Get the 5 Keystone Questions for free: https://5keystones.com/Dusty goes solo to reveal the five keystone questions that separate transactional, clock-in teams from purpose-driven missionaries who bring their best every day. Through personal stories—including his early leadership challenges in the auto repair industry—he shows how answering these questions unlocks meaning, connection, and lasting engagement: Why are we here, where are we going, how will we get there, where do I fit in, and what’s in it for me? Far more than a framework, Dusty frames these as the cornerstone of culture, empowering teams to make the right decisions even when the leader isn’t in the room. This episode is a call for leaders to stop settling for mercenary behavior and instead build organizations filled with people who believe deeply in the mission, connect their daily work to a bigger purpose, and give their very best because it matters.Key Timestamps:(00:00) – Transactional vs. Missionary Leadership(04:10) – A Personal Story: Transforming an Auto Repair Organization(07:37) – Question 1: Why Are We Here?(09:50) – Question 2: Where Are We Going?(11:43) – Question 3: How Are We Gonna Get There?(12:33) – Question 4: Where Do I Fit In?(13:48) – Question 5: What’s In It For Me?(17:00) – Applying the Keystone Framework in Your Organization(19:59) – Conclusion: Empowering Leaders to Create MissionariesKey Topics Discussed:Leadership Unlocked, Leadership Insights, Dusty Holcomb, Servant Leadership Principles, Self-Leadership Strategies, Growth Mindset in Leadership, Integrity and Leadership, Leadership Development Resources, Effective Leadership Habits, Empowering Leadership Techniques, Senior Executive Insights, Leadership Quotes and Reflections, Leadership Podcast, Executive Coaching, CEO Podcast, Business Leadership, Leadership Growth, Leadership Journey, Stories From Leaders, Leadership Tools, High-Performing Teams, Leadership Mindset, Decision Making, Personal Growth, Leadership Coaching, Organizational LeadershipMore of Leadership Unlocked:Check out our leadership development resources at https://arcqusgroup.com/Contact me at dusty@arcqusgroup.comGet the 5 Keystone Questions for free: https://5keystones.com/
Dusty is joined by Tony DiLorenzo—entrepreneur, podcaster, and co-creator of the One Extraordinary Marriage Show—for a conversation about how building stronger marriages makes us better leaders. Tony shares his unexpected journey from aspiring pro cyclist to marriage coach, opening up about the struggles he and his wife Elisa faced in their own relationship and how those challenges led them to create the Six Pillars of Intimacy framework that has transformed thousands of marriages. He reflects on the power of intentionality and action—two principles that apply as much in the boardroom as they do at home—and why leaders can’t afford to separate who they are at work from who they are in their most important relationships. Along the way, Tony and Dusty explore lessons learned from cycling endurance rides, the role of mentors in shaping vision, and the lasting impact of creating moments that matter. This episode will challenge you to think differently about success, empathy, and influence, and to consider how leading well at home can fuel greater impact in every other arena of life.Key Timestamps:(00:00) - From Cyclist to Marriage Expert(08:55) - The Journey of Marriage and Intentionality(14:36) - The Birth of One Extraordinary Marriage(20:20) - Mentors and Milestones(24:10) - Inflection Points and the Six Pillars of Intimacy(28:09) - Balancing Business and Marriage(33:31) - The Role of Vulnerability and Empathy(39:44) - Creating Meaningful Moments(42:38) - Daily Practices for Success(48:15) - Supporting Causes and Getting ConnectedKey Topics Discussed:Leadership Unlocked, Leadership Insights, Dusty Holcomb, Servant Leadership Principles, Self-Leadership Strategies, Growth Mindset in Leadership, Integrity and Leadership, Leadership Development Resources, Effective Leadership Habits, Empowering Leadership Techniques, Senior Executive Insights, Leadership Quotes and Reflections, Leadership Podcast, Executive Coaching, CEO Podcast, Business Leadership, Leadership Growth, Leadership Journey, Stories From Leaders, Leadership Tools, High-Performing Teams, Leadership Mindset, Decision Making, Personal Growth, Leadership Coaching, Organizational LeadershipMentions:Website: https://oneextraordinarymarriage.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrtonydilorenzo/ Mentions: The 6 Pillars of Intimacy: The Secret to an Extraordinary Marriage by Alisa DiLorenzo and Tony DiLorenzohttps://firstliberty.org/ https://convoyofhope.org/ More of Leadership Unlocked:Check out our leadership development resources at https://arcqusgroup.com/Contact me at dusty@arcqusgroup.com
Dusty goes solo to reveal a leadership superpower most of us learned at age four—connecting the dots. Through the story of his first leadership position, he shows how clarity of vision transforms everyday tasks from transactional work into meaningful contribution. Leaders who fail to connect the dots breed silos, waste, and disengagement, while those who do unlock energy, ownership, and purpose at every level. With a simple three-part framework—collect the right information, cast the vision clearly and consistently, and connect each person’s role to the bigger picture—Dusty makes the case that true leadership isn’t abdication, it’s articulation. This episode is a call to stop assuming people will “figure it out,” and instead step up to ensure every team member knows where they’re going, why it matters, and how their work makes a difference.Key Timestamps:(00:00) – The Importance of Clear Vision in Leadership(06:44) – Connecting the Dots at a Call Center(09:00) – Collect, Cast, Connect Framework(15:44) – Real-World ApplicationKey Topics Discussed:Leadership Unlocked, Leadership Insights, Dusty Holcomb, Servant Leadership Principles, Self-Leadership Strategies, Growth Mindset in Leadership, Integrity and Leadership, Leadership Development Resources, Effective Leadership Habits, Empowering Leadership Techniques, Senior Executive Insights, Leadership Quotes and Reflections, Leadership Podcast, Executive Coaching, CEO Podcast, Business Leadership, Leadership Growth, Leadership Journey, Stories From Leaders, Leadership Tools, High-Performing Teams, Leadership Mindset, Decision Making, Personal Growth, Leadership Coaching, Organizational LeadershipMore of Leadership Unlocked:Check out our leadership development resources at https://arcqusgroup.com/Contact me at dusty@arcqusgroup.com
Dusty is joined by Amanda Byrd, sales executive turned chaplain, coach, and founder, for a conversation about how compassion and courage can reshape not only our careers but our lives. Dusty traces Amanda’s journey from a pivotal act of kindness outside an emergency room to years spent serving in hospitals and hospice care, where she learned the transformative power of presence, listening, and meeting people exactly where they are. Amanda shares how chaplaincy made her a stronger leader—teaching her to hold space for fear, regret, and vulnerability—and why journaling and reflection are essential practices for growth. She opens up about her mission to help women unlock hidden potential through Courage Circles, creating safe spaces to face fear in community and embrace new possibilities. Along the way, she and Dusty explore what it means to lead yourself first, how curiosity fuels better leadership, and why the greatest impact often comes from small, courageous choices. This episode will challenge you to reflect more deeply, live more fully, and lead with compassion and clarity.Key Timestamps:(00:00) - Amanda Byrd's Transformative Journey(05:54) - From Sales Executive to Chaplain(10:00) - Lessons from the ER and Hospice(15:46) - Leadership Insights(19:30) - Mentorship(26:24) - Early Leadership Challenges(30:55) - Empowering Women to Overcome Fears(32:55) - The Power of Journaling and Reflection(42:00) - Rapid Fire Leadership Insights(46:17) - Meditation and Personal LeadershipKey Topics Discussed:Leadership Unlocked, Leadership Insights, Dusty Holcomb, Servant Leadership Principles, Self-Leadership Strategies, Growth Mindset in Leadership, Integrity and Leadership, Leadership Development Resources, Effective Leadership Habits, Empowering Leadership Techniques, Senior Executive Insights, Leadership Quotes and Reflections, Leadership Podcast, Executive Coaching, CEO Podcast, Business Leadership, Leadership Growth, Leadership Journey, Stories From Leaders, Leadership Tools, High-Performing Teams, Leadership Mindset, Decision Making, Personal Growth, Leadership Coaching, Organizational LeadershipMentions:Website: https://www.amandasbyrd.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandasbyrd1/ Mentions:Managing Transitions: Making the Most of Change by William Bridges and Susan BridgesMore of Leadership Unlocked:Check out our leadership development resources at https://arcqusgroup.com/Contact me at dusty@arcqusgroup.com
Dusty goes solo to unpack a counterintuitive truth every leader needs to hear—sometimes the fastest way forward is to slow down. Drawing from early lessons on the shooting range, hard-won insights in Ironman training, and years of leadership experience, he reveals how rushing only traps us in reactivity, while rhythm and precision unlock lasting impact. With practical tools like the Eisenhower Matrix and habits such as creating intentional white space, installing circuit breakers, and modeling thoughtful pace for others, Dusty shows how leaders can shift from grinding harder to investing time where it matters most. This episode is a call to step off the hustle treadmill, embrace the mantra “slow is smooth, smooth is fast,” and lead with the kind of clarity and focus that multiplies influence, accelerates results, and leaves a lasting mark.Key Timestamps:(00:00) - Early Lessons in Marksmanship(01:32) - The Paradox of Slowing Down in Leadership(03:11) - The Hustle Trap and the Eisenhower Matrix(04:53) - Swimming and the Power of Smoothness(09:26) - Applying Smoothness in LeadershipKey Topics Discussed:Leadership Unlocked, Leadership Insights, Dusty Holcomb, Servant Leadership Principles, Self-Leadership Strategies, Growth Mindset in Leadership, Integrity and Leadership, Leadership Development Resources, Effective Leadership Habits, Empowering Leadership Techniques, Senior Executive Insights, Leadership Quotes and Reflections, Leadership Podcast, Executive Coaching, CEO Podcast, Business Leadership, Leadership Growth, Leadership Journey, Stories From Leaders, Leadership Tools, High-Performing Teams, Leadership Mindset, Decision Making, Personal Growth, Leadership Coaching, Organizational LeadershipMentions:https://www.eisenhower.me/eisenhower-matrix/ More of Leadership Unlocked:Check out our leadership development resources at https://arcqusgroup.com/Contact me at dusty@arcqusgroup.com
Dusty is joined by Jon Blair—heavy metal guitarist turned purpose-driven entrepreneur and founding executive at Guardian Bikes—for a conversation on how clarity beats chaos in both business and life. Jon shares his unconventional journey from touring musician to scaling a startup from zero to eight figures, raising $15 million, and ultimately launching Free to Grow CFO to help D2C brands build smart, scalable finance operations. They unpack the lessons of navigating multiple “startups” at once—including business, family, and personal growth—while embracing imperfection, focusing on the few things that truly move the needle, and leading with intentionality. Jon reflects on the influence of faith, the discipline of planning, and the power of defining your role so you can operate in your unique strengths. Along the way, he offers practical wisdom on seasons of life, parenting with purpose, and finding joy in the journey rather than the end goal. This episode is a masterclass in balancing ambition with presence, and in building something meaningful without losing sight of what matters most.Key Timestamps:(00:00) - Meet Jon Blair: From Heavy Metal to CFO(05:44) - Balancing Music and Business(08:46) - Navigating Leadership and Family Life(17:49) - Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs(23:57) - Implementing Weekly and Quarterly Planning(25:28) - Embracing Imperfection in Leadership(32:17) - Teaching Principles to Children(39:23) - Rapid Fire Leadership InsightsKey Topics Discussed:Leadership Unlocked, Leadership Insights, Dusty Holcomb, Servant Leadership Principles, Self-Leadership Strategies, Growth Mindset in Leadership, Integrity and Leadership, Leadership Development Resources, Effective Leadership Habits, Empowering Leadership Techniques, Senior Executive Insights, Leadership Quotes and Reflections, Leadership Podcast, Executive Coaching, CEO Podcast, Business Leadership, Leadership Growth, Leadership Journey, Stories From Leaders, Leadership Tools, High-Performing Teams, Leadership Mindset, Decision Making, Personal Growth, Leadership Coaching, Organizational LeadershipMentions:Website: https://freetogrowcfo.com/ LinkedIn: Mentions: The War of Art: Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles by Steven PressfieldTraction: Get a Grip on Your Business by Gino WickmanThe 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen CoveyMore of Leadership Unlocked:Check out our leadership development resources at https://arcqusgroup.com/Contact me at dusty@arcqusgroup.com
Dusty goes solo to tackle one of the biggest myths in leadership—that the best moments happen in the heat of a crisis. Through a vivid story from Disney World, where a cast member turned a spilled bag of popcorn into a lifelong memory, he reveals how true impact is rarely accidental. It’s built long before the moment arrives, through intentional choices, clear priorities, and simple systems that make great decisions automatic. Dusty shares how carving out weekly white space for reflection and planning—reviewing wins, identifying distractions, and setting key outcomes—can transform reactive chaos into purposeful progress. This episode is a challenge to stop winging it, start deciding in advance what matters most, and lead with the kind of clarity that turns everyday opportunities into defining moments.Key Timestamps:(00:00) - A Magical Lesson from Disney World(05:19) - The Importance of Intentionality in Leadership(09:07) - Practical Steps for Intentional Leadership(12:05) - Weekly Planning for Effective Leadership(18:23) - Reflecting and Planning for SuccessKey Topics Discussed:Leadership Unlocked, Leadership Insights, Dusty Holcomb, Servant Leadership Principles, Self-Leadership Strategies, Growth Mindset in Leadership, Integrity and Leadership, Leadership Development Resources, Effective Leadership Habits, Empowering Leadership Techniques, Senior Executive Insights, Leadership Quotes and Reflections, Leadership Podcast, Executive Coaching, CEO Podcast, Business Leadership, Leadership Growth, Leadership Journey, Stories From Leaders, Leadership Tools, High-Performing Teams, Leadership Mindset, Decision Making, Personal Growth, Leadership Coaching, Organizational LeadershipMentions:Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor FranklMore of Leadership Unlocked:Check out our leadership development resources at https://arcqusgroup.com/Download the Leadership Reflection Guide at https://arcq.us/ReflectionGuide Contact me at dusty@arcqusgroup.com
Dusty is joined by Ross Simmonds, entrepreneur, storyteller, and founder of Foundation Marketing, for a conversation about what it means to lead with intention, abundance, and authenticity. They explore how generosity—both in business and in life—can be a powerful lever for growth, and why showing up with presence matters more than ever in a world full of noise. Ross shares lessons from his journey building a global marketing agency, from unlearning small-town limits to creating space for deep work and deep relationships. He breaks down how clarity, consistency, and communication shape culture, and how seemingly small moments—voice notes, affirmations, thank-yous—can have an outsized impact on trust and team morale. Along the way, he offers a powerful reframe on success, explains why leaders need to curate their content diets, and makes the case that storytelling isn’t just a marketing tool—it’s a leadership skill. Whether you're building a brand, raising a family, or trying to show up better every day, this episode will challenge you to lead with purpose, presence, and heart.Key Timestamps:(00:00) - Meet Ross Simmonds(02:17) - A Lifelong Love of Stories(10:44) - Embracing Servant Leadership(16:25) - The Rewards of Seeing Others Win(21:18) - Lessons from Mentors and Favorite Books(28:57) - Over-Communicating and Setting Clear Expectations(33:50) - Parenting as Leadership in Action(36:56) - Rapid Fire Questions(48:59) - The Future of Storytelling in the Age of AI(51:39) - Avoiding the Algorithmic Echo ChamberKey Topics Discussed:Leadership Unlocked, Leadership Insights, Dusty Holcomb, Servant Leadership Principles, Self-Leadership Strategies, Growth Mindset in Leadership, Integrity and Leadership, Leadership Development Resources, Effective Leadership Habits, Empowering Leadership Techniques, Senior Executive Insights, Leadership Quotes and Reflections, Leadership Podcast, Executive Coaching, CEO Podcast, Business Leadership, Leadership Growth, Leadership Journey, Stories From Leaders, Leadership Tools, High-Performing Teams, Leadership Mindset, Decision Making, Personal Growth, Leadership Coaching, Organizational LeadershipMentions:Website: https://foundationinc.co/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rosssimmonds/ Mentions: The Courage to Be Disliked by Fumitake Koga and Ichiro KishimiMan’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Franklhttps://timscamps.com/ https://www.bgccan.com/en/ More of Leadership Unlocked:Check out our leadership development resources at https://arcqusgroup.com/Contact me at dusty@arcqusgroup.com
Dusty goes solo to unpack one of the most common traps leaders fall into—confusing what they’re good at with what they’re called to. He reflects on the hard shift from doing the work to directing the work, and the uncomfortable but necessary discipline of stepping away from tasks that once defined his value. From triathlon training to lessons learned at leadership retreats, Dusty shares how reclaiming focus, guarding energy, and building simple systems can help leaders stop diluting their impact and start maximizing it. He explores the difference between activity and effectiveness, and why delegation isn’t selfish—it’s stewardship. This episode is a call to move from busyness to boldness, and a reminder that great leadership is less about doing more and more about doing what matters most.Key Timestamps:(00:00) – The Trap of Doing It All(02:04) – Intentional Investment of Time(05:04) – Sharpening the Right Skills(11:42) – The Competency Trap(13:02) – Practical Steps to Delegate EffectivelyKey Topics Discussed:Leadership Unlocked, Leadership Insights, Dusty Holcomb, Servant Leadership Principles, Self-Leadership Strategies, Growth Mindset in Leadership, Integrity and Leadership, Leadership Development Resources, Effective Leadership Habits, Empowering Leadership Techniques, Senior Executive Insights, Leadership Quotes and Reflections, Leadership Podcast, Executive Coaching, CEO Podcast, Business Leadership, Leadership Growth, Leadership Journey, Stories From Leaders, Leadership Tools, High-Performing Teams, Leadership Mindset, Decision Making, Personal Growth, Leadership Coaching, Organizational LeadershipMore of Leadership Unlocked:Check out our leadership development resources at https://arcqusgroup.com/Contact me at dusty@arcqusgroup.com
Dusty is joined by Eddie Geller, a three-time founder, CEO of SKOR, and lifelong champion of people-first leadership. Their conversations centers around how culture can be a company’s greatest asset—when it’s clearly defined, consistently measured, and courageously lived. Eddie shares hard-won lessons from his own entrepreneurial journey, including what happens when you over-index on product at the expense of people, and why managers—not just executives—hold the keys to shaping day-to-day culture. He breaks down the three pillars of a thriving workplace—cohesion, clarity, and courage—and explains how even small shifts in language and leadership habits can lead to major gains in trust, performance, and morale. From failed product launches to culture comebacks, Eddie makes the case that great teams aren’t built by accident—they’re built with intention. Whether you’re leading a startup, a department, or just trying to show up better for your people, this episode will challenge you to get clear on what culture really means—and to lead with curiosity, transparency, and heart.Key Timestamps:(00:00) – Eddie's Early Life and Entrepreneurial Journey(08:22) – Lessons from Failure: The Story of Eddie's Father(14:50) – Balancing Product and Customer Focus(20:15) – The Genesis of SKOR(30:35) – The Role of Leaders and Managers in Organizational Success(32:41) – The Importance of Clear and Relatable Assessments(35:29) – Learning from Feedback and Evolving Leadership Strategies(38:26) – The Impact of Transparency and Open Communication(46:00) – Rapid Fire QuestionsKey Topics Discussed:Leadership Unlocked, Leadership Insights, Dusty Holcomb, Servant Leadership Principles, Self-Leadership Strategies, Growth Mindset in Leadership, Integrity and Leadership, Leadership Development Resources, Effective Leadership Habits, Empowering Leadership Techniques, Senior Executive Insights, Leadership Quotes and Reflections, Leadership Podcast, Executive Coaching, CEO Podcast, Business Leadership, Leadership Growth, Leadership Journey, Stories From Leaders, Leadership Tools, High-Performing Teams, Leadership Mindset, Decision Making, Personal Growth, Leadership Coaching, Organizational LeadershipMentions:Website: https://www.getskor.com/about LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eddiegeller/ SKOR Culture Report: https://www.getskor.com/stateofculture Never Split the Difference: Negotiating as if Your Life Depended on It by Chris VossThe Great Game of Business by Jack StackMore of Leadership Unlocked:Check out our leadership development resources at https://arcqusgroup.com/Contact me at dusty@arcqusgroup.com
Dusty goes solo to share how one quote kickstarted a daily rhythm that’s shaped his leadership for nearly 30 years. It all began on the third shift at a call center—one quote, one email, one moment of reflection. That small practice grew into a lifelong discipline of reading, thinking, and writing, and became a way to stay grounded, sharpen perspective, and serve others. He unpacks why influence—not title—is the true measure of leadership, and reflects on the wisdom of John Maxwell, Martin Luther King Jr., C.S. Lewis, and others who’ve guided his path. This episode is a reminder that leadership starts with self-leadership—and that small, intentional habits done daily are what truly move us forward.Key Timestamps:(00:00) – The Importance of Self-Care for Leaders(02:00) – My Journey into Leadership(03:32) – The Birth of a Daily Discipline(04:09) – Expanding the Practice(05:46) – The Evolution of a Habit(07:37) – The Power of Reflection and Writing(08:54) – The Essence of Leadership(11:41) – Practical Tips for Daily Reflection(15:48) – The Influence of Quotes(20:14) – Leadership is IntentionalityKey Topics Discussed:Leadership Unlocked, Leadership Insights, Dusty Holcomb, Servant Leadership Principles, Self-Leadership Strategies, Growth Mindset in Leadership, Integrity and Leadership, Leadership Development Resources, Effective Leadership Habits, Empowering Leadership Techniques, Senior Executive Insights, Leadership Quotes and Reflections, Leadership Podcast, Executive Coaching, CEO Podcast, Business Leadership, Leadership Growth, Leadership Journey, Stories From Leaders, Leadership Tools, High-Performing Teams, Leadership Mindset, Decision Making, Personal Growth, Leadership Coaching, Organizational LeadershipMentions:Atomic Habits by James Clear More of Leadership Unlocked:Check out our leadership development resources at https://arcqusgroup.com/Contact me at dusty@arcqusgroup.com
Dusty is joined by Raquel Braganza, a transformational coach and joy strategist, for a powerful conversation on reclaiming joy as a daily, deliberate practice—especially for leaders and caregivers who often pour from an empty cup. Raquel shares moving stories from her clients, including a mother who found light in a dark season by throwing a “cat party” with her children, and executives who rediscovered joy through simple rituals like music-filled showers and warm towels. She explains how choosing joy isn’t about perfection or privilege—it’s about presence, agency, and designing a life that reflects your values. From redefining success to embracing emotion as a strength, Raquel invites listeners to treasure hunt for joy in the everyday. Whether you’re leading a team, a family, or simply trying to lead yourself well, this episode will challenge and encourage you to create moments of joy on purpose—and to believe that you are more than your circumstances.Key Timestamps:(00:00) – Meet Raquel Braganza(03:51) – The Power of Rituals and Small Joys(07:39) – Joy as a Leadership Tool(10:39) – Creating Personalized Joy Moments(16:35) – Balancing Joy and Misery(30:06) – The Transformation of Seeking Joy(34:41) – Embracing Joy in the Mundane(38:08) – The Exhaustion of Leadership(53:44) – Rapid Fire QuestionsKey Topics Discussed:Leadership Unlocked, Leadership Insights, Dusty Holcomb, Servant Leadership Principles, Self-Leadership Strategies, Growth Mindset in Leadership, Integrity and Leadership, Leadership Development Resources, Effective Leadership Habits, Empowering Leadership Techniques, Senior Executive Insights, Leadership Quotes and Reflections, Leadership Podcast, Executive Coaching, CEO Podcast, Business Leadership, Leadership Growth, Leadership Journey, Stories From Leaders, Leadership Tools, High-Performing Teams, Leadership Mindset, Decision Making, Personal Growth, Leadership Coaching, Organizational LeadershipMentions:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/raquel-braganza/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raquelbraganza_lifecoachJoy Coaching Gift: https://www.poweredbyjoy.coachMentions: https://dustyholcomb.com/2019/02/27/circle-of-concern-vs-circle-of-control/Awaken the Giant Within: How to Take Immediate Control of Your Mental, Emotional, Physical and Financial by Tony RobbinsFind Your Why: A Practical Guide for Discovering Purpose for You and Your Team by Simon SinekAtomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James ClearThe Book of Joy: Lasting Happiness in a Changing World by Dalai Lama, Desmond Tutu, and Douglas AbramsMore of Leadership Unlocked:Check out our leadership development resources at https://arcqusgroup.com/Contact me at dusty@arcqusgroup.com
Dusty breaks down one of the most overlooked traps in leadership: the urge to rescue. Drawing from real-world coaching conversations and timeless wisdom from Viktor Frankl, Dusty unpacks what happens when leaders carry the emotional weight of their team's problems—and why it backfires. You’ll learn how to use powerful questions to redirect responsibility, reinforce agency, and build a culture of accountability. This isn’t just theory—it’s a practical leadership judo move you can start using today to empower your team and protect your energy.Key Takeaways:• Why solving every problem makes you a rescuer, not a leader• How to redirect challenges back to your team to foster growth and accountability• The leadership questions that unlock personal agency and avoid burnoutKey Timestamps:(00:00) – Confusing Leadership With Rescue(01:00) – The Performance Review Dilemma(03:00) – Reclaiming Agency Through Simple Questions(04:30) – The Doom Cycle of Fixer Leaders and Problem Identifiers(05:30) – Viktor Frankl and the Gap Between Stimulus and Response(06:30) – Don’t Accept the Monkey: How to Restore Team Accountability(07:30) – Packaging Problems With Solutions(09:00) – “What Can You Do? What Will You Do?”Key Topics Discussed:Leadership Unlocked, Leadership Insights, Dusty Holcomb, Servant Leadership Principles, Self-Leadership Strategies, Growth Mindset in Leadership, Integrity and Leadership, Leadership Development Resources, Effective Leadership Habits, Empowering Leadership Techniques, Senior Executive Insights, Leadership Quotes and Reflections, Leadership Podcast, Executive Coaching, CEO Podcast, Business Leadership, Leadership Growth, Leadership Journey, Stories From Leaders, Leadership Tools, High-Performing Teams, Leadership Mindset, Decision Making, Personal Growth, Leadership Coaching, Organizational LeadershipMentions:Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl, Harvard Business Review – Who’s Got the Monkey?More of Leadership Unlocked:Check out our leadership development resources at https://arcqusgroup.com/Contact me at dusty@arcqusgroup.com
Dusty sits down with Chuck Hall, the chairman of Vitality Living and founder of Charles Hall Construction, to explore his incredible journey—from his childhood hustle of working on the docks with his dad in Rhode Island to building a company that now employs over 2,300 people across 11 states. He opens up about being fired, starting over at 32, and the lessons he learned about vision, mentorship, and living a Life by Design. Highlights include his philosophy on mentorship, facing pivotal challenges, and creating meaningful change in the lives of aging adults. Hall also talks about his passion for ensuring dignity and quality of life for seniors, his personal passions, and the power of leading with authenticity and purpose. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, an executive, or simply someone trying to lead with more clarity and impact, Chuck’s story will leave you challenged and inspired to “be the leader you wish you had.”Key Takeaways:• How Chuck Hall built a purpose-driven company supporting 2,300+ team members• The power of mentorship, peer accountability, and Life by Design• Why intentional leadership starts with curiosity, humility, and actionKey Timestamps:(01:00) – Chuck’s Early Entrepreneurial Spark(05:45) – Lessons From Family and Building With Grit(10:30) – Getting Fired and Founding Charles Hall Construction(16:00) – Mentorship and Showing up With Authenticity(24:00) – Crossing the Threshold: Helping Others Lead(26:00) – Life by Design: Chuck’s Strategic Visioning Framework(36:30) – Vitality Living and Scaling With Purpose(43:00) – Favorite Memory Care Moments(47:00) – The Power of Saying “No” to Stay Aligned(50:00) – Developing Leaders Through Boundaries and Ownership(54:00) – Rapid Fire: Books, Failures, and PassionsKey Topics Discussed:Leadership Unlocked, Leadership Insights, Dusty Holcomb, Servant Leadership Principles, Self-Leadership Strategies, Growth Mindset in Leadership, Integrity and Leadership, Leadership Development Resources, Effective Leadership Habits, Empowering Leadership Techniques, Senior Executive Insights, Leadership Quotes and Reflections, Leadership Podcast, Executive Coaching, Leadership Development, CEO Podcast, Business Leadership, Leadership Growth, Leadership Journey, Stories From Leaders, Leadership Tools, High-Performing Teams, Leadership Mindset, Decision Making, Personal Growth, Self-Leadership, Leadership Coaching, Leadership Clarity, Organizational LeadershipMentions:Website: https://www.vitalityseniorliving.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-hall-53a259/Mentions: Alzheimer’s Association, Invisible Wounds Foundation, Freedom & Whiskey, YPO, The Surrender Experiment, Atlas ShruggedMore of Leadership Unlocked:Check out our leadership development resources at https://arcqusgroup.com/Contact me at dusty@arcqusgroup.com
What if your greatest leadership superpower wasn’t your voice—but your questions? In this episode of Leadership Unlocked, Dusty unpacks the single best advice he ever received: be interested, not interesting. From a homeschool upbringing that sparked lifelong curiosity to a game-changing moment inspired by Jim Collins and Peter Drucker, Dusty shares how learning to ask the right questions transformed his leadership. He explains why curiosity builds trust, why humility fuels influence, and how flipping your "questions-to-statements" ratio can unlock untapped growth in your team. If you’ve ever felt pressure to perform or prove yourself in leadership, this episode is a powerful reminder that insight starts when we stop trying to impress—and start seeking to understand. Great leaders don’t have all the answers; they ask better questions. This one shift could be your leadership unlock.Key Timestamps:(00:00) - Be Interested, Not Interesting(01:17) - The Power of Curiosity in Leadership(01:49) - When Dusty’s Story Began(03:45) - Implementing Curiosity in Leadership(05:22) - What Jim Collins and Peter Drucker Taught Me(08:49) - The Impact of Asking QuestionsKey Topics Discussed:Leadership Unlocked, Leadership Insights, Dusty Holcomb, Servant Leadership Principles, Self-Leadership Strategies, Growth Mindset in Leadership, Integrity and Leadership, Leadership Development Resources, Effective Leadership Habits, Empowering Leadership Techniques, Senior Executive Insights, Leadership Quotes and Reflections, Leadership Podcast, Executive Coaching, CEO Podcast, Business Leadership, Leadership Growth, Leadership Journey, Stories From Leaders, Leadership Tools, High-Performing Teams, Leadership Mindset, Decision Making, Personal Growth, Leadership Coaching, Organizational LeadershipMore of Leadership Unlocked:Check out our leadership development resources at https://arcqusgroup.com/ or https://leadershipunlockedpodcast.com/Contact me at dusty@arcqusgroup.com
Dusty welcomes Bridgett McMahan, President of BESCO, for a powerful conversation about leadership, confidence, and community. Bridgett shares the transformative impact of the book Gravitas and how it empowered her as a new leader in a male-dominated industry. She discusses the importance of assembling a trusted "Gold Team" to lead collaboratively, her leadership superpower of listening, and the loneliness that can come with executive roles. Bridgett also advocates for CASA, an organization giving vulnerable children a voice in the judicial system, and reminds us that sometimes the best thing a leader can do is simply say “yes” and try.Key Takeaways:• Confidence doesn't come from always knowing the answers—it comes from believing you belong in the room. That belief can shift how you're perceived and how you lead.• The lonely moments of leadership aren’t a sign of failure—they’re a sign you’re carrying real weight. Building a team that shares the load can change everything.• Confidence isn’t gendered, but women often face unique challenges in claiming space. Books like Gravitas provide language and support to overcome those barriers.Key Timestamps:(00:00) – Meet Bridget McMahon: From Law to Leadership(05:17) – Finding Purpose and Building Relationships(20:39) – Defining Leadership Moments(28:51) – The Turning Point: Advocating for Myself(31:52) – Unexpected Boardroom Moment(38:19) – Trusting Your Gut Instinct(43:30) – Rapid Fire Questions: Insights and Advice(54:47) – Supporting CASA: Advocating for Children(57:14) – Final Thoughts on Leadership and GrowthKey Topics Discussed:Leadership Unlocked, Leadership Insights, Dusty Holcomb, Servant Leadership Principles, Self-Leadership Strategies, Growth Mindset in Leadership, Integrity and Leadership, Leadership Development Resources, Effective Leadership Habits, Empowering Leadership Techniques, Senior Executive Insights, Leadership Quotes and Reflections, Leadership Podcast, Executive Coaching, Leadership Development, CEO Podcast, Business Leadership, Leadership Growth, Leadership Journey, Stories From Leaders, Leadership Tools, High-Performing Teams, Leadership Mindset, Decision Making, Personal Growth, Self-Leadership, Leadership Coaching, Leadership Clarity, Organizational LeadershipMentions: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridgett-mcmahan-1a0a23236/ Mentions: Gravitas: How to Communicate with Confidence, Influence and Authority by Caroline GoyderMore of Leadership Unlocked:Check out our leadership development resources at https://arcqusgroup.com/Contact me at dusty@arcqusgroup.com
Dusty Holcomb breaks down three of the most common leadership blind spots he sees every week in coaching sessions with high-performing teams, seasoned executives, and fast-scaling founders. With clarity and conviction, he unpacks how these often-unseen patterns quietly derail execution, dilute energy, and create frustration. Drawing from real-world experience, Dusty explores the cost of vague expectations, the gap between agreement and true commitment, and the consequences of a weak accountability culture. Through practical examples and sharp insight, he shares a framework for leading with intention—clarifying the "what by when," confirming alignment, and following through with consistency. This episode is a candid reminder that leadership isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being clear, committed, and courageous enough to say the important things until they echo.Key Takeaways:• Alignment isn’t just about agreement; it’s about commitment to deliver and take ownership of the result.• Accountability cultures thrive when people hold themselves responsible—but leaders must reinforce it through consistent follow-up.• All three blind spots—lack of clarity, misaligned commitment, and weak accountability—are fixable, but only if leaders are willing to see and address them directly.Key Timestamps:(00:00) – Leadership Blind Spots(01:03) – Blind Spot #1: Lack of Clarity(05:59) – Blind Spot #2: Misalignment(07:53) – Blind Spot #3: Weak Accountability Culture(12:53) – Bonus Insight: The Power of Repetition(14:36) – Practical TipsKey Topics Discussed:Leadership Unlocked, Leadership Insights, Dusty Holcomb, Servant Leadership Principles, Self-Leadership Strategies, Growth Mindset in Leadership, Integrity and Leadership, Leadership Development Resources, Effective Leadership Habits, Empowering Leadership Techniques, Senior Executive Insights, Leadership Quotes and Reflections, Leadership Podcast, Executive Coaching, Leadership Development, CEO Podcast, Business Leadership, Leadership Growth, Leadership Journey, Stories From Leaders, Leadership Tools, High-Performing Teams, Leadership Mindset, Decision Making, Personal Growth, Self-Leadership, Leadership Coaching, Leadership Clarity, Organizational LeadershipMore of Leadership Unlocked:Check out our leadership development resources at https://arcqusgroup.com/Contact me at dusty@arcqusgroup.com
Today on Leadership Unlocked, Gene Boehm, President and CEO of AAA, joins Dusty and shares the experiences, values, and lessons that shape his leadership philosophy, emphasizing clarity, empowerment, and authenticity. From childhood stories and career setbacks to learning resilience during the Enron scandal and embracing feedback, Boehm highlights the transformative power of self-awareness, mentorship, and organizational culture. He champions vision over micromanagement, exemplified by initiatives like the “I Love My Job” campaign, which fostered pride and engagement across AAA. Passionate about safety and reducing roadside fatalities, he calls for greater advocacy and coalition-building. Boehm underscores the importance of emotional connection, storytelling, and gratitude in leadership, drawing on personal rituals like daily running and annual marathons to stay grounded. With insights ranging from literary inspiration to practical frameworks for growth, he encourages aspiring leaders to lead with heart, intention, and humility—always beginning and ending with thank you.Key Takeaways:• Worry is wasted energy. Gene learned early on—from a Mellencamp lyric and a childhood story—that letting go of guilt and fear is crucial to leading effectively.• Metrics aren't everything. While important, Gene believes vision and emotional connection ultimately drive success more than numbers.• Symbols can spark culture. The “I Love My Job” t-shirt started as a morale booster and evolved into a movement of pride and positivity.Key Timestamps:(00:00) – Gene's Leadership Principles(05:44) – Gene's Journey to Becoming CEO of AAA(08:13) – Defining Moments and Lessons in Leadership(21:12) – The 'I Love My Job' T-Shirt Story(26:26) – A Memorable First Day at Walgreens(32:41) – Rapid Fire Leadership Insights(39:17) – Building Relationships and Career Advancement(44:27) – Saving Lives and Reducing Traffic FatalitiesKey Topics Discussed:Leadership Unlocked, Leadership Insights, Dusty Holcomb, Servant Leadership Principles, Self-Leadership Strategies, Growth Mindset in Leadership, Integrity and Leadership, Leadership Development Resources, Effective Leadership Habits, Empowering Leadership Techniques, Senior Executive Insights, Leadership Quotes and Reflections, Leadership Podcast, Executive Coaching, Leadership Development, CEO Podcast, Business Leadership, Leadership Growth, Leadership Journey, Stories From Leaders, Leadership Tools, High-Performing Teams, Leadership Mindset, Decision Making, Personal Growth, Self-Leadership, Leadership Coaching, Leadership Clarity, Organizational LeadershipMentions:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gene-boehm-1581532/More of Leadership Unlocked:Check out our leadership development resources at https://arcqusgroup.com/Contact me at dusty@arcqusgroup.com
In this episode of Leadership Unlocked, we explore the powerful concept of the “BS flag” — a simple, symbolic tool used to build a culture of candor, clarity, and accountability on leadership teams. Drawing inspiration from football, where a penalty flag stops play and signals a rule violation, the BS flag empowers team members to safely and respectfully call out issues in real time, including those caused by the leader. Dusty shares how this tool transformed his own leadership meetings, eliminated the "HiPPO problem" (highest paid person's opinion), and created a space where truth could be spoken without fear. He breaks down the four essential qualities of a BS-free culture — safety, expectation, equality, and consistency — and offers actionable ways to introduce this concept into your team. If you're ready to make the invisible visible and foster a culture where anyone can stop the play to do the right thing, this episode is for you.Key Timestamps:(00:00) - The BS Flag(05:09) - Powerful Teams Surface Problems, Not Hide Them(06:42) - The Four Pillars of BS Free Workplaces(09:53) - Practical Steps to Introduce the BS FlagKey Topics Discussed:Leadership Unlocked, Leadership Insights, Dusty Holcomb, Servant Leadership Principles, Self-Leadership Strategies, Growth Mindset in Leadership, Integrity and Leadership, Leadership Development Resources, Effective Leadership Habits, Empowering Leadership Techniques, Senior Executive Insights, Leadership Quotes and Reflections, Leadership Podcast, Executive Coaching, Leadership Development, CEO Podcast, Business Leadership, Leadership Growth, Leadership Journey, Stories From Leaders, Leadership Tools, High-Performing Teams, Leadership Mindset, Decision Making, Personal Growth, Self-Leadership, Leadership Coaching, Leadership Clarity, Organizational LeadershipMore of Leadership Unlocked:Check out our leadership development resources at https://arcqusgroup.com/Contact me at dusty@arcqusgroup.com
Dusty reflects on his leadership journey which began in 1998 as a third shift supervisor in a call center. At the young age of 22, he initially focused on personal career growth but had a pivotal moment when his mentor, Colonel Greg Camp, introduced him to the principles of servant leadership. Through book clubs and personal mentorship, Greg taught Dusty that true leadership is about serving and empowering others. This episode dives deep into the transformative power of servant leadership, the importance of continual learning, and how one mentor's belief and guidance can fundamentally shape and change a leader's approach and philosophy. What was your leadership wake-up moment?Key Timestamps:(00:00) - The Overnight Supervisor (04:13) - The Book Club (08:21) - Leadership Lessons (10:13) - R&D - Rip Off and Duplicate (12:04) - My Resignation (15:53) - A Moment of Clarity (18:39) - Servant LeadershipKey Topics Discussed:Leadership Unlocked, Leadership Insights, Dusty Holcomb, Servant Leadership Principles, Self-Leadership Strategies, Growth Mindset in Leadership, Integrity and Leadership, Leadership Development Resources, Effective Leadership Habits, Empowering Leadership Techniques, Senior Executive Insights, Leadership Quotes and Reflections, Leadership Podcast, Executive Coaching, CEO Podcast, Business Leadership, Leadership Growth, Leadership Journey, Stories From Leaders, Leadership Tools, High-Performing Teams, Leadership Mindset, Decision Making, Personal Growth, Leadership Coaching, Organizational LeadershipMore of Leadership Unlocked:Check out our leadership development resources at https://arcqusgroup.com/Contact me at dusty@arcqusgroup.com