In part one of this series on Maximizing the Moment, John teaches five words that every leader must embrace right now to set ourselves up for success in the future. He demonstrates how crises will take leaders on detours, and he encourages leaders to take advantage of their new route. During detours, leaders experience many new things for the first time, exposing new opportunities to learn and lead. During the discussion portion of this episode, Mark Cole is joined by Jason Brooks to discuss John’s points. They share the roles humility, adaptability, and generosity have played in their own lives and leadership. Our BONUS resource for this series is the Maximizing the Moment Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/Moment and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” References: Thinking for a Change by John C. Maxwell Today Matters by John C. Maxwell How Successful People Think by John C. Maxwell Leadershift by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

In this episode of the John Maxwell Leadership Podcast, John Maxwell teaches what you should put before you and what you should put behind you during times of crisis. What you put before you is what you focus on, and what you focus on expands. Mark Cole is joined by Chris Goede for the discussion portion of this episode to talk about John’s lesson. They remind us the importance of values-based leadership when so much is uncertain and hard decisions need to be made. Mark points out that business always follows values, but values don’t always follow business, while Chris Goede distinguishes between values and beliefs and how changing beliefs is a sign of growth. Our BONUS resource for this episode is the What You Focus on Expands Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/Expand and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” References: What You Focus on Expands Facebook Live Video Leadershift by John C. Maxwell Developing the Leader Within You by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

In this episode, Traci Morrow joins Mark Cole to discuss John’s lesson on Maximizing Your Mentoring. John shares four questions to ask yourself if you want to improve your relationship with your mentors or the people you mentor. Traci and Mark, who are both mentees of John Maxwell, share what they’ve gleaned from John’s method of mentoring, especially during difficult times. They discuss how staying true to your leadership values will help you lead through crisis and beyond it. Our BONUS resource for this episode is the Maximize Your Mentoring Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/Mentor and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” References: Maximize Your Mentoring Facebook Live Video Leadershift by John C. Maxwell Developing the Leader Within You 2.0 by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

John Maxwell reminds us time and time again that within every challenge is an opportunity to learn, grow, and lead. The challenge of uncertainty is no different. Uncertainty causes us to think differently and creatively, and to stay focused on the present. It tests our character, our strengths, and our wisdom. In this episode, John teaches us to embrace these benefits of uncertainty, so we can lead when it matters most. In the discussion portion of the episode, Mark Cole and Jason Brooks discuss how to build and not get buried when uncertainty takes us out of “automatic.” Our BONUS resource for this episode is the Embracing the Benefits of Uncertainty Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/Benefit and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” References: Intentional Living by John C. Maxwell The Leader’s Greatest Return by John C. Maxwell Leadershift by John C. Maxwell The John C. Maxwell Online Store

In this installment of Candid Conversations, we’re doing something both exciting and different. Mark and John are practicing social distancing and are unable to sit in a room together to record new Candid Conversations. However, this past week, they were both on a call with over 500 John Maxwell coaches and faculty where they discussed mentoring in times of crisis. Join them in this insightful discussion to learn the keys to mentoring others in both good and bad times. 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: Intentional Living by John C. Maxwell John Maxwell’s Facebook Live page The John Maxwell Online Store

In this week’s episode, John Maxwell completes his lesson on what great leaders do well in times of crisis. As many leaders are adapting and learning how to lead through the coronavirus pandemic, this timely message offers direction and clarity to navigate the obstacles that often arise during a crisis. Mark Cole and Jason Brooks host again via Zoom conference call as they practice social distancing and talk about how creative leaders believe there is always an answer to any problem. They also emphasize the importance of embracing technology in times of crisis. If you’d like to watch the original Facebook Live video from last week that this series comes from, click here. Our BONUS resource for this series is the Crisis Leaders Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/CrisisLeader and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” References: Crisis Leaders: What They Do Well Facebook Live Video Leadershift by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

As many leaders are adapting and learning how to lead through the coronavirus pandemic, John Maxwell delivers a timely teaching on what great leaders do well in times of crisis­­. John shares seven qualities that great leaders possess during unprecedented times like these. This message from John was originally broadcast on his Facebook page earlier this week. Your hosts, Mark Cole and Jason Brooks, have broken John’s message into a two-part series on the podcast in order to dive deep into John’s points and offer some helpful application. Our BONUS resource for this series is the Crisis Leaders Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/CrisisLeader and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” References: Leadershift by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

In part two of our series on Emotional Intelligence, John Maxwell teaches the importance of motivation, empathy, and social skills in an emotionally intelligent leader. John reminds us that, like leadership, emotional intelligence is not something that some people are born with and others aren’t. Emotional intelligence can be learned and developed. Mark Cole and Chris Goede point out the shift throughout John’s lesson from me-focused to others-focused, and they discuss how empathy and social skills ultimately help us serve others well. Mark quotes John by reminding us: “We do not see things as they are; we see things as we are.” Emotional intelligence allows us to be empathetic to others as we see how our personal biases get in the way of healthy developing relationships. Our BONUS resource for this series is The Emotional Intelligence Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/Emotion and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” References: Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman The Leader’s Greatest Return by John C. Maxwell Multipliers by Liz Wiseman Start with Why by Simon Sinek The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

This Candid Conversation was recorded several weeks ago while John Maxwell and Mark Cole were in Israel spending time with some of The John Maxwell Leadership Foundation’s top donors. John wanted to make this trip unforgettable for those who support his vision and mission so faithfully, and he took this opportunity to share on the podcast what it takes to be an unforgettable leader.  He also reflects on what he learned from his late friend Jack Welch about how to get yourself out of “the people pile” and set yourself apart from others. By asking how you can separate yourself from others in a positive way, you push yourself to be intentional, creative, curious, and confident. 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 John Maxwell Leadership Foundation The Leader’s Greatest Return by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

We are so excited to bring you a new series on Emotional Intelligence! In this series, John Maxwell references the book Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman and shares five attributes of an emotionally intelligent leader. In this part of the series, John teaches the first two points and explains the importance of self-awareness and self-regulation. We’re also excited to bring back Chris Goede as the co-host for this series, along with Mark Cole, the CEO of The John Maxwell Enterprise. Chris and Mark emphasize the importance of self-awareness in relation to consistency. The less we know ourselves, the more we roleplay, causing us to behave inconsistently. But the more aware we are of ourselves, the more consistent we are with everyone. Our BONUS resource for this series is the Emotional Intelligence Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/Emotion and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” References: Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman The Leader’s Greatest Return by John C. Maxwell Multipliers by Liz Wiseman The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

In part two of this series, John covers the final qualities of a good role model: friendship and support, as well as competence. He ends this lesson by painting a picture of what a growth environment looks like. This picture will help you, as a role model, asses if your environment contributes to the growth of others. If you’re someone looking for a role model, this picture will help you identify if your environment cultivates growing leaders. Mark Cole and Traci Morrow follow up John’s lesson by sharing how they exhibit care and support to those they lead. Traci also points out why seeing your own value should precede setting your priorities. Our BONUS resource for this series is the People Do What People See Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/RoleModel and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” References: The 15 Invaluable Laws of Growth by John C. Maxwell The Leader’s Greatest Return by John C. Maxwell Developing the Leader Within You 2.0 by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

Great leadership stands out in times of crisis because great leaders have prepared themselves for the moment. Their voice is one that responds, not reacts. In this episode, John Maxwell and Mark Cole invite their long-time friends Kevin Myers and Chris Hodges to talk about how leaders should be voices of hope during crisis without neglecting the earnestness of a serious circumstance. They remind us that all crises are opportunities to lead and that there is a distinction between preparing yourself and preparing for the event. Being intentional about both is what affects your ability to lead in the moment. 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: John Maxwell’s Leading in Difficult Times FREE Online Event The John Maxwell Online Store

John Maxwell’s Law of Modeling says that it’s hard to improve when you have no one but yourself to follow. In this series, which we’re calling People Do What People See, John Maxwell shares five qualities that make a good role model. In part one, John shares the first three qualities and explains why teaching is much easier than modeling. Modeling requires practicing what you preach. It gives you integrity as a leader and establishes you as a credible role model and authority. In the discussion portion of this episode, we’re excited to introduce Traci Morrow to you! Traci is a shining example of what it means to be a product of John Maxwell’s teaching and leadership. She’s a great addition to this discussion, as she shares what she’s gleaned from her experience a leader, entrepreneur, and coach. Our BONUS resource for this series is the People Do What People See Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/RoleModel and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” References: The 15 Invaluable Laws of Growth by John C. Maxwell The Leader’s Greatest Return by John C. Maxwell Developing the Leader Within You 2.0 by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

In part two of Don’t Just Communicate, Connect, John Maxwell shares the final disconnect he experienced early in his leadership journey that kept him from connecting with those he led. John then closes the lesson by sharing what he does well when it comes to connecting with people. These include valuing others, living with integrity, and simplifying his message. Mark Cole and Chris Goede reveal the importance of having tough conversations in a timely manner. They show how squandered opportunities to have hard conversations may jeopardize more than what you think is at stake. Our BONUS resource for this series is the Don’t Just Communicate, Connect Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/Connecting and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” References: Everyone Communicates, Few Connect by John C. Maxwell Put Your Dream to the Test by John C. Maxwell The 5 Levels of Leadership by John C. Maxwell The Infinite Game by Simon Sinek The John Maxwell Online Store

In the last Candid Conversation, John C. Maxwell shared a sneak peek of the book he’s currently writing. In this episode, he shares powerful insights from the book he’s most recently finished reading: Atomic Habits by James Clear. John shares a few of his key takeaways from this book and how they have challenged him in his leadership. 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: Atomic Habits by James Clear The Leader’s Greatest Return by John C. Maxwell Today Matters by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

This week we’re starting a series on connecting with others. Based loosely on his book Everyone Communicates, Few Connect, John Maxwell shares four of what he calls his “disconnects.” These are areas early on in his leadership journey that kept him from connecting with the people he led. This series will help you become a leader who draws people into your ideas and captures them with your vision. We’re also excited to introduce Chris Goede to you as the co-host throughout this series! Chris leads the Corporate Leadership Solutions team for the John Maxwell Enterprise. In this series, he and Mark discuss their own journeys from simply communicating to connecting. Our BONUS resource for this series is the Don’t Just Communicate, Connect Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/Connecting and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” References: Everyone Communicates, Few Connect by John C. Maxwell Put Your Dream to the Test by John C. Maxwell The 5 Levels of Leadership by John C. Maxwell The Infinite Game by Simon Sinek The John Maxwell Online Store

In part two of our series on Leading Through Change, John Maxwell shares the four key principles of change that every individual experiences. These keys are important as you lead through change. They’ll help you and your team cultivate an environment that is conducive to change, rather than hold onto the past and stifle progress. Mark Cole and Jason Brooks pick up the discussion on how to lead on an individual basis when change comes, and they offer insights from their own leadership experience. 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 5 Levels of Leadership by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

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