A Student of Leadership - Where Great Leaders are Made, One Habit at a Time!

In this episode, Rob Adams emphasizes the critical role of people development in effective leadership. He discusses how great leaders prioritize the growth of their team members, sharing insights from Rosalind Brewer's leadership journey. The conversation highlights actionable strategies for fostering development, such as creating learning moments and providing real-time feedback. Ultimately, Adams encourages leaders to focus on bu...

In this episode of A Student of Leadership, Rob Adams discusses the critical role of feedback in leadership. He emphasizes that feedback should be constructive and aimed at helping individuals grow rather than pointing out flaws. Using Pixar's Brain Trust as an example, he illustrates how a culture of open and honest feedback can lead to greater creativity and success. Adams provides practical strategies for giving effective feedba...

In this episode, Rob Adams discusses the critical role of sponsorship in leadership, emphasizing its transformative power compared to traditional mentoring. He shares insights on how sponsorship can significantly impact career advancement, particularly for underrepresented groups. The conversation includes actionable steps for leaders to become effective sponsors, highlighting the importance of advocating for hidden talents and cre...

In this episode, Rob Adams discusses the transformative power of mentoring in leadership. He shares a poignant story about a cafeteria worker, Denise, who mentored a struggling student, Maria, helping her realize her potential and achieve her dream of becoming a nurse. The conversation emphasizes that mentoring is about investing in others, building confidence, and fostering relationships rather than merely providing advice. Rob ou...

In this micro-podcast, Rob Adams discusses the transformative power of coaching in leadership. He emphasizes that coaching is not about fixing people but unlocking their potential and fostering growth. Through the story of Coach Taylor and Eli, he illustrates how trust and presence can lead to significant change. Adams distinguishes coaching from managing, highlighting the importance of intentionality and empathy in coaching practi...

In this episode of the Micro Podcast, Rob Adams discusses the critical leadership habit of decisiveness. He emphasizes that effective leaders do not wait for perfect clarity but take timely and confident action, even in uncertain situations. Through a real-life story of a school principal who made a bold decision during a storm, Rob illustrates the importance of decisiveness in leadership. He also addresses the negative impact of i...

In this episode of the Student of Leadership Micro Podcast, Rob Adams discusses the essential habit of collaboration, emphasizing its role in multiplying talent, building trust, and achieving extraordinary outcomes. He shares a compelling story about the Miracle on the Hudson to illustrate the power of teamwork under pressure. The conversation delves into the difference between real collaboration and mere compliance, offering actio...

In this episode of A Student of Leadership, Rob Adams discusses the critical role of innovation in leadership. He emphasizes that innovation is not just about groundbreaking ideas but about fostering a culture where teams feel safe to experiment and learn from their mistakes. By creating an environment of psychological safety, leaders can encourage their teams to share ideas and take risks, ultimately leading to continuous improvem...

In this episode of A Student of Leadership, Rob Adams explores the transformative power of discipline in leadership. He emphasizes that true discipline is not about rigid control but about mastering oneself to lead others effectively. Through the inspiring example of Serena Williams, he illustrates how discipline can drive success in various fields, including business and advocacy. The episode concludes with practical strategies fo...

In this episode of A Student of Leadership, Rob Adams delves into the transformative power of reflection in leadership. He emphasizes that reflection is not merely looking back but involves deep analysis and insight extraction that can significantly enhance decision-making and leadership effectiveness. Through historical examples, particularly Abraham Lincoln's reflective practices during the Civil War, Adams illustrates how struct...

In this episode, Rob Adams discusses the critical importance of prioritization in leadership. He emphasizes that effective prioritization is not just a productivity hack but a survival skill that distinguishes exceptional leaders from busy ones. Through examples like Warren Buffett's investment strategies and insights from Stephen Covey, the episode explores how leaders can master the art of prioritization to enhance their effectiv...

In this episode of the Micro Podcast, Rob Adams explores the transformative power of authentic leadership. He emphasizes that authenticity is not about perfection but about genuine self-awareness and transparent humanity. Through the story of Howard Schultz at Starbucks, he illustrates how authentic leadership fosters trust and innovation. The episode also presents practical strategies for cultivating authenticity in leadership, in...

In this episode of A Student of Leadership, Rob Adams delves into the transformative power of active listening as a critical leadership skill. He discusses how leaders can unlock potential and foster innovation through strategic listening, illustrated by Satya Nadella's approach at Microsoft. The episode also provides practical strategies for enhancing listening skills, emphasizing the importance of intention and creating spaces fo...

In this episode of A Student of Leadership, Rob Adams delves into the critical role of trust in leadership. He emphasizes that trust is not just a skill but the foundation of effective leadership, enabling vision, delegation, and influence. Through the example of Angela Merkel's leadership during crises, he illustrates how transparency and ethical decision-making foster public trust. The episode outlines strategies for building tru...

In this episode of A Student of Leadership, Rob Adams delves into the transformative practice of empowerment in leadership. He emphasizes that true empowerment goes beyond mere delegation; it involves creating an environment where individuals feel confident taking initiative and making decisions. Using Indira Newey at PepsiCo as an example, he illustrates how empowerment can lead to significant organizational transformation. The ep...

In this episode, Rob Adams delves into the critical leadership skill of delegation, emphasizing its importance in fostering team development and organizational success. Through the example of Howard Schultz at Starbucks, he illustrates how effective delegation can empower teams, enhance innovation, and create a culture of trust. The episode also provides practical strategies for improving delegation skills, highlighting the need fo...

In this episode, Rob Adams discusses the transformative power of gratitude in leadership. He emphasizes that gratitude is not merely about saying thank you but creating a culture where individuals feel valued and appreciated. Through the example of Alan Mulally, former CEO of Ford, he illustrates how intentional gratitude can lead to organizational success and employee satisfaction. The episode also highlights research showing that...

In this episode, Rob Adams discusses the foundational quality of effective leadership: confidence. He emphasizes that true confidence is not about arrogance but about trusting one's abilities while acknowledging limitations. The episode features the inspiring story of Ursula Burns, the first black woman to lead a Fortune 500 company, who exemplified confidence during her tenure at Xerox. Rob shares actionable steps for building aut...

In this episode of A Student of Leadership, Rob Adams emphasizes the critical leadership skill of adaptability. He shares personal insights from his leadership journey and highlights the importance of flexibility in a rapidly changing world. Through the example of Mary Barra, CEO of General Motors, he illustrates how proactive adaptability can lead to innovation and success. The episode concludes with actionable strategies for lead...