Keep the Line Moving

Our podcast “Keep the Line Moving” is focused on highlighting leaders who have led in ways that have impacted people in a profound way. We break down how they inspire, motivate, and touch the hearts of the people they lead. This is not a typical podcast discussing the wins and losses of leaders. We go behind the scenes hearing how they practically, strategically, and empathically lead people to achieve beyond their collective and individual abilities.

“Keep the Line Moving” is a baseball metaphor that epitomizes a team-first approach. Hitters do what it takes to keep the inning alive by hitting behind the runner or bunting – taking a selfless approach to scoring runs and ultimately helping the team win. We will have discussions on how emphasizing team goals over personal goals will help everyone win.

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Liz Masen has started two companies in her life, and both were dedicated to helping others. Her current company, Athlete Assessments, provides behavioral assessments to help athletes, coaches, and more understand themselves and reach their full potential. Liz and I talk about how she and her husband came up with Athlete Assessments, how leaders can optimize their behavior, and the importance of leading for your people. 

Episode 47

Key Takeaways from Liz:

  • Adapt your leadership style to how your people need you to lead.
  • Get to know your people and form genuine connections.
  • Pursue what you love.
  • Compliance does not equal commitment. 

Previous Episodes

Episode 1 - Anthony Becht

For our premier, I had the pleasure to sit down with my very good friend Anthony Becht. A 12-year NFL veteran, first round draft pick, and the third NFL offensive player to play 152 consecutive games, Anthony is currently the Head Coach of the XFL’s St. Louis BattleHawks. We covered Anthony’s NFL career, his transition to coaching, and his leadership approach. He shared how he’s taken the lessons he learned as a player and applied them to motivating and leading his own team.

 

Key Takeaways:

 

    • Perseverance has been a major force in Anthony’s life since childhood.
    • Always doing more than what is required is a way of life.
    • Failure has fueled his passion rather than deterred him.
    • Transparent and honest communication is the foundation of his philosophy for his new job as Head Coach of the St. Louis BattleHawks.

Episode 2 - Staci Slaughter

I sat down with Senior Executive Advisor at the San Francisco Giants, Staci Slaughter! Staci spent the last 27 years turning the Giants into the beloved team they are today through her incredible work in their media relations, public affairs, marketing communications programs, and community outreach activities. Staci and I discussed teamwork at the Giants, the massive collaborative effort that was the construction and opening of Oracle Park, and the years of foundation-laying that led to the Giants’ 2010 World Series win.

Key Takeaways:

 

    • Keep your goals at the heart of everything you do, think about the why behind your actions.
    • A collaborative spirit within the leadership team set the tone for Staci’s approach to her career.
    • The ‘secret sauce’ of the Giant’s reputation is their connection with the community and fans.
    • Staci’s approach has been to listen first and to gain insight before acting.

Episode 3 - Mike Witt

Mike Witt spent much of his career in leadership positions including as a regional Vice President and received many leadership certificates for his work. He followed his passions and is now the owner and operator of Anytime Fitness in Sausalito, California. He is also a great friend of mine since childhood. Being raised by an Army Colonel, Mike knows and thing or two about leading and shared with us some of the most important lessons he’s learned in his career.

Key Takeaways:

 

    • “Street leadership vs. Seat Leadership”: spend as much time with your team as possible in their environment, not just behind your desk.
    • You don’t have to fit into a specific leadership mold, allow yourself to adapt and create your own style that works best for you and your team. 
    • Catch people doing things right. It’s easy to focus on negatives, but looking out for the positives creates a rewarding work experience.
    • “Take care of your people”: the best words of advice Mike got from his father, the colonel.

 

Episode 4 - Erik Coleman

I sat down with Erik Coleman, former safety for the New York Jets, Atlanta Falcons, and Detroit Lions! Going from a challenging childhood where Erik had to take on a lot of responsibilities at a young age to an amazing nine-year career in the NFL to currently working as the VP of NFP and a broadcaster, Erik has crafted a truly impressive career. Erik shared how he built the drive that got him to the NFL, the lessons he learned from coaches along the way, and the work he put in to crafting his post-pro career.   

Key Takeaways:

    • Stay on the path. Focus on your goals and what you need to do to achieve them. 
    • You don’t become the best overnight, you have to consistently outwork everyone else.
    • Some of the best leaders don’t have to be vocal, they speak through their actions.
    • Success doesn’t breed success, success breeds complacency.

Episode 5 - Courtney Jeffries

I got to chat with my former colleague at the Oakland Raiders, Courtney Jeffries! Courtney is currently the CEO of Virtual Tables, an exciting time in her very successful career. She spent years in the operations side of sports at the Raiders, Pac-12, and Madison Square Garden before making the daunting shift to tech. Courtney shared her lifelong connection to sports, her very educational time as a team member at the Raiders, and how she’s changed her work and leadership styles since being in tech.

Key Takeaways:

    • It’s important to have a ‘boots on the ground’ attitude in order to understand the people and positions you manage.
    • When it comes to your legacy, the way you treat people is as important as what you achieve.
    • Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it – it can save you and your team a lot of trouble.

Episode 6 - Ken Mack

For our Super Bowl Special episode, I sat down with Emmy Award winning producer, Ken Mack, who has produced six Super Bowls for CBS Sports. Starting at CBS immediately after graduating from Harvard University, Ken has spent the last 33 years producing content for the NFL, golf, tennis, college basketball and more. We talked about his journey into production, the inner workings of his incredible team, and what goes into putting on some of the most high-profile events in sports. 

Key Takeaways:

    • Camaraderie and trust in your team is a must-have for high-stress jobs.
    • If people see that you care about them, they will care about you, the job and the product.
    • The key to longevity in your career is to love what you do.

Episode 7 - Josh Loeffler

After graduating from Swarthmore College in 2003, Josh Loeffler quickly realized that a desk job just wouldn’t cut it. Today, he is the Head Coach of Johns Hopkins’ Men’s Basketball team and is leading them to victory. Josh has an incredible story about following his passions and finding his calling as a coach. He has led many talented athletes in his life and every practice has helped craft his unique leadership style. Josh talks about his coaching philosophy, how his own children have influenced him, and how he connects with his players. 

Key Takeaways:

    • You have to possess self-awareness when dealing with individuals and team dynamics.
    • Follow your passions, even when it seems like everyone else is going down the expected path.
    • Leaders have the tough job of telling people what they need to hear, even if it’s not what they want to hear.
    • Truly caring about your people and your responsibilities is necessary as a leader.

Episode 8 - Anne Shadle

We all know athletes put an incredible amount of work into maintaining their physical health for the sake of their sport. But what about maintaining their mental performance? Well, that’s where this week’s guest, Dr. Anne Shadle, comes in. As the Director of Mental Performance for the New York Jets, Anne works directly with players to guide and education them through the mental perseverance required of a professional athlete.

Key Takeaways:

    • Know the ‘why’ behind what you do and commit yourself to it.
    • A team succeeds by supporting and caring for each other and the work they do.
    • The relationships you form need to possess connection and quality.

Episode 9 - Bri Newland

I had a great conversation with my colleague, Dr. Brianna Newland! Bri is a Clinical Associate Professor and the Academic Director of Undergraduate Programs at the Tisch Institute for Global Sport. Bri has been widely recognized for her incredible work, most recently by the North American Society for Sport Management, who awarded her their Garth Paton Distinguished Service Award. As a leader to emerging talent in sports at NYU, she has experienced an incredible leadership journey that began long before she ever taught a class. Bri talks about her leadership, education, the mentors that guided her along the way, and the approach she takes to preparing emerging leaders for their post-college careers.

Key Takeaways:

    • You can practice ‘quiet leadership’ through your actions and your influence.
    • When you’re learning, it’s valuable to focus on the process, not the outcome.
    • Three tips for being a great leader: be patient, observe, and always listen.

Episode 10 - Jalal Leach

I spoke with Jalal Leach, a man who proves that hard work does indeed pay off. We grew up on the same street, went to the same schools, played on the same teams and, at 18, Jalal took his talents as a baseball player to Pepperdine University. From there, he was drafted by the New York Yankees and spent 12 seasons dedicating himself to his craft in the minors. In 2001, he finally made it to the majors while playing for his hometown team, the San Francisco Giants. Jalal and I talked about the many lessons he learned from his parents, the strength he carried through the minors, his breakthrough into the majors, and his work now as a scout for the Giants.

Key Takeaways:

    • Persevere. Keep working towards your dreams and turn your obstacles into learning opportunities.
    • Be aware of the consequences of your actions and act with purpose.
    • Value the strength and support you get from the people who care about you.

Episode 11 - Herm Edwards

Spending over half a century playing and coaching football, Herm Edwards lives and breathes the game. After a standout college and NFL playing career, he knew his football journey was only beginning. Coach Edwards dedicated himself to helping others and became the Head Coach of the New York Jets in 2001 and later led the Kansas City Chiefs and Arizona State. Herm takes us through this journey with anecdotes, valuable lessons, and a greater understanding of what it all meant to him. We talk about his work ethic as a player, his coaching philosophy, and the many ways he has inspired and connected to the players he has led. 

Key Takeaways:

    • People will respect your title, but you have to earn their trust.
    • It’s more valuable to give your players direction than correction.
    • Treat everyone fairly, but not the same.
    • You have to make sure your players know you care.

Episode 12 - Marty Lurie

Growing up near Ebbets Field in Brooklyn, Marty Lurie’s love of baseball took hold early and never left. It was this very love that led to his impressive law career and eventually led to him being inducted into the Bay Area Radio Hall of Fame. Marty’s career is tied together by the many layers he says coexist between baseball, law, storytelling, and life. Marty and I talked about his childhood in Brooklyn, his journey to criminal law, and the proud dedication he puts into everything he does, from legal trials to radio shows. 

Key Takeaways:

    • Follow your passions, however they take form. 
    • Give back to the people who come after you.
    • Fight for the underdog. 

Episode 13 - Mark C. Crowley

Mark C. Crowley has spent decades leading teams in the financial services industry with exceptionally strong results. In an industry known for being cutthroat, what set Mark apart was his approach to put human emotions first and lead with genuine care for his team. Mark’s philosophy is built off the knowledge and research that feelings and emotions drive up to 90% of our behavior and positively impacting these emotions will create a highly motivated team. Mark and I talked about what drives his leadership methods, the need for this approach in the modern workplace, and what he believes leaders must do to successfully lead their teams.

Key Takeaways:

    • The most successful way to motivate people in the workplace is to positively affect their hearts.
    • Lead in a way that aligns with who you want to be and how you want to be perceived.
    • A leader is not only responsible for the team’s deliverables but for the wellbeing of their team members.

Episode 14 - Georgia O'Donoghue

As the Vice President of Business Operations at Atlanta United FC, Georgia O’Donoghue is in an incredibly demanding position. That doesn’t stop her, however, from personally ensuring that her team is motivated and fulfilled in their work every day. Georgia’s hands on leadership style has evolved from being involved in team sports, studying leadership, and learning from every position she has held. Georgia and I discuss her draw to leadership, how she maintains a strong and successful team, and the many tidbits of wisdom she has to share with fellow leaders, both established and emerging. 

Key Takeaways:

    • Embrace the opportunities that make you uncomfortable. 
    • To be liked, you have to be respected and to be respected, you have to be honest.
    • Having the mindset to persevere through and despite losses can lead you to a lot of success.
    • Building and forming relationships is essential to getting through life. 

Episode 15 - Cynthia Frelund

As a child attending elementary school abroad, Cynthia Frelund found comfort in math, where her passion and talent for numbers provided her with a path. That comfort has taken her far, as the first Analytics Expert for NFL Media. Cynthia provides viewers with fact and analytics-based insights that have the power to change how people watch and play the game. Cynthia and I talk about her diverse and impressive journey, the courageous efforts she has put into achieving her goals, and the many lessons she has learned along the way.

Key Takeaways:

    • Listen more than you speak.
    • Don’t be afraid to reach out to people, the worst they can say is no.
    • Connect with and have empathy for others.
    • Ask good questions, which takes preparation, listening, and research.

Episode 16 - Brian Baldinger

At 11 years old, Brian Baldinger knew that sports would be an integral part of his life. With this belief, and a steady determination imparted in him by his Marine Corps father, Brian has dedicated his life to doing what he loves. Brian had a successful 13-year career in the NFL and later became a broadcaster, currently working as an analyst on the NFL Network. Brian shares with us his determination to make it as a football player, the many lessons he’s learned in his career, and the gratitude he has for every experience he’s had along his journey.

Key Takeaways:

    • When taking on a project, establish a strong and supportive team.
    • Take the time to show gratitude for the opportunities you’ve been given.
    • When you truly love what you do, it shows in your results.
    • Nobody goes through their journey alone, value the people around you.

Episode 17 - Nikki Fargas

Already having been a successful player, coach, and broadcaster, Nikki Fargas has effortlessly transitioned into her role as President of the defending WNBA Champions, the Las Vegas Aces. Since she took on the position, Nikki has helped build the team’s fanbase, worked with owner Mark Davis to launch their Alumni Initiative, and saw the team win their first ever WNBA Championship. Nikki tells me about playing under Coach Pat Summitt and her Definite Dozen, the Aces’ Alumni Initiative honoring former players and their contributions to the organization, and what winning the Championship has meant to the players, the organization, and the city of Las Vegas. 

Key Takeaways:

    • You are the company you keep so spend time with people who share your passions, aspirations, and goals.
    • Communication is key. Your entire organization has to be aligned with your goals and end game. 
    • Go into every meeting with an open mind and leave being able to say that you’ve learned something today.

Episode 18 - Will Clark

Will Clark is widely known for his many impressive accomplishments as a baseball player including a Golden Spikes Award, a Silver Slugger Award, and a Gold Glove Award. Behind the accolades is a man with endless determination, a deep understanding of the game, and a belief that grit can outplay talent. Will is now utilizing his skills to guide current players as a special advisor and hitting instructor for the San Francisco Giants. Will the Thrill sat down with me to talk about his remarkable career, the many people who shaped his journey, and how he is working to lead the younger generation.

Key Takeaways:

    • Drive and effort can be more valuable than base talent.
    • Get the most out of your abilities and talent.
    • Any organization must have clear communication through every level.

Episode 19 - Amit Patel

Rakuten is the Japanese word for optimism. Amit Patel, CEO and President of Rakuten Americas embodies rakuten. Leading 4,000 employees, Amit’s responsibility is his people and ensuring that they are safe, happy, and in the best environment they can be. Amit sits down with me to talk about finding and following his passion, Rakuten’s partnership with the Golden State Warriors, the aspects of Japanese work culture that Rakuten brings to America, and his advice for other leaders. 

Key Takeaways:

    • Allow your interests to turn in to passions.
    • Find the people who see you and have your best interests at heart. 
    • Leaders create leaders.
    • You are more likely to get people to follow you based on your actions than on your title.

Episode 20 - Imry Halevi

Imry Halevi serves as the Associate Director of Athletics, Content and Strategic Communications at Harvard University. In his time at Harvard, Imry has boosted viewership, helped develop and launch the Ivy League Network, and helped facilitate the partnership with ESPN that launched the Ivy League on ESPN Network. Chairing multiple content and media committees across Harvard and the Ivy League, Imry leads not for titles, but because he wants to motivate others. Imry talks to me about finding his passion for content, what he values most in his team members, and the attributes of great leaders. 

Key Takeaways:

    • You recognize good leadership when you see it. 
    • Your leadership must be flexible for people and circumstances. 
    • A leader who explains the why and how of a task is more motivating than one who only tells you the what. 

Episode 21 - JT the Brick

John Tournour found his passion in sports radio early and went for it. Three decades later, he is JT the Brick, with his own national show, podcast, and various programs for the Las Vegas Raiders. JT’s journey has been full of inspirational people, lasting relationships, incredible experiences, and life-long lessons. JT tells me about the path that brought him to his career, the many attributes that he believes make a good leader, and the life lessons that he has to share. 

Key Takeaways:

    • Always be sincere and authentic no matter the environment or people present.
    • To be a good leader is to truly listen to what the people around you have to say.
    • Message to younger self: slow down and enjoy the world around you.
    • Leaders must have the ability to effectively communicate.

Episode 22 - Stedman Graham

This guest works with a simple yet powerful mission: to help others empower themselves. Stedman Graham was recently awarded the Horatio Alger award for his success against great adversity, his commitment to higher education and charitable efforts in the community. Stedman and I talk about what it means to truly know yourself, the value of a positive mindset, and the courageous nature of great leaders. 

Key Takeaways:

    • Define yourself by what’s inside you, not your external circumstances.
    • Your foundational support and guidance has a huge impact on your success.
    • A positive mindset reaps positive rewards.
    • Find your passion and put in the work to reach it.

Episode 23 - David Hollander

This guest created and teaches the only-of-its-kind course, How Basketball Can Save the World. Earlier this year he released a widely acclaimed book of the same name. He is my colleague, David Hollander. David and I talk about the unique human connection that exists on a basketball course, how this connection transfers to life, and the emotional intelligence and skills that leaders must possess. 

Key Takeaways:

    • Leaders need to be able to connect with other people.
    • Ubuntu: I am because you are. 
    • Locate your joy and use it to live the life you want to live.
    • None of us are just one thing.

Episode 24 - Karen Dillon

Karen Dillon and her co-author Rob Cross were researching high performing individuals when they came across what they call The Microstress Effect. They found that seemingly insignificant interactions with others could result in microstresses that build up and eventually cause major amounts of stress. Karen and I talk about how they came to discover the microstress effect, the three different types of microstresses, and the proactive techniques we can use to avoid them. 

Key Takeaways:

    • You have to be self-aware to acknowledge and deal with your microstresses.
    • It’s important to form strong and lasting relationships.
    • Removing microstresses is more valuable than trying to combat their impact.
    • A negative interaction can have up to 5 times the impact of a positive interaction. 

Episode 25 - Scott Leykam

As the VP of Athletics at the University of Portland, Scott Leykam has overseen some of the school’s most successful athletic years and the department’s highest ever cumulative GPA in this past fall semester. He was recognized for these achievements in June with the NACDA Athletics Director of the Year Award. Scott and I talk about his time working with Hall of Fame Coach Bill Walsh, unexpected career moves, and caring about the people you lead. 

Key Takeaways:

    • Never take your relationships with co-workers or peers for granted.
    • Do what you love but let the road take you where you’re meant to be.
    • Pay it forward.

Episode 26 - Bob Wischusen

With 18 years under his belt at ESPN and 21 as the play-by-play voice of the Jets, Bob Wischusen is living his dream. Bob has worked his way up from the radio station at Boston College to covering professional sports at the highest level. Bob and I talk about how to find what you’re passionate about, putting in the work while you’re starting out, and the dedication it takes to do what you love. 

Key Takeaways:

    • Find out what excites you, what you pay attention to, what you look forward to… find your passion.
    • People will take notice of the effort you put in and reward you for it.
    • No one starts out at the top, you have to work your way up.

Episode 27 - Adam Grossman

This week’s guest is Adam Grossman, the Chief Marketing Officer and Executive Vice President of the Boston Red Sox and Fenway Sports Management. Adam leads many teams in multiple organizations with patience, planning, and a trust that his people are talented and capable. Adam and I talk about his mission of making emotional connections with the fans, the need for great leaders at the top of organizations, and the importance of hiring well.

Key Takeaways:

    • Brand vision is a major focus for successful organizations.
    • Every single hire matters.
    • Company culture is your foundation.
    • You must prioritize building trust across your team and organization.

Episode 28 - Jennifer Tombaugh

As the president of a global travel company, Jennifer Tombaugh works first and foremost for people. Leading her organization through unprecedented times, building trust within her team, and taking Tauck to new levels, Jennifer leads by example. We talk about navigating the travel industry during Covid, the love and passion Jennifer has for her job, and her philosophy for servant leadership. 

Key Takeaways:

    • In times of uncertainty, stay true to your values.
    • People look to you as their leader for reassurance.
    • Collaboration is priceless.
    • Building trust requires vulnerability, truth, and empathy.

Episode 29 - Matt Capurro

He has planned and organized two Super Bowls, two NFC Championship games, one NFL Pro Bowl game, and two NFL International Series games in London and Munich. He is Matt Capurro, the Vice President of Coaching Operations at the Seattle Seahawks. Matt and I talk about the many legendary coaches he has worked with, the intricacies of planning an entire NFL season, and the motivating environment of the Seahawks’ organization. 

Key Takeaways:

    • Prioritize communication on an individual and organizational level.
    • Be prepared and organized going into your day.
    •  A leader has to be a motivator, have empathy, be a great listener, and be able to pull people with them.
    • Listen and learn.

Episode 30 - Marty Lyons

Recipient of the 1984 Walter Payton Man of the Year Award and 2011 Heisman Humanitarian Award, Marty Lyons is dedicated to serving others. Marty played in the NFL for the New York Jets and is now the team’s radio color analyst. Marty and I talk about the lessons imparted in him by Coach Bear Bryant, why he started the Marty Lyons Foundation, and the importance of giving of yourself. 

Key Takeaways:

    • Sometimes you have to slow down to realize just how fortunate you are.
    • Don’t let anyone tell you you can’t do something.
    • A winner in the game of life is the person who gives of themselves so others can grow.
    • Value your time and spend it wisely.

Episode 31 - Steve Dagostino

Steve Dagostino has a twofold philosophy as a coach: have genuine love for the game and commit yourself to reaching your full potential. As a Basketball Player Development Coach, Steve serves over 1,000 players a year spanning from kindergarten to the NBA. Steve and I talk about his own basketball journey, the importance of mental performance alongside physical, and putting your actions above your words. 

Key Takeaways:

    • Commit and be consistent.
    • Maximize your own unique talents.
    •  Know the value of hard work and dedication.
    • An ideal teammate is unselfish and lets their actions speak for them.

Episode 32 - Meka White Morris

In 2021, Meka White Morris was hired as the inaugural Chief Revenue Officer of the Minnesota Twins and tasked with increasing the franchise’s revenue. She did that and so much more and today is the Twins’ Executive VP and Chief Business Officer. Meka and I talk about the unified culture of the Twins, lessons she learned from her father and NBA legend Jo Jo White, and her desire to pave the way for a more inclusive and accessible sports industry.

Key Takeaways:

    • Surround yourself with people who are diverse in perspective and though.
    • Know your limitations as much as your strengths.
    • There is strength in vulnerability.
    • Know the value of your time and be intentional in how you spend it.

Episode 33 - Rob Swymer

Author of ‘Surrender to your Adversity,’ Senior Tech Executive, and Global Leadership Coach, Rob Swymer is helping others build resiliency and overcome their obstacles. Rob’s mission is to make mental health a normal conversation globally and spread the servant leadership mindset. Rob and I talk about his own journey of self-improvement, the importance of mentors and reverse mentors, and the many benefits of leading with love and empathy. 

Key Takeaways:

    • Focus on coming from a place of gratitude every single day.
    • Be a continuous learner and be comfortable being uncomfortable. 
    • Be authentic, lead with empathy, and lead with a servant leadership mindset.
    • You can’t work on your mental health and personal development alone. 

Episode 34 - Ed Dodds

As the Assistant General Manager to the Indianapolis Colts, Ed Dodds oversees the day to day operations that keep the team and organization running. A former scouting evaluator, Ed has a knack for recognizing talent and planning for the future. Ed and I talk about the Colts’ evaluating system that he helped build, his complementary relationship with GM Chris Ballard, and his dedication to working hard for what he wants. 

Key Takeaways:

    • Don’t be afraid to say ‘I don’t know’.
    • Be demanding if you need but always lead with love.
    • Don’t rest on your laurels, keep striving to be better.
    • Pay it forward.

Episode 35 - Jerry Goff

From the University of California, Berkeley, to the Montreal Expos, Pittsburg Pirates, and Houston Astros, Jerry Goff has led an exciting professional baseball career. He now gets to relax and watch as his son paves his own pro sports career as the quarterback of the Detroit Lions. Jerry and I talk about his career journey, the lessons he learned from great leaders in his life including his father and coaches, and what he’s passed down to his children. 

Key Takeaways:

    • Listen more and be less reactionary. 
    • Time management is critical.
    • Put in the work and sacrifice to get to where you want to be.
    • Be proud of what you do.

Episode 36 - Hannah Gordon

Named one of football’s most influential women by NFL.com, Hannah Gordon went from a UCLA football beat writer to Chief Legal and Administrative Officer of the San Francisco 49ers to Senior Advisor for the President of the 49ers. Her book, SZN of Change, teaches what she’s learned to help others excel in their professional and personal lives. Hannah and I talk about how she worked her way up in the NFL, the leaders who inspired her, and her own tough but big-hearted leadership style. 

Key Takeaways:

    • Qualities she looks for when hiring: smart, hardworking, and integrity.
    • Meet people where they are but don’t change yourself for others.
    • Be open to feedback. 
    • Be the kind of person that others want to vouch for when asked.

Episode 37 - Oakland McCulloch

This week’s episode is all about servant leadership with retired Lieutenant Colonel Oakland McCulloch. Oak’s 23 years in the army, as well as his inherent passion, have graced him with the knowledge of how to be a truly great leader. Oak and I discuss the importance of caring for your people, leading with humility, trust, and reflection, and his advice for leaders and organizations that want to work for their people. 

Key Takeaways:

    • Being a leader isn’t about you, it’s about the people you lead.
    • Whether failure or success, your reaction should be the same: reflect and learn.
    • Leaders must know their people.
    • Get out of the way and trust your team to do their jobs.
    •  

Episode 38 - Bob Turner

Get out of your comfort zone with Dr. Bob Turner, author of Zone Leader: 7 Tactics for Leading in the Zones. Dr. Turner is an author, motivational speaker, coach and consultant dedicated to helping leaders implement positive change and help develop the next generation of leaders. Bob and I talk about the many leadership lessons in his book, continuously learning as a leader, and empowering the leaders who come after you. 

Key Takeaways:

    • Leadership is a continuous learning journey.
    • Know the difference between effective communication and communicating effectively. 
    • Leaders must be worthy of peoples’ trust.
    • You must be willing to listen and learn from others. 

Episode 39 - Kate Scott

Kate Scott has soared in her career by coupling great talent with creating a positive impact on everyone she’s worked with. After 20 years of determination and success as a female broadcaster, Kate is currently the play-by-play announcer for the Philadelphia 76ers. Kate and I discuss her groundbreaking career journey, the genuine passion she has for broadcasting, and how she leads her life with kindness. 

Key Takeaways:

    • Dedicate yourself to reaching your goals.
    • Approach people and their stories with empathy and compassion.
    • Maintain and nurture your relationships.
    • Don’t just ask for help, give people a reason to want to help you. 

Episode 40 - Fred Mangione

While Fred Mangione has spent nearly three decades in the world of professional sports, his leadership lessons are universal. Fred is the former COO of the Brooklyn Nets, former Senior VP of Sales, Marketing, and Premium Partnerships at the New York Jets and current Managing Director of MM Sports Consulting. Fred and I talk about his tips for career longevity, his experience opening Barclay’s Center, and his kind and approachable leadership style. 

Key Takeaways:

    • It’s all about the people you take the journey with throughout your career. 
    • A managerial role does not mean you’re ready or equipped to lead.
    • Don’t mistake kindness for weakness.
    • The front office needs to bring passion to the organization. 

Episode 41 - Chris Carrino

The 2023 recipient of the NBA’s ‘Values of the Game’ award, Chris Carrino, is the lead radio play-by-play announcer for the Brooklyn Nets. For over two decades, Chris has cemented himself not only as an incredible broadcaster but as a stellar teammate. Chris and I talk about being inspired by the great Marty Glickman, his experience with FSHD and founding the Chris Carrino foundation, and his advice to people who need the courage to follow their passion.

Key Takeaways:

    • You have to love the process.
    • If something’s important to you, you’ll have the courage to do the hard stuff.
    • Relationships aren’t automatic, they have to be cultivated.
    • Be a hype person for your people.

Episode 42 - Brandon Guyer

Former MLB player and Founder of Major League Mindset, Brandon Guyer gives us a lesson on healthy mindsets. Brandon played Major League Baseball for 7 seasons and made it to the World Series in 2016 before retiring and starting his own company as a Mental Strength Coach. Brandon and I talk about how changing his mindset transformed his on-field performance, and the work he does not to help athletes and non-athletes alike. 

Key Takeaways:

    • Your mindset is just as important as your physical abilities.
    • You have to do the work.
    • Prioritize self-care and give yourself fuel. 
    • The work you put in off the field will help your performance on the field (whatever your field may be.)

Episode 43 - Sandy Khaund

Sandy Khaund is a serial entrepreneur with 25 years of experience across software development, product marketing, business development, and strategy consulting. In his time in leadership positions at his own companies as well as multiple Fortune 500 companies, Sandy has developed his unique leadership style. Sandy and I talk about adaptable leaders, knowing your why, and enjoying your journey. 

Key Takeaways:

    • Leaders must adapt to the people they lead. 
    • Take time when you’re starting your career to experience and explore. 
    • Find your calling but enjoy the journey. 
    • Find and know your why. 

Episode 44 - Buddy Biancalana

Buddy Biancalana experienced a ‘zone moment’ while playing in the 1985 World Series for the Kansas City Royals, playing better than he ever had before. He’s now dedicating his life to helping others harness their full potential and operate in the zone. Buddy breaks down his World Series zone moment, explains the brain-body connection, and tells us how athletes and non-athletes alike can work in the zone. 

Key Takeaways:

    • Let go of the need to control situations.
    • Approach others with empathy.
    • Exercise and value your emotional intelligence. 
    • Don’t let fear get in the way of what you want.

Episode 45 - Raven Jemison

As the Executive Vice President of Business Operations at the Milwaukee Bucks, Raven Jemison is no stranger to leading others. Raven has worked her way up in the sports industry and recently shared her knowledge with the world in her book, ‘More Than Representation.’ Raven and I discuss her very impressive career, the key takeaways from her new book, and how she helps her mentees find their path.

Key Takeaways:

    • Leaders should give their people the resources they need to be successful then trust them to do their job.
    • You can’t effectively lead if you don’t listen.
    • You have to be accountable and own your journey. 
    • ‘Play the game’ to achieve your goals but do so authentically.

Episode 47 - Dr. Andrew Campbell

Dr. Andrew Campbell took a long hard look at himself when he realized he was becoming a toxic leader. Now, he’s on a mission to change the way organizations and leaders treat their people through his coaching, speaking, and writing. Dr. Campbell and I talk about the power of forgiveness, sharing your leadership philosophy and values, and self-awareness strategies for becoming the best version of yourself. 

Key Takeaways:

    • The relationship comes before the problem.
    • Know your leadership philosophy and share it.
    • Be self-aware and be mindful of how you come across to others.
    • When something’s not working, look inward and assess.