Send us a text

Accountability transforms organizations, but creating a culture where everyone takes genuine ownership is challenging. In this thought-provoking discussion, John and Greg break down Management by Responsibility (MBR) - the leadership philosophy that revolutionizes how teams approach challenges and results.

At its core, MBR hinges on a powerful premise: individuals are 100% responsible for their experiences and reactions to life events. This isn't about blame, but about embracing the freedom that comes with taking full ownership. We explore the three foundational pillars that make MBR work: internalizing personal responsibility, empowering others to own their roles, and shifting to a solution-focused approach that addresses non-productive behaviors.

What makes this episode particularly valuable are the practical techniques we share for implementation. From fostering self-awareness to establishing clear performance standards, providing constructive feedback, and removing obstacles to success - we offer a comprehensive roadmap. We don't shy away from addressing resistance either, tackling common challenges like fear of consequences and the comfort of the blame game. The wisdom of Admiral Rickover resonates throughout: "Responsibility is a unique concept. It can only reside within a single individual. You may share it with others, but your portion is not diminished."

Whether you're leading a small team or an entire organization, these insights will help you create an environment where accountability thrives and excuses disappear. Ready to transform your workplace culture? This episode is your starting point. Share your experiences with accountability in leadership, and don't forget to check out successgrowthacademy.com for more resources on the MBR approach.

Support the show

Presented by John Wandolowski and Greg Powell

Send us a text

Finding and developing the right talent is perhaps the most consequential responsibility any leader faces. Yet many managers approach hiring with minimal preparation, relying on gut instinct rather than proven methodology. This episode John and Greg dive deep into the structured approach that separates successful hiring managers from the rest.

We begin by examining the critical foundation of any successful hire: properly defining the role. This means going beyond dusty job descriptions to analyze current needs, determine specific goals, and identify essential competencies. As we discuss, alignment with stakeholders across your organization ensures the position is properly situated for success before you ever post a job listing.

The conversation then shifts to sourcing strategies, with practical insights on where to find qualified candidates and how to leverage your existing team for high-quality referrals. We explore the advantages of panel interviews over one-on-one conversations, not just for better candidate assessment but for creating built-in support systems once someone is hired. Our detailed breakdown of interview preparation covers everything from creating consistent question sets to setting up appropriate meeting spaces and taking comprehensive notes that protect both you and your organization.

Perhaps most valuable is our extensive discussion of onboarding—the often-neglected final phase of hiring that dramatically impacts retention and productivity. Research shows that employees who experience structured onboarding are significantly more likely to stay with a company for at least three years. We outline a comprehensive 90-day plan that includes pre-boarding activities, first-day orientation, training schedules, regular check-ins, and formal performance reviews.

Whether you're hiring for the first time or looking to improve your existing process, this episode provides the framework and specific tools to find, onboard, and develop the talent your organization needs to thrive. Remember that as a manager, the entire hiring process falls under your responsibility—and getting it right pays dividends for years to come.

Ready to transform your approach to hiring? Reach out to us at wando75.jw@gmail.com with your experiences or questions about implementing these strategies in your organization.

Support the show

Presented by John Wandolowski and Greg Powell

Send us a text

The secret to exceptional team performance isn't found in buzzwords or corporate jargon—it's built through intentional leadership strategies that foster genuine connection. John and Greg dive deep into what truly makes teams work, beyond the superficial activities that many organizations mistake for real team building.

Henry Ford's wisdom frames our discussion: "Coming together is a beginning, keeping together is progress, working together is success." This progression represents the journey every leader must navigate, transforming groups of individuals into cohesive units that achieve remarkable results. We explore practical approaches that work across sports, entertainment, and business contexts, highlighting the common elements that create lasting team cohesion.

Drawing from personal experiences, we share stories about breaking bread together and engaging in competitive cooking challenges—activities that revealed authentic personalities and fostered genuine connections. These examples demonstrate how the most effective team building often comes from creating environments where barriers naturally fall away. We also tackle the reality of remote work, offering creative virtual team building strategies that maintain connection across distances. From online escape rooms to digital art projects, these approaches keep distributed teams engaged and aligned.

Whether you're a new supervisor wondering how to start building your team or an experienced manager looking to strengthen existing relationships, this episode provides actionable insights you can implement immediately. The leadership toolbox we share will help you create an environment where collaboration flourishes, communication flows freely, and your team achieves its highest potential. Ready to transform your approach to team building? Listen now, and don't forget to share your own team building experiences with us at wando75.jw@gmail.com.

Support the show

Presented by John Wandolowski and Greg Powell