The Learn-It-All Podcast 70: Stephen M. R. Covey | The Leadership Expert: 3 Steps To Inspire & Build Trust With Your Team
Is your leadership style holding back your team’s full potential?
In this inspiring episode of The Learn-It-All Podcast, Stephen M.R. Covey reveals why 90% of leaders are still leading like it's the 20th century, relying on command and control while paradoxically expecting innovation and agility from their teams. Covey shares why most leaders are trapped in outdated models and how to make the crucial shift to “Trust and Inspire” leadership to unlock your team's full potential and revolutionize the way your organization operates. If you're ready to lead with greater impact, this conversation is a must-listen!
Learnit’s Damon Lembi and Darren Bridgett sit down with renowned global thought leader and #1 bestselling author of The Speed of Trust (New York Times) and Trust & Inspire (Wall Street Journal) Stephen M.R. Covey to discuss the future of leadership on The Learn-It-All Podcast. Covey explains why the traditional “command and control” approach is no longer effective in today’s fast-paced, innovation-driven world. Covey shares compelling stories and actionable insights on how to create a culture of trust that fosters inspiration, agility, and growth in organizations. Covey reveals the mindset shifts leaders must make to succeed in the modern workplace and how to start implementing Trust and Inspire leadership today.
This Episode Covers:
- The Command-and-Control Paradigm: Despite knowing it’s outdated, over 90% of organizations still operate in this model. Stephen explains why it's so persistent and harmful.
- Green and Clean Story: A powerful personal story illustrating the essence of trust and responsibility in leadership.
- Trusting vs. Micromanaging: The more trust you extend, the better performance you’ll get from your team—learn the framework for building “smart trust.”
- Military Case Study: Even the military is moving away from command and control; Stephen shares examples of how Trust and Inspire works in high-stakes environments.
- Leadership is Learnable: Leadership isn’t about charisma; it’s about creating connections, inspiring purpose, and unleashing potential.
- New Mindsets for Modern Leaders: To lead effectively today, leaders need to model trustworthiness, extend trust, and focus on inspiring their teams.
Episode Highlights:
(00:00) – Introduction: Welcome and overview of Stephen M.R. Covey’s leadership philosophy.
(03:50) – The Problem with Command and Control: Why most leaders are stuck in old paradigms.
(06:05) – Can Trust and Inspire Work Everywhere?: How trust-based leadership is transforming even hierarchical organizations like the military.
(08:36) – The Green and Clean Story: A personal example of trust, responsibility, and leadership.
(15:08) – Parenting with Trust: Lessons from Stephen’s childhood and how they shaped his leadership approach.
(18:35) – Why Leaders Need to Shift Now: Post-pandemic realities and the future of leadership.
(31:23) – How to Build a Smart Trust Agreement: Practical ways to empower teams with trust while maintaining accountability.
(40:41) – How to Transition from Command and Control: Strategies for leaders to make the shift authentically.
(45:47) – Attracting and Retaining Talent with Trust: The importance of trust-based leadership for younger generations.
(53:20) – A New Paradigm for Leadership: Stephen outlines the five beliefs that underpin Trust and Inspire.
(59:53) – Final Thoughts and Invitation: Reflecting on the leaders who have trusted and inspired you—and how you can become that leader for others.
About Stephen
Stephen M.R. Covey is a renowned leadership expert, bestselling author, and the former CEO of Covey Leadership Center, which he grew into the largest leadership development firm in the world. Covey’s work focuses on trust as a critical element of leadership. His groundbreaking books, The Speed of Trust and Trust and Inspire, challenge conventional management wisdom and provide a roadmap for leading in the 21st century. Stephen is a sought-after speaker and consultant, helping organizations around the globe adopt trust-based leadership models.
Connect with Steven:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-m-r-covey-6400191a5/
https://www.franklincovey.com/
Resources Referenced:
The Speed of Trust by Stephen M.R. Covey – Amazon Link
Trust and Inspire by Stephen M.R. Covey – Amazon Link
Seven Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey – Amazon Link
The 8th Habit by Stephen R. Covey – Amazon Link
Team of Teams—General Stanley McChrystal’s Leadership Approach – Amazon Link
Podcast Contact Information:
Website: www.learnit.com
Email: podcast@learnit.com
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