Chad Hennings ’88 Leadership Mindset, Mission, and Moral Courage

From A-10 combat missions to three Super Bowl championships, Chad Hennings has led in the air, on the field, and now—through character-based leadership.----more----

SUMMARY

In the latest episode of Long Blue Leadership, Chad shares pivotal lessons from two leadership crucibles: flying in combat and transitioning from military life to the NFL. We also talk about his work today helping others lead with moral courage, through business, mentorship, and his Forces of Character podcast.

 

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CHAD'S TOP LEADERSHIP TAKEAWAYS

 - Chad chose to fulfill his military commitment over NFL opportunities.  - Commitment and integrity were instilled in him from a young age.  - Athletics served as a leadership laboratory for Chad.  - Leadership is about setting an example for others.  - Identity is not defined by what you do, but who you are.  - Struggles and obstacles are essential for personal growth.  - Character development requires strong relationships and feedback.  - Kinetic character means actively working on your character.  - Resilience is built through overcoming challenges.  - True fulfillment comes from relationships, not material success. Visualization is key to understanding identity and leadership.  - Leadership is about serving others, not just personal gain.  - True leadership involves modeling behavior for others.  - Identity is foundational for making sound decisions.  - Transitioning from structured environments can challenge one's identity.  - Don't compromise your values to fit in with a group.  - Creating community is essential for personal growth.  - Daily practices like devotionals can set the tone for leadership.  - A growth mindset is crucial for continuous improvement.  - Character and integrity are essential for effective leadership.

 

CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction to Leadership and Commitment 02:02 Crossroads: Choosing Commitment Over Opportunity 05:58 Lessons from Athletics and Leadership 11:47 The Evolution of Identity and Purpose 16:07 Character Development Through Struggles 21:50 Kinetic Character: The Importance of Relationships 24:04 Visualizing Identity and Leadership 29:12 Navigating Transitions and Identity 32:07 Building Community and Legacy 38:09 Daily Practices for Effective Leadership 40:49 The Importance of Mindset in Leadership 42:08 Character and Integrity in Leadership 43:06 Encouragement for Aspiring Leaders

 

ABOUT CHAD

BIO

Chad learned the value of hard work, trust, and integrity growing up on his parent’s farm in Iowa. Those lessons became central to the life he’s lived since with unwavering character. From the fields of Iowa to the skies over Iraq, Chad’s journey took him from the U.S. Air Force Academy where he earned academic All-American honors and won the Outland Trophy as the nation's top lineman, to flying 45, A-10 combat and humanitarian missions in the first Gulf war. It was only after fulfilling his commitment to serve that Chad entered the NFL. He was 27 at the time and went on to win three Super Bowl championships with the Dallas Cowboys. Today, Chad continues to lead from the front. He’s a speaker and he’s authored several books including It Takes Commitment, Rules of Engagement, and Forces of Character. He founded Wingmen Ministries and is a principal in Rubicon Representation, where he helps businesses grow through meaningful relationships and synergy. He’s also the host of his new podcast, Forces of Character, where he shares stories of moral courage and principled leadership, includ