Leadership Unlocked: The Stories That Shape Great Leaders

Dusty is joined by Jon Blair—heavy metal guitarist turned purpose-driven entrepreneur and founding executive at Guardian Bikes—for a conversation on how clarity beats chaos in both business and life. Jon shares his unconventional journey from touring musician to scaling a startup from zero to eight figures, raising $15 million, and ultimately launching Free to Grow CFO to help D2C brands build smart, scalable finance operations. They unpack the lessons of navigating multiple “startups” at once—including business, family, and personal growth—while embracing imperfection, focusing on the few things that truly move the needle, and leading with intentionality. Jon reflects on the influence of faith, the discipline of planning, and the power of defining your role so you can operate in your unique strengths. Along the way, he offers practical wisdom on seasons of life, parenting with purpose, and finding joy in the journey rather than the end goal. This episode is a masterclass in balancing ambition with presence, and in building something meaningful without losing sight of what matters most.Key Timestamps:(00:00) - Meet Jon Blair: From Heavy Metal to CFO(05:44) - Balancing Music and Business(08:46) - Navigating Leadership and Family Life(17:49) - Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs(23:57) - Implementing Weekly and Quarterly Planning(25:28) - Embracing Imperfection in Leadership(32:17) - Teaching Principles to Children(39:23) - Rapid Fire Leadership InsightsKey Topics Discussed:Leadership Unlocked, Leadership Insights, Dusty Holcomb, Servant Leadership Principles, Self-Leadership Strategies, Growth Mindset in Leadership, Integrity and Leadership, Leadership Development Resources, Effective Leadership Habits, Empowering Leadership Techniques, Senior Executive Insights, Leadership Quotes and Reflections, Leadership Podcast, Executive Coaching, CEO Podcast, Business Leadership, Leadership Growth, Leadership Journey, Stories From Leaders, Leadership Tools, High-Performing Teams, Leadership Mindset, Decision Making, Personal Growth, Leadership Coaching, Organizational LeadershipMentions:Website: https://freetogrowcfo.com/ LinkedIn: Mentions: The War of Art: Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles by Steven PressfieldTraction: Get a Grip on Your Business by Gino WickmanThe 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen CoveyMore of Leadership Unlocked:Check out our leadership development resources at https://arcqusgroup.com/Contact me at dusty@arcqusgroup.com

Dusty goes solo to tackle one of the biggest myths in leadership—that the best moments happen in the heat of a crisis. Through a vivid story from Disney World, where a cast member turned a spilled bag of popcorn into a lifelong memory, he reveals how true impact is rarely accidental. It’s built long before the moment arrives, through intentional choices, clear priorities, and simple systems that make great decisions automatic. Dusty shares how carving out weekly white space for reflection and planning—reviewing wins, identifying distractions, and setting key outcomes—can transform reactive chaos into purposeful progress. This episode is a challenge to stop winging it, start deciding in advance what matters most, and lead with the kind of clarity that turns everyday opportunities into defining moments.Key Timestamps:(00:00) - A Magical Lesson from Disney World(05:19) - The Importance of Intentionality in Leadership(09:07) - Practical Steps for Intentional Leadership(12:05) - Weekly Planning for Effective Leadership(18:23) - Reflecting and Planning for SuccessKey Topics Discussed:Leadership Unlocked, Leadership Insights, Dusty Holcomb, Servant Leadership Principles, Self-Leadership Strategies, Growth Mindset in Leadership, Integrity and Leadership, Leadership Development Resources, Effective Leadership Habits, Empowering Leadership Techniques, Senior Executive Insights, Leadership Quotes and Reflections, Leadership Podcast, Executive Coaching, CEO Podcast, Business Leadership, Leadership Growth, Leadership Journey, Stories From Leaders, Leadership Tools, High-Performing Teams, Leadership Mindset, Decision Making, Personal Growth, Leadership Coaching, Organizational LeadershipMentions:Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor FranklMore of Leadership Unlocked:Check out our leadership development resources at https://arcqusgroup.com/Download the Leadership Reflection Guide at https://arcq.us/ReflectionGuide Contact me at dusty@arcqusgroup.com

Dusty is joined by Ross Simmonds, entrepreneur, storyteller, and founder of Foundation Marketing, for a conversation about what it means to lead with intention, abundance, and authenticity. They explore how generosity—both in business and in life—can be a powerful lever for growth, and why showing up with presence matters more than ever in a world full of noise. Ross shares lessons from his journey building a global marketing agency, from unlearning small-town limits to creating space for deep work and deep relationships. He breaks down how clarity, consistency, and communication shape culture, and how seemingly small moments—voice notes, affirmations, thank-yous—can have an outsized impact on trust and team morale. Along the way, he offers a powerful reframe on success, explains why leaders need to curate their content diets, and makes the case that storytelling isn’t just a marketing tool—it’s a leadership skill. Whether you're building a brand, raising a family, or trying to show up better every day, this episode will challenge you to lead with purpose, presence, and heart.Key Timestamps:(00:00) - Meet Ross Simmonds(02:17) - A Lifelong Love of Stories(10:44) - Embracing Servant Leadership(16:25) - The Rewards of Seeing Others Win(21:18) - Lessons from Mentors and Favorite Books(28:57) - Over-Communicating and Setting Clear Expectations(33:50) - Parenting as Leadership in Action(36:56) - Rapid Fire Questions(48:59) - The Future of Storytelling in the Age of AI(51:39) - Avoiding the Algorithmic Echo ChamberKey Topics Discussed:Leadership Unlocked, Leadership Insights, Dusty Holcomb, Servant Leadership Principles, Self-Leadership Strategies, Growth Mindset in Leadership, Integrity and Leadership, Leadership Development Resources, Effective Leadership Habits, Empowering Leadership Techniques, Senior Executive Insights, Leadership Quotes and Reflections, Leadership Podcast, Executive Coaching, CEO Podcast, Business Leadership, Leadership Growth, Leadership Journey, Stories From Leaders, Leadership Tools, High-Performing Teams, Leadership Mindset, Decision Making, Personal Growth, Leadership Coaching, Organizational LeadershipMentions:Website: https://foundationinc.co/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rosssimmonds/ Mentions: The Courage to Be Disliked by Fumitake Koga and Ichiro KishimiMan’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Franklhttps://timscamps.com/ https://www.bgccan.com/en/ More of Leadership Unlocked:Check out our leadership development resources at https://arcqusgroup.com/Contact me at dusty@arcqusgroup.com

Dusty dives into the common pitfall of confusing skills with leadership callings. He shares insights from triathlon training to illustrate the importance of focusing on high-impact tasks. The discussion unveils the 'competency trap,' where leaders cling to familiar tasks that drain their energy. Dusty emphasizes delegation as a means to empower teams, stressing it's not selfish but a crucial aspect of stewardship. Ultimately, he encourages leaders to shift from busyness to boldness, prioritizing what truly matters in leadership.

Dusty is joined by Eddie Geller, a three-time founder, CEO of SKOR, and lifelong champion of people-first leadership. Their conversations centers around how culture can be a company’s greatest asset—when it’s clearly defined, consistently measured, and courageously lived. Eddie shares hard-won lessons from his own entrepreneurial journey, including what happens when you over-index on product at the expense of people, and why managers—not just executives—hold the keys to shaping day-to-day culture. He breaks down the three pillars of a thriving workplace—cohesion, clarity, and courage—and explains how even small shifts in language and leadership habits can lead to major gains in trust, performance, and morale. From failed product launches to culture comebacks, Eddie makes the case that great teams aren’t built by accident—they’re built with intention. Whether you’re leading a startup, a department, or just trying to show up better for your people, this episode will challenge you to get clear on what culture really means—and to lead with curiosity, transparency, and heart.Key Timestamps:(00:00) – Eddie's Early Life and Entrepreneurial Journey(08:22) – Lessons from Failure: The Story of Eddie's Father(14:50) – Balancing Product and Customer Focus(20:15) – The Genesis of SKOR(30:35) – The Role of Leaders and Managers in Organizational Success(32:41) – The Importance of Clear and Relatable Assessments(35:29) – Learning from Feedback and Evolving Leadership Strategies(38:26) – The Impact of Transparency and Open Communication(46:00) – Rapid Fire QuestionsKey Topics Discussed:Leadership Unlocked, Leadership Insights, Dusty Holcomb, Servant Leadership Principles, Self-Leadership Strategies, Growth Mindset in Leadership, Integrity and Leadership, Leadership Development Resources, Effective Leadership Habits, Empowering Leadership Techniques, Senior Executive Insights, Leadership Quotes and Reflections, Leadership Podcast, Executive Coaching, CEO Podcast, Business Leadership, Leadership Growth, Leadership Journey, Stories From Leaders, Leadership Tools, High-Performing Teams, Leadership Mindset, Decision Making, Personal Growth, Leadership Coaching, Organizational LeadershipMentions:Website: https://www.getskor.com/about LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eddiegeller/ SKOR Culture Report: https://www.getskor.com/stateofculture Never Split the Difference: Negotiating as if Your Life Depended on It by Chris VossThe Great Game of Business by Jack StackMore of Leadership Unlocked:Check out our leadership development resources at https://arcqusgroup.com/Contact me at dusty@arcqusgroup.com

Dusty goes solo to share how one quote kickstarted a daily rhythm that’s shaped his leadership for nearly 30 years. It all began on the third shift at a call center—one quote, one email, one moment of reflection. That small practice grew into a lifelong discipline of reading, thinking, and writing, and became a way to stay grounded, sharpen perspective, and serve others. He unpacks why influence—not title—is the true measure of leadership, and reflects on the wisdom of John Maxwell, Martin Luther King Jr., C.S. Lewis, and others who’ve guided his path. This episode is a reminder that leadership starts with self-leadership—and that small, intentional habits done daily are what truly move us forward.Key Timestamps:(00:00) – The Importance of Self-Care for Leaders(02:00) – My Journey into Leadership(03:32) – The Birth of a Daily Discipline(04:09) – Expanding the Practice(05:46) – The Evolution of a Habit(07:37) – The Power of Reflection and Writing(08:54) – The Essence of Leadership(11:41) – Practical Tips for Daily Reflection(15:48) – The Influence of Quotes(20:14) – Leadership is IntentionalityKey Topics Discussed:Leadership Unlocked, Leadership Insights, Dusty Holcomb, Servant Leadership Principles, Self-Leadership Strategies, Growth Mindset in Leadership, Integrity and Leadership, Leadership Development Resources, Effective Leadership Habits, Empowering Leadership Techniques, Senior Executive Insights, Leadership Quotes and Reflections, Leadership Podcast, Executive Coaching, CEO Podcast, Business Leadership, Leadership Growth, Leadership Journey, Stories From Leaders, Leadership Tools, High-Performing Teams, Leadership Mindset, Decision Making, Personal Growth, Leadership Coaching, Organizational LeadershipMentions:Atomic Habits by James Clear More of Leadership Unlocked:Check out our leadership development resources at https://arcqusgroup.com/Contact me at dusty@arcqusgroup.com

Dusty is joined by Raquel Braganza, a transformational coach and joy strategist, for a powerful conversation on reclaiming joy as a daily, deliberate practice—especially for leaders and caregivers who often pour from an empty cup. Raquel shares moving stories from her clients, including a mother who found light in a dark season by throwing a “cat party” with her children, and executives who rediscovered joy through simple rituals like music-filled showers and warm towels. She explains how choosing joy isn’t about perfection or privilege—it’s about presence, agency, and designing a life that reflects your values. From redefining success to embracing emotion as a strength, Raquel invites listeners to treasure hunt for joy in the everyday. Whether you’re leading a team, a family, or simply trying to lead yourself well, this episode will challenge and encourage you to create moments of joy on purpose—and to believe that you are more than your circumstances.Key Timestamps:(00:00) – Meet Raquel Braganza(03:51) – The Power of Rituals and Small Joys(07:39) – Joy as a Leadership Tool(10:39) – Creating Personalized Joy Moments(16:35) – Balancing Joy and Misery(30:06) – The Transformation of Seeking Joy(34:41) – Embracing Joy in the Mundane(38:08) – The Exhaustion of Leadership(53:44) – Rapid Fire QuestionsKey Topics Discussed:Leadership Unlocked, Leadership Insights, Dusty Holcomb, Servant Leadership Principles, Self-Leadership Strategies, Growth Mindset in Leadership, Integrity and Leadership, Leadership Development Resources, Effective Leadership Habits, Empowering Leadership Techniques, Senior Executive Insights, Leadership Quotes and Reflections, Leadership Podcast, Executive Coaching, CEO Podcast, Business Leadership, Leadership Growth, Leadership Journey, Stories From Leaders, Leadership Tools, High-Performing Teams, Leadership Mindset, Decision Making, Personal Growth, Leadership Coaching, Organizational LeadershipMentions:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/raquel-braganza/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raquelbraganza_lifecoachJoy Coaching Gift: https://www.poweredbyjoy.coachMentions: https://dustyholcomb.com/2019/02/27/circle-of-concern-vs-circle-of-control/Awaken the Giant Within: How to Take Immediate Control of Your Mental, Emotional, Physical and Financial by Tony RobbinsFind Your Why: A Practical Guide for Discovering Purpose for You and Your Team by Simon SinekAtomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James ClearThe Book of Joy: Lasting Happiness in a Changing World by Dalai Lama, Desmond Tutu, and Douglas AbramsMore of Leadership Unlocked:Check out our leadership development resources at https://arcqusgroup.com/Contact me at dusty@arcqusgroup.com

Dusty breaks down one of the most overlooked traps in leadership: the urge to rescue. Drawing from real-world coaching conversations and timeless wisdom from Viktor Frankl, Dusty unpacks what happens when leaders carry the emotional weight of their team's problems—and why it backfires. You’ll learn how to use powerful questions to redirect responsibility, reinforce agency, and build a culture of accountability. This isn’t just theory—it’s a practical leadership judo move you can start using today to empower your team and protect your energy.Key Takeaways:• Why solving every problem makes you a rescuer, not a leader• How to redirect challenges back to your team to foster growth and accountability• The leadership questions that unlock personal agency and avoid burnoutKey Timestamps:(00:00) – Confusing Leadership With Rescue(01:00) – The Performance Review Dilemma(03:00) – Reclaiming Agency Through Simple Questions(04:30) – The Doom Cycle of Fixer Leaders and Problem Identifiers(05:30) – Viktor Frankl and the Gap Between Stimulus and Response(06:30) – Don’t Accept the Monkey: How to Restore Team Accountability(07:30) – Packaging Problems With Solutions(09:00) – “What Can You Do? What Will You Do?”Key Topics Discussed:Leadership Unlocked, Leadership Insights, Dusty Holcomb, Servant Leadership Principles, Self-Leadership Strategies, Growth Mindset in Leadership, Integrity and Leadership, Leadership Development Resources, Effective Leadership Habits, Empowering Leadership Techniques, Senior Executive Insights, Leadership Quotes and Reflections, Leadership Podcast, Executive Coaching, CEO Podcast, Business Leadership, Leadership Growth, Leadership Journey, Stories From Leaders, Leadership Tools, High-Performing Teams, Leadership Mindset, Decision Making, Personal Growth, Leadership Coaching, Organizational LeadershipMentions:Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl, Harvard Business Review – Who’s Got the Monkey?More of Leadership Unlocked:Check out our leadership development resources at https://arcqusgroup.com/Contact me at dusty@arcqusgroup.com

Join Chuck Hall, chairman of Vitality Living and founder of Charles Hall Construction, as he shares his inspiring journey from humble beginnings on Rhode Island docks to leading a thriving company with over 2,300 employees. He discusses the crucial role of mentorship, the importance of authentic leadership, and his passion for enhancing the quality of life for seniors. Chuck emphasizes the idea of 'Life by Design' and the impact of intentional leadership on personal and professional growth, leaving listeners inspired to cultivate their own leadership paths.

What if your greatest leadership superpower wasn’t your voice—but your questions? In this episode of Leadership Unlocked, Dusty unpacks the single best advice he ever received: be interested, not interesting. From a homeschool upbringing that sparked lifelong curiosity to a game-changing moment inspired by Jim Collins and Peter Drucker, Dusty shares how learning to ask the right questions transformed his leadership. He explains why curiosity builds trust, why humility fuels influence, and how flipping your "questions-to-statements" ratio can unlock untapped growth in your team. If you’ve ever felt pressure to perform or prove yourself in leadership, this episode is a powerful reminder that insight starts when we stop trying to impress—and start seeking to understand. Great leaders don’t have all the answers; they ask better questions. This one shift could be your leadership unlock.Key Timestamps:(00:00) - Be Interested, Not Interesting(01:17) - The Power of Curiosity in Leadership(01:49) - When Dusty’s Story Began(03:45) - Implementing Curiosity in Leadership(05:22) - What Jim Collins and Peter Drucker Taught Me(08:49) - The Impact of Asking QuestionsKey Topics Discussed:Leadership Unlocked, Leadership Insights, Dusty Holcomb, Servant Leadership Principles, Self-Leadership Strategies, Growth Mindset in Leadership, Integrity and Leadership, Leadership Development Resources, Effective Leadership Habits, Empowering Leadership Techniques, Senior Executive Insights, Leadership Quotes and Reflections, Leadership Podcast, Executive Coaching, CEO Podcast, Business Leadership, Leadership Growth, Leadership Journey, Stories From Leaders, Leadership Tools, High-Performing Teams, Leadership Mindset, Decision Making, Personal Growth, Leadership Coaching, Organizational LeadershipMore of Leadership Unlocked:Check out our leadership development resources at https://arcqusgroup.com/ or https://leadershipunlockedpodcast.com/Contact me at dusty@arcqusgroup.com