In this episode, EOS Implementer Dave Feidner joins the show to explore two key themes: the power of core values and the concept of the flywheel, borrowed from Jim Collins’ Good to Great. Dave shares personal reflections and professional insights on how organizations can use EOS tools to build traction and create meaningful, sustainable momentum.
He emphasizes the importance of intellectual discipline, clarity, and iterative refinement—especially when it comes to defining a company’s purpose and values. Host Jamie shares his own EOS journey and how Wonder’s core values evolved over time, reinforcing the idea that values should be tested, lived, and continuously refined.
Together, they discuss how authentic culture, consistent alignment, and leadership humility are essential to building strong internal brands and long-lasting organizational health.
Key Topics:
- The flywheel is different from the proven process—it’s your business model’s virtuous cycle.
- Intellectual discipline is required to define a flywheel effectively.
- Core values are often misunderstood or misapplied; they must be lived, not just stated.
- Level 5 Leadership includes humility and vulnerability—leaders must invite accountability.
- EOS tools like Delegate & Elevate and Clarity Breaks are underused but powerful for growth.
Chapters:
0:18 – Intro to Dave Feidner and EOS freestyle conversation kickoff
1:10 – Dave introduces the concept of the flywheel and why it matters
2:14 – Dave’s EOS background and experience in building companies
4:06 – Clarifying the difference between the EOS proven process and the flywheel
5:05 – When teams are ready for the flywheel: only after core EOS tools are solid
6:30 – Amazon’s flywheel example and the role of intellectual discipline
9:00 – Dave’s personal flywheel: wisdom → relationships → referrals → clients
12:06 – Aligning unique ability with flywheel design for sustainable energy
14:09 – Jamie shares his journey building brands from the inside out
16:01 – How core values are the foundation of a company’s brand and identity
23:00 – Real core values show up (or disappear) during moments of team conflict
25:00 – Story of “diplomacy” being misused as avoidance in a client team
28:00 – The importance of precise wording: values like “courageous conversation”
30:00 – Level 5 Leadership in action: visionaries inviting accountability
34:00 – Wonder’s evolution: changing a core value from “own it” to “get it done”
37:00 – EOS creates the structure to revisit, refine, and recommit to core values
40:00 – Strong values reduce organizational drama and misalignment
41:27 – Most underrated EOS tools: Clarity Breaks and Delegate & Elevate
44:06 – Dave’s ideal clients: growth-focused, purpose-driven leaders; how to reach him