McCoy Leadership

Guiding Leaders Forward: How to Retain Talent and Foster Growth in Any Organization

On this episode of the McCoy Leadership Podcast, I sat down with Dr. Kevin Gazzara, CEO of Magna Leadership Solutions, to explore what it really takes to grow as a leader—no matter your background. We talked about practical strategies for making training actually stick, how to develop teams in both big corporations and scrappy startups, and why everyone can, and should, lead from any position. If you're ready for actionable advice to elevate your impact and foster real organizational growth, don’t miss this episode!
------
Download your free episode guide here!
------
00:00 From Intel to Leadership Consulting
06:44 ADAM Model: Real-Time Application
08:16 Maximize Seminar Success
12:38 The Timeless Value of Apprenticeship
15:26 Talent vs. Skill in Leadership
17:31 "Intel Manager's Unique Onboarding Approach"
20:37 Mentorship Drives Career Success
26:58 "Importance of One-on-Ones and Retention"
28:31 "ROI of Investing in Employees"
33:31 Big vs. Small Company Opportunities
34:43 "Redeployment and Employee Growth Strategy"
40:08 "Advice for School Administrators"
42:25 Positive Intelligence iPhone App
------
Here are my top 3 takeaways:
🔹 Training Alone Isn’t Enough: Dr. Gazzara highlighted that real learning happens when you apply concepts to solve an immediate, real-world problem—not just by sitting through a training. Come to every workshop or seminar with a specific objective in mind and a plan to measure your learning in action.
🔹 Leadership is for Everyone: Regardless of your job title, leadership starts day one. Dr. Gazzera encouraged leaders to empower their teams to ‘wear the leadership hat’ from the beginning, looking for ways to grow and take initiative.
🔹 Invest in People, Not Just Performance: Separating one-on-one meetings into performance and development sessions can be a game-changer. This creates space for employees to discuss personal and professional growth—not just the metrics. It increases engagement, discretionary effort, and retention.
------
Want to learn more about McCoy Leadership?  Check out our website, https://www.mccoyleadership.com/ and don't forget to subscribe to receive all the latest podcast episode.
------
Links
Kevin's Website
LinkedIn
Kevin's Book, The Leader of Oz
Book Recommendation
Flow

How Improv Unlocks Leadership and Team Creativity in Business

On today’s episode of the McCoy Leadership Podcast, we dove into the power of improv with Andrew Davies. We explored how improvisational comedy isn’t just for extroverts—it’s a tool anyone can use to spark creativity, build stronger teams, and become a better leader. Andrew shared practical ways to energize meetings, why intentional play drives connection, and how modeling participation from the top transforms company culture. If you’re looking to break out of the burnout cycle, boost retention, or simply make work more meaningful, this episode’s for you. Let’s lead with more creativity, courage, and collaboration!
------
Download your free episode guide here!
-------
00:00 "The Power of Improvisational Comedy"
04:30 Overcoming Fear of New Experiences
09:14 Embracing Play and Low-Stakes Failure
12:29 Leadership Through Improv Workshops
15:19 Rethinking Time: Beyond Money Trade
18:01 "Listening Skills in Improvisation"
23:26 Intentional Team Dynamics in Meetings
26:10 "Improv Games for Creative Meetings"
29:45 Starting Meetings on a Positive Note
32:16 "Participation in Virtual Meetings"
36:25 Focus on Positivity, Not Problems
39:39 Jewish Values Through Improv Comedy
43:34 Enhancing Employee Retention and Growth
47:40 Onboarding Through Value-Based Games
50:37 Advice for Educational Leaders
53:11 Google Docs: Collaborative Game-Changer
------
Here are three powerful takeaways for your leadership toolkit:
➡️ Improv isn’t just for extroverts or comedians. It’s about listening—in fact, introverts often excel because they pick up on details and really hear what’s being said. Great improv (and leadership!) starts with deep listening.
➡️ Meetings should be energizing, not draining. Andrew shared the ABCs of better meetings:
Affective (how do you want people to feel?)
Behavioral (how do you want them to act?)
Cognitive (what should they know or take away?)
 
A touch of intentional play or a quick improv game can dramatically shift energy and engagement.
➡️ Model the behavior you want to see. Whether you’re a CEO joining team-building exercises or a parent showing kindness, leadership is about actions, not just words. If you want your team to grow and participate, jump in and play alongside them.
There’s so much potential when we make room for courage, creativity, and connection at work. If you want inspiration for your next team meeting or retreat, give this episode a listen!
-------
Want to learn more about McCoy Leadership?  Check out our website, https://www.mccoyleadership.com/ and don't forget to subscribe to receive all the latest podcast episode.
-------
Links
Andrew's Website
LinkedIn
Book Recommendation
The Art of Gathering
 
 
 

Living an Abundant Life Through Purpose, Faith, and Leadership with John Knowlton

On today’s episode of the McCoy Leadership Podcast, I sat down with John Knowlton to dive deep on leadership, faith, and the power of intentional thinking. We explored how your mindset shapes your outcomes, the importance of personal mission, and how values guide every decision — both in business and in life. John shared inspiring stories from his journey, including lessons from the prison chaplaincy and the business world, and practical tips to help you lead with purpose, serve others, and create abundance. If you’re ready to elevate your leadership impact and align your daily actions with your greater calling, this episode is a must-listen!
------
Download your free episode guide here!
------
00:00 Multi-Hat Life: Pastor to Financial Planner
04:36 "Aligning Goals with Mission"
09:25 Facing Fearful Decisions
12:42 Selfish Choices in Troubled Lives
17:01 "Redirect Negative Thoughts"
18:35 Objectifying People: A Coffee Shop Reflection
22:20 Genesis Origins: Purposeful Stewardship
25:31 Finding Life Purpose: Simple or Grand?
28:13 Finding Purpose Through Faith
33:40 From Incarceration to Entrepreneurial Mentor
37:33 "Christian Business Leadership Challenges"
39:35 Stewardship Through Business Principles
43:33 Experiment with Generosity
47:45 "Start Mornings Mindfully"
50:08 "Comical Morning Routine Insight"
55:44 Email's Impact: A 30-Year Reflection
56:34 Digital Search Revolutionizes Interaction
------
Here are my three biggest takeaways:
🔹 Clarity of Mission Is EverythingWhether you’re guiding a business, a team, or your own career path, John emphasized the power of a clear personal mission, vision, and values to navigate tough choices and stay aligned—even when business and personal goals collide.
🔹 Abundance Comes from GivingJohn’s prison chaplain experience highlighted that mindsets focused on serving and contributing to others—not “taking”—create the conditions for real abundance in life and business. Generosity isn’t just good, it’s practical leadership strategy.
🔹 Growth Is a Journey, Not a DestinationFinding your true purpose isn’t handed to you at graduation—it’s a process, discovered along the way. Pay attention to what energizes you, and don’t be afraid to test, reflect, and refine your path over time.
------
Want to learn more about McCoy Leadership?  Check out our website, https://www.mccoyleadership.com/ and don't forget to subscribe to receive all the latest podcast episode.
-------
Links
John's Website
LinkedIn
John's new book
 
 
 

Accelerating Leadership Growth: Building Effective Teams and Reducing Turnover with Walter Dusseldorp

On this episode of the McCoy Leadership Podcast, I sat down with Walter Dusseldorp, the Dutch Mentor, to dive deep into what really drives leadership success. We explored why focusing on emerging leaders is game-changing, how real mentorship—beyond checkbox training—can transform teams, and why measuring actionable progress matters more than ever. Walter shares powerful insights on developing self-aware leaders, building high-performing teams, and creating workplaces where people actually want to stay and grow. If you’re serious about leadership development, this is a must-listen!
------
Download your free episode guide here!
------
00:00 Paramedicine to Leadership Transformation
05:16 "Mentorship: Essential Path to Leadership"
07:16 "Integrative Support in Hiring Process"
11:50 Root Causes of Employee Underperformance
14:53 Neglecting Frontline in Leadership Development
18:25 "Retention Through Stay Interviews"
20:29 Accountability and High-Performance Teams
------
Here are my top 3 takeaways:
🔹 Mentorship Matters Most for Emerging Leaders: Walter emphasizes that those newly promoted into leadership roles, especially from technical backgrounds, often lack the support they need. Intentional mentorship can bridge the gap between “doing” and truly “leading.”
🔹 Leadership Development Starts on Day One: According to Walter, leadership development shouldn’t wait for an annual review or promotion—it should kick off as soon as someone is hired, with structured support and actionable learning, not just online modules or one-off workshops.
🔹 Focus on Actionable, Measurable Steps: Walter’s approach to building high-performing teams involves regular check-ins, clear metrics (not too many!), and ongoing accountability. This ensures that leadership growth is practical, sustainable, and aligned to real outcomes.
Walter’s emphasis on servant leadership, team alignment, and flexible mentorship really hit home for me. If you’re looking to elevate your leadership pipeline, this episode is a must-listen!
------
Want to learn more about McCoy Leadership?  Check out our website, https://www.mccoyleadership.com/ and don't forget to subscribe to receive all the latest podcast episode.
------
Links
Walter's Website
LinkedIn
Book Recommendations
Good to Great
Eckhart Tolle Books
 
 

Misery to Joy: Bill Heinrich’s Blueprint for Authentic Leadership and Purposeful Living

On this episode of the McCoy Leadership Podcast, I sat down with Bill Heinrich to uncover how true leadership starts from within. Bill shared his journey from extreme misery to authentic fulfillment, emphasizing that real success is about energetic alignment—not just chasing material wins. We explored why finding and living your true purpose transforms both business and personal life, and why ownership and responsibility matter so much more than accountability. If you want to level up your leadership and create real impact, tune in and discover how living your truth can change everything.
------
Download your free episode guide here!
------
00:00 Rethinking Legacy and Material Success
03:53 Life's Lessons: Beyond Material Success
06:57 Challenge: Executives & Non-Systemic Approaches
10:22 Empowered Living Through Integrity
14:17 Finding Fulfillment Through Authenticity
18:57 Virtual Connectivity Challenges
21:35 "Heart Over Mind: Embrace Now"
25:38 Effective Communication: Choosing Delivery Methods
29:18 Embracing Control Beyond Belief
31:16 Blueprints for Unfolding Personal Purpose
36:01 "Modern Communication: Cyborg Connectivity"
38:49 Podcast Wrap-Up: Final Three Questions
41:33 Podcast Insights & Future Highlights
------
Here are my top 3 takeaways from our discussion:
Authenticity Wins: True leadership and lasting happiness come from understanding and embracing your unique energy—not just chasing material success or following prescribed systems.
Responsibility Over Accountability: Bill challenges us to choose responsibility instead of just accountability. Taking ownership of your actions (rather than playing the victim) leads to clarity, better communication, and more positive relationships at work and at home.
Purpose Is About WHO You Are, Not What You Do: Your life purpose isn’t about your job title or your daily tasks; it’s about the energy and intention you bring to every moment, conversation, and relationship.
If you’re feeling “successful but miserable,” or just want to lead with more impact, this episode is a must-listen. Bill also shares practical tools and the importance of energetic alignment for leaders at every level.
------
Want to learn more about McCoy Leadership?  Check out our website, https://www.mccoyleadership.com/ and don't forget to subscribe to receive all the latest podcast episode.
------
Links
Bill's Website
LinkedIn
Bill's Book
Book Recommendation
The Seat of the Soul
The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success
 
 

From Fear to Excellence: Leadership Lessons with Tech Pioneer Giorgio Natili

On this episode of the McCoy Leadership Podcast, we sat down with Giorgio Natili—tech leader, author, and fearless management advocate. Giorgio shared his journey from overcoming terrible bosses to leading innovation at companies like Amazon, Capital One, and Mozilla. We dove into why honesty, vulnerability, and putting people first matter so much more than chasing titles or perfection. Giorgio reminded us that excellence trumps perfection, and that real impact is measured by the lives you touch, not your number of followers. Whether you're a new manager or a seasoned leader, this episode is packed with insights on tackling challenges head-on, building authentic teams, and finding meaning in your work.
------
Download your free episode guide here!
------
00:00 Tech and AI Journey: Excellence Pursuit
04:17 Unique Career Journey Challenges
08:06 "Leadership: Support from Behind"
12:52 "Challenging Questions Unsettle Colleagues"
14:30 "Balancing Truth and Diplomacy"
17:51 Evolving Culture to Prevent Obsolescence
21:03 Redefining Success Beyond Titles
26:44 From Fear to Fascination: Sharks
28:36 Procrastination and Fear Connection
32:15 Embrace Vulnerability for Success
36:32 Podcast Success Through Impactful Leadership
40:35 "Passion for Music in Events"
43:40 Advice for Educators from Leaders
45:50 "Maximizing Gen AI for Tasks"
------
Here are my top three takeaways for anyone navigating management or leadership roles:
🔹 Perfection Doesn’t Exist, Excellence Does: Giorgio shared that striving for perfection can be paralyzing, but aiming for excellence pushes teams and leaders to continuously grow and deliver real value.
🔹 Honesty & Courage Matter: Too often, managers sugarcoat reality or hide issues from leadership, fearing repercussions. Giorgio’s experience proves that clear, direct, and respectful communication—no matter how uncomfortable—is key to solving problems and building lasting trust.
🔹 Embrace Vulnerability & Challenges: Whether it’s swimming with literal sharks (yes, he did!) or facing career fears, Giorgio encourages leaders to acknowledge fears and tackle them head-on. Procrastination often signals underlying fear—so be open about it and ask for help when needed.
If you’re curious to hear practical wisdom on management, leadership, and even tackling your own “sharks,” I highly recommend listening to this episode! And remember: focus on meaningful impact, not just chasing titles or superficial perfection.
------
Want to learn more about McCoy Leadership?  Check out our website, https://www.mccoyleadership.com/ and don't forget to subscribe to receive all the latest podcast episode.
------
Links
LinkedIn
Book Recommendations
Radical Candor
Crucial Conversations
 
 

Faith-Driven Leadership: Financial Wisdom and Business Success with Nick Garofalo

Ever wondered how faith and business can thrive together? In this episode of the McCoy Leadership Podcast, I sat down with Nick Garofalo—a Christian entrepreneur and wealth expert—to dive deep into leadership, building profitable businesses with integrity, and finding balance between faith, family, and work. We unpacked why profit isn’t a dirty word, the power of bringing in the right advisors, and how stewardship is key to long-term success. Whether you’re just launching or scaling up, this conversation is packed with actionable insights for purpose-driven leaders. 
------
00:00 Value of Financial Advisors
03:47 "Finding the Right Advisor"
07:24 Men's Reluctance to Ask for Help
13:13 Navigating Work-Life Imbalance
14:52 "Exploring Ecclesiastes: Timeless Wisdom"
18:27 Stewardship in Business Lifecycles
24:05 Career Lifecycle and Planning Analogy
25:24 Setting Wealth Limits for Generosity
28:54 Profit Management for Business Owners
32:37 Empowerment and Financial Education
------
Here are 3 key takeaways worth sharing:
Seek Aligned Advisors: When you’re navigating new territory in business or finances, don’t just Google the nearest expert. Nick advocates finding advisors who align with your values—especially those who share your core beliefs and have walked the journey before you.
Profit Is Not a Dirty Word: Many Christian business owners feel uneasy about making a profit, but Nick reframes profit as a form of stewardship. Our resources, including wealth, are entrusted to us for a season—use them to provide, to invest in others, and yes, to enjoy life while keeping God at the center.
Separate Business and Personal Finances: One of the top challenges Nick sees among business owners is mixing business and personal finances. Clear boundaries increase financial clarity and reduce stress, freeing you up to make smarter decisions for long-term success.
------
Want to learn more about McCoy Leadership?  Check out our website, https://www.mccoyleadership.com/ and don't forget to subscribe to receive all the latest podcast episode.
------
Links
Nick's website
freebies
LinkedIn
book reccomendation 

Unlocking Talent: Building Better Teams with Dr. Michael Neal’s Assessment-Based Hiring

If you want to revolutionize how you hire and retain talent, you don’t want to miss this episode! I sat down with Dr. Michael Neal, an optometrist turned entrepreneur, who shared how he cracked the code on finding and keeping top performers in healthcare—and beyond. By focusing on people’s natural strengths and using smart assessments instead of just resumes, Dr. Neal’s Build My Team is helping businesses hire smarter, not harder. Whether you’re in healthcare or any industry, these strategies can help you build a stronger team and transform your business. Tune in and get ready to elevate your hiring game!
------
00:00 Uncle Bill's Al Capone Tales
05:19 Maxwell Method DISC Insights
08:32 Rethinking Career Pathways Education
11:10 Algorithmic Job Candidate Matching
13:24 Experience: Short-term vs. Long-term Impact
18:10 Tailoring Hiring for Business Success
21:28 Candidate Matching and Retention System
22:52 Demographic Shift Impact on Workforce
29:02 Perseverance in Running and Business
30:07 Perseverance: Overcoming Challenges
34:50 "Right People, Then Direction"
37:59 "Think and Grow Rich Summary"
40:34 Podcast Follow & Tune-in Reminder
------
Top 3 takeaways:
🔍 Hire for Strengths, Not Just ExperienceDr. Neal realized the traditional resume/interview process wasn’t surfacing high performers. By using assessments that identify candidates’ natural talents, his practice saw a dramatic improvement in retention and performance.
🎯 You Might Be Looking in the Wrong PlaceWith a shrinking labor pool, Dr. Neal’s system taps into overlooked candidates—people who may have never considered a certain role but are actually an ideal fit based on their strengths, not simply their work history.
💡 Feedback & Flexibility Drive SuccessTheir process incorporates feedback loops to tailor hiring for each client’s definition of success. If a candidate doesn’t fit one opening, they may be a perfect match for another, creating a more dynamic (and humane) pipeline.
Want to rethink how you build your team? Check out Build My Team or give this podcast episode a listen. It might just change your perspective on hiring and team building.
------
Want to learn more about McCoy Leadership?  Check out our website, https://www.mccoyleadership.com/ and don't forget to subscribe to receive all the latest podcast episode.
------
Links
Michael Neal's Website
https://www.buildmyteam.com/
LinkedIn