245. Dissecting a GOAT

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Jun 24, 2025

Discover the universal traits that define remarkable leaders, focusing on humility, responsibility, and a thirst for knowledge. The discussion highlights how genuine communication enhances teamwork, contrasting it with performative behaviors. Explore how true leadership goes beyond charisma, emphasizing personal accountability and curiosity. The importance of continual learning is showcased through a leader's commitment to growth, while proactive leadership is framed as essential for fostering organizational health.

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INSIGHT

True Humility in Leadership

Tony Mazzella exemplifies humility by sharing credit and avoiding attention-seeking behavior.
He answers questions succinctly without dominating the conversation or seeking status.

INSIGHT

Peace Through Humility

Humility leads to a sense of peace and lack of need for external validation.
Tony's identity isn't tied to performance or recognition, allowing authenticity in leadership.

INSIGHT

Leadership Rooted in Responsibility

Tony takes full responsibility for his company and employees, making tough decisions without entitlement.
His leadership is marked by genuine care and ownership, not pride or self-interest.

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What are some universal traits of successful leaders that any leader in any field can emulate?

In episode 245 of At The Table, Patrick Lencioni and Cody Thompson reflect on a remarkable leader they consider one of the greatest CEOs they’ve encountered—Tony Mazzella of Mazzella Companies. Tony’s approach to leadership is rooted in humility, deep responsibility, and a relentless desire to learn, all without seeking fame or recognition. This conversation breaks down the traits that make a truly great CEO, far beyond what the public eye ever sees.

Topics explored in this episode:

(2:42) Humility in Action

* Tony’s humility is evident in how he shares credit and doesn’t perform for attention.

(5:50) Identity & Integrity

* Tony’s peace stems from knowing his identity isn’t tied to performance.

(8:06) Responsibility and Motive

* Tony makes tough calls because he cares deeply for people; there’s no entitlement—just ownership of his role.

(10:28) Curiosity & Continued Growth

* Tony proactively pursued his Working Genius certification.

(13:41) Organizational Health

* True heroes of organizational health are the leaders who consistently put in the hard work of implementation.

This episode of At The Table with Patrick Lencioni is brought to you by The Table Group: https://www.tablegroup.com. We teach leaders how to make work more effective and less dysfunctional. We also help their employees be more fulfilled and less miserable.

At The Table is a podcast that lives at the connection between work life, leadership, organizational health, and culture. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/4hJKKSL), Spotify (https://spoti.fi/4l1aop0), and YouTube (https://bit.ly/At-The-Table-YouTube).

Follow Pat Lencioni on https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-lencioni-orghealth and http://www.youtube.com/@PatrickLencioniOfficial.

Connect with Cody Thompson https://www.linkedin.com/in/cody-thompson-a5918850.

Be sure to check out our other podcast, The Working Genius Podcast with Patrick Lencioni, on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/4iNz6Yn), Spotify (https://spoti.fi/4iGGm8u), and YouTube (https://bit.ly/Working-Genius-YouTube).

Let us know your feedback via podcast@tablegroup.com.

This episode was produced by Story On Media: https://www.storyon.co.