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 

In part two of this series, John Maxwell focuses on the second key to growth, which states that growth means change. To reach for something new requires us to let go of something old. We must learn to embrace the process of learning, unlearning, and relearning if we want to make the most of our tomorrows. At 72 years old, John continues to live out this concept of growth as change. His example of getting rid of his treasure trove of notes and adopting new technology will inspire you to think through where you might need to let go of something you rely on so you can move towards something you want. Mark Cole (CEO of The John Maxwell Enterprise) and Richard Chancy share examples of how intentional change has resulted in significant growth in their lives. They also provide a series of questions to help you assess where you might need to change in order to grow. We have a special BONUS resource for this series: The Four Keys to Growth is a keynote address John did for the Live2Lead event. He provides more great content than we can share on the podcast, so we’re providing you with a video of the entire keynote. You can access the video by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/Live2Lead and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.”  References: Live2Lead 2019 Registration The 15 Invaluable Laws of Growth by John C. Maxwell The 15 Laws of Growth Online Course The John Maxwell Online Store

In part one of this new series, John Maxwell shares the first of four keys to growth with humor, candor, and intensity. John reflects on the fact that as we age, our certainties decrease, but the ones that remain grow stronger. He takes this opportunity to share his fervent belief that if you want to win in life, you must commit yourself to personal growth every single day. Growth is the only guarantee that tomorrow will be better! Mark Cole and Richard Chancy help us think through how to apply the keys to growth that John shares. They challenge us to define what excellence looks like in our lives, as well as to create space for a monthly growth hour when we can evaluate the previous month, dream for the next one, and develop a daily implementation plan.  We have a special BONUS resource for this series: The 4 Keys to Growth is a keynote address John did for the Live2Lead event. He provides more great content than we can share on the podcast, so we’re providing you with a video of the entire keynote. You can access the video by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/Live2Lead and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” References: Live2Lead 2019 Registration The 15 Invaluable Laws of Growth by John C. Maxwell Today Matters by John C. Maxwell Sometimes You Win, Sometimes You Learn by John C. Maxwell The 15 Laws of Growth Online Course The John Maxwell Online Store

In this conversation between John Maxwell and Mark Cole you will have the opportunity to hear John express his overflowing appreciation for his wonderful Dad, as well as talk about what it means for him to be a father figure in this season of his life and career.   “Father” was John’s word for the year in 2018, and again in 2019. He lives this out by being intentional to bless and empower leaders, love them unconditionally, revel in their successes and provide fatherly counsel to those whom he mentors. Mark shares about the impact this has had on him and many others who have benefited from John’s fatherhood in their life. John and Mark encourage all of us to enjoy and spend time with our families this Father’s Day and to seek out a father figure if we do not have one.   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 Intentional Living by John C. Maxwell  The John Maxwell Online Store 

In part two of The Price Tag of Leadership Series, John walks through the final two truths about self-discipline that explain what makes it the biggest gamechanger in leadership. He reminds us that “Everything worthwhile is uphill––all the way.” But success doesn’t come just by climbing. It’s also dependent on consistency, which is why John warns us in this episode about coasting. Mark Cole and Richard Chancy elaborate on John’s idea that self-discipline is most easily developed in your strengths and passions. They point out that passion is not simply enthusiasm or drive. Instead, it’s what keeps you up at night. As John would say, your passion is the thing that you sing about, cry about, and dream about. The questions is: Are you willing to pay the price to attain it? Our BONUS resource for this series is The Price Tag of Leadership Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/PriceTag and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” This series comes from a portion of John’s Developing the Leader Within You online course. Listen through to the end to hear an exclusive offer on the online course for our podcast listeners! References: Developing the Leader Within You 2.0 by John C. Maxwell Today Matters by John C. Maxwell Leadershift by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

In this new series, John Maxwell discusses the price tag of leadership. If you’re familiar with John at all, you’ve likely heard him say, “Everything worthwhile is uphill––all the way.” That means there is always a cost associated with leadership and success. The hard truth is that the cost is self-discipline.  As John says, the hardest person to lead is yourself. But self-discipline makes all the difference. In part one of this series, John walks through the first three of five truths about self-discipline so you can see what makes it the biggest gamechanger in your own leadership. After John’s lesson, Mark Cole (CEO of The John Maxwell Enterprise) and Richard Chancy consider the role that discipline plays when leaders face criticism. Then they share how self-discipline determines whether your habits serve you or whether you serve your habits. Our BONUS resource for this series is The Price Tag of Leadership Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/PriceTag and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” This series comes from a portion of John’s Developing the Leader Within You online course. Listen through to the end to hear an exclusive offer on the course for our podcast listeners! References: Developing the Leader Within You 2.0 by John C. Maxwell Today Matters by John C. Maxwell Leadershift by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

In this episode, John Maxwell shares five characteristics of a solid relationship. You can use these five characteristics to build a fledgling relationship, repair a damaged one, or sustain a lifelong friendship. The characteristics apply equally to personal and professional relationships, but John is quick to point out that one of the key ingredients to a winning team is the ability to get along. Mark Cole and Richard Chancy talk through each characteristic and how it might look at work, at home, and in their lives as leaders of leaders. They challenge you to be intentional around building positive relationships. The payoff is seeing your team win at higher levels. Our BONUS resource for this series is the Building Relationships Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/Relate and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.”  References: Leadershift by John C. Maxwell 25 Laws to Win with People by John Maxwell and Dr. Les Parrott Winning with People: Discover the People Principles that Work for You Every Time by John Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

John Maxwell teaches that people won’t go along with you unless they can get along with you! It’s as simple (and as difficult) as that. In this episode, John describes the reasons for conflict, the types of team relationships, and why working together increases our chances of winning together.  Mark Cole, the CEO of The Maxwell Enterprise, and Richard Chancy follow John’s lesson with some insights into how this plays out in their day-to-day leadership. They encourage us to recognize the value in all levels of relationships, as well as to think through the type of people we need to be working to build relationships with. Our BONUS resource for this series is the Building Relationships Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/Relate and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” References: Leadershift by John C. Maxwell 25 Laws to Win with People by John Maxwell and Dr. Les Parrott Winning with People: Discover the People Principles that Work for You Every Time by John Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

You are going to want to take notes on this one! By all measures, John has attained the highest levels of success – he has written 106 books and sold 31 million copies of those books, trained leaders in every country in the world, and is working to literally see entire countries transformed! Yet he is not satisfied. John is driven by a passion to add value to people and a sense of anticipation about where he’s going and what he’s going to do next.  In this episode, John shares his secrets to sustaining passion and staying driven. Mark Cole, the CEO of the John Maxwell Enterprise, follows up with a challenge to make sure you not only are inspired by what John teaches, but also will take action on 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: Leadershift by John C. Maxwell The Leadershift Online Course The John Maxwell Online Store

We recently released a brand-new digital course called “Leadershift,” where John C. Maxwell teaches on the 11 Essential Changes Every Leader Must Embrace. The Communication Shift is one of those important changes. In fact, it’s so important that we want to share it with you now. This episode includes John’s lesson from the online course, as well as Mark Cole and Richard Chancy walking through how to apply it.  John readily admits that making the communication shift was not a natural one for him. His upbringing, profession, and personality meant he leaned towards being a leader who directed rather than connected. However, he successfully made the shift, and now he shares the seven keys to connecting, as well as the difference it makes in the effectiveness of your leadership and your organization.  Being highly relational requires a great deal of intentionality. One must be intentional to listen, encourage, ask questions, and be generous—all to build authentic connection. Mark Cole and Richard Chancy walk through what it has looked like for them to put John’s advice into practice and make their own shifts from directing to connecting.   Our BONUS resource for this series is The Communication Shift Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes and exercises from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/connect and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.”  References:  The Leadershift Online Course Leadershift by John C. Maxwell Personality Plus by Florence Littauer Everyone Communicates, Few Connect by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

The John Maxwell Company has just wrapped up its third year of hosting the Maxwell Leadership Pro-Am at the beautiful TPC Sugarloaf. Join us for this unplugged conversation as John Maxwell and Mark Cole reflect on the event, Tiger’s monumental win at the Masters, and leadership principles that can be gleaned from the game of golf.   In today’s conversation, John delves into some key lessons, such as the ability to shift and make adjustments, why Tiger’s comeback was so epic, and what it means to be a rainmaker for your team or organization. It goes beyond charisma and extends to a practice John shares often: “Do something to create an opportunity for someone that they cannot do for themselves.” You don’t want to miss this conversation about golf, leadership, and competing at your best! 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: Leadershift by John C. Maxwell Developing the Leader Within You 2.0 by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

This week we’re sharing part two of a series called “Choosing Significance.” In this second episode, John Maxwell walks through the five areas where we need to get beyond ourselves to experience significance. As John says, one is too small a number for greatness. Mark Cole and Richard Chancy offer insights into how we as leaders can get and grow beyond ourselves. They offer advice on how to develop a purpose that sets us on a course to pursue something bigger than ourselves. Then they ask hard questions like how we get beyond the idea of “I deserve this.” John began this series with the idea that selfishness and significance are incompatible, and we end with the reminder that all leadership begins with giving, not getting.  Our BONUS resource for this series is the Choosing Significance Worksheet that includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/significance and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” References: Leadershift by John C. Maxwell Developing the Leader Within You 2.0 by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

This week we’re launching a new series called “Choosing Significance.” In this first episode, John Maxwell shares that selfishness and significance are incompatible. John discusses the three elements that will determine whether we live out of selfishness or significance: motives, maturity, and mindset. Mark Cole and Richard Chancy follow-up with a discussion about how motives, maturity, and mindset play out in our day-to-day lives, and they share examples of what these elements look like in their own lives at work and at home. They discuss the role of accepting responsibility in becoming a mature leader and end with a challenge to create meaning for someone in a way they can’t do for themselves. Our BONUS resource for this series is the Choosing Significance Worksheet that includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/significance and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” References: Leadershift by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

If you haven’t already heard, we’re sharing occasional, “Candid Conversations” with John as he travels the world teaching leadership. These behind-the-scenes episodes will deliver some of John’s freshest thinking on a variety of topics. Today’s Candid Conversation takes place in Costa Rica, where John, Mark Cole (CEO of The John Maxwell Enterprise), and the team are in the middle of launching country transformation. John shares what is driving transformation, introduces us to several of the leaders making it happen, and offers a challenge for how you can be part of something bigger than yourself. 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 with every regular episode. References: The John Maxwell Leadership Foundation Leadershift by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

Fear of failure is often the toughest hurdle to jump in leadership. In this episode, John Maxwell, Mark Cole, and Richard Chancy flip the idea of failure on its head. Rather than allowing failure to slow down progress or even prevent us from starting in the first place, leaders can use the power of failure to “fail forward.” In this episode, you’ll learn four steps to fail forward. Failure, as Richard points out, is the first step in starting a business. It’s the first step is starting most things. The people you lead are counting on your ability to turn failure into resilience, and it’s a requirement for your growth as a leader. Our BONUS resource for this episode is the Redefining Failure Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/failure and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” References: Failing Forward 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

In this installment of Candid Conversations, John Maxwell and Mark Cole update us on their incredible experience in Washington D.C. where John received the Horatio Alger Award. John reflects on this experience to discuss the importance of partnership. John also teaches on two essentials of developing leaders: equipping and empowering. He points out that equipping leaders results in incremental, positive return; but empowering the people you equip results in exponential return. 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 Horatio Alger Association Leadershift by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

John C. Maxwell says, “Leadership is influence, nothing more, nothing less.” Everyone has some level of influence, which is why John points out that everyone is a leader. But just because you have influence doesn’t mean you’re a good leader. If you want to influence more people and grow your leadership capacity, you must evaluate the quality of your influence. So, in this episode, we’re helping you do exactly that! (This is one episode when you’ll certainly want to have the bonus resource in hand.) John will walk you through five questions and exercises to take inventory and give you a big picture of your influence. At the end of the episode, you’ll have the opportunity to add up your answers and get a score to determine your measure of influence. Our BONUS resource for this series is the Influence Inventory Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes and exercises from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/influence and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” References: Developing the Leader Within You 2.0 by John C. Maxwell Leadershift by John C. Maxwell Becoming a Person of Influence by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

In this special episode, John Maxwell sits down with his good friend Carly Fiorina (former CEO of Hewlett Packard and 2016 U.S. presidential candidate). John and Carly discuss the role that courage plays in leadership and the most common reasons people fail to reach their full potential. Carly’s new book Find Your Way was released April 9, 2019. In the book, Carly points out, “Human potential is the only limitless resource in the world.” If you want to learn how to reach your full potential, Carly’s conversation with John and her new book will inspire and empower you to take this journey. You can order Find Your Way by Carly Fiorina here. Our BONUS resource for this series is the Find Your Way Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John and Carly’s conversation. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/fiorina and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” References: Find Your Way by Carly Fiorina Leadershift by John C. Maxwell CarlyFiorina.com Unlocking Potential Foundation The John Maxwell Online Store

In this installment of Candid Conversations, John Maxwell and Mark Cole sit down in John’s home office to update you on the incredible transformation happening around the world through The John Maxwell Enterprise and its partners. John also shares his gratitude and excitement for being awarded the prestigious Horatio Alger award, an accomplishment that has been a long-time bucket list item for John.  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 Team Maria Christina Foundation Leadershift by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

Success happens when you add value to yourself. But significance happens when you add value to others. That’s what John Maxwell talks about in part two of our series, A Winner’s Daily Mindset. Mark and Richard dive into the difference between successful and unsuccessful people. Then they discuss how good habits and disciplines in a leader’s life compound into success that can lead to significance. Our BONUS resource for this series is A Winner’s Daily Mindset Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/mindset and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.”  References: Leadershift by John C. Maxwell Intentional Living by John C. Maxwell Developing the Leader Within You 2.0 by John C. Maxwell Make Your Bed by Admiral William H. McRaven The John Maxwell Online Store

This week we’re starting a new series called A Winner’s Daily Mindset. In this episode, John Maxwell talks through the first three of six habits. There are many habits that can lead you to success, but the six John shares in this series have helped him in his own 40-year leadership journey. Then Mark Cole and Richard Chancy discuss why continual learning is key to great leadership. As John points out, the moment you stop learning, you stop leading. That’s because leadership is developed, not discovered. Our BONUS resource for this series is A Winner’s Daily Mindset Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/mindset and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” References: Leadershift 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

Last week we announced the addition of new, occasional, bonus episodes called “Candid Conversations” to The John Maxwell Leadership Podcast. We’ve already heard great feedback from our podcast community about the first installment. This week we have another Candid Conversation for you between John Maxwell and Mark Cole. In this conversations John and Mark sit in front of a live-stream social media audience to discuss one of the shifts in John’s newest book, Leadershift. This shift is the “Impact Shift,” which involves shifting from being a trained leader to a transformational leader (a leader who makes a positive impact on the lives of those they influence). This conversation is all about moving, as John says, “from the head to the heart.” Listen now to learn how to be a leader who doesn’t just manage people, but who changes lives. References: Leadershift by John C. Maxwell Developing the Leader Within You 2.0 by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

In this special episode, John Maxwell and Mark Cole sit down with their good friend Don Yaeger. Don is an award-winning keynote speaker, business leadership coach, 11-time New York Times best-selling author, and longtime associate editor for Sports Illustrated.  John and Don talk about their journeys to become great communicators, both on stage and on paper, as well as favorite books they’ve written and what it means to truly be great.   Instead of notes, this week’s BONUS resource is a free preview of Don Yaeger’s online course, Journey to Greatness, which you can access by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/Greatness or by clicking the link in the references below.  References:  Free preview of Journey to Greatness by Don Yaeger  Leadershift by John C. Maxwell  DonYaeger.com  Follow Don Yaeger on Twitter: @DonYaeger  The John Maxwell Online Store 

We’re doing something new with The John Maxwell Leadership Podcast! In addition to our regularly scheduled episodes, we’re giving you occasional, candid conversations with John Maxwell as he travels the world teaching leadership. These behind the scenes episodes will deliver some of John’s freshest thinking on a variety of topics. In this first installment of Candid Conversations, John Maxwell and Mark Cole (CEO of The John Maxwell Enterprise) discuss their experiences and the leadership lessons they gained at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, held in Pebble Beach, CA. John shares his observations about what it takes to build and maintain emotional strength and stability during challenging situations. 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.

In part two of How to Start Successfully, John C. Maxwell shares the final three points you must embrace if you want to make your start a success. Whether it’s a business, a book, or a bucket list item, this episode will help you start off on the right foot. After John’s lesson, your hosts Mark Cole and Jason Brooks discuss the difference between success and significance, and they explore what fuels procrastination. Our BONUS resource for this series is the How to Start Successfully Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/start and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” References: Leadershift by John C. Maxwell The Greatest Story Ever Told by John C. Maxwell Intentional Living by John C. Maxwell Today Matters by John C. Maxwell Grit by Angela Duckworth

John Maxwell says the first person you must learn how to lead is yourself. This week, we’re starting a new series called “How to Start Successfully.” Spring is a time of year when we’re thinking of new beginnings and starting fresh. How you start can set you up for success or set the stage for failure on the rest of your journey. That’s why, in this episode, we’re not just talking about how to start––we’re talking about how to start off right. John will dive into the importance of starting the journey with yourself and starting early. Your host, Mark Cole, is joined by Jason Brooks to talk about the roles that setting priorities and developing your life philosophy play in starting a new endeavor successfully. Our BONUS resource for this series is the How to Start Successfully Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/start and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” References: Leadershift by John C. Maxwell The Greatest Story Ever Told by John C. Maxwell Intentional Living by John C. Maxwell Today Matters by John C. Maxwell Grit by Angela Duckworth

Ed Mylett is a bestselling author and peak performance expert, not to mention a friend of John Maxwell. He invited John on his podcast in January for an in-depth conversation about John’s leadership journey and to talk about John’s new book, Leadershift. Ed’s team was kind enough to let us use this interview on The John Maxwell Leadership Podcast so that you can learn from two of the most influential business leaders as they discuss how to increase your influence and why being intentional with your growth is crucial for your leadership. Be sure to check out the references below to follow Ed Mylett on his podcast and on social media. To get the Bonus Resource for this episode, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from this conversation, visit MaxwellPodcast.com/mylett and click “Download the Bonus Resource.” References: Ed Mylett’s Website Ed Mylett on Instagram: @edmylett Leadershift by John C. Maxwell Put Your Dream to the Test by John C. Maxwell The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership by John C. Maxwell The 17 Indisputable Laws of Teamwork by John C. Maxwell The John Maxwell Online Store

This week we’re continuing our series on The Portrait of a Strong Family. John Maxwell discusses how strong families respond to crisis in a positive way. This episode is for the leader who wants to strengthen their family’s communication and commitment to one another. Jason Brooks joins Mark Cole again to dive deep into John’s teaching and how to apply it to your own family life. This conversation is crucial for leaders who have mistaken their home life for an escape from leadership and responsibility. In fact, family is where leadership is needed the most and counts the most. Our BONUS resource for this series is The Strong Family Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/family and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” References: The Mentor’s Guide to Relationships (download the bonus resource for coupon code) Leadershift by John C. Maxwell Jumpstart Your Priorities by John C. Maxwell The 17 Indisputable Laws of Teamwork by John C. Maxwell

In this episode, we’re talking about family relationships. What makes a strong family? And, what should a leader’s family life look like? In part 1, John discusses the importance of expressing appreciation for each other and structuring your schedule by making family time your priority. Jason Brooks (Content Director of John Maxwell Enterprise) makes his debut on the podcast by guest hosting along with Mark Cole. Both Mark and Jason share the intentional practices they implement in order to keep their families strong, close, and growing together. Our BONUS resource for this series is The Strong Family Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/family and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” References: The Mentor’s Guide to Relationships (download the Bonus Resource for coupon code) Leadershift by John C. Maxwell Jumpstart Your Priorities by John C. Maxwell The 17 Indisputable Laws of Teamwork by John C. Maxwell

In the final installment of this week’s mini-series on John’s new book, Leadershift, we have Ed Bastian, the CEO of Delta Airlines, on the show! John and Ed sit down to discuss Ed’s methods for developing people and creating a healthy culture. Ed also shares some key leadership lessons he’s learned throughout his career and how he prepares himself and his team for crisis situations.   By now, you’ve heard that John C. Maxwell’s new book, Leadershift, is out and already in the hands of growth-minded leaders.    Click here to get your copy!  If you missed either of the previous episodes in this mini-series with Rachel Hollis or Trent Shelton, just visit MaxwellPodcast.com/leadershift and click the link to the episode you missed.  Our BONUS resource for this series is The Leadershift Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/leadershift and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.”  References:  Leadershift by John C. Maxwell  Girl, Stop Apologizing by Rachel Hollis  Developing the Leader Within You by John C. Maxwell  The 15 Invaluable Laws of Growth by John C. Maxwell  Good to Great by Jim Collins  The John Maxwell Online Store  The John Maxwell Leadership Podcast

Today, we’re continuing our mini-series on John’s new book Leadershift, and we’ve got blogger and New York Times bestselling author Rachel Hollis on the show! In this episode, John and Rachel talk about their perspectives on failure and how to stop making excuses. They each pull from principles in their new books, Leadershift and Girl, Stop Apologizing.   To purchase John Maxwell’s new book, Leadershift, click here!  To purchase Rachel Hollis’s new book, Girl, Stop Apologizing, which releases in March of 2019, click here!  We hope you enjoyed John Maxwell’s interview with Trent Shelton yesterday. If you missed that interview or you want to get the notes for this series, you can go to MaxwellPodcast.com/leadershift.   Our BONUS resource for this series is The Leadershift Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/leadershift and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.”  References:  Leadershift by John C. Maxwell  Girl, Stop Apologizing by Rachel Hollis  Developing the Leader Within You by John C. Maxwell  The 15 Invaluable Laws of Growth by John C. Maxwell  Good to Great by Jim Collins  The John Maxwell Online Store  The John Maxwell Leadership Podcast

We are so excited about John’s new book, Leadershift, which releases on February 5, 2019, that we wanted to give you a little something extra this week to celebrate. Recently, John hosted an event with Ed Bastian (the CEO of Delta Airlines), Rachel Hollis (blogger and New York Times bestselling author), and Trent Shelton (former NFL player and motivational speaker). John sat down with each of these leaders for a podcast interview on some of the key principles in the new book. We wanted to celebrate John’s new book by giving you these three interviews over the next three days. In this first bonus episode, John sits down with Trent Shelton to talk about what it takes to inspire and connect with people, how to face your biggest fears, and the secret to Trent’s social media success. Stay tuned tomorrow for John’s interview with Rachel Hollis. Click here to order John’s book, Leadershift. Our BONUS resource for this series is The Leadershift Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/leadershift and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” References: Leadershift by John C. Maxwell Girl, Stop Apologizing by Rachel Hollis Developing the Leader Within You by John C. Maxwell The 15 Invaluable Laws of Growth by John C. Maxwell Good to Great by Jim Collins The John Maxwell Online Store The John Maxwell Leadership Podcast

Are you a leader or just a manager? According to John C. Maxwell, a manager’s goal is to do things right. A leader’s goal is to do the right things. In this episode, we’re continuing our discussion on moving from ordinary to extraordinary as a leader. John touches on the importance of realism, change, thinking, attitude, and planning in the journey to becoming extraordinary. Mark and Richard follow up with a discussion on the balance between realism and creativity. How does a leader embrace realistic thinking without smothering the creative fire? They also explore why most people have the “if it isn’t broken, don’t fix it” mentality––a mentality that thwarts innovation and change. Our BONUS resource for this series is the Ordinary to Extraordinary Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/extraordinary and clicking “Download the Bonus Resource.” References: Thinking for a Change by John C. Maxwell Put Your Dream to the Test by John C. Maxwell No Limits by John C. Maxwell Developing the Leader Within You by John C. Maxwell Leadershift by John C. Maxwell (pre-order) The John Maxwell Online Store The John Maxwell Leadership Podcast