The Jon Gordon Podcast

In this episode of Positive Leadership Tip Wednesday, I dive into the heart of what truly makes a leader effective: the balance between principles and practices. I explain why simply having values and a vision isn’t enough, leaders need real tools and actionable steps to build, develop, and transform their teams. Join me as I break down how principles guide us, but practices are what actually drive growth and success. Tune in for straightforward, practical leadership tips that can help you and your team get better every week. If you find value here, share this episode and let's help everyone level up together.   Here’s a few additional resources for you… Follow me on Instagram: @JonGordon11 Order my new book 'The 7 Commitments of a Great Team' today! Every week, I send out a free Positive Tip newsletter via email. It’s advice for your life, work and team. You can sign up now here and catch up on past newsletters. Join me for my Day of Development! You’ll learn proven strategies to develop confidence, improve your leadership and build a connected and committed team. You’ll leave with an action plan to supercharge your growth and results. It’s time to Create your Positive Advantage. Get details and sign up here. Do you feel called to do more? Would you like to impact more people as a leader, writer, speaker, coach and trainer? Get Jon Gordon Certified if you want to be mentored by me and my team to teach my proven frameworks principles, and programs for businesses, sports, education, healthcare!

Start your week with a fresh perspective on Positive Mindset Monday. In this episode, I dive into the powerful shift from saying “have to” to embracing “get to.” Drawing from my experience and the lessons I shared in The No Complaining Rule, I reveal how this simple language change can turn everyday obligations into opportunities for gratitude. I open up about my own life, including the impact of losing my mom, to remind you (and myself) that every day is a gift, not a given. Join me as I share how choosing appreciation over complaint can energize your mindset and transform how you face each day. Let’s encourage each other to see life not as an obligation, but as an opportunity.   Here’s a few additional resources for you… Follow me on Instagram: @JonGordon11 Order my new book 'The 7 Commitments of a Great Team' today! Every week, I send out a free Positive Tip newsletter via email. It’s advice for your life, work and team. You can sign up now here and catch up on past newsletters. Join me for my Day of Development! You’ll learn proven strategies to develop confidence, improve your leadership and build a connected and committed team. You’ll leave with an action plan to supercharge your growth and results. It’s time to Create your Positive Advantage. Get details and sign up here. Do you feel called to do more? Would you like to impact more people as a leader, writer, speaker, coach and trainer? Get Jon Gordon Certified if you want to be mentored by me and my team to teach my proven frameworks principles, and programs for businesses, sports, education, healthcare!

On this episode of The Jon Gordon Podcast, I sit down with Rafi Kohan, author, cultural observer, and the mind behind Trash Talk: The Only Book About Destroying Your Rivals That Isn’t Total Garbage.   What started as a casual Zoom between new friends quickly turned into a lively deep dive into the world of competitive banter, all captured here in real time. Together, Rafi and I explore the fascinating, untold science and history of trash talk. He breaks down why trash talk is more than just gamesmanship on the field, it’s a fundamental part of human behavior, threaded through ancient stories from the Bible to the Homeric poems, and alive in everything from politics to playgrounds. We get into how trash talk manipulates attention, anxiety, motivation, and even performance, and why some of the world’s greatest athletes and public figures use it to their advantage.   Rafi shares wild stories, including some next-level antics from a soccer goalie who turned mental distraction into an art form, reveals why even the most positive folks can’t resist a little friendly ribbing (looking at you, Ken Blanchard), and reflects on how the lessons of trash talking stretch far beyond sports, touching on politics, performance, resilience, and even moral character. We also riff on modern-day masters of the craft (think Muhammad Ali to Donald Trump) and the fine line between competition that lifts us up versus rivalry that tears us down. If you’ve ever wondered why we talk smack, how to handle it when it happens, or what it really says about us, you’ll find insight and plenty of laughs in this episode.   Whether you’re a serious competitor, a sports fan, or someone who’s just curious about why people do what they do, this conversation brings fresh perspective, energy, and practical takeaways on embracing pressure, building grit, and becoming the kind of rival that makes everyone better. And yes, there’s a little trash talk between us too. If you want to rethink the way you handle challenges, on the court, at work, or in life, this episode is for you.   Rafi Kohan is an award-winning sports journalist and dynamic keynote speaker. He is the author, most recently, of Trash Talk: The Only Book About Destroying Your Rivals That Isn't Total Garbage, which explores the phenomenon of verbal gamesmanship in sports, and everywhere, and what it reveals about our ability to perform under pressure.    About Rafi,   Kohan's first book, The Arena, is a wide-ranging examination of the modern American sports stadium and was a finalist for the 2018 PEN/ESPN Award for Literary Sports Writing. Previously, Kohan has served as deputy editor at the New York Observer and as executive editorial director for the Atlantic's creative marketing studio. His writing has appeared in numerous publications, including GQ, the New York Times, Men's Journal, Rolling Stone, and the Wall Street Journal, among many others, and his thought leadership on the surprising benefits of trash talk has been featured on Fast Company, Scientific American, NPR's Science Friday, BBC's Unexpected Elements, and Re:Thinking with Adam Grant.   Here’s a few additional resources for you… Follow me on Instagram: @JonGordon11 Order my new book 'The 7 Commitments of a Great Team' today! Every week, I send out a free Positive Tip newsletter via email. It’s advice for your life, work and team. You can sign up now here and catch up on past newsletters. Join me for my Day of Development! You’ll learn proven strategies to develop confidence, improve your leadership and build a connected and committed team. You’ll leave with an action plan to supercharge your growth and results. It’s time to Create your Positive Advantage. Get details and sign up here. Do you feel called to do more? Would you like to impact more people as a leader, writer, speaker, coach and trainer? Get Jon Gordon Certified if you want to be mentored by me and my team to teach my proven frameworks principles, and programs for businesses, sports, education, healthcare!

In this episode for Positive Leadership Tip Wednesday, I dive into the No Complaining Rule: if you have a complaint, you also need to bring one or two possible solutions. This approach doesn’t just reduce negativity, it encourages everyone to think more proactively and be part of the answer. It’s a simple but powerful tip for leaders who want to create environments where ideas are heard, people feel empowered, and positive changes happen. Tune in to learn how embracing this mindset can turn everyday challenges into opportunities for growth and innovation!   Here’s a few additional resources for you… Follow me on Instagram: @JonGordon11 Order my new book 'The 7 Commitments of a Great Team' today! Every week, I send out a free Positive Tip newsletter via email. It’s advice for your life, work and team. You can sign up now here and catch up on past newsletters. Join me for my Day of Development! You’ll learn proven strategies to develop confidence, improve your leadership and build a connected and committed team. You’ll leave with an action plan to supercharge your growth and results. It’s time to Create your Positive Advantage. Get details and sign up here. Do you feel called to do more? Would you like to impact more people as a leader, writer, speaker, coach and trainer? Get Jon Gordon Certified if you want to be mentored by me and my team to teach my proven frameworks principles, and programs for businesses, sports, education, healthcare!

Kick off your week on a positive note with this episode of Positive Mindset Monday! Today, I reveal my favorite strategy to stay upbeat—straight from the incredible Dr. James Gills, the only person to finish six double Ironman triathlons. His secret? Learning to talk to himself rather than listening to the self-doubt and negativity in his mind. I share how Dr. Gills used purposeful words and scripture to fuel his endurance, and how you, too, can use your own words to uplift and encourage yourself. Tune in to discover how the language you use internally can transform your outlook and keep you moving forward, even in the toughest moments. Let this episode inspire you to speak life into your week ahead!   Here’s a few additional resources for you… Follow me on Instagram: @JonGordon11 Order my new book 'The 7 Commitments of a Great Team' today! Every week, I send out a free Positive Tip newsletter via email. It’s advice for your life, work and team. You can sign up now here and catch up on past newsletters. Join me for my Day of Development! You’ll learn proven strategies to develop confidence, improve your leadership and build a connected and committed team. You’ll leave with an action plan to supercharge your growth and results. It’s time to Create your Positive Advantage. Get details and sign up here. Do you feel called to do more? Would you like to impact more people as a leader, writer, speaker, coach and trainer? Get Jon Gordon Certified if you want to be mentored by me and my team to teach my proven frameworks principles, and programs for businesses, sports, education, healthcare!

What’s the true difference between a team that just sets goals and one that actually succeeds? I recently joined my friend Ed Mylett on his podcast to unpack the mindset shift that turns talent into teamwork and goals into greatness. We talked about the core message from my latest book, The 7 Commitments of a Great Team—and why commitment always costs something. As I told Ed, “You have to ask yourself, what are you willing to give, and what are you willing to give up?” That’s the starting line for every great team. We dove into: Why you’ll never get commitment without connection The secret that holds strong teams together (hint: it’s not just strategy) What to do when emotional fatigue sets in and passion starts to fade We also explored the power of love and purpose on a team—yes, even in business. Because when people care, they don’t just show up. They fight for each other. That’s the truth. This conversation was real, raw, and personal. Whether you're leading a company, a classroom, or a family, this episode will fuel your fire. Thank you, Ed, for having me on!  Here’s a few additional resources for you… Follow me on Instagram: @JonGordon11 Order my new book 'The 7 Commitments of a Great Team' today! Every week, I send out a free Positive Tip newsletter via email. It’s advice for your life, work and team. You can sign up now here and catch up on past newsletters. Join me for my Day of Development! You’ll learn proven strategies to develop confidence, improve your leadership and build a connected and committed team. You’ll leave with an action plan to supercharge your growth and results. It’s time to Create your Positive Advantage. Get details and sign up here. Do you feel called to do more? Would you like to impact more people as a leader, writer, speaker, coach and trainer? Get Jon Gordon Certified if you want to be mentored by me and my team to teach my proven frameworks principles, and programs for businesses, sports, education, healthcare!  

In this episode of Positive Leadership Tip Wednesday, I talk about why it’s crucial not just to know your values as a leader, but to show them in everything you do. I share how bringing your values to life, rather than leaving them on a wall or a piece of paper, can energize your team, build genuine belief, and even attract others to your mission. Listen in as I break down how living your values every day leads to long-term success for you, your team, and your organization. Here’s a few additional resources for you… Follow me on Instagram: @JonGordon11 Order my new book 'The 7 Commitments of a Great Team' today! Every week, I send out a free Positive Tip newsletter via email. It’s advice for your life, work and team. You can sign up now here and catch up on past newsletters. Join me for my Day of Development! You’ll learn proven strategies to develop confidence, improve your leadership and build a connected and committed team. You’ll leave with an action plan to supercharge your growth and results. It’s time to Create your Positive Advantage. Get details and sign up here. Do you feel called to do more? Would you like to impact more people as a leader, writer, speaker, coach and trainer? Get Jon Gordon Certified if you want to be mentored by me and my team to teach my proven frameworks principles, and programs for businesses, sports, education, healthcare!

I want to help you start your week with a mental reset. In this episode, I’m sharing something I believe can change the course of your life. You are not the thoughts you think. You are the thoughts you believe. And the thoughts you believe, and speak, become the life you live. You’re going to have negative thoughts. We all do. But here’s the key: they’re not from you. No one would choose to think, “You’re not enough,” or “There’s no hope.” Just like a nightmare, you don’t choose those thoughts, they just show up. The good news? You don’t have to believe them. In this episode, I’ll show you how to stop letting those lies take root and start speaking truth, hope, and purpose into your life. Let’s stop agreeing with the negativity and start winning the battle of the mind. Listen in and share this with someone who needs encouragement today. Here’s a few additional resources for you… Follow me on Instagram: @JonGordon11 Order my new book ‘The 7 Commitments of a Great Team’ today! Every week, I send out a free Positive Tip newsletter via email. It’s advice for your life, work and team. You can sign up now here and catch up on past newsletters. Join me for my Day of Development! You’ll learn proven strategies to develop confidence, improve your leadership and build a connected and committed team. You’ll leave with an action plan to supercharge your growth and results. It’s time to Create your Positive Advantage. Get details and sign up here. Do you feel called to do more? Would you like to impact more people as a leader, writer, speaker, coach and trainer? Get Jon Gordon Certified if you want to be mentored by me and my team to teach my proven frameworks principles, and programs for businesses, sports, education, healthcare!

On this episode of The Jon Gordon Podcast, I sit down with Robbie Emery, the Director of Character Development for the University of Michigan football team and a truly remarkable leader behind the scenes. For nearly a decade, Robbie has poured his heart into helping transform Michigan’s program, cultivating a culture of faith, service, unity, and readiness that’s simply inspiring. We talk about Robbie’s unique journey—how a move to Michigan, a chance connection, and a willingness to serve (even picking up water bottles at practice) led to his life-changing role with the Wolverines. Robbie opens up about the real power of focusing on the team over the individual, and how faith and strong character have become the secret sauce behind Michigan’s success on and off the field. We dive into what it means to truly serve others, to be ready for the moments when opportunity knocks, and why it’s the little things—the small acts of consistency and kindness—that open the biggest doors in life. Robbie also shares stories from his new book, “Pick Me,” and reveals how staying prepared can create miracles, whether you’re a student-athlete, business leader, or anyone chasing growth. This conversation is packed with wisdom, heart, and practical takeaways for anyone looking to make an impact—from the locker room to the boardroom. If you want to become the person who’s ready when life shouts “Pick me,” this episode is for you. About Robby, Robby Emery is a sought-after dynamic speaker known for his unique approach to coaching and team building. With an engaging and inspiring presentation style, Robby offers practical insights that benefit businesses, organizations, and audiences of all backgrounds. He has shared stages with some of the most influential leaders of our time, leaving a lasting impact wherever he speaks. Robby is a pastor with nearly 25 years of experience serving his local community. His leadership journey extends beyond the pulpit, as he has also served as a special advisor to the Michigan Football team and as the executive assistant to head coach Jim Harbaugh. Currently in his 10th season, Robby serves as the Director of Character Development for the University of Michigan Football team, where he plays a vital role in instilling integrity, teamwork, and a championship mindset in players and staff. His approach to character development combines faith, family, and football to create a culture of unity and purpose. In addition to his work with Michigan Football, Robby is a trusted mentor and coach to executives both nationally and internationally. His passion for leadership and personal growth has made him a valued advisor to leaders from various industries. Robby has been married to Danielle for over 25 years, and together they have three teenage children—Ava, Brie, and Silas. His commitment to his family and community continues to inspire those around him, both on and off the field. For bookings and engagements, please contact Robby at robbyemery@me.com. Here’s a few additional resources for you… Follow me on Instagram: @JonGordon11 Every week, I send out a free Positive Tip newsletter via email. It’s advice for your life, work and team. You can sign up now here and catch up on past newsletters. Join me for my Day of Development! You’ll learn proven strategies to develop confidence, improve your leadership and build a connected and committed team. You’ll leave with an action plan to supercharge your growth and results. It’s time to Create your Positive Advantage. Get details and sign up here. Do you feel called to do more? Would you like to impact more people as a leader, writer, speaker, coach and trainer? Get Jon Gordon Certified if you want to be mentored by me and my team to teach my proven frameworks principles, and programs for businesses, sports, education, healthcare!

In this episode, I share a powerful story a college football coach told me about working with Nick Saban and his incredible consistency, even eating a candy bar at the same time every day. This reliability built real trust with his team. Listen in to discover why consistency—and trust—matter most for leaders. Here’s a few additional resources for you… Follow me on Instagram: @JonGordon11 Order my new book 'The 7 Commitments of a Great Team' today! Every week, I send out a free Positive Tip newsletter via email. It’s advice for your life, work and team. You can sign up now here and catch up on past newsletters. Join me for my Day of Development! You’ll learn proven strategies to develop confidence, improve your leadership and build a connected and committed team. You’ll leave with an action plan to supercharge your growth and results. It’s time to Create your Positive Advantage. Get details and sign up here. Do you feel called to do more? Would you like to impact more people as a leader, writer, speaker, coach and trainer? Get Jon Gordon Certified if you want to be mentored by me and my team to teach my proven frameworks principles, and programs for businesses, sports, education, healthcare!