In this episode of IT Leaders, Brady Howe dives into the core of leadership and human potential, sharing insights from his journey in professional sports to becoming one of the youngest Vice Presidents in NBA history. With over 15 years in the NBA, working with teams like the Phoenix Suns, Howe reflects on the challenges of transitioning from an athletic trainer and strength coach to a leadership role overseeing millions in salaries and navigating unprecedented challenges like COVID-19.

Howe’s leadership philosophy centers around resilience, self-awareness, and adaptability. Drawing on his experiences as both a physical and mental performance coach, he emphasizes the importance of understanding one's psychological and physiological responses in high-pressure situations. He introduces the concept of "operating above the line," a mindset where leaders remain open, curious, and focused on growth rather than defensive and reactive. This approach, he argues, is essential for creating collaborative, innovative, and high-performing teams.

Listeners will gain practical strategies for managing stress, fostering resilience, and maintaining a growth-oriented mindset. Howe also shares techniques like box breathing, gratitude practices, and the power of process-oriented leadership over outcome-driven thinking. His journey from an undersized athlete with “grit” to a leader in professional sports provides a compelling narrative for anyone looking to maximize human potential—both their own and their team's.