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John introduces Will Sampson, Coach and Author. Will discusses challenges of conventional leadership wisdom, revealing why great leaders succeed not through control but by empowering others to shine. Drawing from his experience as a former director of change for a 53,000-person organization leading a $12 billion merger, Sampson shares how his personal journey through addiction recovery transformed his understanding of leadership resilience.

The conversation explores Sampson's groundbreaking "Resilience Stack" methodology—a five-layer approach to building leadership from the inside out. Starting with rewriting internal narratives, he guides leaders through radical self-ownership, interdependence, systems for growth, and finally, leading from an internally transformed state. This approach stands in stark contrast to the "hack culture" promising quick fixes that Sampson's research with 200 C-level executives revealed as deeply unsatisfying.

Particularly compelling is Sampson's perspective on leadership potential across all age groups. Rejecting the narrative that innovation belongs only to the young, he shares how his own professional reinvention in his mid-50s taught him that meaningful contribution can happen at any life stage. "Walk out to your driveway, get in your car, put your hands on the steering wheel—where do you want to go?" This thought experiment helps his clients recognize they still have agency and purpose, regardless of age.

The discussion also tackles AI anxiety, with Sampson offering a calming perspective based on his two decades of experience with neural networks. Rather than seeing technology as threatening, he encourages leaders to view it as simply another tool humans have invented—one that creates extraordinary new possibilities for those willing to embrace it with creativity rather than fear.

Whether you're leading a team through technological transformation, seeking greater resilience in your leadership approach, or contemplating your next professional chapter, Sampson's insights offer a refreshing alternative to conventional leadership development. Follow his work at willsampson.co to learn more about his upcoming book, "The Resilience Stack," and leadership programs.

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Ever been blindsided during a performance review when your boss asks about KPIs you didn't even know existed? You're not alone. The world of Key Performance Indicators can seem mysterious and intimidating, but mastering these metrics is essential for leadership success.

In this revealing discussion, hosts John Wandolowski and Greg Powell demystify the often misunderstood concept of KPIs. They break down exactly what these quantifiable measurements are and why they matter: driving performance improvements, enabling data-driven decisions, and ensuring your daily work aligns with broader organizational goals. Far from being abstract corporate jargon, KPIs directly impact your compensation, career trajectory, and effectiveness as a leader.

The hosts share candid stories about their own experiences, including John's eye-opening moment when he was asked about KPIs after a year on the job—without ever having discussed them previously. They explore how these metrics are used in various industries, from electrical management to healthcare, and provide practical examples that bring these concepts to life.

Perhaps most importantly, they offer actionable strategies for taking ownership of your KPIs rather than playing victim to them. You'll learn the five key steps of an effective KPI process, how to approach management about metrics that don't make sense, and why creating artificially easy KPIs to "game the system" is a strategy that will ultimately backfire. The conversation emphasizes that regular monitoring—not just annual reviews—is crucial for meaningful performance management.

Whether you're new to leadership or looking to enhance your strategic approach to performance metrics, this episode provides the knowledge and tools you need to confidently navigate the world of KPIs. Remember: these numbers shouldn't be a surprise, but rather a compass that guides your leadership journey.

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Accountability transforms organizations, but creating a culture where everyone takes genuine ownership is challenging. In this thought-provoking discussion, John and Greg break down Management by Responsibility (MBR) - the leadership philosophy that revolutionizes how teams approach challenges and results.

At its core, MBR hinges on a powerful premise: individuals are 100% responsible for their experiences and reactions to life events. This isn't about blame, but about embracing the freedom that comes with taking full ownership. We explore the three foundational pillars that make MBR work: internalizing personal responsibility, empowering others to own their roles, and shifting to a solution-focused approach that addresses non-productive behaviors.

What makes this episode particularly valuable are the practical techniques we share for implementation. From fostering self-awareness to establishing clear performance standards, providing constructive feedback, and removing obstacles to success - we offer a comprehensive roadmap. We don't shy away from addressing resistance either, tackling common challenges like fear of consequences and the comfort of the blame game. The wisdom of Admiral Rickover resonates throughout: "Responsibility is a unique concept. It can only reside within a single individual. You may share it with others, but your portion is not diminished."

Whether you're leading a small team or an entire organization, these insights will help you create an environment where accountability thrives and excuses disappear. Ready to transform your workplace culture? This episode is your starting point. Share your experiences with accountability in leadership, and don't forget to check out successgrowthacademy.com for more resources on the MBR approach.

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Finding and developing the right talent is perhaps the most consequential responsibility any leader faces. Yet many managers approach hiring with minimal preparation, relying on gut instinct rather than proven methodology. This episode John and Greg dive deep into the structured approach that separates successful hiring managers from the rest.

We begin by examining the critical foundation of any successful hire: properly defining the role. This means going beyond dusty job descriptions to analyze current needs, determine specific goals, and identify essential competencies. As we discuss, alignment with stakeholders across your organization ensures the position is properly situated for success before you ever post a job listing.

The conversation then shifts to sourcing strategies, with practical insights on where to find qualified candidates and how to leverage your existing team for high-quality referrals. We explore the advantages of panel interviews over one-on-one conversations, not just for better candidate assessment but for creating built-in support systems once someone is hired. Our detailed breakdown of interview preparation covers everything from creating consistent question sets to setting up appropriate meeting spaces and taking comprehensive notes that protect both you and your organization.

Perhaps most valuable is our extensive discussion of onboarding—the often-neglected final phase of hiring that dramatically impacts retention and productivity. Research shows that employees who experience structured onboarding are significantly more likely to stay with a company for at least three years. We outline a comprehensive 90-day plan that includes pre-boarding activities, first-day orientation, training schedules, regular check-ins, and formal performance reviews.

Whether you're hiring for the first time or looking to improve your existing process, this episode provides the framework and specific tools to find, onboard, and develop the talent your organization needs to thrive. Remember that as a manager, the entire hiring process falls under your responsibility—and getting it right pays dividends for years to come.

Ready to transform your approach to hiring? Reach out to us at wando75.jw@gmail.com with your experiences or questions about implementing these strategies in your organization.

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The secret to exceptional team performance isn't found in buzzwords or corporate jargon—it's built through intentional leadership strategies that foster genuine connection. John and Greg dive deep into what truly makes teams work, beyond the superficial activities that many organizations mistake for real team building.

Henry Ford's wisdom frames our discussion: "Coming together is a beginning, keeping together is progress, working together is success." This progression represents the journey every leader must navigate, transforming groups of individuals into cohesive units that achieve remarkable results. We explore practical approaches that work across sports, entertainment, and business contexts, highlighting the common elements that create lasting team cohesion.

Drawing from personal experiences, we share stories about breaking bread together and engaging in competitive cooking challenges—activities that revealed authentic personalities and fostered genuine connections. These examples demonstrate how the most effective team building often comes from creating environments where barriers naturally fall away. We also tackle the reality of remote work, offering creative virtual team building strategies that maintain connection across distances. From online escape rooms to digital art projects, these approaches keep distributed teams engaged and aligned.

Whether you're a new supervisor wondering how to start building your team or an experienced manager looking to strengthen existing relationships, this episode provides actionable insights you can implement immediately. The leadership toolbox we share will help you create an environment where collaboration flourishes, communication flows freely, and your team achieves its highest potential. Ready to transform your approach to team building? Listen now, and don't forget to share your own team building experiences with us at wando75.jw@gmail.com.

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Struggling to make your resume stand out? The secret might be hiding in your problem-solving skills.

In this revealing episode, John and Greg dive deep into how effectively showcasing your problem-solving abilities can transform your job search prospects. Drawing from an insightful article on Indeed.com, we break down exactly what employers are looking for when they scan resumes for solution-oriented candidates.

Problem-solving isn't just one skill—it's a constellation of abilities including critical thinking, communication, adaptability, and technical expertise. We explore how to demonstrate these qualities throughout your resume and cover letter, moving beyond generic statements to provide compelling evidence of your capabilities through specific examples and measurable outcomes.

From research and active listening to adaptability and creative thinking, we examine the full spectrum of problem-solving components employers value across all industries. You'll learn practical strategies for highlighting these skills in your application materials, including how to craft an impactful "elevator speech" that concisely communicates your problem-solving prowess in less than two minutes.

The most successful job candidates don't just claim they can solve problems—they prove it with examples that showcase their process: identifying issues, gathering information, generating solutions, implementing changes, and measuring results. By the end of this episode, you'll have actionable insights to transform your resume from a simple list of past experiences into a powerful demonstration of your value as a solution-driven professional.

Ready to revolutionize your job search approach? Listen now, then put these strategies into action. Have a success story about how highlighting your problem-solving skills helped land you an interview or job? Share it with us at wando75.jw@gmail.com or gpowell374@gmail.com—we'd love to hear from you!

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What does it truly mean to find your calling in life? In this thought-provoking conversation, hosts John Wandolowski and Greg Powell delve into Jeff Goins' bestselling book "The Art of Work: A Proven Path to Discovering What You Were Meant to Do" to uncover the seven-stage journey toward meaningful work.

Forget the misconception that finding your purpose requires a perfectly mapped five-year plan. Jeff Goins reveals that discovering your calling is more about embarking on a winding path with unexpected turns and revelations. The hosts break down the essential stages: awareness (recognizing what your life is telling you), apprenticeship (learning from mentors already in your orbit), and practice (embracing the painful aspects of growth that separate a calling from a mere hobby).

Both John and Greg share personal stories that bring these concepts to life. From John's evolution from mechanic to maintenance supervisor to construction leader, to Greg's journey through operations and sales before finding his true calling in human resources, their experiences validate Goins' assertion that our careers rarely follow a linear trajectory. Particularly insightful is their discussion of "the portfolio life" – embracing multiple roles and interests rather than limiting yourself to a single career identity.

Perhaps most compelling is their reflection on legacy. As Pericles wisely noted, "What you leave behind is not what is engraved in stone monuments, but what is woven into the lives of others." The hosts reveal how their greatest professional satisfaction came not from tangible achievements but from developing teams and helping others advance in their careers.

Whether you're starting your career journey, feeling stuck in a professional rut, or contemplating your next move, this episode offers valuable wisdom about aligning your work with your deepest values and purpose. As UCLA coach John Wooden advised, "Just do the best you can. No one can do more than that."

Connect with us at wando75.jw@gmail.com or gpowell374@gmail.com to share your thoughts or suggest future topics. And check out John's book "Building Your Leadership Toolbox" on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

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Feeling overwhelmed? You're not alone. Stress has become our constant companion, but it doesn't have to control your life. Drawing from the respected research of the Mayo Clinic, John and Greg dive into evidence-based approaches to stress management that actually work.

The body-mind connection is powerful, and physical activity stands as perhaps the most effective stress reliever available to us. Even simple movements—walking, biking, or housework—trigger endorphin release that can transform your mental state. What you eat matters too. We break down the Mayo Clinic's nutritional guidance for stress management, emphasizing whole foods that nourish both body and mind while identifying which substances to avoid that secretly amplify your stress levels.

Sleep quality directly impacts your ability to handle stress, yet it's often the first thing sacrificed during busy periods. We explore practical techniques for creating the optimal sleep environment and share the notepad trick used by Paul McCartney that could revolutionize your bedtime routine. Beyond physical approaches, mindfulness practices offer powerful tools for mental clarity. From meditation to yoga to journaling, these accessible techniques require minimal time investment for maximum stress-reduction benefits.

Perhaps most importantly, we discuss when self-help isn't enough. The Mayo Clinic emphasizes that seeking professional support signals strength, not weakness. The benefits of stress management extend far beyond momentary relief—enhanced productivity, improved mental health, and increased resilience create a foundation for navigating life's inevitable challenges. Whether you're facing temporary pressure or chronic stress, these science-backed techniques provide a pathway to greater calm and balance in your life. Try one today and feel the difference for yourself.

What stress management technique will you implement first? Connect with us at wando75.jw@gmail.com or gpowell374@gmail.com to share your experience or suggest future topics. Your journey toward stress resilience starts now.

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