NORTHBOUND: Executive Leadership Coaching

Northbound Approach Community -- https://northbound-approach.circle.so/c/posts/   Empowerment Over "Face-Time" - How To Showcase Your People Naturally  Episode Description: In this episode of Northbound, Chris dives into the misguided workplace concept of "FaceTime"—the idea that employees need to spend artificial time with higher-ups to get noticed. Chris shares personal experiences from his career where forced visibility felt awkward, transactional, and unproductive. Instead, he highlights how effective leadership empowers employees, creates natural opportunities to showcase abilities, and focuses on results rather than optics. Through stories and lessons, Chris shows leaders how to support their people while avoiding the pitfalls of superficial "FaceTime." Talking Points: The myth of "FaceTime" – Why leaders often emphasize it and what it really means. The problem with forced visibility – How artificial "FaceTime" can feel awkward, transactional, or unproductive. Showcasing abilities naturally – Encouraging leaders to create opportunities for employees to demonstrate skill and value through meaningful work, projects, or outcomes. Trust over optics – Why leadership should focus on results and competence rather than constant physical presence or attention-seeking. Empowerment vs. permission – How giving autonomy and real responsibility allows people to shine without "FaceTime." Personal anecdotes / examples – Sharing moments where natural exposure worked better than forced face-to-face meetings. Actionable advice for leaders: Delegate high-impact projects. Recognize contributions in front of peers or leadership naturally. Encourage proactive reporting rather than micromanagement. Key Takeaways: Effective leadership is about creating meaningful visibility, not forcing "FaceTime." Employees shine best when given autonomy and real responsibility. Communication up the chain should focus on results and measurable impact. Recognition should feel organic, highlighting genuine contributions. Leaders who avoid superficial practices build trust, engagement, and a stronger team.

Email your host directly at Chris@Go-Northbound.com   From Inbox to Outbox - How Efficient Leaders Give Time Back Episode Description: In this episode of Northbound, Chris reflects on lessons learned from his grandfather and a particularly disciplined boss. From perfectly packed camping trips to an office inbox meticulously managed by priority, Chris explores how structure, efficiency, and clear expectations can transform the way we work and lead. He shares personal stories that show how great leaders value both results and the people achieving them, creating environments where teams can thrive without staying late unnecessarily. Main Points: How structured processes and prioritization improve performance. The importance of leaders modeling efficiency before expecting it from others. The impact of valuing employees' time on morale and productivity. Key Takeaways: Well-designed processes give teams clarity and freedom to excel. Efficient leadership prevents unnecessary overtime and stress. Leaders who value their people's time foster loyalty, engagement, and better results. Time management is not just about business efficiency—it's about respecting people's lives outside of work.

Email your host directly at Chris@Go-Northbound.com   How to Get Promoted - The Right Way In this episode, Chris dives into the overwhelming noise of modern leadership advice—especially the kind that circulates on social media. Using a popular LinkedIn article about "how to get promoted" as a springboard, he breaks down 11 common pieces of promotion advice, evaluates their strengths and pitfalls, and reframes them through the lens of transformational leadership. Instead of playing political games for advancement, Chris argues for a mindset shift: focus on elevating others and leading with integrity from your current seat. Promotion, he says, should come as a necessity. Main Points & Commentary 1. The Problem With Leadership Noise The internet—especially LinkedIn—is saturated with leadership content. Some advice is good, some is harmless, and some is outright counterproductive. The challenge: discerning truth from noise. 2. The LinkedIn Promotion Advice Breakdown #1 — The Power of Being Liked The article suggests smiling more and remembering coffee orders. Chris warns this can quickly slip into "kissing up". Better principle: be trustworthy and perform well—not manipulative. #2 — Recognize Your Manager's Insecurities The article suggests making your manager look good publicly. Chris cautions: this crosses into flattery and can backfire. Better approach: offer private encouragement, not public posturing. #3 — Be the Person Who Brings Donuts Small acts of thoughtfulness matter. Chris agrees this is harmless and often helpful—when done authentically. #4 — Water Cooler Conversations / Proximity to Power "FaceTime" can be useful but feels like a dirty game when forced. Seek influence for positive impact, not status climbing. #5 — Being the Quiet Person in Meetings Listening is powerful. Gathering others' insights often beats being the loudest voice. Chris supports this one. #6 — Your Reputation With Assistants Assistants often have more influence than people realize. Treating people with respect isn't a strategy—it's character. Chris says this belongs at the top. #7 — Your Last Interaction Matters People remember how you made them feel. Ending with gratitude encourages and builds rapport. #8 — Company Culture Shifts Pay attention to what's being rewarded. Adapt—but never compromise your integrity or ethics to fit a toxic shift. #9 — Digital Body Language Read messages aloud; delay your send; match communication style to your audience. Chris admits learning this the hard way. #10 — Saying "I Don't Know" Honesty builds more trust than false expertise. "I don't know, but I'll find out" is powerful leadership. Asking for feedback also demonstrates humility. #11 — The Power of Follow-Through Many people promise; few deliver. Don't overpromise—overdeliver. When situations change, communicate early and clearly. Northbound Reframe: The Mindset Shift Chris wraps the episode by challenging the core premise of the LinkedIn article: You shouldn't do any of these things to get promoted. You should do them to elevate others. Key emphasis: Don't chase promotion. Lead with integrity from any seat. Encourage and uplift your peers. Build trust, deliver results, and treat people with dignity. When you adopt transformational leadership, promotion becomes unavoidable—your organization needs you at a higher level. This is the heart of Northbound: leadership that transforms people, not leadership that seeks position. Key Takeaways 1. Promotion Should Be a Byproduct, Not a Goal Shift from "How do I climb?" to "How do I elevate others?" 2. Integrity > Tactics Some advice leads to manipulation; true leadership requires authenticity. 3. Respect Everyone Treating assistants, peers, and coworkers with dignity creates real influence. 4. Communicate Thoughtfully Digital tone matters; delay your send and speak with intention. 5. Be Honest About Your Limits "I don't know" builds trust more than bluffing. 6. Follow Through Reliability is one of the most underrated leadership traits. 7. Lead From Where You Are Transformational leadership impacts the whole team—not just you.

Follow along and join our team at:  www.Go-Northbound.com   Episode Title: The Greater Shackleton -  In this episode of the Northbound Podcast, Chris contrasts two legendary Antarctic explorers—Robert Falcon Scott and Ernest Shackleton—to reveal a timeless leadership lesson. While Scott's obsession with being first to the South Pole led to tragedy and loss, Shackleton's leadership focused on the people around him, their well-being, and shared success along the journey. Through Shackleton's example, Chris highlights how authentic leadership—grounded in truth, compassion, and clear purpose—can turn even the most extreme challenges into victories for the team. This episode shows that true success isn't just reaching a destination, but how we guide, support, and care for the people alongside us. Main Points 1. Learning from the Past Scott pushed his team toward a goal at all costs—leading to death and disappointment. Shackleton, in contrast, prioritized his team's safety, morale, and shared purpose. 2. Shackleton's Leadership Principles Communicated clear purpose and "the why" to his team. Led with compassion and authenticity, modeling every challenge he asked others to face. Encouraged team morale with recreation, shared meals, and mutual support. Maintained honesty about risks and difficulties. 3. Overcoming Extreme Challenges Shackleton's ship was crushed by ice, yet he safely relocated his team. He undertook a 14-day, 780-mile open-sea journey, followed by a 25-mile mountain crossing, to rescue men stranded on Elephant Island. Despite extreme danger, not a single member of his team perished. 4. Redefining Success Success isn't only measured by reaching a goal. Real success lies in the challenges overcome, the people supported, and the lessons learned along the journey. Leadership is remembered not for ambition alone, but for how we care for and inspire those we lead. Key Takeaways People-first leadership saves lives and builds loyalty. Success is found along the journey, not just at the destination. Authenticity, compassion, and communication are critical traits for effective leadership. Leaders are remembered for how they treat their people, not the accolades they achieve. Extreme circumstances reveal the true character of a leader.

Join and follow the Northbound Team at: www.Go-Northbound.com Great Scott - A Case Study in Poor Priorities  In this episode of the Northbound Podcast, Chris unpacks the tragic Antarctic expedition of Robert Falcon Scott and reveals how a leader's obsession with reaching the summit or South Pole in this case—literally and figuratively—can destroy the very people they're called to guide. Through Scott's story, Chris highlights the dangers of prioritizing mission over people and challenges leaders to evaluate whether their strategy truly supports the teams they rely on. With a Christ-centered lens, Chris explores the importance of aligning goals, vision, and mission with the needs of your people—because success achieved the wrong way isn't success at all. This powerful case study sets the stage for a contrasting, more effective leadership example coming in the next episode. Main Points 1. The Drive to Achieve Is Not Enough Leaders often have strong mission, vision, and goals—but those mean little if the strategy ignores the people tasked with accomplishing them. 2. Who Was Robert Falcon Scott? Early naval training built his discipline and courage. His first Antarctic expedition made him a national hero. His desire for more adventure and recognition consumed him. 3. The Fatal Terra Nova Expedition Poorly chosen equipment, inadequate supplies, and harsh conditions slowed the team. Scott neglected critical planning elements—especially the needs and limits of his crew. When Scott's team reached the South Pole, they discovered Norway's Roald Amundsen had beaten them. The return journey became deadly—men died from exposure, exhaustion, and starvation. 4. Where Leadership Went Wrong Scott overloaded his men instead of using dogs. Decisions lacked flexibility, wisdom, and support for the team. His focus on personal achievement overshadowed the well-being of the people he led. 5. The Leadership Lesson A strategic plan must integrate mission + people. True leadership aligns ambition with human limits and needs. Christ-centered leadership models how to honor people above personal glory. 6. Northbound Vision Elevate your team through Christ-centered leadership. Grow, get promoted, and lead well—without sacrificing people in the pursuit of success. Key Takeaways Mission without people-centered strategy leads to failure. Your team is not a resource to burn; they're the heart of your success. Leadership requires wisdom, planning, and care—not just drive and ambition. Jesus models a leadership style that values people first. Your goals matter, but your people matter more.

THE EAGLE HAS LANDED In this episode of the Northbound Podcast, Chris unpacks a powerful leadership lesson inspired by an Eagle Scout whose life embodied humility, vigilance, focus, and decisive action—Neil Armstrong. As the Apollo 11 lunar module descended toward its marked landing zone, Armstrong recognized that the planned site was covered with dangerous boulders and debris. With fuel running low and no time to abort, he took manual control and guided the spacecraft to safety. This moment becomes a vivid metaphor for leadership today: organizations need strategic roadmaps and vision, but the best leaders must also recognize when it's time to take the controls and adjust course. Drawing from his own heritage as a third-generation Eagle Scout, Chris reflects on how the lessons learned in scouting—and embodied by Armstrong—shape leaders who are prepared, steady, and ready to act. This episode dives deep into how leaders balance direction with adaptability, and why the courage to course-correct is essential for mission success. Main Points Neil Armstrong's leadership during the Apollo 11 descent shows the power of decisive action when conditions change. Strategic roadmaps are essential—but they must allow room for course correction. Great leaders know when to trust the process and when to grab the controls. Course correction is not failure; it's stewardship, responsibility, and leadership. Communication, alignment, and clarity form the foundation that enables healthy adaptation. A strong, consistent mission anchors an organization even when methods must shift. People—the team carrying out the mission—are always the most important factor. Join our leadership team at - www.Go-Northbound.com  

Episode Title: From Wilderness to Summit: Finding Growth in Leadership Leadership can be grueling, invisible, and exhausting — but it doesn't have to break you. In this episode of the Northbound Podcast, Chris reflects on his journey from the most challenging moments of his military career to a 68-day solo hike on the Pacific Crest Trail, a period of deep reflection and personal growth. Through this story, he shares how leaders can move from the "wilderness" of stress, isolation, and emotional fatigue to the "summit" of resilience, clarity, and Christ-centered leadership. Chris provides actionable strategies for handling the hidden weight of leadership, emphasizing the importance of boundaries, support systems, physical and mental care, spiritual grounding, and shared community. This episode ties together lessons from previous discussions on the "Miles That No One Sees" and "The Weight You Carry," showing leaders how to transform challenges into growth, impact, and renewed purpose. Main Points Covered in This Episode Reflection in the Wilderness: Using solitude and challenge to process leadership stress and past experiences. Recognizing the Load: Identifying the emotional, mental, and relational weight you carry as a leader. Boundaries and Support Systems: The necessity of setting limits and cultivating a strong network of encouragement. Physical and Mental Health: Prioritizing your body, delegating, simplifying processes, and managing cognitive load. Spiritual Grounding: Restoring and trusting in God to maintain resilience and Christ-centered leadership. Embracing Adventure and Community: Using life and leadership challenges as opportunities for growth and shared experiences. Leading Humbly: Recognizing that leadership is supported by mentors, peers, and those you lead — moving from "I" to "We." Key Takeaways Leadership is a journey from wilderness (stress, fatigue, isolation) to summit (resilience, growth, impact). Solitude and reflection can provide clarity, but shared support and community amplify leadership effectiveness. Recognizing your load, setting boundaries, and maintaining physical, mental, and spiritual health are critical for sustainable leadership. Christ-centered leadership emphasizes humility, service, and shared growth, turning hard experiences into meaningful impact. Adventure and challenge, when embraced intentionally, strengthen both personal and team leadership. Next Steps / Call to Action: Connect with Chris and the Northbound community at www.go-northbound.com to share experiences, build support networks, and grow as leaders together. Join the community to learn how to lead boldly, humbly, and confidently — and to take the journey from wilderness to summit with others walking alongside you.

Episode Title: The Weight You Carry Leadership isn't just about making decisions or guiding a team — it's about carrying the unseen weight of the people you lead. In this deeply personal and raw episode of the Northbound Podcast, Chris shares one of the most challenging moments of his leadership journey: a close call with a team member contemplating suicide. Through this story, he explores the heavy emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual toll that leadership can take, and the critical importance of support, community, and faith in navigating those difficult moments. This episode is part of the ongoing series on the "Miles That No One Sees," highlighting the often-hidden struggles leaders face, and providing insight and encouragement for those walking that difficult trail. Main Points Covered in This Episode Compassion Fatigue and Emotional Wear: The toll of caring deeply for those in crisis, often at the expense of your own well-being. High-Stakes Leadership Scenarios: Handling sensitive, life-and-death situations, and the intense emotional responsibility that comes with it. The Physical and Mental Cost: How extreme stress can manifest physically (paralysis, chest pain, exhaustion) and mentally (constant problem-solving, decision-making under pressure). Relational and Spiritual Burdens: Supporting others while maintaining personal faith and moral responsibility. The Importance of Support Systems: How community, mentorship, and Christ-centered guidance are essential for sustaining leaders under pressure. Real-Life Application: The need for leaders to intervene, act decisively, and ensure those in their care are not alone in their struggles. Key Takeaways Leadership carries an invisible weight that affects emotional, physical, and spiritual health. Compassion fatigue is real, and even strong leaders need help and support. Faith and community provide critical grounding for making difficult decisions under pressure. Being present and attentive to the struggles of others can literally save lives. Sharing leadership challenges builds resilience, encourages others, and strengthens the broader leadership community. Next Steps / Call to Action: Connect with Chris and the Northbound community at www.go-northbound.com to share your experiences, gain support, and grow alongside other leaders navigating the difficult miles of leadership. The next episode, The Wilderness of Leadership, will explore lessons learned after the military and practical strategies for leading boldly, humbly, and confidently.

Episode Title: The Miles No-One Sees Leadership is hard, messy, and often invisible — just like the long, lonely miles on a backpacking trail. In this episode of the Northbound Podcast, Chris explores the unseen struggles that leaders carry every day: the emotional, physical, mental, and spiritual weight that doesn't show up on anyone else's radar. Using personal stories, historical examples like Abraham Lincoln, and his own experiences in the military, Chris shines a light on what it truly means to lead well — even when it's exhausting, isolating, and challenging. This episode kicks off a new series focused on the raw realities of leadership, helping listeners understand that the hard miles are part of the journey and that resilience, support, and faith are essential to making it through. Main Points Covered in This Episode Emotional Wear and Tear – The loneliness, decision fatigue, conflict management, and emotional masking leaders carry daily. Physical Cost – Chronic fatigue, tension, poor sleep, and stress manifesting physically. Mental and Cognitive Load – Constant problem-solving, running scenarios in your mind 24/7, and working in ambiguity. Spiritual and Identity Impact – The strain on your sense of self, the importance of faith, and leaning on Christ for strength. Relational Burden – Missing family moments, carrying confidential burdens, and supporting others while managing your own fatigue. Compassion Fatigue – Emotional depletion from caring deeply for others over long periods, sometimes without reciprocation. Key Takeaways Leadership comes with hidden challenges that affect every part of a leader's life — emotional, physical, mental, relational, and spiritual. Support systems, faith, and community are critical to sustain resilience and prevent burnout. Recognizing and naming the weight you carry is the first step toward healthy leadership. True leadership requires both courage and vulnerability — asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. The "miles no one sees" are part of the journey; learning to navigate them shapes you into a more effective and Christ-centered leader. Next Steps / Call to Action: Join the Northbound Approach community at www.go-northbound.com to connect with other leaders, gain encouragement, and grow together. Upcoming adventures and discussions will continue exploring the realities of leadership — both on and off the trail.

Podcast Summary: The Leadership Legacy of Air Force Pilot Edgar Lewis In this episode of the Northbound Podcast, Chris shares the powerful and inspiring story of Edgar Lewis, the first African American B-47 and B-52 pilot in the United States Air Force. His journey is a testament to perseverance, emotional control, and courageous leadership in the face of racism and relentless adversity. Chris recounts how Lewis—who had never even seen an airplane before enlisting—faced challenge after challenge, many of them created by the very people meant to serve beside him. From racial discrimination in training assignments to a cross being burned at the foot of his bed, to being labeled a troublemaker for reporting the incident, Lewis repeatedly encountered obstacles intended to push him out. But every time, he refused to quit. One of the most powerful moments in the story comes when a newly assigned co-pilot told Lewis he needed reassignment—because his wife, from Selma, Alabama, didn't want him flying with a Black pilot. Instead of reacting with anger, Lewis responded calmly and professionally. That night, he told his wife, Tommy Juanita, who offered a surprising response: "Invite them to dinner." What followed was an unlikely friendship that lasted for years, showing how courage, grace, and emotional maturity can dismantle prejudice. Chris highlights this moment as a masterclass in leadership—not just from Edgar Lewis, but from his wife as well. They embodied humility, courage, kindness, and emotional control in circumstances where anger and retaliation would have been understandable. Their example challenges today's leaders to rise above hurt, take the high road, and create change through character. The episode closes by honoring Lewis' 23 years of service in the Air Force, 22 years with the FAA, and the quiet strength of his wife, who stood with him through it all. Chris invites listeners facing workplace conflict or leadership challenges to reach out directly at Chris@go-northbound.com, and encourages everyone to lead humbly, boldly, confidently—because they were created for this.

Episode Description – "They're Gonna Get Called" In this episode of the Northbound Podcast, Chris unpacks a powerful leadership lesson inspired by a recent press conference with Nebraska Huskers head coach Matt Rhule. When asked whether he worries about other teams trying to recruit his top players, Rhule responded with confidence: "They're gonna get called"—and that's a good thing. Chris uses this moment to highlight what exceptional leadership looks like: developing people so well that others notice, investing deeply in their growth, and refusing to lead from a place of fear. He explores how leaders can create personalized development plans, build thriving culture, and embrace the "retention paradox" with confidence and faith. Main Points: Great leaders don't fear losing people—they develop them so well that they become sought after. Matt Rhule's response provides a model for confident, healthy leadership. Every employee should have a personalized development plan that includes training, coaching, mentoring, collaboration, and formal learning. Effective development must include 360-degree feedback and alignment with organizational vision and goals. Culture, not just compensation, plays a major role in retaining great people. The "retention paradox": fear of losing people leads to stunted development—investment and empowerment lead to loyalty. God gives each person unique passions and desires; good leadership helps align these with mission and purpose. Key Takeaways: Develop your people boldly—don't hold them back out of fear. Invest in personalized growth plans that reflect both professional needs and individual passions. Healthy culture attracts and retains talent more effectively than salary alone. Use feedback systems, training, and clear vision to elevate your team. Opportunities for your people are not threats—they're signs you're leading well. Lead boldly, humbly, and confidently—you were created for this.   www.Go-Northbound.com  

Episode Description – Northbound Podcast: Intentional Relationships and Time Management In this episode of the Northbound Podcast, Chris dives into the critical role time management plays not just in business, but in family and personal relationships. Drawing from his experience in the Air Force and leadership discussions, Chris shares practical insights on how intentional relationships and daily spiritual rhythms can strengthen focus, integrity, and trust—both at home and in the workplace. Main Points: The importance of balancing business, leadership, and family life, especially during busy seasons. How intentional relationships build trust and culture in families and organizations. Using daily rhythms of prayer, scripture, and reflection to improve focus and integrity. Lessons from Chris's deployment experience and limited communication with family. The difference between transactional conversations and relationship-building interactions. Key Takeaways: Prioritize relationships over mere "business" interactions with loved ones. Prayer and reflection can help clarify priorities before important conversations. Time management is not just about tasks—it's about making space for meaningful connection. Building intentional relationships strengthens both personal life and leadership impact. Leadership growth happens best in community, learning from and encouraging each other. Listeners are invited to join the Northbound Approach community to participate in live leadership calls and share in the learning experience.   www.Go-Northbound.com  

Episode Title: The Power of Being Present   Description: In this deeply impactful episode of the Northbound Podcast, Chris discusses the critical role of presence in leadership, especially when lives are at stake. Drawing from his time in the military, he shares a story of an airman struggling with suicidal thoughts and how the simple act of showing up—being present—can make a life-changing difference.   Key Takeaways: True leadership goes beyond words—it's shown through actions. Being present interrupts isolation and shows people they are valued and cared for. Small, intentional acts can create courage, belonging, and hope. Presence builds trust and can be a turning point in someone's life. Christ-centered leadership leaves a lasting legacy and positively shapes culture. This episode highlights how even simple actions can save lives.   Trigger Warning: This episode addresses suicide. If this topic is sensitive for you, please consider skipping this episode. Join the Northbound community to explore Christ-centered leadership, build each other up, and make a real difference in the lives of those you lead.   www.Go-Northbound.com  

Episode Title: The Stars at Noon Episode Description: In this episode of the Northbound Podcast, Chris explores the extraordinary story of Jackie Cochran, a pioneering aviator whose determination, skill, and courage left an indelible mark on aviation and the World War II war effort. Beyond her incredible accomplishments, this episode highlights the profound impact of words—how encouragement, recognition, and belief can help people break barriers and reach their full potential. Key Quotes: "Words build people up and they help people break the barriers that they were called to break." — Chris "Certain it is that she is fearless of death and equally certain it is that she considers a barrier only something to surmount." — Floyd Odlum, on his wife Jackie "Barriers were only something to surmount. And that's the whole point of her book, The Stars at Noon." — Chris Main Points: Jackie Cochran overcame a difficult childhood and societal limitations to pursue her passion for aviation. She became the first woman to break the sound barrier in 1953 and set numerous aviation records. During World War II, she organized the Women's Flying Training Detachment, which later became the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASPs), commanding over 1,000 women who flew nearly 60 million miles. Despite criticism and attempts to diminish her accomplishments, Cochran's legacy demonstrates the power of perseverance, skill, and the right words of encouragement. Positive words—from mentors, loved ones, and leaders—play a critical role in helping individuals realize their potential and surpass barriers. Insights for Leaders: Recognize and speak to people's potential rather than focusing solely on limitations. Encouragement and affirming words can inspire people to achieve feats they might not have thought possible. Leadership is not only about directing tasks but also about cultivating belief, confidence, and courage in others. Call to Action: To learn more about leadership, the power of words, and how to build up those you lead, reach out directly at chris@go-northbound.com and join the Northbound community at www.go-northbound.com. Lead boldly, humbly, and confidently with us.   www.Go-Northbound.com  

The Power of WORDS In this live-streamed conversation, Chris sits down with author and coach Matt Hallock to explore the deep connection between marriage, identity, and leadership. With real-life stories, and practical wisdom, this episode unpacks why a healthy home life directly influences how well you lead at work—and why your words might be shaping more than you realize. DNA of a Man by Matt Hallock: https://a.co/d/3IGPKoE Featured Quotes "People become what you say they are—whether you speak it out loud or just think it." – Matt "When God puts you in a leadership position, it's time to lead—with purpose and with authority." – Chris "Serving your spouse—or your team—only works when it flows from knowing your worth." – Matt "Before you hammer performance, ask what's really going on behind the scenes." – Chris Main Points & Insights 1. Identity Drives Both Marriage and Leadership Matt explains how treating people according to their God-given identity—not their performance—creates transformation in marriage and at work. Words act as seeds that grow into either problems or breakthroughs. People rise or fall based on the identity you speak over them. Key insight: If you address someone's performance without honoring their identity, you'll never get their best. 2. Your Words Shape Environments The conversation unpacks Ephesians 5 and the idea that Christ transforms through the WORD —active, spoken truth. In marriage, labeling your spouse by their shortcomings reinforces those patterns. In leadership, calling out the potential in someone invites them to rise. Key insight: Words create the atmosphere people live in. 3. Serving Isn't the Same as Being a Doormat Matt highlights a crucial distinction between serving from strength and serving from insecurity. True service flows from knowing your worth—just like Jesus serving after knowing "all authority had been given to Him." Serving without identity leads to resentment and being taken advantage of. Key insight: Your service is only powerful when it comes from confidence, not compensation. 4. Why It's Easier to Serve Your Team Than Your Spouse Chris opens up about struggling to serve at home while serving easily at work—and Matt explains why this is common: There's more history, more emotion, and more potential for pain at home. Work relationships don't expose your identity wounds the way marriage does. Key insight: Marriage requires a different level of maturity because the stakes are higher and the roots run deeper. 5. Prioritizing Marriage While Leading Matt's practical advice: It starts with a decision—not a hack or technique. After that decision, rhythms, boundaries, and practices can grow. But nothing changes until you choose to prioritize your marriage on purpose. Key insight: There's no system that replaces a decision. Why This Episode Matters Whether you're leading a family, a business, a ministry, or a team, your leadership will always reflect what's happening at home. This episode challenges leaders to examine their words, intentions, and identity—and shows why learning to love well makes you a better leader everywhere else.   Join the Northbound Approach Community at --  www.Go-Northbound.com  

Northbound Podcast: Just Living The Dream In this episode of the Northbound Podcast, Chris breaks down a common workplace phrase that often hides more than it reveals: "Just living the dream." While it can be a casual response, Chris explores how it may signal deeper frustration, anxiety, or even burnout—feelings employees rarely voice openly. He challenges leaders to look beyond surface-level answers, seek meaningful feedback, and create a culture where team members feel safe sharing their real experiences. Want to learn more? If you want to learn how small conversations can uncover big opportunities for organizational growth email me directly at chris@go-northbound.com.     www.Go-Northbound.com  

Northbound Podcast: When Your Employee Is Smarter Than You In this episode of the Northbound Podcast, Chris dives into a challenge every leader faces: what to do when an employee is smarter than you. Drawing from his Air Force experience, he shares how initial feelings of threat can turn into incredible opportunities for growth and team success. Chris explores practical ways to empower talented team members, learn from them, and build a stronger, more confident, and collaborative organization. Want to join the Northbound Team?  Email me direct at chris@go-northbound.com and I will personally invite you to Northbound.  Thank you. -Chris    www.Go-Northbound.com  

Episode Description — Find Your Beetle In this episode of the Northbound Podcast, Chris shares a powerful story from his Air Force days—one that began with an unexpected "you're fired" moment and ended with a new role he never saw coming: speechwriter for a general. Thrown into a job he'd never done before, Chris was given the freedom to choose anyone he wanted for his team. His pick was immediate: a friend and colleague everyone knew as Beetle. Creative, skilled, and gifted in all the ways Chris wasn't, Beetle was the kind of teammate who elevated everyone around him. This episode is an invitation to "find your Beetle"—the person who complements your weaknesses, shares your mission, and makes you better. Chris reflects on why bringing people with you matters, how to spot the right teammate, and why great leaders aren't afraid to surround themselves with people who may even outshine them. The episode also closes with a heartfelt tribute to Beetle, who passed away several years ago but left an enduring legacy of talent, friendship, and faith. www.Go-Northbound.com  

Episode Description — Trimming the Fat: How to Streamline Your Organization for Greater Efficiency In this episode of the Northbound Podcast, Chris dives into one of leadership's most challenging responsibilities: figuring out which programs and processes truly matter—and which ones are quietly wasting time and energy. He shares a personal story of taking over a team overloaded with outdated initiatives, and the surprising emotional resistance that can surface when it's time to cut something. From hidden inefficiencies to team members who've poured their hearts into a program, Chris explains how intentional leadership, clear communication, and a simple review process can make tough decisions easier. You'll come away with practical insights for simplifying your organization, refocusing your team, and freeing people to do work that actually moves the mission forward. www.Go-Northbound.com  

Northbound Podcast — Episode: Dirt Bag in the Dark In this episode, Chris tackles a common leadership challenge: the underperformer who doesn't realize they're holding the team back. Often, these individuals are labeled behind their backs, creating a toxic environment and consuming valuable leadership time. Chris explains why direct, honest feedback is crucial—delivered privately when constructive, publicly when praising—and how addressing underperformance head-on can transform both the individual and the organization. Learn practical strategies for giving feedback effectively, maintaining team health, and leading with confidence and humility. Tune in to sharpen your leadership skills and learn how to deal with those tough situations in a way that strengthens your team and culture.   WWW.GO-NORTHBOUND.COM