The John Eades Podcast

In this episode, John shares a preview of his new keynote and workshop, The Teamwork Advantage: Turning Groups into High-Performing Teams. Learn the formula and behaviors that separate elite teams from average ones, and walk away with practical strategies to build alignment, strengthen communication, and inspire action. John also brings you the latest Optimistic Outlook story: English golfer Tommy Fleetwood’s long journey to his first PGA Tour win and the reminder he gave us all after — “Be a good person first.” For more details on The Teamwork Advantage keynote and workshop, visit johneades.com or LearnLoft.com.

High standards fuel performance. Expecting perfection paralyzes it. In this episode, John Eades shares a story from his trip to Scotland and what playing Muirfield Golf Course taught him about leadership. You’ll learn why leaders fall into the trap of perfectionism, how it impacts teams, and why progress is a better path than flawlessness. John unpacks the difference between high standards and perfectionism and gives three practical ways to lead with standards that inspire growth without creating fear or burnout. If you’re ready to set the bar high without suffocating your team, this episode is for you.

Winning is great, but it’s the relentless act of competing that makes it possible. In this episode, John Eades shares what his two alpha dogs, Penny and Charlie, taught him about refusing to quit — and why life rewards those who keep showing up. Quote of the Day: "Relentlessness beats talent when talent gets tired." 🎧 Subscribe to the daily newsletter: https://optimisticoutlook.beehiiv.com 📘 Get the Daily Optimism Blueprint: https://eyl.thinkific.com/order?ct=3f19e468-71bd-45bd-985f-da01d072e497

"Team Building isn't an activity, it's a habit."  In the lastest, episode, David Burkus joins John to talk all things teamwork and team building to help you more effectively lead your team.  You can get David's book, Best Team Ever here. The book outlines five key strategies that top-performing teams share: Clarity – Everyone knows the team’s mission, how success is measured, and what’s expected of them. Connection – Team members feel personally connected to each other, not just the work. Contribution – People know how their role makes a difference. Psychological Safety – It’s safe to speak up, disagree, and take risks. Purpose – There’s a shared sense of meaning that goes beyond the task list. If you are interested in joining the How to Lead a Winning Team Workshop, do so here. 

Success and excellence are often confused, but they're fundamentally different. Through the inspiring story of British Cycling, learn how small, consistent improvements can elevate performance. Discover insights from Joe Burrow's post-game reflections that illuminate the mindset of high achievers. Dive into The Excellence Loop, a four-step framework designed to raise your standards in leadership and life. Remember, while success is what you achieve, excellence is about who you become.

Engaging in direct dialogues is crucial for effective leadership, likened to a huddle of porcupines balancing closeness and discomfort. Avoiding conflict can lead to greater issues, making tough conversations essential for team growth. A three-part formula—Standards, Evidence, and Courage—guides these discussions, ensuring clarity and understanding. Emphasizing the need for tangible proof and emotional honesty, the podcast explores how confronting difficult topics can prevent long-term resentment and promote accountability in relationships.

Adam Weber, former Chief People Officer at 15Five and co-founder of Emplify, dives deep into the essence of leadership in this engaging discussion. He highlights how great leadership inspires genuine followership, emphasizing the importance of collaboration over command. Weber discusses the integration of AI in enhancing efficiency while preserving human connections. He champions vulnerability in leadership, fostering authentic relationships, and enhancing team motivation. Plus, he shares insights on coaching for growth and the delicate balance between professional demands and personal well-being.

Talent gets the headlines, but character wins championships. In this episode, John Eades shares a story from NBA All-Star Draymond Green about his rookie teammate Trace Jackson-Davis — and the quiet, selfless act that every team leader should notice. Then, John introduces the Talent Cross Model, a practical tool for evaluating the people on your team through two powerful lenses: ability and selflessness. If you want to build a team that performs at a high level and elevates one another, this episode is a must. 🔑 In this episode: Why selfless teammates are more valuable than you think The 4 types of talent on any team How to use the Talent Cross Model to guide hiring, development, and accountability You can watch the video on youtube here.

Explore the nuances of leadership beyond just tenure. Discover the five essential principles that help managers elevate team performance by defining clear expectations. Learn how prioritizing personal development over comparison fosters authenticity. Gain insights on building trust and connecting daily tasks to a greater purpose, creating a thriving team culture. This discussion blends practical strategies and foundational truths, providing a roadmap to effective leadership.

Dive into the concept of the spotlight effect, where we often overestimate how much others notice us. Discover why embracing a bias for action is essential for personal growth and achieving goals. With relatable stories of courage and overcoming fears, the discussion encourages proactive steps toward success. Learn how to conquer the illusion of scrutiny and turn actions into confidence, motivating everyone to pursue their dreams without hesitation.