The Jon Gordon Podcast

In this episode of Positive Leadership Wednesday, I tackle the tough topic of divisiveness within teams. I share practical strategies to address the root causes behind team conflicts and reveal why simply ignoring or patching over disagreements rarely leads to lasting harmony. Learn how to foster real connection, build trust, and create an environment where everyone feels valued, even when there's...

In this episode, I dive into the impact of leading with optimism and how it transforms teams from the inside out. I'll share why positivity isn't just a "nice to have," but a powerful driver for overcoming challenges and building a winning culture. You'll hear my take on practical ways you can bring more encouragement, belief, and purpose into your own leadership style. If these ideas strike a cho...

Have you ever felt like there's a book in you that needs to be written? Do you have a story and message you want to share with the world? Have you wanted to write and publish a book but weren't sure how to do it and felt overwhelmed with all the different options? I've been there. I know what it's like to be filled with excitement thinking about a book I want to write only to get stuck the minute...

In this episode of Positive Leadership Wednesday, I tackle what to do when your team is driving you up the wall. I break down the common frustrations leaders face and reveal why your reaction can make all the difference. Learn practical ways to shift your mindset, navigate tough moments, and turn team tensions into opportunities for growth. If this speaks to your experience, share it with a fellow...

In this episode of Positive Mindset Monday, I talk about "the habit before the habit", that crucial first step we often overlook on our journey to building lasting change. I share insights on why so many of us struggle to create new habits, and how simply getting started with an entry-level commitment makes all the difference. I get honest about the power of momentum, and how stacking small wins g...

If you're ready to take your leadership to the next level, this episode is for you.   In this episode I join John C. Maxwell on his podcast, the Maxwell Leadership Podcast , to break down the three things every leader needs to thrive: a clear mission, a strong team, and a meaningful scoreboard. We dig into the importance of purpose, the power of relationships, and how to measure the impact that re...

In this episode of Positive Leadership Wednesday, I dig into why the real issue is often deeper than it appears, "the thing you think is the thing, is not the thing." I explain how challenges like employee turnover usually stem from deeper problems, like hiring practices, engagement, and relationships. Discover why looking beyond the surface helps you solve the right problems and lead more effecti...

In this episode of Positive Mindset Monday, I dive into the importance of valuing others, even those we disagree with. In a world filled with division and anger, I share how turning pain into purpose and focusing on love, not hate, can make a real difference. You'll hear why acknowledging everyone's inherent worth is essential, and how loving our enemies helps us become better, more compassionate...

I believe the greatest source of a leader's power isn't strategy, talent, or even hard work… it's prayer. In this episode, I'm sharing something most leaders rarely talk about, yet it's been the true foundation of my success and impact: the power of a praying leader. Prayer has transformed my mindset, healed my soul, strengthened my marriage, and given me the wisdom and courage to lead and serve o...

In this episode of Positive Leadership Wednesday, I explore what it really means to be a demanding leader, without being demeaning. I share why being positive doesn't mean being weak or letting standards slide. Instead, I talk about how the best leaders expect the best from their teams and hold everyone accountable, but always in a supportive, uplifting way. I'll tell you how you can call people u...

In this episode of Positive Mindset Monday, I share a powerful message: "Be a shark instead of a goldfish." In today's world, it's not enough to wait for opportunities to come to us, we need to actively seek them out. I'll explain why shifting from a passive mindset to an intentional, opportunity-driven approach is key to succeeding in the current environment. Discover what it means to be a "nice...

On this episode of The Jon Gordon Podcast, I'm joined by Cornell lacrosse head coach and now national champion, Connor Buczek for an incredible conversation about legacy, leadership, and building a championship culture. If you want to know what it really takes to transform heartbreak into triumph after 48 long years without a title, this is the episode for you. We dive deep into the values that de...

In this episode of Positive Leadership Wednesday, I dive into the power of resilient leadership with a story about building a house in hurricane-prone Florida. You'll hear how the strength of a single roof tile can make or break a home, just as one person can impact an entire team. I'll discuss why it's so crucial to establish a strong foundation and culture so your organization can weather life's...

In this episode of Positive Mindset Monday, I share 20 practical ways to become mentally tough, inspired by lessons from my book, Training Camp . Whether you're facing setbacks, doubting yourself, or feeling overwhelmed, these proven strategies will help you build resilience, embrace adversity, and stay positive, no matter the circumstances. I'll walk you through the powerful habits and mindset sh...

On this episode of The Jon Gordon Podcast, I'm joined by Jill Schulman, author, former Marine, and a true thought leader on the psychology of bravery. Jill just released her powerful new book, The Bravery Effect , and together we dive deep into what it really means to be brave in today's world. We get personal right away, exploring the difference between bravery and courage, and why Jill believes...

In this episode of Positive Leadership, I share an important reminder: "Don't let the good get in the way of great." As leaders, we're constantly presented with opportunities and distractions, but I believe the key to true success is prioritizing what matters most. I'll talk about why it's essential to focus on what will make you and your team great, not just good, and how this clarity can lead to...

Kick off your week with a burst of encouragement in this episode of Positive Mindset Monday! Today, you'll discover why critics and naysayers shouldn't have the final say in your journey. Explore the vital mindset shift that empowers dreamers, doers, and believers to transform challenges into stepping stones for success. Learn how to build resilience in the face of negativity and why staying focus...

On this episode of The Jon Gordon Podcast, I sit down with Sara Hardwick from Giftology to dive deep into the legacy of our great friend and Giftology founder, John Ruhlin. Sara opens up about how the Giftology team has carried on John's mission of generosity, relationship-building, and faith following his unexpected passing.   We explore the powerful "return on relationships" philosophy that made...

In this episode of Positive Leadership Wednesday, we explore how creating the right environment can transform your team and your results. Inspired by a story about organic lawn care, I'll share why building a thriving culture allows your people, and your organization, to naturally flourish. When you focus on spreading positivity and cultivating a place where team members can grow, you leave no roo...

Start your week with a powerful dose of encouragement on this episode of Positive Mindset Monday! If you've been feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, or just run down by the demands of life and work, you're not alone and there's a way to rise above it. This episode dives into the true source of lasting energy: reconnecting with your purpose and mission. Discover how remembering your "why" can reignite...

In this episode of Positive Leadership Wednesday, I explore why positive leadership is the true competitive advantage in any team or organization. Drawing from real-world stories and history's greatest change-makers, I explain how optimism and belief empower leaders to overcome adversity and inspire those around them. Positive leadership isn't about ignoring challenges, it's about seeing what's po...

On this episode of The Jon Gordon Podcast, I sit down with my good friend Mac Lake for an honest, funny, and deeply meaningful conversation about faith, leadership, and purpose. Mac shares his journey from a shy kid in a tiny West Virginia town, to becoming a pastor, leadership developer, and the father of chart-topping Christian artist Brandon Lake   We talk about the setbacks, faith steps, and e...

Start off your week with a new perspective on this Positive Mindset Monday! This episode dives into the power of thinking like a rookie, embracing big dreams, asking bold questions, and believing that anything is possible. You'll hear a motivating story about how approaching challenges with curiosity and optimism, instead of limiting beliefs, can lead to surprising wins and new opportunities. Disc...

On this episode of The Jon Gordon Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Samuel Wilkinson from Yale for a truly fascinating and thought-provoking conversation about the intersection of science, faith, and evolution. Dr. Wilkinson shares the journey that inspired his book, Purpose: What Evolution and Human Nature Imply About the Meaning of Our Existence , and together we dig into some of life's deepest quest...

In this episode for Positive Leadership Tip Wednesday, we dive into the concept of a "caring trademark", that unique, personal way leaders show their team they truly care. Hear real-life examples, from handwritten thank you notes to incredible acts of kindness, and discover why having your own caring trademark sets you apart as a leader. You'll be inspired to find and nurture your own authentic wa...