Rise to Lead: The Leadership Shift That Changes Everything episode artwork

EPISODE · Aug 21, 2026 · 33 MIN

Rise to Lead: The Leadership Shift That Changes Everything

from The Jon Gordon Podcast

On this episode, I sit down with Doug Dentler, CFO and author of Rise to Lead, for an honest, insightful conversation about what it really takes to elevate your leadership in today's workplace. Doug shares the highs and lows of his corporate journey, from early days "mimicking" leadership styles he thought would help him succeed, to reaching a breakthrough when he realized true leadership starts from within. Drawing from decades in finance and executive roles, Doug opens up about the transformative moments that led him to create the RISE Framework: Root yourself in purpose, Implement an intentional plan, Serve others, and Elevate with positivity. In our discussion, Doug reflects on how leadership has evolved from the days of tough accountability to a more human, purpose-driven approach. He reveals powerful stories of personal change - how re-centering his purpose impacted both his career and family, why coaching was a turning point, and the legacy that comes from serving others and fostering positive cultures. Doug's practical tips for being intentional, learning from mistakes, and investing in people will inspire any leader, seasoned or aspiring, to rethink what's possible in their own journey. About Doug – Doug Dentler is a financial executive and leadership strategist with more than 25 years of experience across Fortune 500 and privately held organizations. He combines operational finance expertise with a disciplined, people-centered leadership approach that drives execution and performance. He leads complex, global operations, including oversight of more than $1.5B in revenue, 1,900 employees, and multi-site organizations. He builds teams that operate as strategic partners, aligns cross-functional leaders around clear priorities, and implements processes that increase efficiency, accountability, and results. Grounded in values learned working in his family's business, he serves others with transparency, consistency, and a commitment to both performance and people. Colleagues consistently recognize his ability to remain steady under pressure, quickly identify core issues, and guide teams toward focused execution. But he also experienced burnout, disconnection, and promotions that felt hollow. He was climbing but not growing, until he finally learned to lead as his authentic self. He developed the RISE Framework to give leaders and teams what he wished he had – a clear, proven system for leading from the inside out, backed by time-tested leadership principles. His work strengthens leaders, improves team engagement, and creates cultures that sustain performance. To work with Doug for coaching, team development, executive strategy, or speaking engagements, visit dougdentler.com. Connect with Doug: [email protected] Buy the book plus claim the bonus resource: http://dougdentler.com/risetolead     Let us help you take your next steps in writing or publishing your book! Schedule a free Author Session at: https://gordonpublishing.com/session   Rather watch this message? You can access the workshop replay at: https://jongordon.com/webinar-how-to-write-publish-and-market-a-book/ Here's a few additional resources for you… Follow me on Instagram: @JonGordon11 Check out my newest book, The Power of Positive Habits.  Every week, I send out a free Positive Tip newsletter via email. It's advice for your life, work and team. You can sign up now here and catch up on past newsletters. Ready to lead with greater clarity, confidence, and purpose? The Certified Positive Leader Program is for anyone who wants to grow as a leader from the inside out. It's a self-paced experience built around my most impactful leadership principles with tools you can apply right away to improve your mindset, relationships, and results. You'll discover what it really means to lead with positivity… and how to do it every day. Learn more here! Do you feel called to do more? Would you like to impact more people as a leader, writer, speaker, coach and trainer? Get Jon Gordon Certified if you want to be mentored by me and my team to teach my proven frameworks principles, and programs for businesses, sports, education, healthcare!

Episode metadata supplied by the publisher feed · Published Aug 21, 2026

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Rise to Lead: The Leadership Shift That Changes Everything

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