In this conversation, Cole Russell and Desi Mayner explore the intersection of sports and leadership, discussing how experiences in athletics shape personal development and leadership skills. Desi shares his journey from being an athlete to becoming a leadership coach, emphasizing the importance of accountability, communication, and teamwork. They delve into the challenges of transitioning from tactical to strategic leadership and the impact of effective leadership on teams and individuals. The discussion highlights the significance of self-leadership and the legacy that leaders can create through their influence.

Takeaways:

• Leadership is a skill that can be learned and trained.
• Self-leadership is crucial for effective leadership of others.
• Accountability is the foundation of good leadership.
• Communication is key to successful leadership.
• Developing people into leaders is essential for team success.
• Culture within a team or organization is vital for cohesion.
• Leaders must prioritize and execute effectively.
• Innovation and adaptability are necessary for growth.
• Building relationships and trust is fundamental to teamwork.
• The impact of a leader extends beyond the workplace to personal lives.

Chapters:

00:00 The Journey Begins: Sports and Early Lessons

04:26 Diverse Athletic Background: The Power of Multi-Sport Participation

11:24 Leadership in Sports: From Self-Leadership to Team Dynamics

20:52 Transitioning to College: The Shift from Follower to Leader

24:59 The Pressure of Performance: Balancing Leadership and Expectations

34:59 Chasing the Dream: The Path to Professional Sports

41:30 Reflecting on the Journey

43:14 Transitioning from Player to Coach

50:37 The Art of Leadership

56:36 Developing Leadership Laws

01:03:35 The Impact of Leadership

01:14:37 Key Traits of Effective Leadership

01:19:15 Introduction to Leadership Strategies

01:19:41 Engagement and Community Building

01:20:10 Call to Action for Leadership Development

In this conversation, Kyle Henson, an energy expert, discusses the concept of energy and its significance in leadership. He emphasizes the importance of understanding energy, how it affects our daily lives, and the role it plays in effective leadership. Henson shares his personal journey of overcoming energy depletion and highlights practical strategies for managing energy, including the development of an energy acronym: Empower, Nurture, Examine, Resilience, Growth, and You. The discussion also covers the importance of self-reflection, resilience, and personal growth in leadership, providing actionable insights for listeners to enhance their energy and effectiveness as leaders.

Takeaways:

• Energy is what we give life to.
• Energy can be emotional, spiritual, and physical.
• Leaders must be aware of their energy and its impact on others.
• Energy management is about understanding what drains and gains energy.
• Personal experiences shape our understanding of energy.
• Resilience is key to bouncing back from challenges.
• Growth requires stepping out of comfort zones.
• Self-care is essential for effective leadership.
• Reflection on personal energy is crucial for development.
• Energy can be trained and improved over time.

Chapters:

00:00 Understanding Energy: The Foundation

02:58 The Importance of Energy in Leadership

06:00 Personal Journey: Finding Purpose and Energy

08:53 Time vs. Energy: A Leadership Perspective

11:54 Training Energy: The Power of Neuroplasticity

14:53 The Energy Acronym: Empower, Nurture, Examine, Resilience, Growth, You

22:37 Nurturing Leadership: Supporting Individual Growth

23:52 Examining Mindsets: The Power of Self-Reflection

26:50 Resilience in Adversity: Overcoming Challenges

30:44 Growth Through Adversity: The Path to Self-Improvement

34:43 The Energy of Leadership: Choices and Reflections

In this insightful conversation, Desi Mayner interviews Chuck Russell, a seasoned entrepreneur, about the essential elements of running a successful small service business. They discuss the importance of vision boarding, effective business planning, and the PEST analysis framework. Chuck shares his experiences, emphasizing the need for introspection, strategic planning, and financial acumen. The conversation highlights the significance of involving key personnel in planning processes and the dynamic nature of business management. In this conversation, Desi Mayner and Chuck Russell explore the significant social and technological changes affecting businesses today, including the impact of COVID-19 and the rise of AI. They discuss strategic planning frameworks like SWOT and PEST, emphasizing the importance of understanding both internal and external factors. The conversation also delves into the role of pride and ego in leadership, highlighting the need for introspection and humility. Finally, they engage in a lightning round of quick business insights, providing actionable advice for business owners.

Takeaways:

• Vision boarding is essential for both personal and business growth.
• Setting clear long-term goals helps in planning and execution.
• Introspection is crucial for understanding personal and business objectives.
• Business planning should involve key personnel for better insights.
• Zero-based budgeting allows for a fresh start each year.
• Regularly reviewing expenses can uncover unnecessary costs.
• Dynamic financial reporting is vital for timely decision-making.
• Involving management in financial planning fosters accountability.
• Understanding both leadership and financial acumen is key to success.
• PEST analysis helps in understanding external factors affecting business. Social changes like COVID-19 have reshaped business environments.
• Gen Z's entry into the workforce is significant for businesses.
• AI will impact every aspect of business operations.
• Management by objective helps in achieving clear goals.
• Comparison with others can be detrimental to business leaders.
• It's important to stay grounded and not believe in one's own hype.
• Onboarding processes are crucial for small businesses.
• Strong relationships with spouses can help leaders stay humble.
• Ego can lead to poor decision-making and lost profits.
• Having a clear vision is essential for business success.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Business Insights

03:54 The Importance of Vision Boarding

11:53 Introspection and Goal Setting

19:55 Business Planning Essentials

27:00 Dynamic Financial Management

36:40 PEST Analysis for Business Strategy

46:39 SWOT Analysis and Management by Objectives

52:01 Effective Management Strategies

54:43 The Role of Pride and Ego in Business

01:09:29 Lightning Round: Quick Business Insights

In this conversation, Desi Mayner and Mike Lay discuss the complexities of navigating transitions in leadership, particularly through a merger. Mike shares his experiences and insights on the emotional aspects of change, the importance of communication, and the need for trust and transparency within teams. They explore the challenges of leading through uncertainty, the necessity of setting clear expectations, and the value of feedback in ensuring a smooth transition. Mike emphasizes the significance of building relationships and maintaining a people-first approach during times of change, ultimately highlighting that while transitions can be daunting, they also present opportunities for growth and development.

Takeaways:

• Transition is a broad term that encompasses various changes in leadership.
• Mergers can be a significant transition, requiring careful planning and execution.
• Emotions play a crucial role in how leaders and teams respond to change.
• Setting clear expectations is vital for effective communication during transitions.
• Trust and transparency are essential for maintaining team morale.
• Feedback loops help leaders understand the impact of changes on their teams.
• Building relationships with team members fosters loyalty and commitment.
• Hard conversations are necessary but can be approached with empathy and understanding.
• Leaders must balance the need for communication with the realities of operational changes.
• The human side of leadership is critical in navigating transitions successfully.

Chapters:

00:00 Navigating Transitions in Leadership

03:04 The Merger Journey: Challenges and Opportunities

06:00 Leading Through Change: Communication Strategies

08:55 Building Trust During Transitions

11:59 Setting Expectations and Non-Negotiables

15:05 Hard Conversations: Negotiation and Decision-Making

18:00 Evolving Leadership: Confidence in New Roles

23:28 The Importance of Leadership and Accountability

24:49 Building Deeper Relationships with Teams

26:49 Understanding Human Needs in Business

27:52 Navigating Change and Transition

30:34 Setting Expectations During Transitions

33:41 Key Plays for Successful Transitions

37:00 Lessons Learned from Transition Experiences

40:27 Final Thoughts on Leadership and Change

In this engaging conversation, Desi Mayner and Shon Hart explore the intersection of leadership and fatherhood, emphasizing the importance of emotional presence, healing, and service. They discuss the challenges of balancing business and family life, the evolving role of fathers in the next generation, and practical tips for being a present and effective dad. Shon shares his journey of building the Involved Dad organization, highlighting the significance of understanding one's assignment and the impact of mentorship. The discussion culminates in a lightning round of quick insights, offering listeners actionable takeaways for their own lives.

Takeaways:

• Chase your assignment and serve others.
• Emotional presence is crucial for fathers.
• Communication with family about work expectations is key.
• Balancing business and family requires intentionality.
• Fathers today are more involved and emotionally present.
• Healing is a vital part of fatherhood.
• Understanding your role as a father is essential.
• Work hard, but be present at home.
• Children need to know they have access to their parents.
• The impact of a father is felt through actions, not just words.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Shon Hart's Journey

07:06 The Birth of Involved Dad

13:07 Working with Your Spouse

19:02 Empowering the Next Generation of Fathers

27:30 Challenging Stereotypes of Fatherhood

40:24 Balancing Work and Family Life

47:08 Lightning Round: Insights on Fatherhood

51:54 Introduction to Leadership Strategies

52:19 Engagement and Community Building

52:48 Call to Action for Leadership Development

In this episode of Gameplan Leadership, Desi Mayner interviews Olivia Sanders, an educator turned entrepreneur, who shares her journey of transitioning from teaching to founding a coffee company that supports special needs students. They discuss the challenges of leadership, the importance of systems and processes, and the value of developing people over merely managing tasks. Olivia emphasizes the need for a supportive community and the significance of having a clear mission in business. The conversation culminates in a lightning round where Olivia shares her insights on leadership traits, lessons learned from students, and advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Takeaways:

• Leadership requires a clear mission and vision.
• Transitioning from education to entrepreneurship can be challenging but rewarding.
• Building relationships is key to effective leadership.
• Creating opportunities for special needs students is essential.
• Systems and processes help reinforce training and accountability.
• Developing people is more important than managing tasks.
• Having a supportive community is crucial for success.
• Embrace the journey and be open to pivoting when necessary.
• Grace and understanding are vital in leadership roles.
• Seek wise counsel and avoid surrounding yourself with 'yes' people.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Leadership and Personal Journey

04:09 The Challenges of Inclusion in Education

07:06 Transitioning from Teaching to Leadership

10:10 Founding a Coffee Company with a Mission

12:53 Building a Program for Transitional Skills

16:06 Navigating Vision to Execution

18:58 Leadership Lessons from Special Needs Education

24:41 Gentle Bluntness in Communication

27:32 Setting Expectations and Pre-Correcting

28:56 Developing People Over Task Management

31:56 Building Relationships and Respect in Leadership

34:36 The Importance of Systems and Processes

39:26 Lightning Round: Insights and Fun Questions

46:07 Introduction to Leadership Strategies

46:32 Engagement and Community Building

47:02 Call to Action for Leadership Development

In this conversation, Desi Mayner and Will Spence discuss the critical role of managed IT services for small businesses, emphasizing the importance of proactive IT solutions, cybersecurity awareness, and user education. They explore the concept of tech debt, the necessity of regular hardware upgrades, and the significance of risk assessments in identifying vulnerabilities. The discussion also highlights the challenges of remote work security and the emerging threats in the cybersecurity landscape, ultimately advocating for a zero trust framework and the need for managed IT service providers to ensure business safety and efficiency. In this conversation, Desi Mayner and Will Spence discuss the importance of tracking fleet vehicles, managing cybersecurity risks, and budgeting for IT security in small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs). They emphasize the significance of reputation in cybersecurity, the role of AI in enhancing business productivity, and the future dynamics of AI and the workforce. The discussion also includes a rapid-fire tech round where they share insights on essential tech tools and common mistakes made by SMBs.

Takeaways:

• Managed IT services should be proactive, not reactive.
• Tech debt can severely impact productivity.
• Regular hardware upgrades are essential for efficiency.
• Risk assessments help identify vulnerabilities in businesses.
• User education is crucial for cybersecurity awareness.
• Remote work poses unique security challenges.
• Email remains a significant attack vector for cyber threats.
• A zero trust framework is vital for securing remote access.
• Cybersecurity threats are evolving and becoming more sophisticated.
• Managed IT service providers are essential for small business success. GPS tracking can significantly reduce costs and improve efficiency.
• Cyber liability insurance is becoming essential for businesses.
• Budgeting for IT security is crucial for SMBs.
• Reputation is a key concern in cybersecurity incidents.
• AI is underused in many businesses and can enhance productivity.
• Investing in technology can lead to better ROI through increased productivity.
• Regular risk assessments are necessary for maintaining security.
• Education and training of employees are vital for cybersecurity.
• Managed IT services can help businesses stay secure and compliant.
• AI can automate tasks and improve decision-making processes.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Managed IT Services

02:50 Proactive IT Solutions for Small Businesses

06:06 Understanding Tech Debt and Hardware Upgrades

09:01 Risk Assessments and Cybersecurity Awareness

11:58 The Importance of User Education in Cybersecurity

15:00 Remote Work Security Challenges

18:05 Emerging Cybersecurity Threats

20:55 Email Security and User Education

23:57 Securing Mobile Devices and Vehicles

27:58 Tracking and Managing Fleet Vehicles

30:06 Cybersecurity and Risk Management for SMBs

31:03 Budgeting for IT Security

35:41 The Importance of Reputation in Cybersecurity

36:10 Rapid Fire Tech Round

37:27 The Role of AI in Business

45:08 Future of AI and Workforce Dynamics

Summary:

In this episode of Game Plan Leadership, Desi Mayner and networking expert Will Stiverson discuss the critical role of networking in business success. They explore effective strategies for building personal brands, the importance of community involvement, and the art of following up after networking events. Stiverson emphasizes the need for genuine connections and serving others as the foundation for successful networking. The conversation also touches on the significance of social capital and how to approach networking events with a strategic mindset.

Takeaways:

• Networking is essential for business growth.
• Building personal relationships is more important than the brand.
• Community involvement enhances networking opportunities.
• Follow up with genuine interest after initial meetings.
• Serve others to build social capital.
• Consistency in networking leads to better results.
• Join committees to maximize networking potential.
• Be present and engaged in conversations.
• Ask open-ended questions to foster connections.
• Invest time in networking to see significant returns.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Networking Strategies

03:05 Defining Networking and Its Importance

06:03 Building Relationships Through Community Involvement

11:05 The Role of Personal Branding in Networking

15:03 Mindset and Approach to Networking Events

25:16 Tactical Tips for Networking Effectively

26:40 Sponsorship Opportunities and Budgeting for Networking

28:22 Building Relationships Through Networking

30:09 The Importance of Remembering Names

32:47 Staying Present in Networking Events

33:47 Following Up to Build Relationships

38:44 Time Commitment for Networking

42:15 Rapid Fire Networking Tips

48:43 Introduction to Leadership Strategies

49:08 Engagement and Community Building

49:38 Call to Action for Leadership Development

In this episode, Desi Mayner and Desiree Martinez delve into the intricacies of leadership and marketing strategies tailored for service businesses. They discuss the importance of understanding marketing fundamentals, conducting self-audits, identifying target audiences, and evaluating current marketing efforts. The conversation emphasizes the need for a clear marketing strategy that aligns with business goals and the significance of taking actionable steps to enhance marketing effectiveness. Desiree shares practical advice on how to approach marketing in a structured manner, ensuring that business owners can effectively connect with their audience and drive growth.

Takeaways:

• In order to get more money, you need to spend some money.
• Marketing is not just one thing; it encompasses various channels.
• Being clear about your business and audience is crucial.
• You must know who you want to work with, not just who you can work with.
• Conducting a marketing self-audit helps identify strengths and weaknesses.
• Your website is the foundation of your marketing efforts.
• Marketing is a long-term game that requires patience.
• You are your most important customer; prioritize your needs.
• Effective marketing requires a cohesive strategy across all platforms.
• Investing in marketing can lead to greater business success.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Marketing Challenges

02:13 Understanding Marketing in Service Businesses

04:19 Conducting a Marketing Self-Audit

10:47 Evaluating Current Marketing Efforts

16:13 Future Planning and Marketing Strategies

19:29 Balancing Customer Needs and Business Health

22:06 Networking: Building Relationships and Staying Top of Mind

26:45 The Importance of a Strong Website

30:17 Marketing as a Long-Term Strategy

32:46 Tactical Steps for Business Growth

34:24 Introduction to Leadership Strategies

34:49 Engagement and Community Building

35:18 Call to Action for Leadership Development

In our 50th epidose we brought on someone special, Pastor Jim WIegand. Desi Mayner and Pastor Jim Wiegand delve into the themes of purpose, leadership, and personal growth. They discuss the importance of understanding one's passion, pain, and proficiency as a means to discover purpose. Pastor Jim emphasizes the role of mentorship in leadership and the necessity of accountability in achieving personal goals. The conversation also highlights the significance of dreaming and planning for a better future, encouraging listeners to take actionable steps towards their aspirations.

Takeaways:

• People need more faith in their life.
• Everyone is created for a reason.
• Life without purpose is unsatisfying.
• Engaging your pain can lead to purpose.
• Your passion, pain, and proficiency intersect to define your purpose.
• Mentorship is crucial for personal growth.
• You need accountability to achieve your dreams.
• Dreaming is essential for envisioning a better future.
• Life is a series of dots that God connects.
• You can achieve your goals with hard work and mentorship.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to the Conversation

03:59 Exploring Purpose and Leadership

07:19 The Importance of Passion, Pain, and Proficiency

10:11 Finding Your Sweet Spot

13:03 Engaging with Pain for Purpose

16:17 The Role of Leadership in Personal Growth

19:04 Transformative Questions for Self-Discovery

24:15 The Importance of Mentorship and Correction

27:37 Understanding Passion, Pain, and Proficiency

29:00 The Power of Imagination and Dreaming

31:51 Connecting Life's Dots and Finding Purpose

36:05 Living Fully and Embracing Risk

40:50 From Wishes to Plans: The Path to Action

48:31 Introduction to Leadership Strategies

48:55 Engagement and Community Building

49:25 Call to Action for Leadership Development

In this conversation, Desi Mayner and Ed Koledo delve into the intricacies of decision-making in leadership, drawing from Ed's extensive experience in both military and educational settings. They explore pivotal moments in leadership, the importance of understanding problems, and the tactical processes involved in making effective decisions. The discussion emphasizes the need for stakeholder involvement, maintaining authority, and mitigating risks throughout the decision-making process. Ed shares valuable lessons learned from his experiences, including the significance of empathy and support in leadership roles.

Takeaways:

• Decision-making is crucial in leadership roles.
• Military experience can enhance decision-making skills.
• Understanding the problem is the first step in decision-making.
• Involving stakeholders fosters buy-in and collaboration.
• A structured decision-making process is essential.
• Risk mitigation is a key component of effective decision-making.
• Authority must be maintained while involving others in decisions.
• Empathy is important when leading peers through challenges.
• Assumptions can lead to significant risks in decision-making.
• Continuous assessment and adaptation are necessary in leadership.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Decision-Making in Leadership

04:17 Pivotal Moments in Leadership

07:09 Understanding the Problem

13:28 Tactical Decision-Making Process

24:00 Finalizing Decisions and Key Tasks

25:55 Mission Essential Tasks and Decision Making

30:49 Maintaining Authority in Leadership

33:41 Risk Mitigation in Decision Making

41:07 Navigating Friction Points in Leadership

45:48 Lessons from Leadership Experiences

49:58 Introduction to Leadership Strategies

50:22 Engagement and Community Building

50:52 Call to Action for Leadership Development

In this conversation, Desi Mayner discusses the transition from sports coaching to business mindset coaching, emphasizing the importance of leadership, empowerment, and accountability in small businesses. He shares insights on navigating challenges, the significance of self-awareness, and the role of vulnerability in effective leadership. The discussion highlights the complexities of team dynamics and the necessity of clear communication and feedback. Desi also reflects on personal growth and the impact of leadership on families and communities, advocating for a culture of support and understanding in both business and personal life.

Takeaways:

• Desi transitioned from coaching athletes to coaching small business leaders.
• Leadership in small business is akin to building a sports team.
• Empowering employees is crucial for effective leadership.
• Commitment and accountability are key to business success.
• Navigating risks is essential for growth and innovation.
• Simplicity in communication enhances leadership effectiveness.
• Feedback should be a continuous process in organizations.
• Vulnerability in leadership fosters trust and connection.
• Self-awareness is a superpower for leaders and team members.
• Building relationships is fundamental to successful leadership.

Chapters:

00:00 The Entrepreneurial Journey and Client Relationships

06:53 Pivoting from Sports to Business Coaching

10:10 Leadership Lessons from Sports

13:15 Empowering Leaders and Their Teams

16:03 The Importance of Client Fit

19:15 Behavior Change and Client Commitment

22:11 Navigating Challenges and Embracing Risk

25:00 Evaluating Business Needs and Client Expectations

28:10 Growth Through Adversity and Continuous Improvement

31:29 Mastering Focus and Simplicity in Business

34:08 The Importance of Clear Communication

37:12 Setting Expectations and Accountability

41:06 Vulnerability and Leadership

45:08 Unity and Team Dynamics

49:20 Empowering Female Leadership

52:01 Chasing Purpose Over Profit

54:51 Building a Strong Organizational Foundation

01:01:35 Building Relationships with Different Personalities

01:04:45 Effective Delegation and Leadership

01:08:04 The Importance of Mentorship

01:11:47 Leadership at Home and in Business

01:13:57 The Value of Commitment and Investment

01:16:56 Learning Through Experience and Awareness

01:19:48 The Power of Stories in Leadership

01:22:52 Authenticity and Personal Growth

01:30:23 Introduction to Leadership Strategies

01:30:48 Engagement and Community Building

01:31:17 Call to Action for Leadership Development

Episode 32

Episode 31

Episode 30

Episode 29

Episode 28

Episode 27

Episode 26

Episode 25