The Leader Formula

From Operator to Owner: The Shift That Breaks the Growth CeilingMost business owners don’t stall because they lack effort — they stall because they’re still operating the business instead of owning it.In this episode, Chris sits down with Josh Dukes and Erin Jones, founders of One Residential, to unpack the lessons that helped them break through that ceiling and build a business that grows through people.Serving the MD / VA / DC market, One Residential will finish 2025 with:685 closings$308M in volume$7.1M in revenue🔑 What You’ll LearnWhy trying to be everything to everyone limits growthHow to balance collaboration with decisive leadershipWhen your “client” shifts from customers to your peopleHow letting go multiplies leadership, impact, and culture🧠 The Big ShiftOperators succeed through personal effort. Owners succeed through people, systems, and leadership.Josh & Erin share how making that shift changed everything — and what they’re still learning as owners today.🎯 Who This Episode Is ForSmall business ownersService-based operators (HVAC, plumbing, trades, etc.)Leaders who feel like they’re the bottleneck in their business🎙️ Why This Conversation MattersJosh & Erin have broken through a ceiling most operators never escape — and for the past year and a half, Chris has coached them through that transition.If growth has started to feel heavier instead of freer, this episode is for you.

In this episode of The Leader Formula, Chris shares a deeply honest conversation about money, leadership, and the hidden financial trap many business owners fall into. Even when a business looks successful on the outside, the reality behind the scenes can be stress, scarcity, and financial confusion.Chris walks through his own story of running a high-producing real estate business, the financial wake-up call that followed, and how discovering the Profit First system completely changed his relationship with money, leadership, and margin. Together, Chris and Steve unpack the psychology behind money decisions, why profit must be protected—not hoped for—and how simple systems can bring clarity, stability, and peace back into your business and life.Key Topics CoveredWhy revenue growth doesn’t always equal financial healthThe “vanity metrics” leaders hide behind — and the cost of doing soHow ego, identity, and money are often deeply intertwinedWhat happens when a business grows faster than its financial systemsThe difference between hoping for profit vs. protecting profitHow financial stress impacts leadership, relationships, and marriageWhy systems—not willpower—create sustainable profitThe psychology behind avoidance, anxiety, and money behaviorChris’ Story HighlightsScaling a real estate business selling 160+ homes per yearStepping out of production and realizing the numbers didn’t support the shiftBurning through an emergency fund and accumulating credit card debtThe emotional toll financial stress placed on leadership and familyDiscovering Profit First and implementing it in real timeMoving from financial anxiety to clarity, margin, and stabilityThree Core Truths From the EpisodeRevenue is vanity. Profit is sanity. Cash is reality.If you don’t protect your profit, your business will consume it.Your ego will always want to spend more than your business can handle.Who This Episode Is ForBusiness owners who look successful but feel financially stressedLeaders working long hours without the take-home pay to matchOperators ready to think and act like ownersAnyone who wants their business to support their life—not consume itAction StepIf you’re overwhelmed by your finances:Start small — create a separate “profit” account and put 1% of revenue into itGet honest about your numbersBuild systems that create clarity instead of stressResources MentionedProfit First by Mike MichalowiczThe Ultimate Blueprint for an Insanely Successful Business by Keith CunninghamTaming Your Money Monster (Enneagram + Money)Connect With ChrisIf this episode resonated and you want help applying these principles to your business, Chris offers coaching and conversations focused on clarity, leadership, and financial health.🌐 Website: thechrisandco.com

What happens when you travel halfway across the world expecting to give… and instead you’re the one who gets transformed?In this episode, Steve returns from Kathmandu, Nepal, where he spent time serving at a mountain orphanage — and the leadership lessons he brought home are raw, surprising, and deeply human. These children, living with almost nothing, modeled presence, generosity, connection, and joy in ways that challenge everything we think leadership is supposed to look like.Chris and Steve unpack:🔥 The moment in Nepal that broke Steve open emotionally 👁️ The “soul goggles” experience and what it taught him about presence ❤️ Why these children gave more than they received — and what that reveals about true generosity 🌱 How play, curiosity, and childlikeness shape effective leadership 🤝 Why giving attention is one of the most powerful gifts a leader can offer 🌏 The difference between leading from scarcity vs. leading from abundance 🧘 Practices you can adopt today to become more grounded, present, and connectedThis is not a typical business episode. It’s an invitation — to slow down, to see people more deeply, and to reconnect with the heart of why leadership matters.Whether you lead a team, a business, a family, or a community, these lessons from a small orphanage in the mountains of Kathmandu will stay with you.📩 We’d love to hear from you.What stood out to you? What practice of presence or generosity are you going to try this week? Email us or message us to continue the conversation.

In this powerful panel conversation, Chris sits down with three leaders who have lived success, burnout, achievement, and identity pressure firsthand. Together they explore “the problem” that’s quietly breaking today’s leaders — the cultural push for more, the relentless pace, the pressure to perform, and the internal battles leaders carry in silence.Haro, Tiffany, and Marlo open up about anxiety, sleeplessness, inherited expectations, and the belief that being capable means you should be able to handle everything. Their honesty creates a mirror for leaders who feel stretched thin, overwhelmed, or disconnected from themselves.This episode dives into what happens when ambition becomes identity, when the hustle stops being healthy, and when the pace of success starts costing more than it gives. It speaks directly to leaders who feel the weight of responsibility, the fear of not enough, and the exhaustion of always having to show up strong.Whether you’re running a small business or leading inside a larger organization, this conversation offers language, clarity, and comfort for the struggles you may not say out loud.🔥 What We ExploreWhy modern leadership feels heavier than everHow culture shapes our drive to achieveThe hidden toll of striving, success, and comparisonHow identity becomes wrapped around performanceEarly warning signs of leadership burnoutWhy high-capacity leaders hit the wall fasterThe internal “hamster wheel” leaders struggle to get offThe difference between healthy hard work and self-destructive hustle✨ Standout Insights“We’ve built ourselves a prison for the soul.” — TiffanyHaro shares how anxiety and panic attacks exposed his internal limits.Tiffany reveals why waking up at 2 a.m. became her emotional dashboard light.Marlo explains how being talented became both a gift and a burden.Chris highlights why naming “the problem” is the first step to freedom.👤 About the GuestsHaro Setian — A high-performing entrepreneur preparing for a nine-month sabbatical, reflecting on the toll of achievement culture. Tiffany Fykes — Entrepreneur and coach unpacking the pressure of high capability and the journey back to alignment. Marlo Derksen — Business leader exploring inherited expectations, identity, and the cost of constant striving.🧭 Why This Episode MattersLeaders today are carrying more than they ever have — emotionally, mentally, spiritually, and relationally. This conversation puts words to the pressure, reveals the hidden costs, and offers hope for leaders longing for a healthier, more grounded way to live and lead.

Most leaders know they need systems… but keep putting them off. And that avoidance comes with a cost: overwhelm, burnout, confused teams, and constant decision fatigue.In this episode, Chris and Steve sit down with two true masters of operational clarity:⭐ Linzee Ciprani — Founder & CEO of Ciprani Consulting ⭐ Jerrica Kontos — Director of Consulting at Ciprani ConsultingThese two bring years of operational expertise across real estate, small business, consulting, and organizational leadership — and they do not hold back. This conversation is practical, honest, and packed with insights that will challenge any leader who’s been running their business without a clear operational backbone.Together, we break down:💡 What You’ll LearnWhy leaders live in reactive mode — and how to escape itHow systems eliminate decision fatigue and create freedomWhat happens when leaders don’t know what their people did today (and why that’s a system problem, not a people problem)Why “I don’t have time to build systems” is a trap that keeps you overwhelmedHow to turn simple recordings into fully documented processesWhy documenting your job is the #1 key to scale — and even promotabilityHow to find the right integrator or operational partnerWhat great system adoption looks like across a team🔥 Standout Moments“If it’s not documented, you’re unpromotable.”“Leaders massively overcomplicate systems — you just need to hit record.”“Your system is your insurance policy for resting at night.”“If you don’t have a way to see what your team did today, that’s your system failure.”🎧 Who This Episode Is ForVisionaries who struggle with structureLeaders drowning in decisions and constant firefightingBusiness owners who can’t scale because everything lives in their headAnyone who keeps saying, “I know I need systems… I just haven’t gotten to it yet.”📌 Why This MattersSystems are not about rigidity — they’re about freedom. They give leaders clarity. They give teams confidence. They give businesses the ability to grow without chaos.If you’ve felt stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure how to take the next step in your leadership… this episode will feel like a breath of fresh air (and maybe a loving punch to the gut).

If you want to understand leadership, step into a classroom. In this episode, we sit down with Wiaan and Sarah—two veteran educators who’ve spent decades shaping young minds and developing the very skills that leaders often struggle to teach in the workplace: communication, courage, self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and collaboration.This conversation bridges two worlds—schools and businesses—to show how the principles that grow healthy students are the same principles that grow healthy teams.In This Episode, We Explore:Why the classroom is one of the best leadership training groundsHow communication starts long before conflict—and why most adults still struggle with itThe role trust and empowerment play in student growth (and team performance)Why delegating leadership to students prepares them for real-world responsibilityHow technology, social media, and sleep deprivation are reshaping the developmental landscapeWhat business leaders can learn from teachers who lead without titles, authority, or leverageWhy “seeing every student” is a leadership discipline leaders must adoptThe link between personal connection, positive reinforcement, and performanceKey Quotes:“One of the first leadership skills is communication. And communication has to be practiced.” – Sarah“When I wasn’t in the classroom, my students ran the day beautifully. That’s what leadership looks like—trusting people to rise.” – Wiaan“Every student deserves to be seen. If I didn’t get to every kid today, I didn’t lead well.” – Wiaan“So many adults can’t take feedback without making it personal. Our students need practice long before that.” – SarahWho This Episode Is For:Leaders who want to strengthen communication and emotional intelligenceSmall business owners trying to build more trust and initiative on their teamsCoaches, principals, and educatorsParents raising the next generation of leadersAnyone who believes leadership is more about influence than authorityIf You Enjoyed This Episode:Share it with a leader or educator who needs encouragementLeave a review—it helps more leaders find the showEmail us your thoughts or questions at ______Follow the show for weekly conversations on leadership, growth, and human flourishing

Most leaders think they know themselves. But research says otherwise.In this episode, Chris and Steve unpack a Cornell and Green Peak Partners study that reveals the single strongest predictor of leadership success — and it’s not strategy, charisma, or intelligence. It’s self-awareness.Together, they explore why this trait matters more than ever, how blind spots quietly destroy culture and performance, and what it looks like to lead with both strength and softness.You’ll hear:The surprising data on why most businesses don’t survive ten years — and how leadership plays a bigger role than we think.What separates leaders who last from those who burn out.The difference between clarity and compassion — and why you need both.How to balance being liked and being respected.Practical ways to grow your own self-awareness (and why it’s slow but transformational work).Whether you lead a team of five or a company of fifty, this episode will challenge how you see yourself — and remind you that the most powerful leadership tool you have is already within you.

Most leaders spend their days managing stress, juggling priorities, and pushing their limits — but at what cost? In this episode, Chris and Steve take an honest look at the connection between physical health and leadership. They unpack why so many high achievers ignore their bodies, how stress can be used for strength instead of destruction, and why peace might just be the most powerful leadership tool of all.This conversation gets personal — touching on aging, burnout, pain, and the myth that productivity has to come before well-being. It’s a reminder that leadership doesn’t start in the boardroom or your calendar — it starts in your body.In This Episode:Why your physical health is a direct reflection of your leadership capacityThe difference between eustress and distress — and how to use stress to grow strongerHow ignoring your body creates emotional and strategic blind spotsThe “glass ball” analogy: why health isn’t a rubber one you can afford to dropHow movement, rest, and stillness create the clarity leaders cravePractical ways to build peace and power into your daily rhythmOne Line Takeaway:You can’t lead others from an unhealthy place — your body is the first organization you’re responsible for leading.

In this episode of The Leader Formula, Chris and Steve sit down with Mike and Lindsay McCarthy, founders of FAMBundance — a first-of-its-kind family mastermind for entrepreneurial families who want to grow closer, align their values, and carry their legacy forward.Together, they unpack what it means to lead your family with the same clarity and purpose you bring to your business. You’ll hear how the McCarthys help families create vision statements, define shared values, and build rhythms that strengthen connection at home — even in the middle of busy entrepreneurial life.If you’ve ever felt like your leadership at work is thriving but your leadership at home could use more intention, this conversation will show you where to start.In This Episode:Why family leadership mirrors business leadership more than you thinkHow to create a family vision and shared values that actually stickSimple ways to hold weekly family meetings that work (even with kids)The 90/10 rule for connection and correctionWhat it takes to build a legacy that’s more than moneyQuote to Remember:“If you can lead your family, you can lead any business.” — Mike McCarthyListen if you’re:A business owner or leader who wants more intentional connection at homeTired of feeling like your family gets your leftovers after workReady to build rhythms, values, and traditions that last generations

Most leaders think they can’t afford to step away. But what if the space you don’t take is costing your team its clarity, connection, and energy?In this episode, Chris and Steve unpack what makes a great team or leadership retreat actually work—beyond pretty views and personality tests. They dig into how intentional design, honest reflection, and shared experience can realign your team around vision, purpose, and culture.You’ll learn:Why retreats are a strategic move, not a luxuryHow to design a retreat that leads to real change (not just inspiration)The hidden cost of not pausing to realign your teamSimple ways to build rituals and rhythm back into the everyday work cultureWhat leaders discover when they step out of “doing” and into “being”Whether you lead a small team or a growing organization, this episode will help you plan a retreat that brings your people back to center—and reminds them why they chose to follow you in the first place.

As artificial intelligence races ahead, the real question isn’t what it can do—it’s what kind of leaders we’ll become because of it. In this episode, Chris and Steve explore how AI can amplify—not replace—the human side of leadership. They tackle the tension between efficiency and empathy, data and discernment, and share stories of using AI as a mirror, not a master.Whether you’re experimenting with automation or just trying to stay relevant, this conversation reframes AI as a tool that can sharpen wisdom, free up creativity, and help you lead more intentionally in a distracted world.Key Themes:How leaders can use AI to strengthen—not substitute—their decision-making.Why self-awareness and emotional intelligence matter even more in a digital age.The danger of outsourcing empathy and intuition to algorithms.Practical ways to integrate AI into your leadership rhythm with integrity and clarity.What it means to stay human in a machine-driven culture.Why Listen:You’ll walk away with a renewed sense of agency and a deeper understanding of how to lead with both power and presence—using AI as leverage, not a crutch.

Every leader knows the feeling — a small frustration builds, an expectation goes unmet, and before long the tension has spread across the team. In this episode, Chris and Steve unpack the Pinch–Crunch Model — a framework for understanding how those small irritations can quietly erode trust, culture, and performance if left unspoken.They break down how to recognize the signs of an early “pinch,” what emotions are actually signaling underneath the surface, and how to have healthy, direct conversations before things reach a breaking point. You’ll learn how emotionally aware leaders turn tension into growth, not conflict.Key Takeaways:What the Pinch–Crunch Model is — and why every leader experiences it.How unmet expectations quietly sabotage culture and relationships.Why anger, frustration, or fear are useful messengers (if you listen early).Practical language to address pinches before they become crunches.How emotionally intelligent leaders use self-awareness to disarm conflict.Challenge for Leaders:Reflect on the last three “crunch moments” you’ve experienced — at work or at home.What were the pinches that led up to them?Were expectations ever clearly expressed?What conversation could have changed the outcome?Quote to Remember:“Great leaders don’t avoid emotions — they steward them.”Listen if You’re:A leader navigating team conflict or hidden tension.A business owner feeling the weight of unspoken frustration.Someone who wants to build healthier, more honest conversations in their culture.

Technology promises connection, but often it leaves us lonelier, distracted, and less present. In a world where AI is everywhere and our phones rarely leave our hands, leaders face a deeper question: how do we protect what makes us truly human?In this episode, Chris and Steve explore:Why technology often steals our presence instead of strengthening itThe difference between tech as an element (replacement) vs. an alloy (augmentation)What makes real human connection impossible to fakeHow hurry, distraction, and multitasking slowly make us “subhuman”Practical ways leaders can reset and reclaim their humanityThis isn’t about rejecting technology. It’s about putting it in its right place so we can show up fully — with presence, love, and courage — in our leadership, our teams, and our relationships.

In this final episode of first series of The Leader Formula podcast, Chris and Steve walk through the five key stages of an effective hiring process—and why skipping even one can cost you more than just a bad hire. From sourcing and screening to interviews, assessments, and reference checks, they’ll guide you through each step with practical tips, honest stories, and a few insights you may not have considered before. Whether you're hiring your first admin or scaling a leadership team, this framework will help you make smarter, more confident decisions.What You’ll Learn:Why "just posting the job" is the worst way to start sourcingHow to use screening steps to save time and energyThe key interview question that reveals true candidate alignmentWhy assessments should inform—not dictate—your decisionsHow to use references to confirm or challenge your gutThe one mindset shift that turns hiring into a long-term investmentEpisode Breakdown (with loose time codes):[00:00] – The five-stage framework: sourcing, screening, interviewing, assessments, reference checks[05:00] – Why sourcing is more than job boards—and how to use your network[10:00] – What effective screening looks like and why it’s more than just reviewing resumes[14:30] – The role of assessments and how to interpret them wisely[25:00] – Common interview pitfalls and how to avoid being blinded by charm[34:00] – The power (and purpose) of reference checks[40:45] – Why every hire is a million-dollar decision—and how to act like itResources Mentioned:Assessment tools (DISC, Enneagram, etc.)Hiring avatar and role clarity frameworksExample reference check questions (available by request)Let’s Connect:Have questions or want help creating a hiring process tailored to your team? Reach out to us at [insert email or website].And if this episode helped you rethink your hiring strategy, share it with another leader who could use it.

Before you post that job or schedule an interview, there's a critical step that most leaders skip—and it’s costing them time, money, and peace of mind. In this episode, Chris and Steve unpack the concept of the candidate avatar—a clear, written profile of your ideal hire—and explain why defining who you’re looking for is the foundation of every great hire.From missing persons reports to dating analogies, this episode brings humor, wisdom, and practical tools to help you sharpen your hiring clarity and avoid common traps.If you're tired of vague hiring processes and mismatched team members, this conversation will help you lead with purpose and precision.🔑 What You’ll Learn:Why starting “on paper” is the most important step in hiringHow to create a clear, detailed candidate avatarWhat complement really means when building a teamThe difference between what can be taught—and what must already be thereWhy hiring is more like dating than you think🕒 Rough Timecodes:00:00 – Intro and context: what is a candidate avatar?01:20 – The “missing person” analogy: why vague doesn’t work03:00 – Clarity is power: the foggy image vs. a crisp profile05:15 – How to define complementary skills, chemistry, and values08:50 – What you can coach vs. what must be innate11:10 – Growth mindset, red flags, and spotting the real candidate13:15 – Hiring as a relationship: mindset for leaders20:00 – The dating analogy: evaluating fit through the whole process🔗 Resources Mentioned:DISC Personality ProfileMotivational InterviewingChatGPT for hiring prompts📌 Next Episode Teaser:Coming up next—The Hiring Equation continues with a deep dive into crafting an intentional, step-by-step hiring process that actually reveals who someone is… not just what they want you to hear.Let me know if you’d like a shorter version for social sharing, or if you’d like a matching email or blog teaser for your audience!Ask ChatGPT

Whether you’re hiring your first team member or your next key leader, one thing remains true: clarity is kindness—and essential for growth. In this episode, Chris and Steve unpack the mindset and tools every leader needs to hire well and build a team that lasts.They explore the concept of the “Missing Persons Report”—a strategic way to define the gaps in your organization—and how to use org charts and expectations to align roles with your vision. You’ll also learn about the different levels of talent (potential, emerging, proven) and when each one fits your business best.If you've ever had a hire go sideways—or you're feeling unclear about what to hire next—this conversation is a must.In this episode, you'll learn:What a “Missing Persons Report” is—and how to create oneWhy starting with you is still the most important part of hiringThe difference between job descriptions and real KPIsHow to match the right kind of talent to your stage of businessWhy hiring without clear expectations sets both sides up for failureThe two kinds of expectations every leader needs to clarify: role-based and relationalResources Mentioned:The E-Myth by Michael Gerber (implied reference to working on vs. in your business)DISC Personality Assessment“Why Emotions Matter” by Tristan and Jonathan CollinsDaniel Goleman’s Emotional Intelligence frameworkJoin the Conversation: What’s the biggest mistake you’ve made—or avoided—when hiring? We’d love to hear your insights and experiences. Email us at [your email] or connect on [Instagram/Facebook/LinkedIn].

In this kickoff episode of a mini-series we are calling The Hiring Equation, Chris and Steve dive into one of the most painful—and costly—leadership challenges: hiring the wrong people. Why does it keep happening? And what if the problem isn’t your candidates... it’s you?They explore the three most common ways hiring breaks down and how to fix it—starting with self-awareness, understanding the hiring market, and getting radically clear on who you’re actually looking for. Whether you're scaling a team or recovering from your last bad hire, this episode is packed with honest insights and practical wisdom to help you hire better and lead stronger.🔑 In This Episode, You’ll Learn:Why hiring often goes wrong before the interview even startsHow ignoring the hiring market puts your business at riskWhy self-awareness is the foundation of every great hireThe cost of chasing “good enough” instead of defining your “who”What Mr. Market can teach us about long-term ROI in hiringThe difference between hiring for skills vs. values and cultureWhy treating hiring like dating (with a process!) matters💡 Key Quote:“You want to trust your gut—but not your gut alone.” – Steve Ciprani📣 Call to Action:Think about your last hire—did you have a process? Or did you just go with your gut? If you don’t have a clear, repeatable hiring system, now’s the time to build one. Start by identifying your own values and what kind of teammate actually fits them.

In Part 2 of our conversation with Haro and Mariam Setian, we pick up at a dramatic turning point—just after Haro is told he’s had a stroke. What unfolds next is an honest and moving exploration of what happens when leaders are forced to let go.This episode dives into the unraveling of their businesses, the unexpected role Mariam steps into, and the sacred shift that happens when rest becomes non-negotiable.Whether you’ve taken a sabbatical, are longing for one, or just feel the weight of “holding it all together”—this episode is for you.🕒 Topics & Time Stamps (approximate):[01:00] Picking up after the stroke diagnosis — chaos meets clarity[04:00] Mariam steps into unexpected leadership and crisis control[10:00] Why everything fell apart before sabbatical even began[15:30] How peace and trust emerged in the midst of collapse[20:00] Leaving for sabbatical—flights booked, business unresolved[26:00] Practical rhythms and mindset shifts during sabbatical[35:00] What changed in Mariam: from regret to redemption[43:00] Haro’s shift: letting go of control, status, and significance[50:00] Redefining leadership post-sabbatical: slowing down on purpose[58:00] The hard return—why reentry might be harder than leaving[1:05:00] What it really means to live from rest—and lead from rest💡 In This Episode, You'll Learn:What it looks like to lead through health scares, team breakdowns, and transitionHow to surrender outcomes without sacrificing purposeThe internal and external shifts that sabbatical creates in both leadership and familyWhy saying "yes" to rest often requires a series of "no’s"—and how to discern the differenceHow rest, healing, and leadership are deeply intertwined👉 New here? Be sure to check out Part 1 of this conversation to hear the full journey from burnout to breakthrough.

In this powerful first installment, Chris and Steve sit down with friends Haro and Mariam Setian to explore the hidden cost of high performance. Haro, a successful entrepreneur and founder of a thriving real estate businesses, shares how his relentless drive led to burnout, identity confusion, and ultimately—a stroke. Mariam offers a vulnerable and critical perspective as a spouse and leader who watched the pressure mount and felt the toll in their home and marriage.Together, they unpack the warning signs, the spiritual convictions, and the emotional unraveling that led to the decision to step away from it all. Part 1 sets the stage for the radical leap they took into a 9-month sabbatical—with zero business interaction.🕑 Episode Highlights0:00 – 4:45 – Introductions: Who are Haro and Mariam?4:45 – 11:20 – Haro’s early signs of overwork and ignoring the rumble strips11:20 – 17:40 – Identity and performance: the internal drive Haro couldn’t shut off17:40 – 25:05 – Mariam’s plea for connection and the cracks in their marriage25:05 – 33:30 – Confirmation after confirmation: the call to surrender and stop33:30 – 42:20 – Haro’s stroke and the wake-up moment he couldn’t ignore42:20 – End – Preparing for the move to Tennessee and the leap into sabbatical🔁 Don’t Miss Part 2:Next week, we’ll pick up with Haro and Mariam’s sabbatical story—what stepping away really looked like, what happened to the business, and how the experience reshaped their faith, family, and future.

Too often, high-achieving leaders over-index competence and under-index connection. In this deeply insightful episode, Chris and Steve unpack why emotional intelligence is essential—not optional—for building trust, retaining talent, and sustaining leadership over the long haul.You’ll hear vulnerable reflections, practical frameworks, and real-world stories that challenge the production-at-all-costs mindset. If you’ve ever wondered why good people leave, this conversation may hold your answer.🎧 In this episode, we cover:[03:30] Red vs. Blue Culture: Why positivity without production (or vice versa) won’t build a lasting team.[06:45] What is emotional intelligence? Exploring definitions from Goleman and Bradberry.[13:45] Cadence in leadership: The oxen/yoke analogy and the cost of moving too fast.[17:00] Empathy in leadership: Why it’s hard, why it matters, and how to build it.[24:00] Fear disguised as anger, anxiety, or control—and how leaders can check themselves before damaging relationships.[34:00] Outlets, rest, and the myth of “always being useful”—what leaders must let go of to grow.[45:00] Practical tips to start building emotional intelligence today.🔥 Quote of the Episode:“People leave leaders, not jobs. Emotional intelligence may be the single most important skill a leader can cultivate.”

In this powerful follow-up conversation, Chris and Steve sit down with Jamie Winship to explore how identity—not performance—should guide the way we hire, develop, and even part ways with people on our teams. Jamie shares his unique and transformational perspective on leadership that shifts the focus from fear-based control to identity-based freedom. If you're a leader who wants to build a thriving culture and lead with clarity, this episode will challenge and equip you in profound ways.🧭 What We Cover (with rough Timestamps):Hiring based on identity vs. resume — [00:03:00] Why role fit should come after identity fit, and how traditional interviews often miss the mark.Jamie’s personal story of identity discovery — [00:10:00] A pivotal moment that revealed how disconnected performance can be from true identity.Interviewing through the lens of truth-telling — [00:22:00] How to transform the hiring process into a blessing by asking questions that access the real person.Helping team members discover identity at work — [00:33:00] Why leadership means helping others become whole—and how work can actually be a place of healing.Letting people go in a way that blesses them — [00:46:00] Jamie shares a redemptive approach to releasing someone that leaves them empowered, not bitter.

Originally recorded in January 2024 for The Overflowing Life, this conversation with Jamie Winship dives deep into the power of living from your true identity. Jamie shares how understanding who you truly are can transform your leadership, relationships, and response to conflict. His journey—from law enforcement to global peacebuilding—is filled with compelling stories and practical wisdom. This re-release sets the stage for a brand-new follow-up conversation with Jamie in our next episode.What We Talk About:From Police Work to Peace-building Jamie shares how his law enforcement background led to work in conflict zones, and how curiosity around human behavior shaped his path.15 min: Understanding Fear-Based Decision Making The roots of fear in leadership and decision-making—and how identity-based leadership offers a better way.28 Min: Identity vs. Roles: The Core of Who You Are Jamie explains the difference between what you do and who you are, with real-life examples of transformation in high-pressure environments.40 Min: Hearing the Voice of God and Leading from Truth Jamie walks through what it means to listen for truth in identity and leadership—and how that plays out in business and everyday life.50 Min The Impact of Identity Work on Team Culture How uncovering identity leads to healthier teams, clarity in hiring, and greater alignment in organizations.

We all want success—but what happens when you hit your goals and still feel unfulfilled? In this episode, Chris and Steve explore the hidden cost of chasing the wrong definition of success. From personal stories of burnout and identity crisis to hard-won lessons about core values and fulfillment, this is a conversation every leader needs to hear.Together, we unpack:Why achievement alone doesn’t lead to fulfillmentThe emotional toll of misaligned goalsHow to redefine success through the lens of identity and valuesThe role of surrender and presence in a leader’s journeyIf you've ever felt like you're doing everything right—but still feel empty—this one's for you.📲 Join the conversation: Follow us on social media and share your definition of success and fulfillment. We’d love to hear what’s resonating with you.

What does it take to be the kind of leader people want to follow—not just today, but over the long haul?In this episode of The Leader Formula, we sit down with Ken Eslick—Tony Robbins trainer, executive recruiter, and host of The Leaders Lab Podcast. With decades of experience building and leading teams, Ken shares powerful, hard-won insights on identity, emotional intelligence, and the deeper work of leadership.Whether you're running a business, leading a team, or just trying to lead yourself more effectively, this episode is packed with truth, challenge, and encouragement.🎙️ About Ken Eslick: Ken is the Founder of The Leaders Lab, a C-Suite recruiting firm and podcast. He’s placed over 500 executives, led teams of 1000+, and helps leaders build organizations that last. He’s also a Tony Robbins trainer and a passionate advocate for values-driven leadership.🧭 In This Episode, We Cover:Why your identity determines your leadership impactThe mindset shift that changed everything for KenHow to know when to let go of a team member—and how ego gets in the wayThe cost of mediocre employees and the danger of hovering in the middleWhy ownership can’t be demanded—it must be earnedUsing values as a leadership filter and decision-making compassHow to turn your team’s personal goals into leadership leverageWhat it means to lead with humility without losing confidenceHow leaders go first—especially in hard conversations and crisesIf this episode speaks to you, please leave a rating or review—and share it with a leader who needs to hear it.

Your business may reflect who you are—but it should never define your worth.In this episode, Chris and Steve explore the connection between identity and leadership, and how doing the deep work of knowing yourself leads to healthier business decisions, stronger team culture, and a more sustainable approach to growth. From personality assessments and time audits to core values and the infamous “bag of mail,” this episode is full of stories, laughs, and practical tools to help you build a business that flows from your strengths—not your stress.What You’ll Hear in This Episode:Why your identity should inform your business, not be entangled with itHow to clarify your strengths and build around themWhat to do with the parts of your business that drain youThe value of time audits, personality frameworks, and value pyramidsReal-life examples of how identity drives culture, hiring, and boundariesTakeaways:Self-awareness isn’t optional for leaders—it’s foundationalYou can’t delegate identity, but you can design around your strengthsClarity on values and energy helps prevent burnout and poor hires

Summary: In this powerful opening episode, Chris and Steve tackle a question every leader eventually faces: Who am I—apart from what I do? Drawing from personal stories, spiritual insights, and practical tools like the Enneagram, they explore how identity—not title or performance—shapes your leadership, your relationships, and your business outcomes. You’ll hear about the dangers of leading from ego, the healing that comes with authenticity, and how to begin discovering your core identity as a leader.If you’ve ever felt like your business is running you—or you’re stuck performing a version of yourself just to survive—this conversation is for you.⏱️ Time-Stamped Highlights (Top 7)[01:20] – Chris shares his identity journey and how authenticity as an Enneagram 4 has shaped his leadership[04:55] – Why identity matters more than performance—and how ego distorts leadership[06:30] – The “hands behind your back” visual: What unconscious leadership looks like and why it’s dangerous[08:00] – Where to start: Discovering your core values and differentiating between ego and essence[12:00] – How your values evolve over time—and why self-awareness must go deeper than surface-level insight[18:40] – Reacting vs. responding: How unprocessed identity shows up in your leadership during conflict and disappointment[32:45] – Define your leadership identity in one sentence—and how to use it to align your decisions and direction🙌 Call to ActionIf this conversation stirred something in you, don’t just listen—act.Take 10 minutes to write out your top 5–10 core values.Ask a trusted friend or colleague, “What’s one thing you think is core to who I am?”And if you’d like our free Leadership Identity Audit Tool, message us—we’ll send it over.

Podcast Release Notes: Leader Formula – Episode 1Episode Title: Defining Leadership: Starting from Within Hosts: Chris LaGarde & Steve CipraniEpisode SummaryIn this very first episode of The Leader Formula, Chris and Steve dive into one of leadership’s most foundational questions: What is leadership really? They explore personal definitions, where leadership begins (hint: it’s within you), and how your own self-awareness, purpose, and emotional intelligence shape the way you lead others. Expect honest conversation around the old debate of "are leaders born or made?", the importance of clarity and vision, and why leading yourself well is the first step to leading others effectively.If you're a business owner, team leader, entrepreneur—or just someone passionate about leading with authenticity—you’ll find plenty to reflect on and apply.Key Conversation Shifts & Timecodes[00:00] – Are Leaders Born or Made? Chris and Steve open with the classic leadership debate, exploring the nature vs. nurture question around leadership traits.[03:09] – How We Define Leadership Chris and Steve share and compare their personal definitions of leadership, referencing John Maxwell, Gary Keller, and Stephen Covey.[06:00] – Becoming a Better Leader: Where to Start They discuss how true leadership development begins internally, starting with reflection, clarity of purpose, and leading yourself first.[09:00] – The Emotional Reality of Leadership Chris and Steve talk about the humility, challenges, and emotional courage leadership demands—and how self-awareness becomes the most powerful leadership tool.[11:47] – Wrap-Up and Listener Reflection Chris and Steve encourage listeners to reflect: How do you define leadership, and how is your current definition shaping how you show up?Call to ActionIf this conversation sparked new insights or challenged the way you think about leadership, we’d love to hear from you! 👉 Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a fellow leader who would benefit. Next episode, Chris and Steve explore the role of identity in leadership—you won’t want to miss it!