Shows
The Better Leadership Team ShowConflict as a Leadership StrategyIn this Mike on the Mic episode, I break down why conflict isn’t a leadership problem—it’s a leadership strategy. I explain why most teams either avoid conflict or engage in the wrong kind, how that damages decisions and execution, and what leaders can do to build healthy, idea-based debate. I also share real client stories, clear ground rules, and eight practical tools you can use immediately to turn conflict into a competitive advantage. Thanks for listening! Connect with us at mike-goldman.com/blog and on Instagram@mikegoldmancoach and on YouTube @Mikegoldmancoach
2026-02-0338 minThe Better Leadership Team ShowAccountability Without AuthorityIn this Mike on the Mic episode of The Better Leadership Team Show, I tackle one of the toughest leadership challenges: accountability without authority. I explain why accountability breaks down in cross-functional environments, how silos and finger-pointing form, and what senior leaders must do differently to drive results when they don’t control every lever. I also share practical mindset shifts and eight concrete strategies leadership teams can use to strengthen ownership, influence, and execution across the organization. Thanks for listening! Connect with us at mike-goldman.com/blog and on Instagram@mikegoldmancoach and on Yo...
2026-01-2732 minThe Better Leadership Team ShowRelationships as Your #1 Recruiting StrategyIn this Mike on the Mic episode of The Better Leadership Team Show, I explain why relationships—not job boards or recruiters—must become your number one hiring strategy. I break down the true cost of mediocre hires, why resumes no longer differentiate top talent, and how to build a virtual bench of superstars before you need them. I also share practical strategies for employee referrals, alumni programs, and leadership-team involvement so you can consistently raise the talent bar and build an elite leadership team. Thanks for listening! Connect with us at mike-goldman.com/blog...
2026-01-1325 minThe Better Leadership Team ShowHow Leaders Create the Very Problems They Complain AboutIn this Mike on the Mic episode, I unpack the five biggest blind spots that cause leaders to unintentionally create the very problems they complain about.From blaming others and silencing honest feedback to confusing activity for results, I reveal how these hidden habits quietly undermine trust, accountability, and culture. You’ll learn how to recognize these patterns, model ownership, and transform your leadership approach to build a stronger, more aligned team.If you’ve ever wondered why your team isn’t taking more ownership or why the same issues keep showing up again and again—...
2025-12-0238 minThe Better Leadership Team ShowBuilding Teams That Refuse MediocrityIn this Mike on the Mic episode, I unpack the five pillars for rooting out mediocrity and building teams that truly thrive.I explore how to create a powerful vision, set high expectations, establish relentless accountability, increase talent density, and invest in your best people.If you’re ready to break free from “good enough” and lead a high-performing, growth-driven team, this episode will give you the roadmap.Thanks for listening! Connect with us at mike-goldman.com/blog and on Instagram@mikegoldmancoach and on YouTube @Mikegoldmancoach
2025-11-1807 minThe Better Leadership Team ShowWhy Great Strategies FailIn this Mike on the Mic episode, I dive into the real reason why so many great strategies fail. Drawing from my early years as a consultant and decades of leadership coaching, I share why the #1 driver of profit growth isn’t strategy, technology, or process—it’s people growth. I’ll walk you through the Talent Profit Cycle, explain why one superstar can outperform three mediocre performers, and highlight the many inadequacies in traditional performance management. This episode kicks off a three-part series leading up to the launch of my new book, The Strength of Talent: How to Grow You...
2025-09-3026 minThe Better Leadership Team ShowHow to Thrive in Difficult SituationsIn this Mike on the Mic episode, I explore what it truly means to lead through adversity. I break down the Stockdale Paradox, a powerful mindset that balances realism with hope, and show how I helped leadership teams apply it in real time during major crises. You’ll walk away with a step-by-step process for guiding your team through difficult times—without losing morale, clarity, or momentum.Whether you're facing layoffs, market shifts, or internal challenges, this episode gives you the tools to face brutal facts while still believing in your team’s ultimate success. Let’s turn unc...
2025-07-1530 minThe Better Leadership Team Show5 Ways to Coach Your Team Instead of Managing ThemIn this “Mike on the Mic” episode of The Better Leadership Team Show, I dive into one of the biggest traps leaders fall into: constantly managing their team instead of coaching them. If you ever feel like you’re putting out fires all day and doing work that’s not yours, this episode is for you. I walk you through five specific strategies to coach your team, empower ownership, and finally free yourself up to lead the way you’re meant to. Thanks for listening! Connect with us at mike-goldman.com/blog and on Instagram@mi...
2025-05-2719 minThe Better Leadership Team Show10 Questions Every Leadership Team Should Be AskingIn this Mike on the Mic episode, I’m diving into 10 powerful questions every leadership team should be asking—again and again. These questions are your roadmap to clarity, alignment, and innovation. Whether you’re just forming your leadership team or have been together for years, these prompts will challenge your thinking, expose blind spots, and drive your company forward.Let’s raise the bar—because building a great leadership team is never done.🎧 Tune in and ask yourself: Which question do we need to focus on next? Thanks for listening! Co...
2025-05-1329 minThe Better Leadership Team ShowHow can we be more adaptable as a leadership team?In this Mike on the Mic episode, I dig into one of the most critical challenges leadership teams face today: adaptability. When the world changes—whether through global events, industry disruption, or internal shifts—how do you know when your plan no longer serves you? And what do you do about it?I explore how to recognize the key signals that it's time to adapt, and share the structured rhythm I've seen work with my clients to build adaptability into their DNA—without losing focus or blowing with the wind. I walk through how your leadership team can bu...
2025-05-0625 minThe Better Leadership Team ShowTurn Your Strengths Into a SuperpowerIn this “Mike on the Mic” episode, I explore how to turn your strengths—and the strengths of your team—into a superpower. I share a personal story that shifted how I lead, define what a true strength really is, and offer practical tools to help you stop wasting energy on your weaknesses. If you're ready to increase performance, reduce burnout, and create a more fulfilled, high-impact team, this episode is for you.VIA Character Strengths Survey Thanks for listening! Connect with us at mike-goldman.com/blog and on Instagram@mikegoldmancoach and on YouTube @Mikegoldmancoach
2025-04-2930 minThe Better Leadership Team ShowBuilding Team TrustIn this "Mike on the Mic" episode of The Better Leadership Team Show, I delve into the cornerstone of every successful leadership team—trust. Learn why vulnerability-based trust is vital for creating open, honest, and high-performing teams. Discover actionable strategies to identify trust gaps, build deeper connections, and create a culture of accountability and commitment. Whether you’re a CEO or a team member, this episode offers practical tools like the Personal Lifeline Exercise, Coaching Triads, and Peer Accountability Exercises to help you transform your team dynamics. Remember, if you want a great company, you need a great leadership team...
2025-02-2535 minThe Better Leadership Team Show6 Ways to Get Feedback as a LeaderIn this episode of Mike on the Mic, we dive into the importance of feedback as a cornerstone of personal and professional growth. Leaders often struggle to receive honest and constructive feedback, especially at senior levels. Discover six actionable strategies, including 360-degree evaluations, coaching, mastermind groups, and peer accountability exercises, to ensure you’re continuously improving as a leader. Learn how to build a culture of openness and growth within your organization. Whether you’re a CEO, manager, or aspiring leader, these tips will help you elevate your leadership game. Tune in and transform how you lead!
2025-02-1125 minThe Better Leadership Team ShowThe 4 Biggest Mistakes Leadership Teams MakeAre you making one of the four biggest mistakes that leadership teams struggle with? In this episode of Mike on the Mic, I uncover the critical errors holding your team back: unclear success measures, juggling too many priorities, neglecting talent development, and thinking too small. Discover actionable strategies to redefine success, focus on what matters, grow your team, and adopt a bold 10X mindset. Whether you're a CEO or a team leader, these insights will transform your leadership approach and help you build a thriving organization. Thanks for listening! Connect with us at mike-goldman.c...
2025-02-0431 minThe Better Leadership Team ShowThe Secret to Healthy AgingIn this episode of Mike on the Mic, I uncover the secrets to healthy aging and lifelong fulfillment through personal stories and reflections as I approach my 60th birthday. From navigating financial setbacks to redefining success and finding renewed purpose, I delve into the power of keeping your "peak" ahead of you. Discover how to embrace challenges, set meaningful goals, and stay energized at any stage of life. Whether you're exploring career transitions, personal growth, or simply seeking inspiration, this episode offers practical insights to keep your mind, body, and spirit thriving. Tune in to redefine aging and embark...
2025-01-1428 minThe Better Leadership Team ShowWhat Do We Do About Solid, Mediocre Performers?In this episode of Mike on the Mic, I tackle one of the most challenging issues in leadership: handling "solid, mediocre performers." While high and low performers receive most of our attention, it's the steady but unremarkable team members who often go unaddressed—potentially holding back organizational excellence. We explore strategies for boosting performance, including weekly one-on-ones, productivity coaching, and even role adjustments to better suit strengths. For those in essential roles, we discuss when it's time to consider "coaching out" as a last resort. Join me for an in-depth look at creating a great team and empowering every te...
2024-12-0330 minThe Better Leadership Team Show9 Ways to Bring Core Values to LifeIn this episode of Mike on the Mic, I take a personal deep dive into how I help organizations move beyond just having core values written on the wall. Core values, when they’re truly integrated into the heart of a company, can transform culture, boost performance, and drive growth. But all too often, they’re treated as little more than a checkbox exercise.I’ll share 9 practical strategies that I’ve found to be incredibly effective for ensuring core values are lived and breathed throughout your team. From hiring and onboarding to everyday reinforcement, I’ll show you h...
2024-11-1232 minThe Better Leadership Team ShowThe New and Improved Human Resources FunctionIn this episode of Mike on the Mic, I dive into the crucial role Human Resources plays in driving profit growth by focusing on people growth. HR has traditionally been seen as a tactical function, but it's time to reimagine it as a strategic powerhouse that can truly impact an organization's success. I discuss the importance of redefining HR, perhaps as "Talent Development" or "Team Member Experience," to better reflect its evolving role. We'll cover key areas like optimizing recruiting, performance assessment, onboarding, and effective communication strategies. Join me as I explore how a strategic HR function can transform...
2024-10-0126 minThe Better Leadership Team ShowHow to Facilitate an Annual Planning RetreatIn this Mike on the Mic episode, I share my insights on facilitating an effective annual planning retreat. I'll guide you through the essential steps to align your leadership team on key priorities, foster deep collaboration, and set the strategic direction for the upcoming year. We’ll discuss common pitfalls to avoid, necessary pre-work, and how to craft a comprehensive agenda that drives results. Whether you’re a CEO or a member of the leadership team, my goal is to equip you with actionable insights to make your next retreat a success. Tune in and transform your planning process into...
2024-09-1740 minThe Better Leadership Team ShowHow to Structure Your Leadership TeamIn this Mike on the Mic episode, I dive deep into the strategies and tools you need to build a successful leadership team. I discuss why it's crucial to proactively structure your leadership team before problems arise. I'll share common pitfalls and the difference between accountability and responsibility and introduce two powerful tools: the Functional Accountability Chart and the 12-Quarter Leadership Team Plan. This episode will provide valuable insights to help you create a high-performing leadership team. Tune in to learn how to set your organization up for success! Thanks for listening! Connect with...
2024-08-2038 minThe Better Leadership Team Show11 Actions for High PerformersIn this episode of Mike on the Mic, I explore why many leaders tend to over-invest in low performers and under-invest in high performers despite the latter group having the most potential for growth. Emphasizing the importance of focusing on high performers and I’ll offer 11 actionable steps to better engage and retain these valuable team members. From challenging them and raising the bar to promoting and re-recruiting them, this episode provides a comprehensive approach to maximizing the contributions of high performers in any organization.Thanks for listening! Connect with us at mike-goldman.com/bl...
2024-08-1320 minThe Better Leadership Team ShowSetting Clear ExpectationsIn this Mike on the Mic episode, I dive deep into the importance of setting clear expectations within your organization. Learn why unclear expectations often lead to unacceptable results and discover practical strategies to establish measurable and actionable goals. I explore the difference between productivity and performance, the significance of balancing leading and lagging indicators, and the necessity of collaborative goal setting. Additionally, I discuss the role of core values in defining cultural fit and the use of job scorecards to ensure everyone in your team is aligned with the company's success. Tune in to understand how to set...
2024-08-0635 minThe Better Leadership Team ShowGround Rules for Leadership TeamsIn this Mike on the Mic episode, I dive into the essential ground rules that every leadership team should follow to foster a productive, collaborative, and high-performing organization. Learn how to enhance your team's decision-making, debate skills, and relationships through six key principles:Brutal HonestyNo Shame, No BlameDisagree and CommitConversational CapacityLaw of Positive IntentNumber One TeamWhether you're a seasoned leader or new to a leadership role, this video will equip you with the tools needed to elevate your team's performance and drive success throughout your company. Thanks for listening! Connect with us at mike-goldman...
2024-07-1629 minThe Better Leadership Team ShowTargets, KPIs, Priorities…I’m Confused!On this Mike on the Mic episode, I’ll be breaking down the chaos of distinguishing the differences between targets, KPIs, and priorities. I explore how vague terminology often leads to confusion within teams, especially leadership teams, impacting overall organizational clarity. I’ll help tackle the pitfalls of using amorphous language when discussing plans and goals. Many companies fall into the trap of using ambiguous terms like "goals" without a shared understanding of what those goals entail—whether they're specific targets or broader initiatives like implementing a new system. Using a recent client experience as a case study, we delve...
2024-06-1831 minThe Better Leadership Team ShowImproving Your Leadership Team – Where Do You Start?In this Mike on the Mic episode, I go into the key characteristics of a phenomenal company, and I'll take a deep dive into how you can assess your team's performance against these benchmarks. But that's not all; I'll also zero in on actionable steps. Even if your team is excelling, constant improvement is vital. To guide us, we'll use a comprehensive 30-question assessment—an invaluable tool that will help pinpoint specific areas for enhancement. Whether you're leading an established team or just starting out, this episode will equip you with practical insights and inspiration to elevate your le...
2024-06-0431 minThe Better Leadership Team ShowThe Planning and Communication Rhythm-2In this Mike on the Mic episode, I dive into the art of unlocking team success through three key disciplines: Measuring What Matters, Aligning Around Priorities, and the Planning and Communication Rhythm. Using the human body as a metaphor, I explore how these disciplines are as vital to your team's success as the nervous and digestive systems are to the human body. Discover the 'Essential Eight Meetings' that could revolutionize your team's productivity and cohesion. From annual planning retreats to the daily huddle, I’ll cover the essential meetings that every leadership team should implement to enhance execution, accountability, an...
2024-05-2827 minThe Better Leadership Team ShowYou can't lead a great team if you can't lead yourselfIn this MIke on the Mic episode, I will take you on a deep personal journey through the highs and lows of my life and leadership. I’ll dive into the foundational role self-leadership in personal and professional development. Key Highlights:- Discover why self-leadership is the cornerstone of team and business success.- Learn how personal challenges with family and health can impact professional life.- Find inspiration in the power of self-expression through a transformative poetic experience.- Gain insights on aligning mind, body, and spirit for hol...
2024-05-1428 min