140: Mike Watson and The Pursuit of A Noble Purpose

Unlabeled Leadership

I invite guests to share personal stories about acts of leadership that help shape their lives. In Episode 140, Mike Watson explains something his father said that helped him as a branch manager. He then shares a story about a CEO candidate who didn’t get the job and what happened next. Finally, Mike shares three ways to strengthen how we lead.

Prologue

If you are in the greater Vancouver area, look for Mike. He gets leadership and curates his knowledge and experiences in his new book, Rise Up: Leadership Habits for Turbulent Times. Mike has a strategic planning process that draws the best from executive teams.

01:34 Part 1: Not Telling How

Mike talks about his experience as a first-time branch manager. He explains something that his father said to him.

08:11 Part 2: Rigorous Boot Camp Exercise

In this story, Mike explains how a candidate for a CEO position didn’t get the job and why. It is a fantastic story of determination to change for the better.

18:14 Part 3: Help Them to Be at Their Best

Mike advises us on how we can be more effective at leadership. He shares three things you can begin doing immediately.

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Robynne Orr is the opening voice narrator. To learn more about her amazing storytelling capabilities, visit Robynne’s website, R.ORR.

⁠Transcript through Otter (expect some inaccuracies)

Episode links

Mike’s LinkedIn Profile, Twitter

Ignite Management LinkedIn company profile, website, YouTube, Twitter

Mike’s book, Rise Up

Adam Grant’s book, Think Again

Gary DePaul’s website

Gary's books:

What the Heck Is Leadership and Why Should I Care?

Nine Practices of 21st Century Leadership (Second Edition)

The 2022 HRBP Report (free formats available)

Lead on!