote Workforce 06/26/2025

#350: Strategies for Leading a Remote Workforce In this episode, Chris Goede and Perry Holley discuss strategies for leading a remote workforce effectively. They share insightful data from a recent Gallup report, which reveals the engagement levels and overall well-being of remote, hybrid, and on-site employees. Chris and Perry explore the factors that contribute to the mental and emotional challenges faced by remote workers, such as physical distance, excessive autonomy, and technology frustrations. They also provide practical tips for leaders to enhance the experience and engagement of their remote teams, including encouraging frequent and varied communication, exhibiting inclusive leadership behaviors, promoting cross-team collaboration, and supporting work-life balance. References: /episode/index/show/5d127a9f-64ff-4023-b539-a9c0d0ccac3c/id/37130620

#349: Improving Your Micromanagement 06/19/2025

#349: Improving Your Micromanagement In this episode, Perry Holley and Chris Goede explore the concept of micromanagement and its potential benefits in leadership. They discuss the importance of leaders ensuring their expectations are clearly communicated and fully understood by their teams to drive the desired outcomes. They also stress the need for leaders to be aware of what's happening in their organizations so they can provide necessary support and course corrections. Additionally, they highlight the significance of building strong relationships with team members, as this fosters trust and allows for more effective micromanagement when needed. References: Download the FREE Learner Guide for this episode at MaxwellLeadership.com/Podcast Become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member at MaxwellLeadership.com/JoinTheTeam. /episode/index/show/5d127a9f-64ff-4023-b539-a9c0d0ccac3c/id/37013020

#348: Firm Feedback with Jeff Hancher - Part 2 06/12/2025

#348: Firm Feedback with Jeff Hancher - Part 2 In this episode, Chris Goede and Perry Holley discuss the importance of effective feedback for leaders with guest Jeff Hancher. They explore the different types of feedback, such as directive, supportive, and collaborative, and how leaders can determine the best approach for each situation. Jeff shares personal stories that illustrate the power of earning the right to give feedback and the transformative impact it can have on leadership development. References: Download the FREE Learner Guide for this episode at MaxwellLeadership.com/Podcast Become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member at MaxwellLeadership.com/JoinTheTeam. /episode/index/show/5d127a9f-64ff-4023-b539-a9c0d0ccac3c/id/36901485

#347: Firm Feedback with Jeff Hancher – Part 1 06/05/2025

#347: Firm Feedback with Jeff Hancher – Part 1 In this episode, Perry Holley and Chris Goede welcome guest Jeff Hancher to discuss the importance of giving firm feedback as a leader. Jeff shares his expertise on how leaders can deliver challenging conversations effectively, tying it to the engagement and performance of their teams. He provides a practical framework for earning the right to give tough feedback by setting clear expectations, investing time in people, and ensuring accountability. Jeff also shares a personal story illustrating the transformative power of a leader who cared enough to have a firm conversation with him during a difficult time, which changed the trajectory of his life and career. /episode/index/show/5d127a9f-64ff-4023-b539-a9c0d0ccac3c/id/36797295

#346: How Leaders Handle Criticism 05/29/2025

#346: How Leaders Handle Criticism Chris Goede and Perry Holley explore how leaders can effectively handle criticism. They encourage leaders to maintain humility and face criticism directly, being open to feedback while also discerning whether it is constructive or not. They recommend determining if action is required based on the criticism and, if so, taking steps to address the issue and restore relationships with the criticizers. Finally, they advise leaders to reflect on criticism, capture lessons learned and allow it to shape their leadership while not letting it define who they are as a person. References: Download the FREE Learner Guide for this episode at MaxwellLeadership.com/Podcast Become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member at MaxwellLeadership.com/JoinTheTeam. /episode/index/show/5d127a9f-64ff-4023-b539-a9c0d0ccac3c/id/36759585

#345: Are You Delivering Appreciated Value? 05/22/2025

#345: Are You Delivering Appreciated Value? In this episode, Chris Goede and Perry Holley explore the concept of delivering appreciated value to customers. They explain the importance of going beyond simply providing value to align that value with the true needs of the customer. They also emphasize the need to exceed client expectations and make the value personally relevant to create an emotional connection and foster loyalty. The episode offers valuable insights for businesses seeking to enhance their value proposition and build stronger customer relationships. /episode/index/show/5d127a9f-64ff-4023-b539-a9c0d0ccac3c/id/36646095

#344: Building an Extraordinary Culture 05/15/2025

#344: Building an Extraordinary Culture Perry Holley and Chris Goede share a powerful 7-step model for building an extraordinary culture within an organization. They show how leaders must continuously inform their teams about the core values and mission, while also involving them in the experience to boost morale and commitment. They stress the importance of leaders inspiring others by being present, setting an example, and living out the culture they aim to create. References: Download the FREE Learner Guide for this episode at MaxwellLeadership.com/Podcast Become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member at MaxwellLeadership.com/JoinTheTeam. /episode/index/show/5d127a9f-64ff-4023-b539-a9c0d0ccac3c/id/36552775

#343: Delivering WOW 05/08/2025

#343: Delivering WOW In this episode, Chris Goede and Perry Holley explore the concept of delivering "WOW" experiences to customers. They discuss the importance of being distinctive rather than just different from competitors to create unique and memorable moments for clients. The hosts also introduce the idea of identifying "un-WOWs," which are areas where the customer experience falls short and needs improvement. They encourage leaders to actively seek out these "un-WOWs " and take immediate action to address them, fostering a culture of continuous improvement within their organizations. References: Download the FREE Learner Guide for this episode at MaxwellLeadership.com/Podcast Become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member at MaxwellLeadership.com/JoinTheTeam. /episode/index/show/5d127a9f-64ff-4023-b539-a9c0d0ccac3c/id/36445755

#342: Leaders Who Attract Leaders 05/01/2025

#342: Leaders Who Attract Leaders Perry Holley and Chris Goede explore the differences between leaders who attract followers vs. those who attract other leaders. They point out that leaders who attract followers may experience some success, but leaders who attract leaders will experience incredible success. Throughout the conversation, Holley and Goede provide examples and insights to help listeners understand what it takes to become a leader who attracts and develops other leaders. References: Download the FREE Learner Guide for this episode at MaxwellLeadership.com/Podcast Become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member at MaxwellLeadership.com/JoinTheTeam. /episode/index/show/5d127a9f-64ff-4023-b539-a9c0d0ccac3c/id/36362480

Maxwell Leadership Executive Podcast

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