Maxwell Leadership Podcast

John Maxwell often gets asked, "Which of your books is your favorite?" His answer is always whichever book he is currently writing. In this installment of Candid Conversations, John C. Maxwell and Mark Cole talk about the book John is currently working on and the ideas he's most excited about sharing. He just released his newest book, The Leader's Greatest Return, in January, but he's already at work on his next book, which will come out in 2021. John and Mark give you an exclusive early look at what this book is all about and what inspired John to write it. For more episodes of The John Maxwell Leadership Podcast, visit MaxwellPodcast.com/episodes. Don't forget to subscribe so you can receive updates on new episodes and direct links to the free bonus resources we offer for every regularly scheduled episode. References: The Leader's Greatest Return by John C. Maxwell Leadershift by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

We're starting a new series this week on Leading Through Change! It's easy to lead when everything is consistent and your job is to simply maintain. But John Maxwell says maintaining is not leading; it's managing. Great leaders are faced with change every day, and they lead through it with clarity and confidence. In part one of Leading Through Change, John talks about the first three of five points that we'll cover throughout the series. He reminds us that different people respond to change differently, and he lays out the killers of change so we can identify and avoid them. Mark Cole and Jason Brooks follow up this lesson with a discussion on how the differences in peoples' responses to change can help you lead better, while emphasizing the importance of listening to your people to know how to lead them individually. Our BONUS resource for this series is the Leading Through Change Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John's teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/Change and clicking "Download the Bonus Resource." References: The Leader's Greatest Return by John C. Maxwell Developing the Leader Within You 2.0 by John C. Maxwell The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

Owning your dream means betting on yourself and not solely relying on others to make it happen. In this episode John Maxwell covers what it truly means to own your dream. He shares that one sign you own your dream and are betting on yourself is that you invest in it. Mark Cole and Jason Brooks continue their discussion by sharing the ways they've bet on themselves and invested in their own dreams. They encourage you to start owning your dream and to evaluate what might be keeping you from investing in it. Our BONUS resource for this episode is the Put Your Dream to the Test Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John's teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/Dream and clicking "Download the Bonus Resource." References: Put Your Dream to the Test by John C. Maxwell Put Your Dream to the Test Online Course No Limits: Blow the Cap Off Your Capacity by John C. Maxwell The John C. Maxwell Online Store

Every year, after John Maxwell's year in review process of reflecting on the past year, John chooses a word that encompasses the main area of focus that he wants to the accomplish in the coming year. In this Candid Conversation, John Maxwell and Mark Cole talk about their words for the year and why they chose them. Based on their words for the year, John and Mark discuss what it means to put something behind you in order to move forward. This means resolving issues and facing them head on instead of suppressing or neglecting them. For more episodes of The John Maxwell Leadership Podcast, visit MaxwellPodcast.com/episodes. Don't forget to subscribe so that you can receive updates on new episodes and direct links to the free bonus resources we offer for every regularly scheduled episode. References: Your Year End Review Episode The Leader's Greatest Return by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

Do you own your dream for your life? Do you even have a dream for your life? Those are a couple of the questions John C. Maxwell asks in this new series, Put Your Dream to the Test, based on his book of the same title. Many people don't have a dream for their life or they give up too quickly on the one they do have. Sometimes their dream isn't actually their dream––it's someone else's dream for them. In John's book and online course, he asks 10 questions that will help you make your dream a reality. This series covers the first of those 10 questions––the ownership question––which asks, "Is your dream really your dream?" This episode will help you identify if you truly own your dream and how you can make it a reality. During the discussion, Mark Cole and Jason Brooks point out that having a dream takes courage and hard work. They challenge you to start betting on yourself, take an inventory of your dream(s), and ask, "Do I own my dream?" Our BONUS resource for this series is the Put Your Dream to the Test Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John's teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/Dream and clicking "Download the Bonus Resource." References: Put Your Dream to the Test by John C. Maxwell Put Your Dream to the Test Online Course No Limits: Blow the Cap Off Your Capacity by John C. Maxwell The John C. Maxwell Online Store

In this episode, John Maxwell shares seven thoughts on the impact courage has on leadership. John cites that courage is the most important of all virtues, according to Maya Angelou, because it's required in order to exercise all other virtues consistently. During the discussion portion, Mark Cole and Jason Brooks examine instances from their own experiences when they needed to practice courage and how it has shaped their leadership today. Our BONUS resource for this episode is the Courage Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John's teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/Courage and clicking "Download the Bonus Resource." References: The Leader's Greatest Return by John C. Maxwell Developing the Leader Within You 2.0 by John C. Maxwell Today Matters by John C. Maxwell The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

In this installment of Candid Conversations, John Maxwell and Mark Cole chat with author and speaker Simon Sinek about his new book, The Infinite Game. Simon shares what inspired him to write the book, as well as five practices that you need to continually embrace in order to play the "infinite game." John and Simon discuss the implications of capitalism's priority shift to putting profits before people and, alternately, the impact on business culture when capitalism is used to serve the people. For more episodes of The John Maxwell Leadership Podcast, visit MaxwellPodcast.com/episodes. Don't forget to subscribe so that you can receive updates on new episodes and direct links to the free bonus resources we offer for every regularly scheduled episode. References: The Infinite Game by Simon Sinek SimonSinek.com The Leader's Greatest Return by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

In this episode, John Maxwell concludes his lesson on earning trust––the number one responsibility of a leader. John discusses the important roles that competent leadership, empowerment of others, courage to risk in relationships, and integrity all play in gaining the trust of your team. John also digs into a common misconception that many leaders have about empowering others: Empowering others does not mean giving up control. It means giving others the ability to do more so that you can accomplish what you alone can achieve. Our BONUS resource for this series is The Earning Trust Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John's teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/Trust and clicking "Download the Bonus Resource." References: The Leader's Greatest Return by John C. Maxwell (Pre-order) The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership by John C. Maxwell The 21 Indispensable Qualities of a Leader by John C. Maxwell Everyone Communicates, Few Connect by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

John Maxwell says that the number one responsibility of a leader is to earn trust with his or her people. Trust is an attitude that allows people to rely on, have confidence in, and feel sure about people and things. This week on The John Maxwell Leadership Podcast, we're starting a new series called "Earning Trust," in which you'll learn seven keys to gaining the confidence of your team. Part one covers the first two keys. John shares the importance of consistency and accurate, open communication. He begins with these two points because they establish a foundation of confidence and security. Our BONUS resource for this series is the Earning Trust Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John's teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/Trust and clicking "Download the Bonus Resource." References: The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership by John C. Maxwell The 21 Indispensable Qualities of a Leader by John C. Maxwell Everyone Communicates, Few Connect by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

John Maxwell and Mark Cole sit down in this installment of Candid Conversations to reflect on the recent Exchange event in London. Hosted by John, Exchange is an annual, three-day, immersive event that puts attendees face-to-face with leadership experts in top industries and side-by-side with world-class thinkers. This year, Exchange took place in London. John talks about how, this year, he wanted to take the attendees to the historic home of John Wesley, a place John himself visits every time he's in London. However, after not being granted permission to visit Wesley's home on this trip, John used the opportunity to talk with the Exchange attendees about what leaders must do when they're unable to provide what they know is best for their people. John retells that lesson in this episode and shares why, as leaders, it's important to make the most of "the middle"––that place of tension between the ideal and reality. For more episodes of The John Maxwell Leadership Podcast, visit MaxwellPodcast.com/episodes. Don't forget to subscribe so that you can receive updates on new episodes and direct links to the free bonus resources we offer for every regularly scheduled episode. References: Exchange 2020 Leadershift by John C. Maxwell Developing the Leader Within You 2.0 by John C. Maxwell Today Matters by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

Happy New Year, podcast listeners! We wanted to start the year off right by encouraging you to pursue the changes and goals you've set! This year has so much potential for you and your organization, whether you know it or not. So, in this episode, we're talking about how to reach your potential by avoiding the pitfalls that often come with achieving big things. John Maxwell shares four key reasons people don't reach their full potential. In light of John's lesson, Mark Cole references our episode with Marcus Buckingham and reminds us of a misunderstanding that many people possess about potential. The truth is: Potential is not something that some people have and others don't. There's no such thing as high and low potential. Instead, every individual has their own unique path to growth. So, as we talk about potential, we're really talking about your own unique path to growth. Keep that in mind as you listen to this episode. Our BONUS resource for this episode is the Reaching Your Potential Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John's teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/Potential and clicking "Download the Bonus Resource." References: Talent Is Never Enough by John C. Maxwell Sometimes You Win, Sometimes You Learn by John C. Maxwell No Limits by John C. Maxwell Live in Atlanta with Marcus Buckingham The John Maxwell Online Store

Merry Christmas, podcast listeners! As we're releasing this, we know you're probably sitting around the Christmas tree unwrapping gifts with friends and family. So, we wanted to give you a gift as well! Are you ready for this? On January 28th, John Maxwell will release his new book, The Leader's Greatest Return. But, today on the podcast, we're giving you the entire first chapter from the audio book, read by the man himself! As our podcast listener, you get to be the first to hear John read from his new book! Sit back, grab some hot chocolate, and enjoy chapter one of John's new book, The Leader's Greatest Return! Be sure to preorder your copy of The Leader's Greatest Return by visiting JohnMaxwell.com/GreatestReturn. You will not be disappointed! References: The Leader's Greatest Return by John C. Maxwell (preorder) The John Maxwell Online Store

In this Candid Conversation, John Maxwell and Mark Cole dive into the importance of preparing for important meetings and moments, especially when they're with people who are, as John says, "bigger, better, and faster" than you. John calls this preparation "the meeting before the meeting." If you and your team want to walk away from meetings with confidence in each other, a clear vision, and the biggest return on your investment possible, this episode will equip you for your next meeting. John shares five strategies to implement in your meeting before the meeting, and he reminds us that the best meetings are paired with preparation on the front end and reflection on the back end. For more episodes of The John Maxwell Leadership Podcast, visit MaxwellPodcast.com/episodes. Don't forget to subscribe so that you can receive updates on new episodes and direct links to the free bonus resources we offer for every regularly scheduled episode. References: Today Matters by John C. Maxwell Leadershift by John C. Maxwell Exchange 2020 The John Maxwell Online Store

We've got something very special for you this week! As many of you know, John Maxwell sets aside the last week of every year to reflect on the previous 365 days. He calls this his "Year in Review." This annual exercise provides John the clarity to identify what he did well this past year and what he needs to improve in the year to come. John has talked about his week of reflection in previous episodes, but we've never shared an episode in which John tells you, step-by-step, his process for this exercise. Until now. This week, John walks you through his process for his Year in Review, so you can set aside time for yourself and apply this proven practice to your life. John has made some of his biggest life and business decisions during this week. So, we wanted to add value to you by giving you this powerful process. It's changed John's life, it's changed the lives of our team members, and we believe it'll change your life too. Our BONUS resource for this episode is the Year in Review Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John's teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/Review and clicking "Download the Bonus Resource." References: Maximum Impact Mentoring with John C. Maxwell Leadership Gold by John C. Maxwell Thinking for a Change by John C. Maxwell Today Matters by John C. Maxwell

In this very special episode of The John Maxwell Leadership Podcast, we're joined by two of John's good friends: Kyle Carpenter, the youngest living recipient of the Medal of Honor, and Don Yaeger, journalist and New York Times best-selling author. Kyle and Don have recently written the book You Are Worth It: Building a Life Worth Fighting For, which was released in October and tells the incredible story of Kyle's recovery from a grenade blast in Afghanistan. Kyle shares his story with us, along with his wisdom on what it takes to live a fulfilling life, while John Maxwell shares how Kyle's story has impacted him so deeply. Our BONUS resource for this episode is a collection of notes from this conversation. You can download the notes by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/WorthIt and clicking "Download the Bonus Resource." References: You Are Worth It: Building a Life Worth Fighting For by Kyle Carpenter and Don Yaeger Today Matters by John C. Maxwell Developing the Leader Within You 2.0 by John C. Maxwell

In this Candid Conversation, John Maxwell and Mark Cole reflect on the impact Richard Chancy had on their lives and leadership. Mark shares several words that Richard embodied, while John Maxwell gives short lessons on each word and how Richard truly exemplified the leadership qualities that John, Mark, and Richard have taught in the podcast. As a reminder, if you would like to share how Richard's role on the podcast has affected your life and leadership, please go to MaxwellPodcast.com/Richard, and leave a comment. For more episodes of The John Maxwell Leadership Podcast, visit MaxwellPodcast.com/episodes. Don't forget to subscribe so that you can receive updates on new episodes and direct links to the free bonus resources we offer for every regularly scheduled episode. References: Today Matters by John C. Maxwell Thinking for a Change by John C. Maxwell Developing the Leader Within You 2.0 by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

In this week's episode, John Maxwell continues his lesson on how to gain the influence of those you lead. He points out that as you climb to higher levels in your influence, you don't leave behind the previous levels, but instead, you build off of them. John also talks about the importance of consistent growth as a leader. In his words, "When you stop growing, your people stop going." Consistency gives your team a reason to trust you and depend on your guidance. Mark Cole and Jason Brooks pick up the discussion portion of this episode with an insightful conversation about how leaders can sense, seize, and implement the value they see in others and those they lead to harness and exercise those qualities within them. Our BONUS resource for this series is the Moral Authority Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John's teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/Listen and clicking "Download the Bonus Resource." References: Maximum Impact Mentorship The 5 Levels of Leadership by John C. Maxwell Developing The Leader Within You 2.0 by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

Do people listen to you because they have to? Or do they listen because they want to? Much of the time, the answer to this question is a reflection of your level of influence. In this new series on what John Maxwell calls "moral authority," John dives into five levels of influence that determine if and why those you lead are willing to listen to your guidance and leadership. This series will show you how to gain influence with your team based on the person you are, not the position you hold. Your hosts Mark Cole and Jason Brooks discuss what this looks like within the John Maxwell Enterprise, while Mark reflects on how these principles gained him the influence to become John Maxwell's CEO. Our BONUS resource for this series is the Moral Authority Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John's teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/Listen and clicking "Download the Bonus Resource." References: Maximum Impact Mentorship The 5 Levels of Leadership by John C. Maxwell Developing the Leader Within You 2.0 by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

In this Candid Conversation with John C. Maxwell and Mark Cole, John shares five principles for how to lead when you're in over your head. These are principles John has gleaned throughout his career as he has taken on challenges necessary to accomplish a vision bigger than himself. John points out: "The principles of survival are not the same as the principles of success." Too often, leaders resort to the former in times of stress, and they allow obstacles and situations to stall progress and growth. Listen to this episode to learn what great leaders do when they're in over their heads. For more episodes of The John Maxwell Leadership Podcast, visit MaxwellPodcast.com/episodes. Don't forget to subscribe so that you can receive updates on new episodes and direct links to the free bonus resources we offer for every regularly scheduled episode. References: The Mentor's Guide to Everyday Challenges audio series by John C. Maxwell Thinking for a Change by John C. Maxwell Developing the Leader Within You 2.0 by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

In part two of our series on motivation, John Maxwell shares his final maxims for motivating your team and organization. John discusses key ideas like, "What gets rewarded gets done," and he teaches you how to create an environment that is conducive to motivation. Mark Cole and Richard Chancy share what they've learned from their leadership experiences. You'll also hear a refreshing, new perspective on why failure should not thwart motivation, despite the discouragement that so often accompanies mistakes and missteps. Our BONUS resource for this series is the Maxims for Motivation Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John's teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/Motivate and clicking "Download the Bonus Resource." References: The John Maxwell Team The 5 Levels of Leadership by John C. Maxwell The Mentor's Guide to Building a Championship Team audio series by John C. Maxwell Leadershift by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

What's the difference between a leader and a manager? Well, there are quite a few. But one attribute that makes leaders stand out from managers is a leader's ability to motivate their team without using position. In this new series, John shares ten maxims for motivating the people you lead to accomplish the vision and goals of your organization. John has gathered these maxims from what he has experienced motivates others and motivates himself. Our BONUS resource for this series is the Maxims for Motivation Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John's teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/Motivate and clicking "Download the Bonus Resource." References: The 5 Levels of Leadership by John C. Maxwell The Mentor's Guide to Building a Championship Team Audio Series by John C. Maxwell Leadershift by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

John Maxwell says that one of a leader's greatest assets is the perspective of others. That's why he incorporates what he calls "Learning Lunches" in his schedule regularly. Learning lunches are a time for John to learn from those with different backgrounds and experiences by asking them seven key questions, which John shares in this episode. John and Mark Cole then share a recent Learning Lunch story in which a new friend tells John how he was able to turn a $100 million setback into the most significant setup for success in his organization's history. This is not an episode you want to miss. For more episodes of The John Maxwell Leadership Podcast, visit MaxwellPodcast.com/episodes. Don't forget to subscribe so that you can receive updates on new episodes and direct links to the free bonus resources we offer for every regularly scheduled episode. References: Good Leaders Ask Great Questions by John C. Maxwell Developing the Leader Within You 2.0 by John C. Maxwell Leadershift by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

Mark Cole said it himself – this is one of our best episodes yet! We're making John Maxwell Leadership Podcast history this week for two reasons: 1) We recorded this episode in front of a live audience, and 2) John Maxwell and Mark Cole sat down to discuss leadership with Marcus Buckingham! If you're not familiar with Marcus Buckingham, he is the author of two of the best-selling business books of all time, has two Harvard Business Review's most circulated, industry-changing cover articles, and has been the subject of an in-depth profile in the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, USA Today, Forbes, Fortune, Fast Company, The Today Show, and The Oprah Winfrey Show. But most of you may know him from his work with Gallup's StrengthsFinder tool, which has impacted and equipped countless lives and leaders around the world. In this episode, John and Marcus discuss their definitions of strengths and weaknesses, bust common leadership myths, and Marcus discusses his new book Nine Lies About Work. We say this all the time… "You don't want to miss this episode." But, listeners, you really don't want to miss this episode. Our BONUS resource for this episode is the fill-in-the-blank notes from this conversation. You can download these notes by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/Strength and clicking "Download the Bonus Resource." References: Nine Lies About Work by Marcus Buckingham MarcusBuckingham.com FreeThinkingLeader.org How Successful People Think Online Course iLead Youth Curriculum by John C. Maxwell

In this episode on attitude, John encourages us to overcome five common challenges of maintaining a positive attitude. These challenges are discouragement, problems, change, fear, and failure. John addresses each potential threat to a positive attitude and offers sage advice on how to overcome it. Mark Cole, Richard Chancy, and Jason Brooks talk through their personal challenges with maintaining a winning attitude, and they offer various ways to reframe our perspective in a positive way. They talk about the fact that the "Success Cycle" John is fond of teaching includes failure, and they discuss the role failure can have in success. They encourage us to lean into the tension we feel around failure and see it as a part of the growth process rather than allow it to dampen our attitude. Our BONUS resource for this episode is the Attitude Worksheet. You can access the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/Attitude and clicking "Download the Bonus Resource." References: The Difference Maker by John C. Maxwell Failing Forward by John C. Maxwell Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg The John Maxwell Online Store

In this Candid Conversation, John Maxwell shares the insights he's gleaned from his friends at Movement Mortgage––a company that has learned how to separate themselves from their competition by solving a common problem within their industry. John shares his insights in five key points, which, if implemented into your leadership will help you rise above your competition and allow your organization or team to make an even greater impact in your industry and, ultimately, your community. For more episodes of The John Maxwell Leadership Podcast, visit MaxwellPodcast.com/episodes. Don't forget to subscribe so that you can receive updates on new episodes and direct links to the free bonus resources we offer for every regularly scheduled episode. References: No Limits by John C. Maxwell Put Your Dream to the Test by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

In episode two of this three-part series on attitude, John Maxwell dives right into specific steps we can take to develop a winning attitude. He's quick to remind us that choosing to make your attitude your greatest asset is the starting point. You'll want to share this helpful, practical lesson! Mark Cole, Richard Chancy, and Jason Brooks help us with the application of this lesson as they share the issues they've had to wrestle as they work to consistently live out positive attitudes. Mark closes the lesson with a seven-day challenge to take ownership of your attitude. Bad traffic happens, relationships can be challenging, and work can be demanding, but you choose your attitude. Our BONUS resource for this episode is the Attitude Worksheet. You can access the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/Attitude and clicking "Download the Bonus Resource." References: Failing Forward by John C. Maxwell Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg The Difference Maker by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

This episode kicks off a three-part series on attitude. John starts us off by clearly reminding us that attitude is NOT everything, but it IS the difference maker. John shares a list of what attitude cannot substitute for, as well as a list of what attitude can do for us. He encourages us to make attitude our greatest asset. Mark Cole, Richard Chancy, and Jason Brooks offer perspective on what choosing and maintaining a positive attitude looks like for different personality types. Introverts and extroverts have different challenges with keeping a positive attitude, but two things ring true for all types and help develop a positive attitude over the long haul: the need for positive self-talk and a commitment to embracing resistance. Our BONUS resource for this episode is the Attitude Worksheet. You can access the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/Attitude and clicking "Download the Bonus Resource." References: The Difference Maker by John C. Maxwell Winning with People by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

John Maxwell says, "Leadership determines the success of the team," and in this episode, he dissects what makes the best leaders the best. He offers two main ideas: The best leaders give their best to their people, and the best leaders are able to get the best from their people. You're going to want to download the notes and follow along as John dives deep into these two characteristics of the best leaders. Mark Cole and Richard Chancy direct our attention to the application side of John's lesson. There's a lot of great information to consume, but the goal is to slow down so we can do something with what we're learning. Mark encourages us to choose one idea to pursue and focus on living it out over the next week. Our BONUS resource for this episode is the Why the Best Are the Best Worksheet. You can access the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/Best and clicking "Download the Bonus Resource." References: Everyone Communicates, Few Connect by John C. Maxwell Thinking for a Change by John C. Maxwell The 17 Indisputable Laws of Teamwork by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

You will feel like you are sitting around the table as you listen to this Candid Conversation between John Maxwell and a group of men whom he has spent the last several days with. Each person shares the mentoring lessons they have learned from John and what their key takeaways are. John encourages us to have eyes to see the mentoring opportunities all around us. We all have occasion to learn from one another, and we all have opportunity to help others. John shares how he looks for teaching and touching moments where he can be intentional to add value to others, as well as his desire to listen well and learn from the people around him. To maximize our growth we need to be learning from others, as well as pouring into people. For more episodes of The John Maxwell Leadership Podcast, visit MaxwellPodcast.com/episodes. Don't forget to subscribe so you can receive updates on new episodes and direct links to the free bonus resources we offer for every regularly scheduled episode. References: Intentional Living by John C. Maxwell The 15 Laws of Growth Online Course The John Maxwell Online Store

In part two of this series on focused thinking, John Maxwell helps us narrow down our focus as he shares what we need to focus on. We get the greatest return on investment when we focus on our strengths, our key people, and our team's development. John concludes by providing a Rule of Five for developing your own team. Jason Brooks and Mark Cole discuss what it looks like to live out this lesson, and Mark encourages us to get very clear on what we're good at. Jason defines teachability as a combination of hungry, humble, and hustle. Mark challenges us to rate ourselves on each of those attributes and allow that to help us see where we need to focus. Our BONUS resource for this episode is the Focused Thinking Worksheet. You can access the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/Focus and clicking "Download the Bonus Resource." References: Thinking for a Change by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store The Podcast Survey

In this Candid Conversation John shares his reflections about a recent encounter he had with Nik Wallenda of the famous Flying Wallendas who have performed audacious feats such as tight rope walking over Niagara Falls. When asked by John how he overcomes fear, Nik shared that he respects the danger and believes preparation is the greatest way to handle fear. He also acknowledges that fear is not something that will ever be eliminated but that a proper perspective allows you to focus on the positive. John points out that action minimizes fear! John and Mark also take a few minutes to share about their time in Texas and what it looked like for John to maximize his time with a key team member by being present and intentional. For more episodes of The John Maxwell Leadership Podcast, visit MaxwellPodcast.com/episodes. Don't forget to subscribe so you can receive updates on new episodes and direct links to the free bonus resources we offer for every regularly scheduled episode. *Disclaimer: This episode contains a brief story containing content that some listeners may find upsetting. To skip over this story, please stop at 19:33 and continue at 21:54. References: Thinking for a Change by John C. Maxwell Intentional Living by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Company Executive Leadership Podcast The John Maxwell Online Store

As a high-energy, high-capacity leader, John Maxwell has a natural bias for action and has to be intentional to develop his focused thinking skills. He committed to put in the effort, and since then his effective practice of focused thinking has had a global impact. In this episode, John shares some of what he has learned to help us maximize our focused thinking skills. The starting point, he says, is to verbalize and visualize what it is that we're going to focus on. He goes on to provide a process for thinking through any idea. Mark Cole and Jason Brooks share how they're applying what John teaches, and they address some of the common challenges to consistently being a focused thinker. Mark encourages us to be intentional in scheduling both proactive and reactive thinking time. The episode ends with a challenge to take an hour to practice focused thinking before coming back next week for part two of this series. Our BONUS resource for this episode is the Focused Thinking Worksheet. You can access the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/Focus and clicking "Download the Bonus Resource." References: The John Maxwell Leadership Podcast Survey Thinking for a Change by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

In part two of this series, John Maxwell continues to teach on characteristics to look for that make up a potential leader. He talks about the importance of two necessary attributes of a high capacity leader: a positive attitude and teachability. Building on John's principle of a teachable spirit as the key to growing as a leader, Mark Cole and Richard Chancy talk about how teachability can look different in various personalities. They provide practical advice on how to be teachable and convert that into measurable growth in your daily life as a leader. Our BONUS resource for this episode is the Makeup That Makes Up a Leader Worksheet. You can access the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/Makeup and clicking "Download the Bonus Resource." We also have a discount for you this week in exchange for helping us stay teachable! When you pop into the quick survey linked below in the references, you'll get $20 off your purchase of one of John's popular Mentor's Guide Audio Series. You'll automatically get your discount at the end of the 3-minute survey! References: The John Maxwell Leadership Podcast Survey The Difference Maker by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

This Candid Conversation features John Maxwell and Mark Cole providing a rundown of their incredible 17-day, six-country trip. They spent 96 hours traveling to Myanmar, Ghana, Oman, Iran, and Vietnam to add value to leaders who are multiplying value to others. John shares five key takeaways: 1) His books preceded him. 2) Everywhere he went people wanted iLead (the values-based, leadership curriculum for students). 3) Mark Cole has developed into an excellent communicator. 4) John Maxwell team coaches are all over the world and eager to make a difference. 5) We are seeing transformation happen in real time. It's an exciting time to be a part of the tribe, and we're so glad you're on the journey with us. You'll want to take time to listen as John shares inspiring stories of transformation from all around the world! For more episodes of The John Maxwell Leadership Podcast, visit MaxwellPodcast.com/episodes. Don't forget to subscribe, so you can receive updates on new episodes and direct links to the free bonus resources we offer for every regularly scheduled episode. References: Intentional Living by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store JMLF.org/ilead

John Maxwell teaches that the greatest responsibility of a leader is to raise up more leaders, and this episode is dedicated to helping you do that by showing you how to spot potential leaders. What makes up a good leader? John shares three key characteristics to evaluate a person's leadership capacity: character, desire, and discipline. He breaks down each characteristic to make them readily identifiable. Mark Cole and Richard Chancy zoom out and share helpful ways to look for these characteristics in the hiring process. Then Mark zooms in, turns the spotlight on the listener, and encourages us to live out discipline on a daily basis. He shares that every major good decision costs more than expected and takes longer than hoped for, but is worth it. Let the guidance in this episode help you keep growing as a leader while you're intentional to raise up new leaders. Our BONUS resource for this episode is the Makeup That Makes Up a Leader Worksheet. You can access the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/Makeup and clicking "Download the Bonus Resource." We also have a survey for our podcast listeners because we want to know how to serve you better. Please take the survey linked below in the references, and we'll even give you $20 off your purchase of one of John's Mentor's Guide Audio Series. Just finish the 3-minute survey to get the discount! References: The John Maxwell Leadership Podcast Survey The Possibility Thinking Series Put Your Dream to the Test by John C. Maxwell Developing the Leader Within You by John C. Maxwell

We're deviating from our regular format to bring you this special episode featuring John C. Maxwell and Chris Hogan both being interviewed by the CEO of the Maxwell Enterprise, Mark Cole. In this episode, John and Chris share essential wisdom for those wanting to grow in their leadership. Chris reveals his journey to success, and John opens up about his current vision to add value to leaders in a way that helps them go beyond him. Both men offer key principles that have served them well and have the potential to help you climb higher and faster! Our BONUS resource for this episode is the outlined notes from this conversation. You can access the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/Hogan and clicking "Download the Bonus Resource." References: Live2Lead Tickets ChrisHogan360.com Retire Inspired by Chris Hogan Everyday Millionaires by Chris Hogan Leadershift by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

In this Candid Conversation, John Maxwell continues to offer guidance for people who are getting started in their careers. However, you'll quickly realize the advice is applicable to all of us in any stage of our leadership journey. This is wisdom John has acquired through years of practice, and he's excited to share it with you. Be sure to listen to the entire episode to catch all of John's counsel, but three standout principles are: Exceed expectations, find an advocate, and consistently add value. If you apply his actionable advice, you can be confident it will help you advance in your career. John and Mark begin the conversation with an update on John's latest happenings. We learn one of the ways that John is being intentional to add value to people every year, and we hear about some huge projects that are positively impacting children all around the world. For more episodes of The John Maxwell Leadership Podcast, visit MaxwellPodcast.com/episodes. Don't forget to subscribe, so you can receive updates on new episodes and direct links to the free bonus resources we offer for every regularly scheduled episode. References: Leadershift by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

In part two of this series, John Maxwell shares that possibility thinking is the mindset that allows energy to build. He describes the four P's of energy: possibility thinking, passion, praise, and progress. Tapping into all of these resources creates an ongoing cycle of energy, results, and growth. Mark Cole and Richard Chancy ask the question, "What possibility is in your life, which with a little bit of thinking, could lead you to experiencing significance?" Mark shares the example of John entertaining the possibility of developing curriculum for youth just a few years ago, and now six million students are impacted by it around the world. Our BONUS resource for this episode is the Possibility Thinking Worksheet. You can access the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/Possible and clicking "Download the Bonus Resource." References: How Successful People Think by John C. Maxwell Thinking for a Change by John C. Maxwell Move Ahead with Possibility Thinking by Robert Schuller The John Maxwell Online Store iLead Youth Curriculum by The John Maxwell Leadership Foundation

John Maxwell and Mark Cole begin this Candid Conversation with an update on two projects John is currently hard at work on. The first is The Power of 5 for network marketing. The second is iDo, a values-based, leadership-roundtable curriculum designed specifically for students. These resources have the potential to have a huge impact, and you get to be among the first to hear about them. For the rest of the conversation, John shares with Mark five pieces of advice he would offer to those just starting their careers or beginning new leadership roles. He looks back at mistakes he made and shares the lessons he has learned to help you avoid the success gap. You'll have to listen to hear all of them, but our favorite is: "Be nice, but don't try to please everybody." In this conversation, you'll hear John's desire for you to win and be successful. In fact, he was on a roll and has agreed to continue this conversation, so be on the lookout for more advice from your mentor, John C. Maxwell, in the upcoming Part Two of this Candid Conversation next Friday. For more episodes of The John Maxwell Leadership Podcast, visit MaxwellPodcast.com/episodes. Don't forget to subscribe, so you can receive updates on new episodes and direct links to the free bonus resources we offer for every regularly scheduled episode. References: Leadershift by John C. Maxwell Good Leaders Ask Great Questions by John C. Maxwell 15 Invaluable Laws of Growth by John C. Maxwell Failing Forward by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

In part one of this two-part series, John Maxwell looks at how we can unleash our enthusiasm and hope to solve problems that seem impossible. John says that unsuccessful people allow circumstances to limit them, while successful people see possibility everywhere. John encourages us to have a positive life stance that acknowledges challenges as they happen but allows us to focus on the positive. Mark Cole and Richard Chancy follow up John's talk with a discussion on what it looks like to condition your mind to embrace possibility thinking and how to create environments that foster innovation for your teams. Possibility thinking is an investment in creating the future of your dreams, so get ready to think big! Our BONUS resource for this episode is the Possibility Thinking Worksheet. You can access the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/Possible and clicking "Download the Bonus Resource." References: How Successful People Think by John C. Maxwell Thinking for a Change by John C. Maxwell Move Ahead with Possibility Thinking by Robert Schuller The John Maxwell Online Store

In this Candid Conversation, you'll hear John's desire to be a ladder holder at this stage in his life, as well as his commitment to add value to leaders who multiply value to others. John and Mark Cole discuss John's latest book, which he wrote for that express purpose: to add value to network marketers who are multiplying value to others. Mark and John share how and why the book came to be, and they give a taste of what's inside. In The Power of 5, John lays out five essential priorities for successful network marketers: Growth, Connecting, Mindset, Leadership, and Significance. He also defines four necessary actions that help you stay on course with your priorities. Living out these right actions and priorities produces incredible results! For more episodes of The John Maxwell Leadership Podcast, visit MaxwellPodcast.com/episodes. Don't forget to subscribe so you can receive updates on new episodes and direct links to the free bonus resources we offer for every regularly scheduled episode. References: Leadershift by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store MaxwellPowerOf5.com

Failure is a natural part of life, but we can learn how to make the most out of those inevitable failures. In this episode, John Maxwell asks why some people allow failure to build them up and others allow it to derail them. John offers four observations about how people view failure, as well as four alternatives that will allow us to maximize our misses. Mark Cole shares how learning from failure has made him the man he is today, and provided the experience needed to lead at a higher level. Richard follows up with a reminder that we need to be intentional in thinking about failure, not only in the past, but also, in the future. Mark and Richard challenge us not to shy away from an opportunity because it has low odds. We may fail, but we can learn from that failure and turn it into tomorrow's success. Our BONUS resource for this episode is the Failure Is Not Final Worksheet. You can access the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/Final and clicking "Download the Bonus Resource." References: The Quick-Start Guide to Failing Forward Audio Series Failing Forward by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store Developing the Leader Within You 2.0 by John C. Maxwell

John Maxwell teaches the "Law of Intentionality" as the foundation to his 15 Laws of Growth online course. For this episode, we're sharing the entire first lesson from this online course, and we have a special offer for the course exclusively for our podcast listeners! So be sure to listen. In this episode, John begins by reminding us that growth is the only guarantee that tomorrow is going to get better. He provides the framework for your own personal growth plan and explains the role of intentionality in learning to live it out. Mark Cole follows up by asking us to articulate what it is that we're doing right now to develop ourselves, and Richard Chancy challenges us to make sure our growth goals are specific and relevant to what we're doing. They encourage us to follow John's advice and pick one skill and one choice to intentionally work on. Everything we want to achieve is dependent on our commitment to intentionally grow! Our BONUS resource for this series is the complete video of John's lesson on the "Law of Intentionality" from The 15 Laws of Growth online course. You can access the video by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/Intention and clicking "Download the Bonus Resource." References: The 15 Invaluable Laws of Growth by John C. Maxwell The 15 Laws of Growth Online Course The John Maxwell Online Store

In this Candid Conversation you will hear a behind-the-scenes discussion between John Maxwell and his CEO, Mark Cole, on a leader's propensity for action and the importance of "doing it now." John also shares news from his trip to Dubai and on the impact the John Maxwell Enterprise is having around the globe. John is known for his call to intentionality and he reminds us that we cannot wait for things to happen to us. We must start moving towards what we want because as we act, we attract. If you don't act on what you know, you will never receive all that is potentially yours. John ends the conversation with a 24-hour challenge to help you commit to your purpose and calling. For more episodes of The John Maxwell Leadership Podcast, visit MaxwellPodcast.com/episodes. Don't forget to subscribe so you can receive updates on new episodes and direct links to the free bonus resources we offer for every regularly scheduled episode. References: Intentional Living by John C. Maxwell iLead Youth Curriculum The John Maxwell Online Store

In this episode, we're sharing an impactful conversation between John C. Maxwell and Tyler Perry from last year's Live2Lead event in Atlanta, Georgia. You'll be inspired and encouraged as you hear Tyler's story of overcoming adversity, finally making it, and then realizing the opportunity he has to create a positive impact on so many other lives. John sums it up well when he says, "Success is what I do for myself. Significance is what I do for others." We have a special BONUS resource for you and your team with this episode: a video of the following year's interview with John and Tyler at the Live2Lead event in 2018. You can access this free video by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/Perry and clicking "Download the Bonus Resource." References: Live2Lead Tickets and Info Higher is Waiting by Tyler Perry Leadershift by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

In part two of this series on the six temptations of successful organizations, John Maxwell talks about four challenges common to leaders in successful organizations. He explains each pitfall and offers sound practices to counteract these temptations that have the power to derail our success. He reminds us that successful organizations today struggle to remain successful organizations tomorrow, and they require discipline to continue positive momentum. Mark Cole and Richard Chancy dive into the mix and highlight specific ways we can maintain excellence. They remind us that values and habits must stay the same even in our success, and we must become brilliant in the basics. The greatest threat to tomorrow's success is today's success, so we must be intentional and embrace change as growth. Mark ends the podcast with a reminder that a leader has a stewardship responsibility to lead well and not fall asleep at the wheel. Our BONUS resource for this series is The Six Temptations of Successful Organizations Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John's teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/Temptation and clicking "Download the Bonus Resource." References: The 15 Invaluable Laws of Growth by John C. Maxwell Thinking for a Change by John C. Maxwell Up Your Business! by Dave Anderson The John Maxwell Online Store

There's a lot of great content in this episode, and you do not want to miss it! John Maxwell talks about the temptations that successful organizations face, and he offers business maxims to counteract them. The first key idea he shares is that you and your business never arrive. He ties that into our need to be growth-oriented rather than goal-oriented. Goals have a finish line, but growth does not. Mark Cole is quick to point out that goals are not bad, but they do need to be a part of an ongoing growth process. In a successful organization, leaders can be tempted to stop thinking big. John compares this challenge in business organizations to sports teams that switch from playing to win to playing to protect what they have. He points towards organizations that do something well and then want to stick to that same process for every venture moving forward. Richard Chancy reminds us that leaders make things happen! Our motivation may be a desire to win or a strong fear of losing, but either way we must be willing to work on ourselves, keep growing, and think BIG if we want to be successful over the long haul. Our BONUS resource for this series is The Six Temptations of Successful Organizations Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John's teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/Temptation and clicking "Download the Bonus Resource." References: The John Maxwell Online Store The 15 Invaluable Laws of Growth by John C. Maxwell Up Your Business! by Dave Anderson

In part two of this series, John Maxwell continues to teach about the six fatal flaws that can sabotage a leader. To the three he shared in the last episode, he adds a lack of flexibility, an inability to meet goals consistently, and an inability to think strategically. John explains when these flaws are most likely to show up, as well as what to do when confronted with a potentially fatal flaw in your leadership life. Mark Cole and Richard Chancy share how they've had to wrestle with some of these flaws. They bring up an interesting point: Sometimes, what begins as a strength becomes a flaw. They end the episode with a challenge to see if there might be one of these fatal flaws showing up in your story and causing you to plateau. If so, they encourage you to work through the steps John provides. Our BONUS resource for this series is The Fatal Flaws of a Leader Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John's teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/Flaws and clicking "Download the Bonus Resource." References: Leadershift by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store The Leadershift Online Course

In part one of this series, John Maxwell shares three of six fatal flaws of a leader. Whether you define the top as a professional position or a personal best, a leader who overlooks these traits will never make it to the top. John defines the first three fatal flaws of a leader as a lack of sensitivity towards people, a betrayal of trust, and the inability to develop people. Mark Cole candidly shares three recent experiences that relate to each of these flaws, and he helps us see how they can play out in our everyday experiences if we're not careful. Then Richard Chancy jumps in and provides a practical five-point plan for developing leaders. Mark and Richard end the hour with a challenge to use the next week to think through which fatal flaw we need to address. Then tell someone about it and take action! Our BONUS resource for this series is The Fatal Flaws of a Leader Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John's teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/Flaws and clicking "Download the Bonus Resource." References: Leadershift by John C. Maxwell Live2Lead 2019 Tickets The John Maxwell Online Store The Leadershift Online Course

In July of 1976, John realized his calling in life was to add value to leaders. In this new Candid Conversation, John reflects on five major events he has participated in over the last eight days. He shows how they're examples of and the fulfillment of his call to add value to leaders who multiply value to others. Are you ready to live out your calling? John adds value to people because he values people. He wants to sow seeds of potential into them. His goal has always been to sow seeds and not worry about the harvest. In this candid conversation, he shares a powerful takeaway you can apply to your own leadership impact: If you add value to people with the hopes of getting a return, you do not get joy until you get a return. However, if you sow in order to add value to people, you receive joy in the moment! For more episodes of The John Maxwell Leadership Podcast, visit MaxwellPodcast.com/episodes. Don't forget to subscribe so you can receive updates on new episodes and direct links to the free bonus resources we offer for every regularly scheduled episode. References: Leadershift by John C. Maxwell The Leadershift Online Course The John Maxwell Online Store