9 Leadership Lessons on Trust, Stewardship, and Vision
If you didn’t catch all of July’s Substack posts, you’re in luck — here’s a quick recap of the wisdom I shared so you can jump straight to the topics that matter most to you. Whether you’re leading in the boardroom, the break room, or in your community, these articles are designed to sharpen your skills, challenge your thinking, and keep leadership personal.
From vision and trust to stewardship, service, and the power of “yes,” here’s what I explored on Make It Personal! last month.
a message about vision for Independence Day
In 1776, John Adams wrote to his wife about a vision for a united America — one worth celebrating for generations to come. What does that have to do with your leadership? Everything. In this piece, I explore how courage, commitment, and seeing beyond today’s struggles can unite your team toward a greater goal.
The ways leaders chip away at trust
Trust is the foundation of any high-performing team, but it’s easier to erode than you think. From policies that feel impersonal to communication missteps, I unpack the subtle ways leaders lose trust and how to protect it.
Just because the boss is lousy doesn’t mean you have to be
We’ve all worked for a bad boss. But their shortcomings don’t have to define your performance. Here’s how I recommend you rise above toxic leadership, set your own standard of excellence, and make a positive impact, even in less-than-ideal circumstances. It's called leading up!
what and who are you a steward of?
Leadership is temporary, stewardship is eternal. In this blog, I challenge you to think about what’s been entrusted to you and how to lead with accountability, selflessness, and respect for the mission and the people you serve.
making the case for the ‘yes man/woman’
The “Yes Man” has a bad reputation, but maybe it’s time for a rebrand. I share why saying “yes” (most of the time) isn’t a weakness, but a powerful way to solve problems, build trust, and help your team win.
Stories which cannot be told
Some experiences can’t be fully explained, especially for veterans returning to civilian life. I shared a friend’s story and offered insight on why transition is so hard, what veterans wish you knew, and how we can all listen better.
Leaders, look ‘em in the eye!
Eye contact isn’t just about being polite. Here's why looking people in the eye can transform your leadership and your relationships.
Ask the colonel! - Questions from the field
Real leaders. Real challenges. I answer reader-submitted questions about unmotivated teammates, setting priorities, showing empathy without losing focus, and more. My paid subscribers on Substack have the opportunity to ask their questions, so subscribe if you want yours answered too.
Some leadership decisions aren’t about right versus wrong, but two rights colliding. Using an ethical dilemma inspired by Rushworth Kidder’s How Good People Make Tough Choices, I challenge you to think about your values, your team, and how you’d decide.
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