

Maxwell Leadership Podcast
John Maxwell
The Maxwell Leadership Podcast is a regular examination of what it means to be a transformational leader—someone who daily influences people to think, speak, and act to make a positive difference in their lives and in the lives of others. This podcast will teach you the principles, practices, and process of becoming a transformational leader because leadership isn't an event—it's an uphill journey. Every week we will offer a free tool to help you on this journey, so let leadership authority Dr. John C. Maxwell show you the way.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 17, 2025 • 40min
What to Expect When You Take the High Road
John C. Maxwell, a renowned leadership author, shares his wisdom on high-road leadership. He emphasizes the often unseen costs of leading with integrity, highlighting that the first sacrifice is the hardest but essential for growth. Maxwell discusses the ongoing nature of these sacrifices, stressing that while it may cost you power or recognition, true wealth lies in personal development and credibility. His insights also explore the significance of gratitude in overcoming challenges and the importance of evaluating your inner circle.

9 snips
Dec 10, 2025 • 40min
Great Leaders Value All People
John C. Maxwell, a renowned leadership expert and author, discusses the vital importance of valuing all people, regardless of personal feelings. He outlines four practical steps for uplifting others, emphasizing that valuing people is an intentional action, not just a feeling. John warns that devaluing others can harm leadership, while valuing them yields significant relational and emotional returns. Mark Cole challenges listeners to engage in weekly tasks to apply these principles, fostering deeper connections and appreciation in their lives and leadership.

20 snips
Dec 3, 2025 • 42min
Your Motives Matter
In this engaging talk, John C. Maxwell, a renowned leadership expert and bestselling author, dives into the critical topic of motives behind leadership. He emphasizes the difference between motivation, which fosters empowerment, and manipulation, which seeks personal gain. John encourages leaders to serve others without titles and regularly check their motives to avoid common pitfalls like power and recognition. Mark Cole reflects on these insights, urging leaders to reassess their 'why' to ensure their leadership remains rooted in service.

24 snips
Nov 26, 2025 • 40min
Lead to Give, Not to Get
John C. Maxwell, a renowned leadership author, emphasizes the essence of effective leadership: giving over receiving. He discusses the importance of servant leadership, urging leaders to adopt a no-entitlement attitude and focus on contributing to others. Mark Cole and Traci Morrow highlight how this principle can reshape workplace dynamics by fostering collaboration and genuine motivation. They also explore practical strategies to combat entitlement, mentor young leaders, and inspire through gratitude, all while promoting selfless giving.

47 snips
Nov 19, 2025 • 39min
Stop Meaning Well, Start Living Well
Join John Maxwell, a renowned leadership author and speaker, as he discusses the vital shift from good intentions to intentional living. He highlights the power of purposeful action over passivity and introduces intentional listening as a transformative leadership skill. Learn how to overcome procrastination, practice active listening, and create accountability in your journey of growth. Maxwell shares personal anecdotes and practical strategies to help you live with purpose and achieve long-term success.

30 snips
Nov 12, 2025 • 33min
How to Make Your Future Bigger than Your Past
Explore the power of turning your past into a teacher rather than a trap. Discover how daily habits and small actions lead to future success. Embrace anticipation over apprehension to control your present. Learn practical steps to grow beyond setbacks and make peace with past mistakes. Treat each day as a masterpiece and continue pursuing your purpose to maintain momentum. Finally, leverage your personal growth to help others find significance beyond achievement.

32 snips
Nov 5, 2025 • 33min
Quiet Confidence: Leading Without the Applause
In this discussion, John Maxwell, a renowned leadership author and speaker, emphasizes shifting from reliance on external validation to cultivating quiet confidence. He shares insights on valuing the process over singular events and encourages leaders to embrace their flaws with humor. John warns against shortcuts, advocating for consistent preparation and the importance of self-driven standards. Mark Cole and Chris Robinson further explore the internal sources of confidence and offer practical tips for emerging leaders to enjoy their growth journey.

42 snips
Oct 31, 2025 • 40min
The Future Begins with Z with Tim Elmore and John Maxwell
Join John Maxwell, a legendary leadership author, and Tim Elmore, an expert on generational dynamics, as they tackle the challenges of leading Gen Z. They discuss insights from Elmore's new book, emphasizing the need for managers to meet Gen Z in the middle, prioritize meaningful work over money, and maintain open communication. Elmore debunks myths about Gen Z's work ethic, highlights their initiative, and suggests strategies for fostering a supportive environment. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone looking to turn generational challenges into opportunities.

32 snips
Oct 29, 2025 • 38min
6 Steps to Successful Personal Change (Part 2)
Join John C. Maxwell, a legendary leadership author and speaker, as he dives into the six essential steps for personal change. He emphasizes that genuine change often feels awkward and highlights the importance of celebrating small victories while learning from setbacks. Mark Cole and Traci Morrow discuss how altered attitudes can drive behavior and performance. They explore the significance of hope, feedback, and mentorship in the change process and tackle the challenges of isolation while striving for impactful leadership.

71 snips
Oct 22, 2025 • 40min
6 Steps to Successful Personal Change (Part 1)
John C. Maxwell, a world-renowned leadership author and speaker, shares wisdom on personal change. He emphasizes that true change starts with individual desire, asserting that no one can change another person. By shifting your thinking, you can transform outcomes and foster positive expectations which energize growth. Mark Cole and Traci Morrow also discuss practical applications of these concepts in leadership, stressing the importance of ownership and communication during change. This insightful conversation is packed with actionable steps to initiate meaningful transformation.


