1st Lead U - Leadership Development

John Ballinger

This podcast, now in Season 2,  is dedicated to self-development, self-awareness, and learning to lead oneself so listeners can lead others well.  If someone cannot lead themselves well, it will be difficult for them to be an effective leader of others.  This podcast will help listeners understand what it means to 1st Lead U and build confidence in themselves and their leadership ability.  Personal Growth Coach John Ballinger has spent 35 years developing the knowledge and material he shares with individuals, business owners, and leaders from a variety of areas.

read less
BusinessBusiness

Episodes

Crumbling Pillars - Ep 216
May 7 2024
Crumbling Pillars - Ep 216
Text us. Share your thoughts. Ask Questions. We would love to hear from you. Ready to confront the glaring cracks in the foundations of our society? Join John Ballinger and Douglas Ford,  as we wrap up our series with an unflinching look at the crumbled state of faith, family, businesses, and government. This episode is not just a discussion; it's a call to action for all current and aspiring leaders to recognize the dire need for resilience in mending the broken pillars of our community.Witness the convergence of various societal shifts as we analyze the transformative trends in family dynamics and the quest for diversity in the workplace that is redefining our norms. Our conversation sheds light on the pervasive leadership issues plaguing our most revered institutions. We tackle the lack of robust leadership succession planning and the critical development of decision-making skills that, if unaddressed, could spell disaster for the continuity of any organization or community.As we emphasize the significance of rebuilding trust within leadership, we illuminate the surprising  lack of political trust and its  implications for democracy. We reveal how a leader's self-assessment can be a powerful tool for fostering change and setting a positive example for the generations to come. By looking at the collective role we all play, this episode serves as a vital resource for anyone ready to shoulder the responsibility of impactful leadership and steer our society back to solid ground.
Learning to Make Decisions
Apr 30 2024
Learning to Make Decisions
Text us. Share your thoughts. Ask Questions. We would love to hear from you. Ever feel like you're navigating a leadership labyrinth without a map? Let John Ballinger and Douglas Ford be your guides through the intricate maze of decision-making and leadership adaptability. In a riveting exchange, we dissect the essentials of guiding teams and organizations, revealing how adaptability is essential when making decisions that impact your team and/or your organization. John starts off talking about Newtonian science—the science of absolutes—before moving on to the Cynefin framework for context-based decision-making and categorization. We help you explore your options when making high-stakes decisions as we introduce robust frameworks and theories designed to empower leaders under duress. While experience stands as a stalwart ally, we discuss the pitfalls of relying solely on intuition, advocating for a mental cache akin to a computer's cookies—enabling leaders to pull from past insights for agile and effective responses to new challenges. The Cynefin framework takes center stage, providing a compass for navigating the varying landscapes of simple to chaotic contexts. Our conversation promises to equip you with the ability to spot the 'known knowns' in your professional life, turning routine into a strategic advantage. The five different situational contexts of the Cynefin framework include decision-making that can be categorized as Simple, Complex, Complicated, Chaotic, or Disorder. As we wrap up, it's not just about reflection—it's about active improvement. We encourage you to dissect your recent decision-making milestones, applying the Cynefin lens to categorize and comprehend the multifaceted nature of each challenge. This strategic exercise isn't just about looking back; it's about sharpening your skills for the decisions that lie ahead. By tuning into this discussion, you'll leave with a fortified toolbox for decision-making that promises precision and confidence, no matter the leadership obstacle. Join the 1st Lead U team on this transformative journey where keen adaptability and incisive critical thinking converge, setting the stage for adaptable leadership excellence.
How to be a Bad Leader - Ep 213
Apr 16 2024
How to be a Bad Leader - Ep 213
Text us. Share your thoughts. Ask Questions. We would love to hear from you. Ever wondered if your leadership style might secretly be driving your team away? Join us, John Ballinger and Douglas Ford, as we strip down the facade of 'Good Leadership' to expose the uncomfortable truths. Today's session is a journey through the mirror, examining the reflection of integrity and self-awareness, anchoring our talk in the wisdom of "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People." We share how a personal mission statement has the power to transform a leader's impact, and we debate whether executives truly hold these ideals close or simply frame them for their office walls.Our discussion doesn't just skim the surface; we immerse ourselves in the stories and experiences that shape leaders. We contrast the typical "do as I say" approach with the traits of leaders who inspire trust and foster growth, even when chaos reigns. Douglas and I lay bare the pitfalls of putting first things last, and how the misguided win-lose mentality can erode the very core of a team. We advocate for embracing the challenge of aiming for win-win outcomes and the harmony they bring to a team dynamic. Through our own tales of growth and the revisiting of cornerstone literature, we illustrate the continuous cycle of learning and applying that elevates one's leadership game.In our final act, we confront 'Bad Leader Syndrome,' a dark path littered with missed opportunities for genuine connection and progress. We discuss ways to step back into the light, embracing the transformation journey encouraged by a fresh look at the "7 Habits of Highly Effective People, 30th Anniversary Edition." It's a call to action, beckoning you to douse the flames of ineffective leadership and rise, phoenix-like, to lead with purpose, humanity, and humility. Whether you're a seasoned executive or an emerging leader, this episode is a treasure trove of insights aimed at refining the art of leadership, one selfless step at a time.
Courage in Leadership: Balancing Saftey and Success with Felix Nater - Ep. 212
Apr 9 2024
Courage in Leadership: Balancing Saftey and Success with Felix Nater - Ep. 212
Text us. Share your thoughts. Ask Questions. We would love to hear from you. Unlock the courage within as we sit down with Felix Nater, a workplace safety and security sage and a retired Command Sergeant Major, to dissect the essence of brave leadership. Prepare for a journey that explores the intersection of fortitude and guidance, where we reveal the secrets to fortifying your team against the unseen battles of mental, emotional, and even physical adversity. With Felix's years safeguarding lives, we pledge to arm you with strategies that ensure your leadership is not just a beacon for success but a shield against the vulnerabilities of the workplace.Venture beyond profitability and into the realm of responsibility with us, as we scrutinize the delicate dance between driving revenues and preserving the sanctuary that is your workplace. Delve into the intricacies of A.R.C. (Accountability, Responsibility, and Consequences) and A.C.E. (Assumptions, Convenience, Expediency), tools that will revamp your approach to leadership risks, paving the way for a culture where safety precedes spreadsheets. Through gripping narratives and unvarnished truths, we illuminate the stark realities of overlooked security measures and the dire need for leaders to prioritize the lives that fuel their industries.We wrap up with a candid reflection on the moral compass guiding today's leaders, challenging the superficial trends that have crept into modern decision-making. John's own military background colors the conversation, underscoring the indelible link between character-building and commanding respect. We call upon the leaders of our time to rekindle the valor that faces ethical quandaries head-on, fostering trust and resilience within their organizations. Join us, and let's collectively redefine leadership where courage isn't just applauded – it's expected.
Vulnerability: Why It Is Important in Leadership - Ep 211
Apr 2 2024
Vulnerability: Why It Is Important in Leadership - Ep 211
Text us. Share your thoughts. Ask Questions. We would love to hear from you. Discover the unexpected strength in leadership that comes from being courageously vulnerable. Join us, John Ballinger and Douglas Ford, as we reveal why letting your guard down could be the key to unlocking a more trusting, disciplined, and patient team dynamic. Our latest episode at 1st Lead U isn't just a discussion; it's an invitation to a shift in mindset, where the soft side of leadership isn't a weakness but a foundation for authentic connections and strong leadership.Struggling to connect with a team that spans from traditionalists to digital natives? We've got your back with witty banter and real-life stories that showcase how to balance relatability with authority. Learn how to navigate the tightrope of generational nuances in leadership, from the silent generation's "work speaks for itself" mantra to Generation Alpha's emotional intelligence demands. Douglas and I dissect the delicate art of being openly vulnerable while safeguarding against the exploitation of that transparency in a multi-generational corporate realm.Wrap up your leadership toolkit with our deep dive into the transformative 30-30 rule of decision-making. Vulnerable leadership isn't just about asking the tough questions—it's about being open to the answers and the array of perspectives that come with them. Post-pandemic leadership is evolving, and our conversation provides actionable insights to make that leap. So plug in, engage with these ideas, and witness the power of leading with a vulnerable, yet strategic, heart.We leave you with four questions to help you step into the world of vulnerability as a leader as you practice self-reflection and discuss with your team.1. Have I considered all the angles?2. Whose voice are we not hearing?3. What would be the counter aurgument?4. How am I wrong and why will this fail?Become more relatable. Build a more trusting team. Inspire creativity. Encougage Psychological safety.  Create a stronger team. These are just a few of the benefits you wil experience when you take the next step in leadership development by admitting your vulnerabilities, first to yourself and then having the courage to share them with your team.
Why the Podcast is Titled 1st Lead U - Ep 210
Mar 26 2024
Why the Podcast is Titled 1st Lead U - Ep 210
Text us. Share your thoughts. Ask Questions. We would love to hear from you.  In this episode our discussion takes a hard look at the respect, or lack thereof, within teams, especially in the wake of the Great Resignation and the pandemic's unyielding challenges. By elevating the collective over the individual, we suggest that leaders can cultivate work environments that thrive on positivity and effectiveness.The episode takes a turn towards the complexities reshaping the modern workplace. With automation on the rise and the NEET  (Not in Education, Employment, or Training - a person who is unemployed and not receiving an education or vocational training) population growing, we grapple with the persistent undercurrent of dissatisfaction among American workers. Despite more flexible benefits, the discontent is palpable. We tackle this conundrum, pondering the roots of this malaise and debating how much leaders must bend to meet their team's needs. It's a nuanced conversation that doesn't just identify problems but also seeks solutions, underscoring the importance of genuinely listening and responding to what employees are experiencing.As we wrap up, the spotlight turns to actionable strategies for leaders eager to forge stronger bonds with their teams. Setting aside quality time for pure, undistracted interaction emerges as a transformative tactic for fostering trust and respect. We underscore the significance of these connections, advocating for the creation of a robust communication strategy and the indispensability of one-on-one meetings. By committing to these practices, leaders aren't just checking boxes—they're building a resilient, connected, and ultimately more successful workforce. Tune in to gain valuable insights on leadership that doesn't just manage but truly inspires.
Mastering the Calm - Ep 208
Mar 12 2024
Mastering the Calm - Ep 208
Text us. Share your thoughts. Ask Questions. We would love to hear from you. Discover the transformative power of maintaining your cool as a leader with John Ballinger and Douglas Ford, your seasoned guides through the intricacies of leadership.In this episode we are diving into the essence of calmness and its monumental effect on steering the ship effectively, especially when the seas get rough. You are invited to traverse the corridors of leadership with us, room by room, as we impart wisdom on fluid communication, disciplined decision-making, and why self-awareness paired with emotional intelligence is the foundation of selfless leadership.As we dissect the layers of leadership challenges, from the personal to the executive level, we reveal strategies for staying present and poised amidst chaos. We unravel the significance of giving each problem, person, or project – like 'Joe' with his concerns – the attention it deserves without letting the larger fires consume you. This episode is a blueprint for leaders in various fields, from small business owners to professional coaches, providing a tailored approach to successfully navigate their unique leadership landscapes while upholding team trust and morale.Wrap up your days this week with a reflection on the importance of mastering self-leadership under pressure. The post-COVID era demands an evolution in leadership styles, and we discuss how self-command, self-control, and self-possession play a pivotal role in adapting to these changing tides. Tune in for an engaging conversation that not only challenges you to reassess your composure in today's volatile environment but also offers the tools for growth, insight, and the ability to handle situations with a finesse that sets true leaders apart. Join us as we explore the tranquil aftermath where the real test of leadership begins, and share your journey toward mastering the calm.
Do You Trust Yourself as a Leader - Ep 206
Feb 27 2024
Do You Trust Yourself as a Leader - Ep 206
Text us. Share your thoughts. Ask Questions. We would love to hear from you. Have you ever stood at the helm of a team, questioning yourself as a leader? That's a crossroad I've faced, and trust me, the journey to self-assured leadership is both challenging and essential. Join me, John Ballinger, and my astute companion, Douglas Ford, as we tackle the often-overlooked foundation of all great leaders—self-trust. We share stories, peel back the layers of emotional intelligence, and urge you to probe the depths of your own self-awareness.In the realm of leadership, growth is non-negotiable. My own brush with the pitfalls of self-doubt serves as a cautionary tale illuminating why leaders must cultivate both self-trust and self-love. It's not just about confidence in decision-making but also about embracing the ethos of genuine self-appreciation. This episode is your opportunity for a heart-to-heart with yourself—to uncover the imprints of past experiences on your leadership style and to explore the profound personal development that fortifies your role at the forefront.Finally, we examine how your leadership impacts your teams and the thriving of your enterprise. Authenticity isn't a buzzword; it's the lifeline of loyalty and dedication within your ranks. We dive into the essence of leadership that goes beyond mere transactions, building a culture where every interaction deposits trust into the 'bank account' of credibility. So, arm yourself with insights, and let's embark on a transformational quest to not only refine your teams but to revolutionize your approach to leading with this  1stLead U.Below are the key questions that are asked throughout the episode and questions that you should consider on a regular basis if you are leading a team of any size. Do I trust myself as a leader?Do I like/love myself?What is the definition of a leader?What is the definition of a manager?Do you manage tasks, or are you leading people?Do you consider yourself a leader?Do you want to be a leader?Do others see you as a leader?Do you truly/sincerely care about the success and development of each of your team members?What are you regularly doing to make yourself a better leader?Do you prepare daily to be a better manager or a better leader?Do the people you lead feel they are being led well?Join us on a journey of self-discovery with our FREE Personal Development Assessment.Evaluate your leadership beliefs and learn how to inspire trust in your team. Plus, receive a FREE personal call with John for tailored guidance.Limited availability, sign up today: https://ballingerandassociates.activehosted.com/f/1
Education Does Not Make You a Leader - Ep 205
Feb 14 2024
Education Does Not Make You a Leader - Ep 205
Text us. Share your thoughts. Ask Questions. We would love to hear from you. When I faced a professional setback that shook me to my core, it became a profound turning point. It's these moments of adversity, and how we respond to them, that Douglas Ford and I explore in our enlightening conversation about the unexpected roots of leadership. Our podcast peels back the layers of misconception that educational qualifications are the sole ingredients of effective leadership. Instead, we delve into the fundamental role of self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and, most importantly, perseverance. Through sharing personal experiences, we demonstrate how these traits are vital in molding a leader who serves with humility and resilience.Our journey doesn’t just stop at personal anecdotes; we draw lessons from historical and biblical figures. Moses, a man known for his significant leadership and spiritual journey, becomes our point of reference as we dissect the essence of growing from one's trials. As I recount my own six-year battle with ego and professional reinvention, Douglas and I reveal how life's toughest episodes can serve as a crucible for leadership. The narrative of Moses in Exodus 18 serves as a stark reminder that it is the combination of our experiences and our reactions to them that forges our ability to lead and inspire.Finally, we tackle the art of delegation, as illustrated by Moses' encounter with his father-in-law Jethro's sage advice. Leadership isn't a solo act; it's an ensemble performance that calls for identifying and empowering others to share the stage. We discuss the parallels between Jethro's counsel and modern organizational structures, offering valuable insights for today's leaders. Whether you're steering a company, guiding a family, or navigating your own personal challenges, this episode is a treasure trove of wisdom on balancing ambition with personal well-being. Join us to uncover how you can transform your hurdles into stepping stones for success.
How the Early Years, 0-5, Impact Your Future Development - Ep 203
Jan 30 2024
How the Early Years, 0-5, Impact Your Future Development - Ep 203
Text us. Share your thoughts. Ask Questions. We would love to hear from you. Have you ever considered that the echoes of your childhood could be steering your leadership style today? Today, we pull back the curtain on how those first memories from zero to five years old are not just fleeting moments but powerful conductors of our adult behaviors and responses. We delve into the narrative of our formative years and their profound influence on our emotional intelligence, using personal stories and universal insights to shine a light on the importance of self-awareness in leadership.Imagine the threads of early experiences weaving through the fabric of your life, shaping who you are in the workplace and beyond. This episode reveals the connection between seemingly innocuous childhood antics, like my encounter with an electrical outlet, and the discipline and decision-making skills required in adulthood. We also discuss the 'pressure cooker' leadership style and other patterns that may have roots in our earliest years, prompting a vital conversation about tracing and understanding these behaviors for more effective guidance of others.Join us as we explore the incredible neural development that occurs in those first few years, where every second counts in shaping a lifetime. We tackle the tough repercussions of early trauma, from the emergence of phobias to startling links with chronic illnesses like multiple sclerosis. Our discussion underscores the importance of mental health support and the power of relationships in fostering growth, both personally and professionally. We share our passion for nurturing leadership, emphasizing the tangible impact of fundamental strategies and invite you to connect with this journey of self-discovery and empowerment.
The EQ Interview - Ep 202
Jan 23 2024
The EQ Interview - Ep 202
Text us. Share your thoughts. Ask Questions. We would love to hear from you. Embark on a transformative journey with us, John Ballinger and Douglas Ford, as we unravel the complex tapestry of emotional intelligence in the realm of leadership. We promise to take you through the intricate process of cultivating selfless leadership, a necessity amplified by today's leadership crisis in America. Our conversation extends beyond the superficial, delving into 25 critical character traits, with patience as a cornerstone. As we dissect the art of patience, let Martin Luther King Jr.'s words echo in the background, reminding us of the steadfastness required to navigate adversity.Our exploration doesn't stop at patience. Together with our esteemed guest, John, we dissect the role of social skills in leadership, stressing the importance of active listening and nonverbal communication. Imagine a workplace where empathy and understanding aren't just buzzwords but the very fabric of your team's culture. We share insights on how vulnerability and transparent communication are not only the linchpins of trust but skills you can master to transform your team's performance. And when it comes to bringing new members into the fold of an emotionally intelligent team, we've got some practical wisdom to share.We also delve into the roots of emotional intelligence, considering how childhood experiences shape our ability to regulate and express emotions. Discover how consistency and communication can lay the foundation for emotional growth from an early age. As we traverse the landscape of emotional intelligence in professional settings, we reveal how patience can be the guiding light in time management and communication, serving as a beacon for self-awareness and cultivating a positive work culture. Finally, join us in extending gratitude to John for his invaluable insights on honesty in self-leadership, as we close this chapter on a note of reflection and aspiration for leaders everywhere.
A New Beginning - Emotional Intelligence and Self-Reflection - Ep 201
Jan 16 2024
A New Beginning - Emotional Intelligence and Self-Reflection - Ep 201
Text us. Share your thoughts. Ask Questions. We would love to hear from you. Join Douglas Ford and me, John Ballinger, as we challenge you to confront the discomfort that comes with personal growth in leadership. We promise to equip you with the actionable guidance and insights necessary to transform your leadership skills through the power of self-reflection and mastery of emotional intelligence. Throughout our conversation, we emphasize the need to apply educational insights to evolve past familiar habits that may hold back your potential. We'll share strategies to foster self-awareness and develop the emotional intelligence required to become the selfless leader that America's future demands.Venturing further into the realm of applied knowledge, we dissect the critical impact that early childhood experiences have on leadership behaviors and decision-making in adulthood. Douglas and I guide you through the process of identifying formative memories and understanding their influence on your unique leadership style. We also highlight the underestimated role of mentors and coaches in catalyzing this growth, reinforcing the importance of psychological and emotional awareness for truly effective leadership.As we close out this season, we eagerly tease what lies ahead: a deep exploration of 25 key traits that are indispensable for contemporary and future leaders. Our forthcoming discussions will challenge you to embrace discomfort as you journey through personal and professional development. Expressing heartfelt thanks to our "mcfounders" audience, Douglas and I invite you to continue this transformative voyage with us, assuring you that the next season will be as enlightening as it is challenging.
The Culture of Care - Retracing Season 1 - Ep. 30
Nov 15 2023
The Culture of Care - Retracing Season 1 - Ep. 30
Text us. Share your thoughts. Ask Questions. We would love to hear from you. Have you ever wondered why some leaders inspire unwavering loyalty while others struggle to motivate their team? Is the lack of a caring culture in business the root of leadership crises? Join us, John Ballinger and Douglas Ford, as they unravel these mysteries and delve into the importance of self-awareness and emotional intelligence for effective leadership. John and Douglas dissect how the key to cultivating a culture of care lies in leaders getting to know their teams intimately.How often do we see substance abuse masking leadership inadequacies? John and Douglas tackle this delicate subject, discussing how the Army Values and the NCO Creed stress the importance of competence, fairness, and impartiality for leaders. They also shed light on how leaders can earn their teams' respect and confidence. Moreover, they explore the significance of leaders genuinely investing in their team members, focusing on balancing self-investment and leading a team.Lastly, John and Douglas set the stage for introspection as they challenge listeners to embark on a journey of personal development and leadership. The NCO Creed's message, "My people deserve great leadership, and I will provide that," echoes throughout the discussion as the two highlight the importance of mastering self-leadership. John underscores the significance of self-awareness and self-improvement in creating better business cultures. As the co-host team brings this season to a close, they wish everyone a happy holiday season and a Merry Christmas as they eagerly anticipate the launch of Season Two on Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2024. Come join 1st Lead U in this engaging exploration of leadership, care, and self-development. Until then, be careful, stay safe, and start investing in efforts that help you to 1st Lead U.
A Beacon of Hope: Nurturing Leaders in the Deaf Community - Ep. 28
Oct 31 2023
A Beacon of Hope: Nurturing Leaders in the Deaf Community - Ep. 28
Text us. Share your thoughts. Ask Questions. We would love to hear from you. Have you ever pondered how selfless leadership and emotional intelligence could be game-changers in your personal and professional growth? Our special guest, Mariann Carter, owner of Carter Hears!, an organization committed to deaf education, joins us, along with her colleague, Kandice Hunt, in this enlightening discussion.Carter Hears! is a remarkable organization that challenges the status quo and revolutionizes access to quality education for the deaf and hard of hearing. Kandice a key player in the Carter Hears! journey shares insights on building trust within their team through courage and vulnerability. The conversation takes an exciting turn as we discuss the importance of growth, feedback, and the unique way Carter Hears! nurtures these crucial leadership elements.But that's not all; we also unpack the power of purpose, gratitude, and dedication in leadership. Hear firsthand from Mariann and Kandice about their incredible journey with Carter Hears, the trials, triumphs, and the indomitable spirit that drives them. Learn about their commitment to integrating people into society and helping them reach their potential, which stands as a testament to selfless leadership and its transformational impact on our communities. This episode promises to leave you inspired, enlightened, and motivated to embrace selfless leadership in your personal and professional life.