The Leadership Contrarian

In Episode 007 of The Leadership Contrarian, Michael Redman, CEO of Half a Bubble Out, shares a deeply personal story that reveals what leadership really looks like when life doesn't go according to plan. When a sudden health crisis hits his family, everything accelerates—decisions, emotions, responsibilities—and the reality becomes clear: leadership isn't just about performance in stable moments. It's about what holds you steady when everything shifts at once. This conversation explores resilience not as a concept, but as something built over time—through faith, relationships, and the margins you create long before a crisis arrives. In this episode, you'll learn: • Why resilience isn't something you create in the moment • What leaders are actually carrying during seasons of uncertainty • The role of faith and daily grounding in staying steady • How relationships and inner circles strengthen your capacity • Why financial, time, and structural margin matter more than you think This episode is for leaders who want to grow their capacity before the storm hits—so when it does, they're not trying to hold everything together for the first time. 👉 Subscribe to The Leadership Contrarian newsletter: https://info.halfabubbleout.com/leadership-contrarian-newsletter

In episode 006 of The Leadership Contrarian, Michael Redman, CEO of Half a Bubble Out, explores why leadership formation doesn't stop at the office door—and why the pressure leaders face at work often reveals what's been formed (or unformed) at home. Michael offers an encouraging and deeply practical message: four simple, proven relational disciplines practiced in marriage and family life that quietly strengthen leadership under pressure. These aren't marriage tips. They're formative practices—habits that shape presence, connection, repair, and posture when stress exposes what we truly believe and value. Drawing from decades of marriage, leadership, research, and lived experience, this conversation explores: Why compartmentalized leadership eventually breaks down How stress reveals formation in our closest relationships Four relational disciplines practiced at home that shape leadership everywhere The crossover between marital health and leadership capacity Why pressure doesn't build character—it reveals it This episode is for leaders who want to grow capacity without performing, fixing, or carrying everything alone—and who recognize that the health of their closest relationships quietly determines the strength of their leadership. 👉 Subscribe to The Leadership Contrarian newsletter: https://info.halfabubbleout.com/leadership-contrarian-newsletter -- Michael Redman | The Leadership Contrarian CEO of Half a Bubble Out Business & Leadership Development 

In episode 005 of The Leadership Contrarian, Michael Redman explores how our cultural picture of leadership has evolved—from the lone hero archetype to the kind of leadership required in today's organizations. Classic movie heroes like John Wayne taught us that leadership meant strength, certainty, and independence. But stories like Star Wars revealed a different kind of leadership—one where very different people must learn to trust each other and work together to overcome challenges. Modern leadership isn't about the lone hero riding in to save the day. It's about bringing people together, building trust, and helping teams succeed collectively. This episode introduces two of the five relational capabilities that research has shown to be foundational to effective leadership: Caring Connection and Fostering Team Play. Michael reviews how trust, honesty, and shared responsibility can transform both culture and performance. If leadership today requires more than grit and determination, the real question becomes: what skills actually allow leaders and teams to thrive together? 📩 Subscribe to The Leadership Contrarian Newsletter: https://www.halfabubbleout.com/   #LeadershipContrarian #BusinessLeadership #LeadershipDevelopment #TeamLeadership #ThoughtLeadership

In Episode 004, Michael explains why he chose to call this newsletter The Leadership Contrarian, and why the name points to something much deeper than branding. Michael names a growing reality facing leaders today: the Formation Gap. It's the widening divide between the weight leaders are being asked to carry and the formation they've actually received to carry it well. As the world grows more volatile, faster, and less trustworthy, leadership has increasingly been reduced to shortcuts—tools without wisdom, performance without endurance, and success without stewardship. This episode explores: What the Formation Gap is and why it's growing The three forces creating pressure on modern leaders Why much of today's leadership advice is incomplete—or harmful What Formation-First Leadership really means Why leadership must be formed internally, relationally, and tactically Who this work is for—and why it matters now This is a call to whole leadership that endures without costing you your integrity, your family, or your inner life. 👉 Subscribe to The Leadership Contrarian newsletter: https://info.halfabubbleout.com/leadership-contrarian-newsletter — Michael Redman | The Leadership Contrarian CEO of Half a Bubble Out Business & Leadership Development

In Episode #003 of The Leadership Contrarian, Michael Redman, CEO of Half a Bubble Out, explains why leadership can't be reduced to performance, personality, or hustle—and why sustainable leadership requires something deeper, more human, and more integrated. This conversation introduces the five core elements of Creative Leadership—not as tactics, but as parts of an internal operating system that allow leaders to grow results without burning out their lives, teams, or values. In this episode, you'll learn: What Creative Leadership really means Why leadership breakdowns aren't about effort or intelligence The five core elements that sustain healthy leadership over time How trust, awareness, authenticity, systems, and execution work together A simple question every leader should be asking right now This framework is for leaders who want to build something that lasts—without sacrificing their integrity, relationships, or joy in the process. 👉 Subscribe to The Leadership Contrarian email newsletter: https://www.halfabubbleout.com — Michael Redman | The Leadership Contrarian CEO of Half a Bubble Out Business & Leadership Development

In Episode 002 of the The Leadership Contrarian, Michael Redman, CEO of Half a Bubble Out (HaBO), explores why leadership feels harder right now—and why that's not your imagination. We're living in a VUCA world: Volatility. Uncertainty. Complexity. Ambiguity. Drawing from a formative experience in 1980 and more than 20 years of working with leaders, Michael unpacks: What VUCA really means (and why it's personal) Why yesterday's leadership tools no longer work How resilient leaders stay grounded when everything feels unstable Why internal capacity—not external control—is the key to leading well in chaos This episode isn't about reacting faster or doing more. It's about becoming a steadier, more human, and more effective leader—without adding more to your plate. If you're navigating constant change, pressure, and uncertainty, this message will meet you right where you are. 👉 Subscribe to The Leadership Contrarian newsletter: https://www.halfabubbleout.com/  — Michael Redman | The Leadership Contrarian CEO of Half a Bubble Out Business & Leadership Development  

Welcome to Episode #001 of The Leadership Contrarian — a new weekly series from Michael Redman, CEO of Half a Bubble Out. In this first episode, Michael shares why this message feels overdue—and why leaders were never meant to live or lead divided lives. After more than 20 years working with business owners and leadership teams, one truth has become clear: A healthy business starts with a holistic life. This episode explores: - Why leadership can't be siloed from life, faith, or family - The cost of a divided life - What it means to lead with integration, resilience, and purpose - What you can expect from The Leadership Contrarian moving forward If you're a leader craving more alignment, capacity, and sustainability—this series is for you. Subscribe to the newsletter: https://info.halfabubbleout.com/leadership-contrarian-newsletter

Michael and Kathryn define the term holistic in a business context and share examples of how holistic thinking can improve your company's growth. If you often find yourself working 'in the weeds' of your business, and want a new perspective, then this episode is for you!

Michael and Kathryn discuss the tactical things you need to consider if you're starting a new initiative in your company.  Find out what questions you should be asking yourself and how to set and work toward your short and long term goals. If you've got a new initiative on the horizon, be sure to give this episode a listen.

Michael and Kathryn outline proven ways you can invest in your team so ultimately, they become more productive. Discover how to strategically leverage the power of courses, trainings, book clubs and even personal development coaches. A great listen for all business owners, leaders and managers, looking for fresh employee development ideas with long term impact.

Michael and Kathryn discuss how to motivate your team the right way. Spoiler alert! You won't need to anger them or become a taskmaster to do it. If you've struggled to increase employee productivity while maintaining a healthy company culture, then give this episode a listen.

Michael and Kathryn outline the 7 levels of business growth so you can take your company from its early beginnings all the way to the point where you can sell it. If you feel stuck in the direction or growth of your business, give this episode a listen.

Michael and Kathryn discuss the story behind writing their bestselling book, Fulfilled: The Passion & Provision Strategy for Building a Business with Profit, Purpose & Legacy and their current goal of getting over 100 reviews on Amazon. Curious about the true meaning of Passion and Provision and what they have to do with Amazon reviews? Then give this episode a listen.

Michael and Kathryn share their definition of 'Authenticity' and how this fuzzy term is often hijacked in business today. You'll also discover the different stages of psychological maturity that business leaders need to evolve through in this fun, 'food for thought' style episode!

Michael and Kathryn share 3 tips for company productivity. It can be hard for business owners to learn to delegate as well as truly assess if their employees are in the best roles for their skills and talents. Help your employees thrive and become better independent problem-solvers by giving this episode a listen.

Michael and Kathryn interview Robert and Kay Lee Fukui, marriage and business coaches and authors, about their new book Tandem: The Married Entrepreneurs' Guide For Greater Work-Life Balance and how their business came to be. If you run a business with your spouse and looking for some ideas on how you can better your work-life balance, then give this episode a listen.

Michael and Kathryn discuss the origins of the post-trust era and the 6 myths about trust that businesses need to overcome in order to survive and thrive. If you're struggling to grow your business and build positive company culture, then this episode is for you.

Michael and Kathryn discuss the importance of training. Whether it's your own professional training or training the employees in your company- there's going to be an exponential return on your investment. If you feel like a 'generalist' as opposed a master in a specific skill or trade, then give this episode a listen.

Michael and Kathryn break down the market research results that uncovered the top 5 core values of their ideal customers. If you've ever wondered how your personal values and the values of your customers fit into your marketing, hiring, or long-term business strategy, then this episode is for you.

Michael and Kathryn interview Omar Zenhom, podcast host and business coach, about his entrepreneurial journey and the lasting impact of his $100 MBA show.  If you need some encouragement today about how you can leverage your unique value, make an impact, and leave a legacy with your business, then give this episode a listen.

Michael and Kathryn talk with author David Allison about the importance of valuegraphics in business and marketing. If you can speak into the hearts of your customers by knowing their shared values, wouldn't you want to? Find out the power of value-based market research by giving this episode a listen.

How well can you predict the future? Michael and Kathryn discuss how to measure your decision-making and strategic thinking capacity. Whether you need to hire people who are a right fit for your company, or want to improve the efficiency of your current team, give this episode a listen.

Michael and Kathryn outline the 5 areas that guarantee strong and effective leadership: Relating, Self-awareness, Systems-awareness, Achieving, and Authenticity. If you are curious about how your leadership skills rate when it comes to fostering a healthy and growing company culture, then give this episode a listen.

Michael and Kathryn get vulnerable and share their true struggles as business owners and leaders. Part of avoiding burnout is being able to step back to gain some needed perspective. If you've ever struggled to find margin in your time and business, give this episode a listen.

Michael and Kathryn explore four ways business leaders can evaluate and overcome fatigue. Burnout can easily sneak up on you if you aren't careful, so get tips for preventing and overcoming mental, emotional, and physical fatigue by giving this episode a listen.

Michael and Kathryn explain the concept of VUCA (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, Ambiguity) and four ways your company can combat it.  If you want practical tools that will both ease your anxiety and steer your business in the right direction, then give this episode a listen. 

Michael and Kathryn discuss common work and life stressors and steps you can take to identify, evaluate, and recover from them. If you don't feel quite at ease these days in your business or at home, give this episode a listen to help you figure out what exactly is dragging you down and how to overcome it.

Michael and Kathryn discuss the need for business leaders to build resilience in our chaotic world.  If you're facing challenges in your company and leadership and want to discover the best ways to build resiliency for better judgment, lower stress, and increased productivity, then give this episode a listen!

Michael and Kathryn discuss the power of rhythms in business and life and how they help increase efficiency and decrease stress.  Whether your leadership style is more spontaneous and free-flowing, or you've had systems and procedures in place for years, give this episode a listen to gain new insights into how you can better leverage rhythms for improved business outcomes. 

Michael and Kathryn discuss 3 strategies for building a better workplace culture. Whether your business is large or small, you have to be intentional about hiring the right people and developing your team in order to overcome burnout, employee disengagement, and turnover. If you want your business to stand apart in today's world and ultimately improve your bottom line, then give this episode a listen.

Michael and Kathryn interview author and entrepreneur, Ron Coury, about his epic Las Vegas business journey of overcoming adversity and corruption. If you are facing challenges as a business owner and need some real-life practical advice, give this episode a listen.

Michael and Kathryn take a moment to pause and celebrate two momentous occasions: The two-year anniversary of the publication of their book, Fulfilled, and their transition into a brand-new house.  Gratitude is a powerful way for business leaders to build fortitude. Find out how by giving this episode a listen.

Michael Redman interviews author and talent economy expert, Rishon Blumberg, about how to hire and retain top talent in today's world. Discover how long-term relationships with your employees and freelancers makes your company more effective and competitive. If you've ever suffered through a bad hire or have struggled with retention, this episode is for you!

Michael and Kathryn discuss the signs that indicate your company has a toxic work environment. There are 3 areas you need to pay attention to: People, Operations, and Finance. If you aren't sure if you have an unhealthy work culture, then give this episode a listen.

Michael and Kathryn discuss how to manage a hybrid team of remote and in-office workers. If you've been forced to shift to a remote or partially remote model with your team and are struggling to make it work, then this episode is for you!

Michael and Kathryn talk about the analogy of having a 'sick' or unhealthy business organization. Find out why leaders often ignore signs of an unhealthy company and what you can do to recover, and ultimately, prevent the same problems from occurring in the future.

Michael and Kathryn have an in-depth discussion with Caleb Guilliams, Founder and CEO of Better Wealth, about the real-life struggles of entrepreneurs when it comes to money. Not many business owners know their numbers or know how to reach their long-term goals. If you want expert-level strategies for business finance, then give this episode a listen.

Michael and Kathryn discuss perseverance, buffalos, and the leadership struggles faced by all businesses. What do buffalos have to do with finding the right path and fulfillment in your life and business? Find out by giving this episode a listen.

Michael and Kathryn interview returning guest, John Ramstead, about leadership, perseverance, and how personal core values shape your future.  If you're an entrepreneur, leader, or business owner, and are asking yourself, 'What kind of life do I want to live?'...then this episode is for you!

Michael and Kathryn look back on the origins of Half a Bubble Out and their business journey over the last 20 years. As they celebrate their 20 year anniversary of being in business and take a walk down memory lane, you'll discover how they overcame road blocks along the way, learned from great mentors, and are sailing into 2022 with hope and commitment to developing the whole leader for the whole business.

Michael and Kathryn interview their friend, Caleb Guilliams, about being a young entrepreneur in the finance space and the key areas business owners should focus on to become more financially successful. Get Caleb's top tips and strategies so you can accurately assess what's standing in the way of your growth.

Michael and Kathryn talk with Mark Ritter, credit union and small business lending expert, about the secret sauce that makes credit unions so appealing for small business owners. Should you take out a loan from your local credit union instead of a bank? Find out by giving this episode a listen!

Michael and Kathryn talk with John Jantsch, author and marketing expert, about the customer success track and how to scale your business through better marketing. If you feel like you are constantly spinning your wheels just trying to generate new customers, take a step back by giving this episode a listen.

Michael and Kathryn interview business coach and Certified Financial Planner, Josh Patrick, about personal sustainability and how to tell if your business is sellable.  If you find yourself struggling with your business finances or just want to form a solid future exit strategy, then this episode is for you!

Michael and Kathryn have an open discussion about new ventures they are trying and the challenges that come with them. In today's uncertain and polarized world, growing a business can often be tough and stressful. If you are experiencing anxiety about the future of your business, get encouragement and time-tested tips in this episode.

Michael and Kathryn chat with Core Poirier, author and speaker, on his past interviews with well known thought leaders and his insights on developing personal mission statements. You'll get many nuggets of business wisdom in this episode--and bonus--you'll get to hear stories from Corey's history of performing stand up comedy!

Michael and Kathryn take you on a ride into a thought experiment where they debate on whether or not they think a business like an In-N-Out Burger could survive and thrive if it started in today's world. Humor and hypotheses abound in this fun and relevant dialogue about niche markets!

Michael and Kathryn interview business consultant and innovation expert, Andrew Pek, on the 3 levels of innovation and the power of mindset when it comes to unlocking your creativity. If you feel like your leadership or business is constantly getting stuck in a rut, then this episode is for you!

Michael and Kathryn talk to business coach, Jeff Chastain, about how to regain your passion for your business and repair the foundational elements your company was built on. If you've been trying quick-fix solutions to help grow your business but nothing is working, give this episode a listen.

Michael and Kathryn talk to John Briggs, Author and CPA, about the Profit First cash management system. Avoid falling into burnout and regain the passion you originally had when you started your business. If you are a business owner who tends to avoid numbers, you won't want to miss this episode!