Best 20 Year Serving Military Commander Podcasts (2025)

1
The Leadership Bottleneck: How You're Sabotaging Your Own Growth | Episode 344 25:30

6d ago25:30

25:30

In organizations big and small, leaders often find themselves stuck in a cycle of hard work that yields little meaningful progress. Teams stagnate, growth plateaus, and despite increased effort, the results fall short. The core issue? Too often, the leader is the main bottleneck, unintentionally stifling progress, innovation, and capacity within th…

1
The Steady Leader’s Playbook: Vision, Discipline, and Team Success | Schuyler Williamson | Episode 343 40:30

16d ago40:30

40:30

Effective leadership begins within. For any leader striving for organizational or team impact, the foundational work starts by mastering self-leadership—clarifying vision, aligning with core values, and nurturing personal readiness. This episode explores why leaders must first lead themselves before being equipped to guide teams and organizations. …

1
Military Leadership Lessons for Today’s Leaders: 5 Hard-Earned Truths That Will Transform Your Team | Episode342 20:53

23d ago20:53

20:53

Effective leadership rests on more than theory and best intentions—it’s forged in the fires of real-world experience, tested by adversity, and honed through honest reflection. Leaders today face fast-changing environments, complex teams, and ever-higher expectations. Understanding the bedrock principles that drive elite teams—and adapting those les…

1
From Any Dumbass Can Do It to Leadership Wisdom | Garry Ridge | Episode341 37:13

1M ago37:13

37:13

In the dynamic world of leadership, fostering a robust organizational culture is paramount. Leaders are increasingly recognizing the importance of creating environments where employees feel valued, supported, and inspired. This episode explores the foundational elements of a "friction-free culture," a concept rooted in nurturing a workplace that pr…

1
Leading the Flex Revolution: How to Choose the Right Work Schedule for Your Team | Scott McCarthy | Episode 340 23:49

1M ago23:49

23:49

In the evolving landscape of today's workplace, leaders are tasked with adapting to diverse work arrangements that ensure both performance and employee satisfaction. From compressed work weeks to asynchronous schedules, the myriad of options available require careful consideration to implement effectively. Understanding the strengths and pitfalls o…

1
Rumor Mill Exposed: The Hidden Dangers in Your Organization | Scott McCarthy | Episode 339 19:25

2M ago19:25

19:25

In the fast-evolving landscape of today's organizations, leaders face an often underestimated challenge: the proliferation of rumors. These seemingly harmless whispers can silently undermine trust, decrease morale, and wreak havoc on team dynamics. Understanding the ripple effects of rumors and effectively managing them is crucial for leaders aimin…

1
Emotional Intelligence Unleashed: Mastering High-Stakes Conversations | Bill Benjamin | Episode 338 41:58

2M ago41:58

41:58

In this episode, we dive into the intricate dynamics of leadership and communication, focusing on the concept of the "last 8%." This approach challenges leaders to address the most critical—yet often avoided—elements of conversations, decisions, and risk-taking. Understanding and mastering this pivotal 8% can dramatically enhance leadership effecti…

1
The 1% Journey: Empowered Leadership Through Unwavering Resilience | Scott McCarthy | Episode 337 17:44

2M ago17:44

17:44

In the unpredictable and challenging landscape of leadership, achieving resilience is a critical component for success. Today’s conversation explores the intricate connection between resilient leadership and peak performance, focusing on how leaders can thrive by maintaining clarity, adaptability, and open communication. Drawing from real-life expe…

1
Courage to Influence: Transformative Leadership Tips | Lida Citroen | Episode 336 37:33

2M ago37:33

37:33

In a world where effective communication and leveraging soft skills are increasingly paramount, this episode explores the dynamic field of influence within leadership. Leaders today must not only direct but inspire and motivate those around them, creating a compelling vision that others are eager to follow. This expertise goes beyond traditional hi…

1
Turning Conflict into Opportunity | Karin Hurt | Episode 334 39:49

2M ago39:49

39:49

In an era where workplace dynamics are rapidly evolving post-pandemic, leaders are continually faced with managing conflict among remote, hybrid, and in-person teams. Understanding and addressing workplace conflict is not just about resolving issues; it's about fostering an environment where diverse perspectives can lead to innovative solutions. Th…

1
Military Leadership Insights: Turning Conflict into Opportunity | Scott McCarthy | Episode 333 15:47

2M ago15:47

15:47

In the world of leadership, conflict is an inevitable element that can arise even in the most cohesive and high-performing teams. It's not about avoiding conflict altogether but rather how effectively leaders address and resolve it. Conflict, when managed well, can be a catalyst for creativity, innovation, and deeper understanding among team member…

1
Embrace the AI Revolution: Leadership Innovation and Ethical AI Usage | Ajay Malik | Episode 332 44:12

3M ago44:12

44:12

In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, leaders are now presented with a unique opportunity to harness the power of artificial intelligence (AI) as a crucial tool in enhancing organizational efficiency and decision-making. While the traditional view of leadership focuses strongly on human interaction and decision-making, integrating AI into l…

1
Leadership Redefined: How AI Powers and Complements Human Skills | Scott McCarthy | Episode 331 19:06

3M ago19:06

19:06

In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly gaining prominence, stirring both excitement and apprehension about its implications. While much of the dialogue revolves around potential job displacements, a vital conversation is emerging around the intersection of AI and leadership. AI is not just an external …

1
Embrace Imperfection: Transforming Leadership | BGen (retired) Twanda Young | Episode 330 44:36

3M ago44:36

44:36

In the challenging domain of leadership, the journey often begins with self-reflection and the pursuit of authentic connections with others. This episode of Peak Performance Leadership sheds light on pivotal themes such as rebuilding trust, embracing humility, and the journey from perfectionism to genuine leadership. Understanding these elements is…

1
Navigating Workplace Conflict with Ease | Genevieve Hawkins | Episode 329 57:49

3M ago57:49

57:49

In today's complex and rapidly changing work environment, leaders are tasked with not only achieving organizational goals but also fostering a culture of transparency, trust, and communication. Addressing workplace conflict and cultivating a psychologically safe workplace have emerged as critical components for driving team performance and satisfac…

1
High Performance Teams: The Three Pillars of Success | Tina Collins | Episode 328 44:10

3M ago44:10

44:10

In today's episode, we explore the essentials of building high-performing teams—a critical pursuit for leaders aiming to excel in increasingly complex organizational landscapes. Research has identified three key elements that serve as the bedrock for effective teams: psychological safety, cognitive diversity, and intrinsic motivational drivers. The…

1
Crush Intimidation: 12 Steps to Unleash Leadership Confidence | Scott McCarthy | Episode 327 24:08

3M ago24:08

24:08

Feeling intimidated in a leadership role is an experience many face, yet it remains one often left undiscussed. Understanding where intimidation stems from and addressing it proactively is crucial for leaders looking to thrive in their personal and professional lives. Addressing these feelings not only helps leaders maintain their confidence and co…

1
Navigating Leadership Dynamics with Conversational Intelligence | Regina Huber | Episode 326 40:13

4M ago40:13

40:13

In today's dynamic business landscape, leaders are under constant pressure to perform, innovate, and guide their teams to success. Amidst this setting, the concept of a "thriving leader" emerges as crucial. A thriving leader not only succeeds in their role but also maintains a sense of fulfillment and well-being while empowering their team members …

1
2IC Take Over! | Scott McCarthy | Episode 325 13:23

4M ago13:23

13:23

In today's episode, we delve into a critical yet often overlooked aspect of leadership: the importance of preparing for moments when a leader cannot perform their duties and the subsequent role of a second-in-command. This concept, rooted in military practices, offers valuable insights for leaders in any domain. By ensuring readiness and empowering…

1
Leading with Curiosity and Character | Scott Clancy | Episode 324 1:07:15

4M ago1:07:15

1:07:15

In the ever-evolving landscape of leadership, the significance of continuous learning and effective mentorship cannot be overstated. Leaders are often thrust into challenging roles that demand not only technical expertise but also the adeptness to manage and inspire teams. This episode underscores the importance of perpetual learning and the crucia…

1
Military Strategies for Unwavering Persistence | Scott McCarthy | Episode 323 16:21

4M ago16:21

16:21

Leading in any capacity is fraught with challenges, from managing diverse personalities to achieving ambitious goals with limited resources. Amid these complexities, persistence becomes a key virtue, ensuring that leaders and their teams can push through obstacles to achieve success. In this episode, we delve into the military's tried-and-tested st…

1
Effective Risk-Based Decision Making | Bryan Whitefield | Episode 322 37:18

4M ago37:18

37:18

In the realm of leadership, the clarity of communication and strategic decision-making are paramount. Leaders often face the challenge of defining their organization's risk appetite and ensuring it is well understood across all levels. The significance of this understanding extends beyond those in the decision-making room to every team member invol…

1
Refresh, Recharge, Lead: Mastering the Art of the Leadership Pause | Scott McCarthy | Episode 321 15:18

4M ago15:18

15:18

In today's high-pressure environments, leaders are often expected to be perpetually available, juggling numerous responsibilities without pause. However, the critical lesson that's frequently overlooked is the necessity of taking breaks. Stepping away from work isn't just about rest; it's about recharging your mental and emotional batteries, allowi…

1
Mastering Psychological Safety: Insights from Parenting and Military Leadership | Scott McCarthy | Episode 320 58:55

5M ago58:55

58:55

In an ever-evolving landscape, leaders today must juggle multiple responsibilities, from driving results to fostering team morale. One of the foundational elements of effective leadership that often gets overlooked is psychological safety. This principle is pivotal for cultivating an environment where team members feel secure to voice their thought…

1
Mission-Ready Mindsets: Building Psychological Safety in Your Team | Scott McCarthy | Episode 316 13:19

6M ago13:19

13:19

In today's complex and fast-paced organizational environments, psychological safety has emerged as a critical element of effective leadership. Psychological safety refers to the shared belief that a team is safe for interpersonal risk-taking. It encourages openness, innovation, and the confident expression of ideas, contributing to improved team pe…

1
Conquer Toxic Workspaces: From Identification to Action | Colin Ellis | Episode 315 46:25

6M ago46:25

46:25

In today's ever-evolving workplace, leaders are increasingly tasked with not only achieving business objectives but also fostering a positive and productive work environment. A key challenge many leaders face is identifying and addressing toxic cultures that can derail team performance and morale. This episode dives deep into the nuances of toxic w…

1
Transform Military Strategy into Daily Success: Master the 16 Steps | Scott McCarthy | Episode 314 18:02

6M ago18:02

18:02

In every organization, timely and efficient execution is paramount to achieving success. One of the most comprehensive and structured approaches to ensure this is the 16 Steps of Battle Procedure, a method honed and perfected within military operations. This system, originally designed to streamline and execute complex missions, offers valuable les…

1
From Stress to Thriving: PRIME Strategies for Peak Performance | Simi Rayat | Episode 313 55:23

6M ago55:23

55:23

In today's fast-paced and demanding world, leaders face immense pressure to deliver results, meet deadlines, and inspire their teams. Amidst these challenges, maintaining a positive and empowered mindset becomes crucial for effective leadership. Enter the "5 Q's Formula," a framework rooted in psychological science designed to enhance daily product…

1
From Kandahar to Home: A Soldier's Reflections on Remembrance Day | Scott McCarthy | Episode 312 6:43

6M ago6:43

6:43

In this podcast episode, we delve into the significance of a day rooted in history and solemn remembrance—known as Remembrance Day in Canada. While it may seem tangential to leadership at first glance, the profundity of this day holds critical lessons for leaders across all domains. Remembrance Day, observed annually on November 11th, marks not jus…

1
Unlocking Winning Strategies: Aligning Culture and Leadership | Alex Brueckmann | Episode 311 45:33

6M ago45:33

45:33

In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, the foundational pillars of strategy, leadership, and culture are more critical than ever for organizational success. Companies often grapple with the challenge of integrating these elements to ensure cohesive and efficient operations. This episode delves deeply into the intricacies of organizational …

1
Truth Over Comfort: Unlocking Honest Team Conversations | Scott McCarthy | Episode 310 9:20

6M ago9:20

9:20

In any leadership role, understanding the difference between what you need to hear and what people think you want to hear is pivotal. Leaders often focus on their end goals, sometimes at the expense of understanding the reality of their situation. This episode sheds light on the crucial practice of obtaining the "ground truth" from your team. Ignor…

1
The Key to Attracting and Retaining Top Talent | Shivani Gupta | Episode 309 46:54

7M ago46:54

46:54

In today's competitive landscape, attracting and retaining top talent is more crucial than ever, especially post-Covid. It requires a deep connection with potential hires to ensure they are the right fit and genuinely engaged. One effective approach is the "passion model" of interviewing, which aligns candidates' personal passions with organization…

1
Trust From the Trenches: Creating High-Performing Teams with Military Precision | Scott McCarthy | Episode 308 22:10

7M ago22:10

22:10

In this episode, the vital topic of building trust within teams is explored. Trust is the cornerstone of effective leadership and is essential for achieving peak performance. Without trust, leaders cannot establish psychological safety, manage resources effectively, or make sound decisions. Building and maintaining trust within teams not only empow…

1
From Surviving to Thriving: Empower Your Leadership with Joy | Jack Craven | Episode 307 33:59

7M ago33:59

33:59

In today's fast-paced and demanding world, leaders face immense pressure to deliver results, meet deadlines, and inspire their teams. Amidst these challenges, maintaining a positive and empowered mindset becomes crucial for effective leadership. Enter the concept of the "aliveness mindset." This approach, rooted in bringing the best version of ones…

1
Military Leadership Insights: Leveraging AAR for Peak Performance | Scott McCarthy | Episode 306 13:05

7M ago13:05

13:05

In today's complex and rapidly changing organizational environments, continuous improvement isn't just a luxury—it's a necessity. One invaluable tool for driving this improvement is the After Action Review (AAR). Originally developed and refined within military contexts, the AAR is a structured and straightforward method for reflecting on events, i…

1
8 Ways Military Leaders Build High-Performing Teams | Scott McCarthy | Episode 305 13:49

7M ago13:49

13:49

In today's dynamic and often unpredictable organizational landscape, the ability to build and sustain high-performing teams is crucial for any leader. High-performing teams are the backbone of successful organizations, driving innovation, productivity, and overall mission accomplishment. This episode delves into the essence of creating such teams b…

1
Mastering Digital Transformation: From Chaos to Clarity | Michael Schenk | Episode 304 35:39

8M ago35:39

35:39

Welcome to a deep dive into digital transformation and its profound impact on leadership. In today's fast-paced and technology-driven world, mastering the complexities of digital transformation is imperative for leaders who aim to maintain a competitive edge and drive organizational excellence. This episode unpacks the essential strategies, framewo…

1
Master Military Leadership: Lead by Example for Modern Success | Scott McCarthy | Episode 303 18:42

8M ago18:42

18:42

In the realm of leadership, one principle stands out as universally influential and foundational: leading by example. This timeless concept holds that leaders set the standard for behavior, work ethic, and commitment within their teams through their actions, not just their words. By embodying the values and principles they expect from their teams, …

1
Mastering Crisis Leadership: Military Strategies for Business Resilience | Scott McCarthy | Episode 302 13:49

8M ago13:49

13:49

Leading in crisis is an essential skill for any leader, regardless of the field or industry. In periods of intense uncertainty and high stakes, the ability to steer a team or organization through turbulent waters can mean the difference between success and failure. Crises test the mettle of leaders, challenging their resourcefulness, resilience, an…

1
Impacting Lives: Transitioning to Servant Leadership | Mosongo Moukwa | Episode 301 37:01

8M ago37:01

37:01

In an ever-evolving business landscape, the concept of leadership extends far beyond traditional roles and responsibilities. Today’s episode explores the paradigm of being a leader of significance, moving beyond mere transactional interactions to foster deeper, more meaningful connections within teams and organizations. The emphasis is on the trans…

1
Leadership Is Rent: Pay Daily, Lead Effectively | Scott McCarthy | Episode 300 12:49

8M ago12:49

12:49

In today's episode, we delve into a compelling and often overlooked concept in leadership—"Leadership as Rent." This ideology emphasizes that effective leadership isn't a one-time achievement but a continuous commitment that requires daily effort and accountability. In an environment where leadership roles and responsibilities can frequently change…

1
Lead with Conviction: Strategies to Overcome Imposter Syndrome | Scott McCarthy | Episode 299 28:39

9M ago28:39

28:39

Welcome to another inspiring episode of Peak Performance Leadership! In today's episode, our Chief Leadership Officer, Scott McCarthy, delves into the pervasive yet often misunderstood phenomenon of imposter syndrome. Whether you're a seasoned leader or just starting your leadership journey, understanding and managing imposter syndrome can signific…

1
From Burnout to Brilliance: The Essential 3Ps for Leaders | Scott McCarthy | Episode 298 26:23

9M ago26:23

26:23

In the dynamic landscape of modern leadership, managing the ever-evolving demands of the workplace while maintaining a sense of balance and well-being is a formidable challenge. Burnout, a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress, has become a pervasive issue that can undermine both individual per…

1
Lead from Any Seat: Unleashing Leadership Without Titles | Scott McCarthy | Episode 297 17:04

9M ago17:04

17:04

In today's dynamic and ever-evolving workplace, the concept of leadership is undergoing a significant transformation. Gone are the days when leadership was solely about the title or position one held within an organizational hierarchy. Modern leadership is fundamentally about actions, behaviors, and the ability to inspire and influence others, rega…

1
Mastering Sales Leadership: From Newbie to Navigator | Scott McCarthy | Episode 296 32:45

9M ago32:45

32:45

In this powerful episode of Peak Performance Leadership, Scott McCarthy sits down with Rob Durant to uncover the hidden dynamics of sales leadership. This episode is brimming with actionable insights on how to cultivate psychological safety within your sales team, the crucial role of mentorship, and the art of forging deep, meaningful team connecti…

1
Embrace the Unexpected: Pivoting to Success | Jason Shen | Episode 295 51:02

10M ago51:02

51:02

In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, leaders face an array of unexpected challenges that necessitate adaptability and resilience. The inevitability of change requires not only a readiness to pivot but also an ability to transform uncertainty into opportunities for growth. Navigating these dynamic situations involves leveraging personal a…

1
From Arrival to Impact: Leading Effectively in New Roles 26:52

10M ago26:52

26:52

Navigating the complexities of a new leadership role can be both exhilarating and daunting. Whether stepping into a permanent position, overseeing a project team, or even joining as a member, understanding how to effectively transition and integrate with a new team is crucial. The initial steps you take can set the stage for your success and the ov…

1
Transformational Leadership Essentials | Scott McCarthy | Episode 293 31:24

11M ago31:24

31:24

Welcome to an enlightening exploration of transformational leadership, a concept that holds the key to unlocking unparalleled growth and dynamism within any team or organization. Transformational leadership transcends traditional leadership models by prioritizing motivation, inspiration, and long-term development over mere transactional exchanges. …

1
Professional and Personal Overhaul: Journey to New Leadership Heights | Scott McCarthy | Episode 292 16:41

11M ago16:41

16:41

In today's dynamic and fast-paced world, leaders are often confronted with unexpected challenges and opportunities that can significantly impact their professional and personal lives. Navigating these transitions while maintaining peak performance across various domains of leadership—self, team, and organization—requires not only strategic planning…

1
Reinvigorating Your Team: Building a Foundation of Psychological Safety | Scott McCarthy | Episode 291 24:40

1y ago24:40

24:40

Creating a culture of psychological safety within a team is paramount to achieving peak performance in any organization. It establishes an environment where employees feel both secure and valued, empowering them to openly share ideas, admit mistakes, and challenge established norms—all in the name of continuous improvement and innovation. Such a cu…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

20 Year Serving Military Commander Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen