Maxwell Leadership Executive Podcast

Get the learning guide from today's episode here! In this episode, Chris Goede and Perry Holley explore common leadership blind spots and what growth requires to overcome them. Find out how to leverage self-awareness, honest feedback, and systems to identify and address often overlooked areas. This episode also shares practical strategies for handling difficult conversations, balancing results with team development, and maintaining clarity in communication.

Get the learning guide from today's episode here! In this episode, Chris Goede and Perry Holley explore the critical role of self-awareness in effective leadership. They highlight the challenges of maintaining self-awareness, especially as leaders move higher in an organization. You'll learn 3 ways to strengthen this essential skill and leverage it to build stronger, more trusted teams.

Get the learning guide from today's episode here! In this episode, Chris Goede and Perry Holley explore the signs of a broken workplace culture and outline why leaders hold primary responsibility for shaping it. Discover 3 ways to create an environment where people feel valued, seen, and heard, plus 3 elements crucial in transforming and sustaining a healthy culture. You'll gain practical strategies to identify challenges in your own teams and drive meaningful cultural change.

Get the learning guide from today's episode here! In this episode, Perry Holley and Chris Goede explore how leaders can accelerate their growth and unleash their full potential by adopting a mentoring mindset. Find out how staying teachable, seeking out diverse perspectives, and continuously asking intentional questions fosters your development, and what 3 things most help you and your team grow. You'll gain actionable strategies to audit current relationships, structure purposeful learning conversations, and extend the value of mentoring to those around you.

Get the learning guide from today's episode here! In this episode, Chris Goede and Perry Holley highlight the need for organizations to show their team members that they belong. Along with practical strategies inspired by Horst Schulze's approach at Ritz-Carlton, they also explore the critical role of empathy, honest feedback, and psychological safety in helping individuals feel valued and included. Gain actionable insights for creating authentic environments where every team member feels a genuine sense of belonging and purpose.

Get the learning guide from today's episode here! This week, Chris Goede and Perry Holley are joined again by Dr. Greg Steely to explore how systems consistently outperform individual heroics in driving organizational success. Leaders often celebrate working harder and longer hours, yet neglect the long-term benefits of building effective systems. This discussion focuses on the importance of creating guardrails—simple or complex—that guide behavior and enable team members to excel together. You'll also hear practical strategies for shifting from a culture of crisis-driven heroics to one where empowered teams and strong systems fuel sustainable results.

Get the learning guide from today's episode here! In this episode, Perry Holley, Chris Goede, and guest Greg Steely explore the critical difference between momentum and clarity in leadership. They share practical strategies for ensuring organizational clarity, like the "clarity sandwich" approach and aligning team members around a shared purpose. They discuss common pitfalls leaders face when relying too much on activity and energy instead of driving clear execution and results. Discover actionable tips for fostering alignment, accountability, and sustainable momentum built on a foundation of clarity.

Get the learning guide from today's episode here! In this episode, Chris Goede and Perry Holley explore practical strategies for improving results in periods of underperformance. They discuss the critical role of clarity in expectations, outlining how leaders can identify gaps in communication and simplify complex processes for better outcomes. They also highlight the need to focus on developing people rather than clamping down with tighter controls, encouraging leaders to adopt a coaching mindset and foster trust within their teams. Additionally, they address common obstacles such as system inefficiencies, misalignment among departments, and low trust. Discover actionable questions and approaches to drive both immediate improvement and long-term scalable performance.

Get the learning guide from today's episode here! In this episode, Chris Goede and Perry Holley explore what it takes to design a workplace culture where people genuinely want to stay. They outline the critical role that psychological safety, meaningful autonomy, and consistent leadership play in building loyalty rather than just retention. They also discuss the power of growth opportunities, recognition, and high standards paired with strong support in keeping top talent engaged. This episode offers practical strategies and real-world examples for leaders committed to creating a thriving, high-retention work environment.

Get the learning guide from today's episode here! In this episode, Chris Goede and Perry Holley explore why culture consistently shapes organizational success more than strategy alone. They share practical examples of how leaders can close the gap between stated values and everyday behaviors, ensuring the team's actions truly reflect the company's core beliefs. They highlight specific steps leaders can take to build trust, promote accountability, and reinforce key behaviors that define a positive culture. The conversation offers actionable guidance for leaders eager to create a work environment where consistency, clarity, and real-time feedback drive exceptional results.

Get the learning guide from today's episode here! In this episode, Chris Goede and Perry Holley explore eight key questions leaders should ask themselves to build a memorable leadership legacy. They discuss how true leadership involves developing others, creating clarity, and fostering an environment where team members feel safe to share the truth. They also examine the importance of building future leaders, being transformational rather than transactional, and ensuring every interaction leaves people stronger. Throughout the conversation, they share practical strategies and thought-provoking examples to help leaders reflect on their influence and grow into leaders who leave a lasting, positive impact.

Get the learning guide from today's episode here! In this episode, Chris Goede and Perry Holly explore the challenge of managing cognitive overload in today's workplace. They talk about the generational differences in how employees approach boundaries between work and personal life, highlighting the importance of understanding individual needs. They introduce a practical "RESET" framework to help leaders create healthier environments through clear boundaries, prioritization, and encouraging recovery. Listeners gain actionable strategies to reduce team burnout and improve overall engagement.

Get the learning guide from today's episode here! In this episode, Chris Goede, Perry Holley, and Tricia Sciortino explore how executives can harness the power of a strong executive assistant to maximize their leadership impact. They discuss strategies for building trust, delegating effectively, and rethinking the leader-assistant partnership as both roles and organizations evolve. Tricia shares practical steps to overcome the reluctance to delegate and highlights the benefits of leveraging the unique strengths of an executive assistant. Listeners will receive actionable insights on reshaping their workload, improving communication, and creating systems that lead to greater productivity and organizational growth.

Get the learning guide from today's episode here! In this episode, Perry Holley and Chris Goede answer key leadership questions submitted by listeners, offering practical advice for real-world challenges, including: coaching young leaders to shift from self-focused language to team-oriented communication how new leaders can maximize their first 90 days by building relationships, listening, and learning rather than rushing into action balancing strategic thinking with daily operations, and provide tips for leading remote teams without falling into micromanagement Overall, the episode equips leaders with actionable steps to increase their influence and enhance team performance.

Get the learning guide from today's episode here! Get your copy of John Maxwell's How to Get a Return on Failure In this episode, Chris Goede and Perry Holley explore how leaders can gain a return on failure by shifting their mindset and approach. They encourage listeners to view failure not as part of their identity but as a valuable learning opportunity that fuels growth and innovation. The hosts break down strategies for differentiating between good and bad misses, extracting lessons, and modeling resilience. They also offer actionable advice on creating a culture where teams embrace mistakes, analyze outcomes, and consistently improve performance.

Get the learning guide from today's episode here! In this episode, Perry Holley and Chris Goede explore the crucial difference between being nice and being kind as a leader. They explain how avoiding difficult conversations might seem nice, but choosing kindness—delivering honest, clear feedback with care—actually drives growth and trust within teams. Through practical examples and personal stories, they show listeners how to be honest with empathy and clarity. They also offer actionable strategies for setting expectations, building trust, and creating a culture where team members feel valued and challenged to improve.

Get the learning guide from today's episode here! Wondering how much it costs to develop your teams? In this episode, Perry Holley and Chris Goede share research that shows how investment in leadership development not only increases team effectiveness, but also positively impacts employee engagement and retention. They discuss how developing leaders can multiply productivity, reduce turnover, and shape a strong company culture. Get practical advice on how to create and implement effective development plans without unnecessary complexity, for long-term organizational success.

Get the learning guide from today's episode here! In this episode, Chris Goede and Perry Holley sit down with speaker and executive coach Corey Baker to discuss what's off-limits for leaders: disengagement. They share practical stories demonstrating the importance of self-awareness and intentionality in a leader's daily actions and choices. They also highlight the necessity for leaders to set personal guardrails and maintain authenticity, even when facing challenging circumstances. Discover actionable strategies for building accountability, strengthening team culture, and ensuring a positive influence in both professional and personal settings.

Get the learning guide from today's episode here! In this episode, Chris Goede and Perry Holley bring back leadership expert Farshad Ashl to continue exploring how leaders can create an AI-ready culture, centering on curiosity, collaboration, and empowering innovation within their teams. They discuss strategies for building trust and transparency around AI adoption, ensuring that ethical considerations and people remain at the heart of technological transformation. The conversation also covers the risks of AI fatigue and the importance of maintaining mental well-being and human oversight in an increasingly digital environment. They also share a practical 30-60-90 day roadmap that equips leaders with actionable steps to integrate AI responsibly and effectively into their organizations.

Become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member! In this episode, Chris Goede, Perry Holley, and leadership expert Farshad Asl explore the evolving role of AI in leadership and how it can amplify, rather than replace, a leader's impact. They show listeners the value of integrating multiple dimensions of leadership to drive both personal and organizational growth. The conversation highlights the importance of taking action on AI adoption, addressing common fears, and starting with small, meaningful pilot projects to create an AI-ready culture. Listeners gain practical insights into effective AI prompting, building executive-level frameworks, and leveraging AI as a partner to enhance speed, accuracy, and trust within their teams.

Become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member! In this episode, Perry Holley and Chris Goede explore why organizations should focus on growing their people before promoting them. They discuss the pitfalls of promoting high performers without adequate leadership development and how this impacts team engagement and organizational performance. They share research-based strategies for identifying and preparing high-potential employees for leadership roles, stressing the importance of intentional development plans. Listeners will gain actionable insights on fostering a culture of growth, ensuring new leaders are equipped to succeed, and driving stronger results across their teams.

In this episode, Perry Holley, Chris Goede, and Don Yaeger continue to explore the practical steps leaders can take to create and sustain momentum within their organizations. They share a visual model that helps leaders understand the importance of preparation, culture, and the recruitment of team members who prioritize group success. Listeners learn how belief and mindset work together to drive sustained momentum, and why consistent leader communication plays a critical role in influencing team climate. The discussion also offers actionable strategies for building a feedback loop after each momentum cycle, equipping leaders to prepare for future opportunities. Become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member! Get your free preview chapter of Don Yaeger's upcoming momentum guide Join Don's pre-release book club to discover the power of storytelling

In this episode, Perry Holley, Chris Goede, and guest Don Yeager the critical role momentum plays in leadership. They share research and real-world stories to clarify why leaders must not only recognize but also actively create and sustain momentum within their teams. The discussion highlights the importance of spotting and leveraging the "spark" that ignites progress, as well as celebrating small victories to build belief and engagement. Listeners gain practical strategies for fostering a positive team environment, staying alert for opportunities, and understanding how energy and enthusiasm can spread through effective leadership. Become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member! Get your free preview chapter of Don Yaeger's upcoming momentum guide  

Become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member! In this episode, Perry Holley and Chris Goede explore the hidden advantage of margin in leadership and why it is essential for long-term success. They discuss the challenges leaders face in creating and protecting margin, including the tendency to equate busyness with productivity and value. The conversation highlights practical strategies for building margin into calendars, decision-making, and emotional energy, while encouraging leaders to delegate more effectively and empower their teams. Listeners will gain actionable advice on managing energy, not just time, so they can make better decisions, lead with resilience, and ultimately have a greater impact on their organizations.

Become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member! In this episode, Perry Holley and Chris Goede explore actionable strategies for leaders to eliminate stress at its source rather than just manage its symptoms. They share practical habits such as preparing the night before, protecting time for deep work, and maintaining one prioritized list, which help leaders create structure and reduce anxiety. They also discuss how the way leaders manage stress directly influences their teams, highlighting that both calm and anxiety spread throughout the organization. Listeners will gain tools to clarify their priorities, build margin into their days, and design a work environment that fosters resilience and productivity.

Become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member! In this part 2 episode, Perry Holley, Chris Goede, and Brian Bosché continue their exploration of the connection between individual purpose, fulfillment, and leadership effectiveness. They illustrate how clarity of purpose not only reduces anxiety and burnout but also empowers leaders and team members to stay engaged and aligned with organizational goals. The conversation highlights actionable strategies for leaders to reconnect with the work that originally inspired them and to foster fulfillment without necessarily changing jobs. Listeners gain practical steps for integrating purpose-driven practices into team culture, ultimately driving long-term performance and engagement.

In this episode, Perry Holley and Chris Goede are joined by Maxwell Leadership President Brian Bosché to explore the critical role of purpose in both personal fulfillment and organizational engagement. Brian introduces the Purpose Factor assessment, explaining how it helps individuals uncover their unique strengths and align them with their daily work. The conversation highlights practical ways leaders can connect team members' individual purposes to the broader mission of their organization, resulting in increased engagement and resilience. Discover actionable strategies for fostering fulfillment, recognizing disengagement, and creating cultures where team members thrive by making meaningful contributions. Become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member!

In this episode, Chris Goede and Perry Holley explore the vital role of alertness as a leadership discipline. They explain how leaders must consistently tune in to their own tendencies, their teams, and their organizational environment to prevent problems before they escalate. The conversation highlights practical strategies for developing greater self-awareness, organizational alertness, and environmental curiosity, helping leaders notice signals others might miss. Listeners will gain actionable questions and reflective practices designed to build the discipline of alertness, fostering stronger teams and healthier organizational cultures. Become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member!

In this episode, Chris Goede and Perry Holley explore the idea that brilliance in leadership often begins with consistently embracing the "boring" fundamentals. They illustrate how successful leaders build trust and drive results by mastering daily disciplines, reinforcing core values, and maintaining consistency. They also outline practical leadership habits such as having hard conversations, clarifying roles, and preparing thoroughly for every meeting and challenge. Throughout their discussion, they share relatable examples and actionable steps to help leaders understand how consistency and authenticity pave the way for remarkable outcomes. Become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member!

In this episode, Chris Goede, Perry Holley, and Valorie Burton explore practical rules for building resilience both personally and within teams. They share strategies for managing unexpected challenges, controlling what is within reach, and cultivating supportive resources. Discover how shifting thought patterns and focusing on positive opportunities can help leaders and their organizations navigate change effectively. Listeners gain actionable advice for strengthening their own resilience and modeling it throughout the workplace. Become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member!

In this episode, Chris Goede, Perry Holley, and Valorie Burton explore the practical application of resilience for leaders and teams. They outline how developing resilience as a skill can significantly impact morale, foster a positive mindset, and create solutions in the face of challenges. They share the importance of using common language to build resilient cultures and highlight the role of psychological capital in determining team engagement and success. Listeners gain actionable strategies for implementing adaptive skills, protective resources, and preventive measures to strengthen their personal and organizational resilience. Become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member!

In this episode, Perry Holley and Chris Goede explore the concept of hands-on leadership and what it truly means for executives. They explain how strong leaders act as teachers and system architects, focusing on empowering teams rather than micromanaging. They discuss the importance of obsessing over metrics that customers value and architecting workflows that push decisions closer to the front lines. Listeners gain practical strategies for coaching their teams, building systems that perform without direct supervision, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member!

In this episode, Jared Cagle interviews Steve Robinson about the importance of leaders addressing their own inner health to cultivate healthier organizations. They explain how unprocessed trauma can shape leadership decisions and organizational culture, and why it's crucial for executives to recognize and work through their internal challenges. Steve Robinson shares practical strategies for self-regulation, resilience, and post-traumatic growth, offering actionable steps for leaders who want to increase their effectiveness and well-being. Listeners walk away with a deeper understanding of how inner work not only strengthens individual leaders but also creates psychologically safe and thriving workplace cultures. Want more insights on emotional regulation and trigger awareness in leadership? Get your copy of Steve Robinson's Soul Leadership today!

In this episode, Perry Holley and Chris Goede explore the concept of detachment as a leadership superpower. They explain how detachment allows leaders to control their emotional reactions under pressure, creating space between an event and their response. They also discuss how detached leaders can drastically improve their decision making by evaluating information more accurately and in real-time. Furthermore, they emphasize that detachment expands perspective, enabling leaders to look beyond immediate threats and notice secondary issues, downstream consequences, and opportunities to pivot. Become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member!

In this episode, Perry Holley and Chris Goede explore the concept of developing thick skin as a leader. They discuss the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership and how leaders with high emotional intelligence can better handle negativity and criticism. They also share tips on how to reframe negative feedback and use it as an opportunity for growth and learning. Additionally, they emphasize the significance of evaluating the source of feedback and not allowing it to dictate one's self-belief and leadership abilities. Overall, the episode provides valuable insights on how leaders can cultivate resilience and maintain a growth mindset in the face of challenges. Become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member!

In this episode, Perry Holley and Chris Goede discuss strategies for sustaining leadership influence over time. They explore the importance of modeling consistency of character, as trust is built through everyday actions rather than grand gestures. They also highlight the significance of honest communication, emphasizing the need for leaders to align their words and actions to maintain credibility with their teams. Additionally, they address the role of transparency and humility in leadership, encouraging leaders to admit their weaknesses, mistakes, and need for help. Discover practical insights for leaders seeking to maintain and grow their influence in a lasting way. Become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member!

In this episode, Chris Goede and Perry Holley share practical tips for leaders to intentionally close out the year and prepare for the next. They discuss the importance of reflecting on wins and lessons learned, identifying patterns, and seeking input from the team to gain valuable insights. They also explore the concept of a "letting go" list and aligning with the team's purpose and priorities. Discover the significance of setting clear priorities for the first quarter and communicating changes with clarity to ensure a strong start to the new year. Become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member!

In this episode, Perry Holley and Chris Goede explore the greatest gifts a leader can give to their team. They discuss 10 ways that leaders can powerfully influence those they lead, fostering a more engaged and motivated workforce. They also share personal experiences and examples to illustrate the power of these leadership gifts in action. Throughout the conversation, the hosts offer practical advice and strategies for leaders looking to enhance their relationships with their teams and drive better results. Become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member! Accelerate your leadership development with the Maxwell Leadership App (use code PODCASTGG7 for your 7-day free trial, now through January 7!)

In this episode, Chris Goede and Perry Holley explore the concept of finding common ground to connect with others. They discuss the barriers that prevent leaders from effectively connecting, like assumptions, arrogance, and indifference, and provide strategies for overcoming these obstacles. Chris Goede and Perry Holley share personal stories that illustrate the power of genuine curiosity and the importance of focusing on the other person in a conversation. The hosts also remind listeners that building authentic connections requires time, intentionality, and a willingness to be open and adaptable. Learn practical tips for finding common ground and strengthening your ability to connect with and influence others. Become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member!

In this episode, Perry Holley and Chris Goede share lessons in resilience during a government shutdown that disrupted their travel plans. They walk through Valerie Burton's Rules of Resilience and how they applied them in real-time to navigate the challenges they faced. They discuss the importance of staying adaptive as a leader and keeping calm in the face of uncertainty, as the team will take emotional cues from their leader. Furthermore, they highlight how every disruption presents a learning opportunity for both the leader and the team. Overall, the episode offers practical insights on how to lead oneself and one's team through unexpected obstacles using the principles of resilience. Become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member!

In this episode, Perry Holley and Chris Goede unpack what it means to be an empathetically driven leader—balancing care with accountability. They explore eliminating double standards, making development a daily priority, inspiring teams effectively, and embracing feedback with vulnerability. The conversation offers practical insights for leaders who want to connect deeply while driving results. Become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member!

In this episode, Chris Goede and Perry Holley explore the crucial role feedback plays in driving employee engagement. They stress the importance of leaders providing regular, constructive feedback to their team members, as this helps individuals understand their performance and feel valued within the organization. Goede and Holley also discuss practical strategies for conducting effective one-on-one meetings, which serve as an excellent platform for delivering feedback and checking in on team members' well-being. Throughout the conversation, they emphasize the courage required to give and receive feedback, acknowledging that while it may be uncomfortable, it is essential for fostering growth and maintaining high levels of engagement. Become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member!

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. Become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member!

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. Become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member!

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. Become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member!

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. Become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member!

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. Become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member!

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. Become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member! Turn leadership development into a daily habit with the Maxwell Daily Reader Up-level your leadership game with the 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership  

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. Become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member!

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. Become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member!