Hey Leaders, What values are defining your legacy as a leader? In this week’s episode, John Maxwell illuminates how true leadership can only center on values, and those values can only center on people. After his lesson, Mark Cole and Chris Robinson dig into practical ways you can identify, live out, and multiply these values within your team and organization. Key takeaways: - The test of good values is whether they value all people, all the time, in every situation—this alignment is the foundation of real leadership. - Leaders who see and lift others unlock greater potential, but when they stop valuing people, they lose their right to lead. - Values act as the glue, foundation, compass, and map for a leader, providing stability, accountability, direction, and daily guidance. Click here to listen. The BONUS resource for this episode is the Values Are the Soul of Leadership Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John’s teaching. - Dr. Joe

Hey Leaders, What is the one question you need to ask before it is too late? In this TED Talk Tuesday, Sharon Price John shares a powerful story of leading through crisis and the moment that changed everything. Faced with the potential collapse of her company, she did not start with strategy, spreadsheets, or quick fixes. She started with a deeper question that forced clarity, honesty, and focus. What truly matters? Her message is a reminder that in moments of pressure, leaders must resist the urge to react and instead choose to reflect. The right question can cut through noise, expose what is essential, and guide decisions that lead to real transformation. For leaders, this is a critical lesson. It is easy to get caught up in urgency and activity, especially when the stakes are high. But leadership is not about doing more. It is about thinking better. The quality of our leadership is often determined by the quality of the questions we are willing to ask. A few key insights from this talk: - The right question can create clarity in the middle of chaos. - Leaders must focus on what truly matters, not just what feels urgent. - Honest reflection leads to better decisions and stronger outcomes. - Simplicity often reveals the path forward. Here is your challenge this week. Pause and identify one area in your leadership where things feel overwhelming or unclear. Instead of pushing harder, ask a better question. Ask yourself: What truly matters here? Then align your actions with that answer. That is where breakthrough begins. Sharon Price John’s TED Talk, “The question that saved my company from bankruptcy,” reminds us that leadership is not just about having answers. It is about having the courage to ask the right questions at the right time. When we lead with clarity and purpose, we move closer to our mission at Axis Leadership: Better People, Better World. You can watch it here: https://www.ted.com/talks/sharon_price_john_the_question_that_saved_my_company_from_bankruptcy

Hey Leaders, Alright team, we’re starting a new book today—one of my personal favorites when it comes to leadership. The 5 Levels of Leadership by John Maxwell. Let me start with this: A lot of people think leadership is about titles. Position. Authority. Being “in charge.” But Maxwell makes it clear right from the start: Leadership is influence. Nothing more, nothing less. You don’t have to have a title to lead. And just because you have a title doesn’t mean people are actually following you. Over the next 10 weeks, we’re going to walk through the five levels of leadership—and here’s what I want you to understand: Every leader is at a level. And every leader can grow. This isn’t about where you are right now. It’s about where you’re going. Discussion 1️⃣ Do you believe leadership is influence? Why or why not? 2️⃣ Have you ever followed someone without a title? What made them a leader? 3️⃣ What kind of leader do you want to become? Leadership Challenge Pay attention this week to who influences you—and who you influence. Next week, we’ll start with Level 1: Position. - Dr. Joe

Hello Leaders, This week’s Leadership Latte is now available: “Connectors Create an Experience Everyone Enjoys”. Great communicators do more than share information—they create meaningful experiences that people remember. In this lesson, we explore how connection is built through engagement, authenticity, and the atmosphere we create in every interaction. As you listen to this week’s message, consider how you can make your conversations, meetings, and leadership moments more positive, memorable, and impactful. Remember: people may forget what you said, but they will never forget how you made them feel. Pour. Sip. Reflect. Dr. Joe

Innovation is alive and growing in the Middle Georgia Innovation Corridor. Yesterday, I had the privilege of serving as a panelist at the StartUpWR "Technology Tools for Business (AI)" event alongside Michael Collins, Vice President of Total Computer Solutions. The discussion was expertly moderated by Jay Flesher, Community & Economic Development Manager with Flint Energies. More than 30 aspiring entrepreneurs from across the region attended, representing a variety of industries. We explored: - Cost-effective AI tools startups can use today - Common myths and misconceptions about AI - Practical ways to use AI to improve productivity, marketing, operations, and customer engagement - Strategies for building thriving businesses through smart technology adoption Middle Georgia continues to demonstrate that innovation, entrepreneurship, and collaboration are driving real momentum for our region. - Dr. Joe