Maxwell Leadership Podcast
The Maxwell Leadership Podcast is a regular examination of what it means to be a transformational leader—someone who daily influences people to think, speak, and act to make a positive difference in their lives and in the lives of others. This podcast will teach you the principles, practices, and process of becoming a transformational leader because leadership isn’t an event—it’s an uphill journey. Every week we will offer a free tool to help you on this journey, so let leadership authority Dr. John C. Maxwell show you the way.
info_outline
Success and Gratitude: Why Great Leaders Revisit Where They Came From
09/09/2026
Success and Gratitude: Why Great Leaders Revisit Where They Came From
How do great leaders keep success from breeding entitlement? In this week’s episode, John Maxwell teaches why revisiting where you came from—and cultivating gratitude—creates the stable foundation every leader needs to rise higher. After his lesson, Mark Cole and Chris Goede discuss real-life strategies to help you anchor your leadership in authentic gratitude and apply John’s insights today. Key takeaways: To balance an entitlement mindset, put gratitude beside it. You always need to go back and visit where you came from. You never want to forget all the people and all the places that made you who you are today. Our BONUS resource for this episode is the Success and Gratitude: Why Great Leaders Revisit Where They Came From Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” Take the next step in your growth journey and become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member. References:
/episode/index/show/johnmaxwellleadershippodcast/id/42603430
info_outline
Leaders Who Get the Most Give the Most
09/02/2026
Leaders Who Get the Most Give the Most
Anne Frank said, “None has ever become poor by giving.” In this week’s episode, John Maxwell unpacks the three types of generosity that set extraordinary leaders apart and reveal the true path to influential leadership. After his lesson, Mark Cole and Traci Morrow share practical strategies for weaving generosity into your leadership journey, equipping you to start making a bigger impact today. Key takeaways: A clenched fist gives nothing but is also unable to receive anything. If you sow a lot of seeds, the harvest takes care of itself. If you don’t give away what you’ve got now, you won’t give away what you’re going to get later. Our BONUS resource for this episode is the Leaders Who Get the Most Give the Most Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” This episode is sponsored by : Leaders, stop trying to do it all yourself. The best leaders know their limits, operate out of their strengths, and set others up for success. Find freedom with BELAY — pairing you with vetted U.S. virtual assistants so you can focus on what matters. To help you get started, BELAY is offering Maxwell Leadership listeners a free download of their resource, The Freedom Framework. Just text MAXWELL to 55123 for FREE access. References:
/episode/index/show/johnmaxwellleadershippodcast/id/42649290
info_outline
The Growth Guarantee (Part 2)
08/26/2026
The Growth Guarantee (Part 2)
What separates leaders who keep expanding their impact from those who quietly plateau? In this week’s episode, John Maxwell continues revealing the promises and pitfalls on the path to continual, intentional growth. After his lesson, Mark Cole and Chris Robinson share how to recognize your growth zone and offer strategies you can use to keep advancing in your leadership journey. Key takeaways: Don’t be a know-it-all. Be a learn-it-all. You don’t coast to greatness. Everything you want but don’t have, and everything you need but don’t have, is outside your comfort zone. Our BONUS resource for this episode is the Growth Guarantee (Part 2) Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” Take the next step in your growth journey and become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member. References:
/episode/index/show/johnmaxwellleadershippodcast/id/42519735
info_outline
The Growth Guarantee (Part 1)
08/19/2026
The Growth Guarantee (Part 1)
Growth isn't automatic, but it can be guaranteed. In this week's episode, the first in a two-part series, John reveals his personal blueprint for guaranteed growth and the three simple disciplines that set extraordinary leaders apart. After his lesson, Mark Cole and Chris Robinson offer strategies to help you turn intentional growth into a daily habit, no matter where you’re starting. Key takeaways: You can't learn anything while you're talking. Sustained thinking will change your life. Your growth must be intentional. Our BONUS resource for this episode is the Growth Guarantee (Part 1) Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” Take the next step in your growth journey and become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member. References:
/episode/index/show/johnmaxwellleadershippodcast/id/42455660
info_outline
What People Misunderstand About Success (Part 2)
08/12/2026
What People Misunderstand About Success (Part 2)
This week on the Maxwell Leadership Podcast, find out what an ice cube can teach you about patience and results. Today, John Maxwell finishes up his two-part lesson on the compounding power of daily action, reflection, and intentional growth on the path to lasting leadership success. After his lesson, Mark Cole and Chris Goede dive into real-world strategies and personal stories to help you immediately implement John’s teaching. Key takeaways: Your first step is your most important step. Success is a series of steps, not one giant leap. If you can’t get happy where you are, you can’t get happy where you’re going. Our BONUS resource for this episode is the What People Misunderstand About Success (Part 2) Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” Take the next step in your growth journey and become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member. References:
/episode/index/show/johnmaxwellleadershippodcast/id/42385820
info_outline
What People Misunderstand About Success (Part 1)
08/05/2026
What People Misunderstand About Success (Part 1)
The real measure of success isn’t the recognition you receive, but the daily choices no one sees. In this week’s episode—the first in a two-part series—John unpacks the misunderstood foundations of success and reveals why consistency, not accolades, is the true driver of extraordinary results. After his lesson, Mark Cole and Chris Goede share practical strategies for applying John’s success journey to your own leadership and team impact. Key takeaways: Desire is the seed of every great accomplishment. The greatest way to make progress is to move forward. You get perfect as you take the steps; you don’t get perfect to take the steps. Our BONUS resource for this episode is the What People Misunderstand About Success (Part 1) Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” This episode is sponsored by : Leaders, stop trying to do it all yourself. The best leaders know their limits, operate out of their strengths, and set others up for success. Find freedom with BELAY — pairing you with vetted U.S. virtual assistants so you can focus on what matters. To help you get started, BELAY is offering Maxwell Leadership listeners a free download of their resource, The Difficult Conversation Playbook. Just text MAXWELL to 55123 for FREE access. References:
/episode/index/show/johnmaxwellleadershippodcast/id/42300070
info_outline
Are You Leading a Good Life or Just Maintaining a Good Image?
07/29/2026
Are You Leading a Good Life or Just Maintaining a Good Image?
Are you leading a life of real impact, or just working hard to perfect your image? In this week’s episode, John Maxwell teaches how embracing authenticity over appearance is a central pillar for meaningful leadership and lasting success. After his lesson, Mark Cole and Chris Robinson share practical strategies to help you bring authenticity to the forefront of your leadership—on your team, at home, and beyond. Key takeaways: The way to balance and stabilize an image issue is authenticity. You lose your authenticity when you try to hold onto things that you no longer believe, accept, or think. “Constant development is the law of life, and a man who always tries to maintain his dogmas in order to appear consistent drives himself into a false position.” — Mahatma Gandhi Our BONUS resource for this episode is the Are You Leading a Good Life or Just Maintaining a Good Image? Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” Take the next step in your growth journey and become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member. References:
/episode/index/show/johnmaxwellleadershippodcast/id/42177950
info_outline
Good Leaders Make Friends, Not Fans
07/22/2026
Good Leaders Make Friends, Not Fans
Are you letting your success create distance between you and your team? In this episode, John Maxwell unpacks why leadership success can easily lead to isolation—and what you can do to resist it. Discover how making friends (not just fans) helps you stay relatable, authentic, and influential. After his lesson, Mark Cole and Chris Goede dive into real-life strategies to help you put connection at the heart of your leadership journey. Key Takeaways Success can isolate, but connection is the cure. Intentional relationships keep leaders grounded and approachable. Service trumps titles. The more you value and serve those around you, the greater trust and real influence you build. Shrink the gap with authenticity: practice humility, seek honest feedback, and be present with your people. Our BONUS resource for this episode is the Good Leaders Make Friends, Not Fans Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” Take the next step in your growth journey and become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member. to speak with a Program Advisor today! References:
/episode/index/show/johnmaxwellleadershippodcast/id/42146235
info_outline
How to Stabilize Your Success
07/15/2026
How to Stabilize Your Success
How do you keep your success from becoming the very thing that sabotages your leadership? In this week’s episode, John Maxwell reveals the overlooked practices that stabilize lasting achievement and keep leaders grounded at every stage of their journey. After his lesson, Mark Cole and Chris Robinson share real-world strategies and thoughtful application to help you translate John’s insights into leadership habits you can use today. Key takeaways: True success starts within—before you pursue outer victories, define what success means to you at the deepest level. Power without accountability destabilizes leaders; the healthiest teams and organizations actively cultivate structures of honest feedback. Those closest to you, who know your flaws and strengths, should respect and love you most—a leader’s greatest validation comes from authenticity, not applause. Our BONUS resource for this episode is the How to Stabilize Your Success Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” Take the next step in your growth journey and become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member. References:
/episode/index/show/johnmaxwellleadershippodcast/id/42050445
info_outline
Learn These Skills to Become a Memorable Leader: A Fireside Chat with John Maxwell and Jeff Henderson
07/08/2026
Learn These Skills to Become a Memorable Leader: A Fireside Chat with John Maxwell and Jeff Henderson
Do you want to be the kind of leader people never forget? This week in a first-of-its-kind react-style Maxwell Leadership Podcast episode, John Maxwell sits down with Jeff Henderson to share the essential skills that turn everyday leadership into a lasting legacy. As John teaches, Mark Cole provides practical strategies to help you activate John’s teachings and elevate your impact right now. Key takeaways: Empowering others doesn’t diminish your influence—it multiplies it, as the best leaders know they’re always stronger together than alone. Authentic leadership requires living the message before you teach it so your words carry moral authority and genuine connection. Every growth opportunity comes with a trade-off, and true leaders relentlessly trade comfort for progress and excuses for action. Our BONUS resource for this episode is the Learn These Skills to Become a Memorable Leader Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” This episode is sponsored by : Leaders, stop trying to do it all yourself. The best leaders know their limits, operate out of their strengths, and set others up for success. Find freedom with BELAY — pairing you with vetted U.S. virtual assistants so you can focus on what matters. To help you get started, BELAY is offering Maxwell Leadership listeners a free download of their resource, The Difficult Conversation Playbook. Just text MAXWELL to 55123 for FREE access. References:
/episode/index/show/johnmaxwellleadershippodcast/id/41982965
info_outline
The Five-Step Cycle That Turns Failure into Your Fastest Path to Growth
07/01/2026
The Five-Step Cycle That Turns Failure into Your Fastest Path to Growth
Your failure is the most effective engine for your growth — and the most underutilized. In this week’s episode, John reveals the five-step cycle that transforms every setback into your next leap forward as a leader. After his lesson, Mark Cole and Chris Goede dive into real-world strategies to help you put this growth cycle into action and boost your team’s innovation. Key takeaways: True innovation thrives when leaders create a culture where failing is seen as a crucial part of learning and improving. The sequence of testing, failing, learning, improving, and re-entering ensures that mistakes become stepping stones, not stumbling blocks. Sustainable growth comes from asking, “What did I learn?” after every setback and quickly applying those lessons to move forward stronger than before. Our BONUS resource for this episode is the Five-Step Cycle That Turns Failure into Your Fastest Path to Growth Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” Take the next step in your growth journey and become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member. References:
/episode/index/show/johnmaxwellleadershippodcast/id/41831185
info_outline
How Great Leaders Stay Focused When Everything is Falling Apart
06/24/2026
How Great Leaders Stay Focused When Everything is Falling Apart
You've been there: Pressure is high. Priorities are competing. Everything feels urgent. How do you stay focused when you're being pulled in a million different directions? In this week’s episode, John Maxwell reveals the mindset and habits that empower leaders to bring stability and hope to the seasons that matter most. After his lesson, Mark Cole and Chris Goede provide practical strategies you can use right now to lead your team through challenging times with clarity and confidence. Key takeaways: Traction comes from focusing on what you can control and letting go of what you cannot. Write it down, put it before you, and act on it every day. Difficult times don’t develop leaders—they reveal them. Who you are when pressure mounts determines your influence and your team’s trust. When clarity about the future is impossible, focus instead on certainty for the next step, showing up with confidence, steadiness, hope, and presence for those you lead. Our BONUS resource for this episode is the How Great Leaders Stay Focused When Everything is Falling Apart Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” Take the next step in your growth journey and become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member. References:
/episode/index/show/johnmaxwellleadershippodcast/id/41699670
info_outline
Why So Many Leaders Stop Growing
06/17/2026
Why So Many Leaders Stop Growing
Leaders go farther when they don't see a finish line — are you letting perceived limits hold back your impact? In this week’s episode, John Maxwell reveals why so many leaders stop growing, and how leaders can maintain a lifelong commitment to learning and relevance. After his lesson, Mark Cole and Traci Morrow unpack the practical steps you can take to apply these principles in your own leadership. Key takeaways: Growth requires continual refreshment—leaders who thrive consistently seek to update their thinking, materials, and approach to stay relevant. The willingness to anticipate new challenges and resist resting on past achievements is essential for forward-focused leadership. True legacy is built by pouring into others. Our BONUS resource for this episode is the Why So Many Leaders Stop Growing Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” Take the next step in your growth journey and become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member. References:
/episode/index/show/johnmaxwellleadershippodcast/id/41630045
info_outline
Leaders Reproduce Who They Are
06/10/2026
Leaders Reproduce Who They Are
Are you leading from your strengths, or simply telling others what they should do? In this week’s episode, John Maxwell unpacks the challenging truth that leaders don’t just teach what they know—they reproduce who they are by their example. After his lesson, Mark Cole and Chris Goede provide practical strategies you can use to strengthen your self-leadership and intentionally shape the culture around you. Key takeaways: Leading yourself effectively with authenticity and consistency can be your greatest daily challenge. The responsibility of leadership means modeling growth and resilience so your team mirrors your example, not just your instructions. What people observe in you determines what they become—leadership is visual, and proximity matters for genuine reproduction. Our BONUS resource for this episode is the Leaders Reproduce Who They Are Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/Reproduce — MaxwellPodcast.com/Reproduce and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” This episode is sponsored by : Leaders, stop trying to do it all yourself. The best leaders know their limits, operate out of their strengths, and set others up for success. Find freedom with BELAY — pairing you with vetted U.S. virtual assistants so you can focus on what matters. To help you get started, BELAY is offering Maxwell Leadership listeners a free download of their resource, Culture Clarity: A Guide to Uncovering Your Real Culture Through Feedback. Just text MAXWELL to 55123 for FREE access. References:
/episode/index/show/johnmaxwellleadershippodcast/id/41515875
info_outline
One Decision That Separates Good Leaders From Great Leaders
06/03/2026
One Decision That Separates Good Leaders From Great Leaders
Leaders make lots of key decisions—but one decision can be the separator between leadership that sustains and leadership that thrives. In this week’s episode, John reveals how the choice to be intentional transforms good leaders into great ones and empowers you to make a real difference. After his lesson, Mark Cole and Traci Morrow unpack the practical steps you can take to apply these principles in your own leadership. Key takeaways: Generational greatness demands intentional actions, a growth mindset, and a commitment to serving others. The best leaders shine their light in the darkest times by focusing on solutions and courageously solving problems rather than cursing the darkness. Daily disciplines, consistency, and a focus on adding value to people are what make a powerful leadership legacy possible. Our BONUS resource for this episode is the One Decision That Separates Good Leaders From Great Leaders Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” Take the next step in your growth journey and become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member. to speak with a Program Advisor today! References:
/episode/index/show/johnmaxwellleadershippodcast/id/41502630
info_outline
What Your Dream Team Should Look Like
05/27/2026
What Your Dream Team Should Look Like
Myth: Leaders need to be balanced. Fact: Together, you and your team can be balanced. In this week’s episode, John Maxwell reveals why the dream team isn’t about perfection in individuals, but about creating collective balance through diversity of skills, passion, and perspective. After his lesson, Mark Cole and Chris Goede dig into high-level strategy for building a team where everyone’s strengths thrive and the leader’s vision multiplies. Key takeaways: A balanced team is built on diverse strengths—no single leader can or should do it all alone. Exceptional leaders replace assumptions with curiosity, listening and learning from their team before leading. The most successful teams are intentionally shaped through shared values, growth, and a genuine commitment to multiplying each other’s impact. Our BONUS resource for this episode is the What Your Dream Team Should Look Like Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” Take the next step in your growth journey and become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member. to speak with a Program Advisor today! References:
/episode/index/show/johnmaxwellleadershippodcast/id/41351365
info_outline
Better Days Are Ahead of You
05/20/2026
Better Days Are Ahead of You
Where is your finish line? Trick question—your growth doesn't need to have one. In this week’s episode, John Maxwell reveals how to cultivate a forward-focused mindset that unleashes continual development and lasting impact. After his lesson, Mark Cole and Chris Robinson provide practical strategies to help you step out of the past and anticipate a future filled with possibility! Key takeaways: — Finish lines are self-imposed—when you decide you're done, you limit your future; growth and contribution continue as long as you focus forward. — What you focus on expands: holding on to regret or past failures keeps you stuck, but embracing gratitude and learning unlocks new potential. — True fulfillment comes not from personal success, but from shifting to significance—using your achievements to add value to others and pioneer new possibilities. Our BONUS resource for this episode is the Better Days Are Ahead of You Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” Take the next step in your growth journey and become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member. to speak with a Program Advisor today! References:
/episode/index/show/johnmaxwellleadershippodcast/id/41317645
info_outline
Five Questions to Help You Add Value to Others
05/13/2026
Five Questions to Help You Add Value to Others
How do you know if you’re truly adding value to those around you, or just going through the motions? In this week’s episode, John Maxwell reveals the five essential questions every leader should ask to elevate their influence and impact. After his lesson, Mark Cole and Chris Goede dive into their strategies for weaving these value-adding principles into your everyday leadership. Key takeaways: Before you can add value to others, you must recognize and develop the unique value you bring to the table. Valuing what you do—and the people you serve—is the foundation for authentic influence and sustained growth. Leaders multiply their impact by continuously growing themselves and intentionally focusing on what is best for others, not just them. Our BONUS resource for this episode is the Five Questions to Help You Add Value to Others Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” This episode is sponsored by : Leaders, stop trying to do it all yourself. The best leaders know their limits, operate out of their strengths, and set others up for success. Find freedom with BELAY — pairing you with vetted U.S. virtual assistants so you can focus on what matters. To help you get started, BELAY is offering Maxwell Leadership listeners a free download of their resource, Culture Clarity: A Guide to Uncovering Your Real Culture Through Feedback. Just text MAXWELL to 55123 for FREE access. References: (use code ROFPOD at checkout to get The Quick Start Guide to Getting a Return on Failure 100% free!)
/episode/index/show/johnmaxwellleadershippodcast/id/41205310
info_outline
Four Ways to Turn Failure Into Success
05/06/2026
Four Ways to Turn Failure Into Success
Don't spend your leadership journey trying to avoid failure; you will end up thinking, planning, and dreaming too small. Instead, invest your time creating a framework to let failure work to your advantage. In this week’s episode, John Maxwell teaches four ways you can transform setbacks into powerful steppingstones for success! After his lesson, Mark Cole and Chris Robinson share actionable strategies to help you turn John’s insights on failure into practical growth for yourself and your team. Key takeaways: The most effective leaders learn to distinguish between good misses that move them forward and bad misses that hold them back. Embracing the difficulty of challenges and anticipating failure prepares you mentally and emotionally to grow through adversity. When you humbly share your failures and lessons learned, you encourage others and build a culture where growth thrives over perfection. Our BONUS resource for this episode is the Four Ways to Turn Failure Into Success Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” Take the next step in your growth journey and become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member. to speak with a Program Advisor today! References:
/episode/index/show/johnmaxwellleadershippodcast/id/41053515
info_outline
Values Are the Soul of Leadership
04/29/2026
Values Are the Soul of Leadership
What values are defining your legacy as a leader? In this week’s episode, John Maxwell illuminates how true leadership can only center on values, and those values can only center on people. After his lesson, Mark Cole and Chris Robinson dig into practical ways you can identify, live out, and multiply these values within your team and organization. Key takeaways: The test of good values is whether they value all people, all the time, in every situation—this alignment is the foundation of real leadership. Leaders who see and lift others unlock greater potential, but when they stop valuing people, they lose their right to lead. Values act as the glue, foundation, compass, and map for a leader, providing stability, accountability, direction, and daily guidance. Our BONUS resource for this episode is the Values Are the Soul of Leadership Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” Take the next step in your growth journey and become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member. to speak with a Program Advisor today! References:
/episode/index/show/johnmaxwellleadershippodcast/id/41031715
info_outline
Maximize Your Joy (Part 2)
04/22/2026
Maximize Your Joy (Part 2)
Life is going to have challenges whether we expect them or not — we might as well use them to grow. In this week’s episode, John continues his lesson from last week to share a few key principles that impact the joy in your leadership journey. After his lesson, Mark Cole and Traci Morrow share real-life strategies to help you apply these principles in your life and leadership. Key takeaways: Growth happens not by avoiding adversity but by doing hard things—so you’re prepared to take on even greater challenges. Leaders maximize their impact when they focus on the journey, not by keeping score, but by continually moving forward and celebrating each step. Generosity and deep joy are fruits of a grateful mindset, reminding leaders to stay present and appreciate the opportunities in front of them. Our BONUS resource for this episode is the Maximize Your Joy (Part 2) Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” Take the next step in your growth journey and become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member. to speak with a Program Advisor today! References:
/episode/index/show/johnmaxwellleadershippodcast/id/40821420
info_outline
Maximize Your Joy (Part 1)
04/15/2026
Maximize Your Joy (Part 1)
Are you leading with joy, or just surviving? In this week’s episode, John Maxwell reveals eight essential ways to maximize your joy, showing how intentional living shapes your leadership journey. After John's lesson, Mark Cole and Traci Morrow unpack the practical steps you can take to apply these principles in your own leadership. Key takeaways: Joy is found in the journey, not the destination—and it starts with living intentionally and defining your purpose. Growth, daily self-improvement, and a focus on adding value to others are core ingredients for a fulfilling leadership life. Surrounding yourself with a balanced team and staying in your strength zone amplifies both your personal impact and your collective results. Our BONUS resource for this episode is the Maximize Your Joy (Part 1) Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” This episode is sponsored by : Leaders, stop trying to do it all yourself. The best leaders know their limits, operate out of their strengths, and set others up for success. Find freedom with BELAY — pairing you with vetted U.S. virtual assistants so you can focus on what matters. To help you get started, BELAY is offering Maxwell Leadership listeners a free download of their resource, The Leadership Toolkit. Just text MAXWELL to 55123 for FREE access. References:
/episode/index/show/johnmaxwellleadershippodcast/id/40598050
info_outline
Preparing is Caring
04/08/2026
Preparing is Caring
How much do you really care for the people you lead—and what does your preparation say about it? In this week’s episode, John Maxwell reveals why genuine care can only be expressed through the discipline of preparation, and how your commitment to leading others starts long before you ever enter the room. After his lesson, Mark Cole and Chris Robinson dive into real-world strategies and personal stories to ensure you can put John’s principles into practice right away. Key takeaways: If you only “wing it,” you may get by—but you’ll never break into the top tier of impactful leadership; true excellence demands intentional effort and preparation. Every leader carries both a “best message” (what you share in the moment) and a “big message” (the essence of who you are), and intentional preparation helps you clarify and amplify both. Setting your internal standard higher than external applause empowers you to lead with integrity, grow continuously, and serve those you influence at the highest level. Our BONUS resource for this episode is the Preparing Is Caring Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” Take the next step in your growth journey and become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member. to speak with a Program Advisor today! References:
/episode/index/show/johnmaxwellleadershippodcast/id/40598040
info_outline
How Serving Others Unlocks Self-Discovery
04/01/2026
How Serving Others Unlocks Self-Discovery
Discover one of the great leadership paradoxes: the surprising growth that comes from serving others. In this week’s episode, John Maxwell teaches how putting others first unlocks unexpected personal development and deeper self-understanding. After his lesson, Mark Cole and Chris Robinson dive into real-world ways to apply these transformative insights, offering strategies to help you lead with greater impact starting today. Key takeaways: When leaders intentionally serve others, they gain profound insights about their own motives, abilities, and growth areas. True leadership begins when you shift from seeking followers for your vision to helping others achieve their own potential. Valuing and serving your team transforms relationships, elevates teamwork, and empowers everyone to reach greater heights together. Our BONUS resource for this episode is the How Serving Others Unlocks Self-Discovery Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” Take the next step in your growth journey and become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member. to speak with a Program Advisor today! References:
/episode/index/show/johnmaxwellleadershippodcast/id/40363360
info_outline
Cultivating Humility for Lasting Influence
03/25/2026
Cultivating Humility for Lasting Influence
John Maxwell shares that there's one most important quality of leadership. Do you have it? In this week’s episode, John Maxwell reveals why humility isn’t just a virtue—it’s the essential ingredient for lasting influence and meaningful leadership. After his lesson, Mark Cole and Chris Goede dive into real-life examples and honest reflections, sharing how you can apply John’s wisdom to multiply your impact and create sustaining influence as a leader. Key takeaways: True humility empowers you to learn, grow, and serve others, turning challenges into opportunities for lasting impact. Leaders who balance confidence with humility create environments where influence compounds and teams thrive over time. Your willingness to be teachable and embrace gratitude—especially in adversity—is the key to both resilience and enduring success. Our BONUS resource for this episode is the Cultivating Humility for Lasting Influence Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” Take the next step in your growth journey and become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member. to speak with a Program Advisor today! References:
/episode/index/show/johnmaxwellleadershippodcast/id/40274975
info_outline
The Meaning of Your Life with Dr. Arthur C. Brooks
03/20/2026
The Meaning of Your Life with Dr. Arthur C. Brooks
Are you striving for success, yet finding yourself wondering if your achievements really matter? The answer to a fulfilled life may lie in asking deeper questions, not just chasing accomplishments. In this bonus episode of the Maxwell Leadership Podcast, Mark Cole and Jared Cagle are joined by author and professor Arthur C. Brooks to discuss the pillars of a meaningful life (especially in an age of emptiness). Key takeaways: Meaning in life isn’t just about setting goals; it’s about asking “why” and finding deeper significance in what you do. Serving others shifts the focus away from chasing success for its own sake and unlocks fulfillment through impact and connection. Every leader’s journey is marked by both triumphs and setbacks—true growth comes from learning to find purpose in both. References:
/episode/index/show/johnmaxwellleadershippodcast/id/40360170
info_outline
The Qualities of an Authentic Leader
03/18/2026
The Qualities of an Authentic Leader
How do you earn the loyalty that supports real influence? You won’t change lives or amplify your results without the ability to connect authentically. In this week’s episode, John Maxwell is sharing how to do that, as he teaches the five essential qualities that define an authentic leader! After his lesson, Mark Cole and Chris Robinson provide practical strategies you can use right away to embody authenticity and deepen your impact as a leader. Key takeaways: Leading with heart—through empathy, courage, and genuine care—creates meaningful connections that drive lasting results. Consistently practicing transparency, humility, and good listening skills builds trust and invites collaboration. “People will walk through fire for a leader that's true and a leader that's human.” — Pat Lencioni Our BONUS resource for this episode is the Qualities of an Authentic Leader Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” This episode is sponsored by : Leaders, stop trying to do it all yourself. The best leaders know their limits, operate out of their strengths, and set others up for success. Find freedom with BELAY — pairing you with vetted U.S. virtual assistants so you can focus on what matters. To help you get started, BELAY is offering Maxwell Leadership listeners a free download of their resource, The Leadership Toolkit. Just text MAXWELL to 55123 for FREE access. References:
/episode/index/show/johnmaxwellleadershippodcast/id/40273855
info_outline
Success and Failure: The Partnership that Fuels Growth
03/11/2026
Success and Failure: The Partnership that Fuels Growth
Are you ready to turn your greatest setbacks into the fuel for exponential growth? In this week’s episode, John Maxwell unpacks how the partnership between success and failure is essential to leadership—and why your perspective on failure determines your path to achievement. After his lesson, Mark Cole and Chris Goede provide real-world strategies you can use right away to embrace failure as a catalyst for learning and growth. Key takeaways: How you view failure shapes your response to it—and seeing it as part of success unlocks growth, humility, and maturity. Successful leaders don’t just make good decisions; they learn to manage both their wins and their losses to maximize impact. The lessons you take from failure are what propel you forward—if you don’t lose the lesson, you never truly lose. Our BONUS resource for this episode is the Success and Failure: The Partnership that Fuels Growth Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” Take the next step in your growth journey and become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member. to speak with a Program Advisor today! References:
/episode/index/show/johnmaxwellleadershippodcast/id/40195710
info_outline
The Leadership Lens: How You View Things is How You Do Things
03/04/2026
The Leadership Lens: How You View Things is How You Do Things
How you see your world determines the actions you take and the results you create—what lens are you using to view your leadership? In this week’s episode, John Maxwell unpacks how your perspective shapes your impact, and reveals four keys to developing a leadership lens that drives lasting effectiveness. After John’s lesson, Mark Cole and Chris Robinson dive deep into practical ways you can shift your perspective and model impactful leadership behaviors in your daily life. Key takeaways: The most important voice you listen to is your own—guard your self-talk and ensure it builds you up rather than tears you down. Realistic perspective is essential at every stage of success; leaders must walk slowly through the crowd, listen, and learn to stay grounded. It's not enough to do what’s best for yourself—great leadership means aligning actions with good values so everyone wins. Our BONUS resource for this episode is the The Leadership Lens: How You View Things is How You Do Things Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting and clicking "Download the Bonus Resource.” Take the next step in your growth journey and become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member. to speak with a Program Advisor today! References:
/episode/index/show/johnmaxwellleadershippodcast/id/40187915
info_outline
Episode 400: How to Use Failure for Success
02/25/2026
Episode 400: How to Use Failure for Success
Failure can either hold you back or become fuel for your growth. In this week’s episode — the Maxwell Leadership Podcast's 400th episode! — John Maxwell joins Mark Cole for a glimpse into John's upcoming book, How to Get a Return on Failure, and a perspective-shifting discussion on how you can invest failure to fuel resilience, sharpen your judgment, and accelerate your impact. Key takeaways: Your response to failure determines whether it becomes an asset or a liability. Success and failure must be kept together; embracing both builds resilience and humility for lasting leadership. Progress isn’t about avoiding mistakes—it’s about learning, improving, and moving on with greater wisdom each time. Our BONUS resource for this episode is the Episode 400: How to Use Failure for Success Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” Take the next step in your growth journey and become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member. to speak with a Program Advisor today! References: (The first 400 to use code ROFPOD at checkout get our digital resource, the Quick Start Guide to Getting a Return on Failure, 100% free!)
/episode/index/show/johnmaxwellleadershippodcast/id/40117890