The Military Sherpa Leadership Podcast

We’ve all heard it: Do more with less. But how do you manage that without letting your work-life balance fall apart? In this episode, we tackle the listener question, “How do we keep getting told to do more with less, and why are we surprised when work-life balance is askew?” We’ll break down five strategies for becoming more effective while protecting your well-being. From working harder to optimizing efficiency and mentorship, we’ll explore what works in the short term versus the long term, the benefits and trade-offs of each, and how to find your personal leadership sweet spot.

We’ve all been there—stuck under a boss who doesn’t seem to see past your rank or give you the support you deserve. But in the military, you can’t pick your boss, and sometimes you have to make the best of a bad situation. In this episode, we’ll dive into four key strategies for navigating a difficult leadership dynamic: protecting your boss’s position even when you disagree, offering high support to build trust, practicing good followership, and knowing when to stand up for your values. Tune in for practical advice on how to stay professional, maintain your integrity, and grow as a leader—no matter who’s in charge.

We’ve all been there—working under a boss who seems more like a villain than a leader. In this episode, we tackle the tough topic of dealing with a horrible boss. Whether they’re micromanaging, inconsistent, or just plain toxic, a bad boss can make even the best job feel unbearable. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Join us as we explore practical strategies for surviving—and even thriving—under difficult leadership. We’ll discuss how to protect your mental health, maintain your professional integrity, and find ways to grow despite the challenges. This episode is a must-listen for anyone currently struggling with a tough boss or looking to support someone who is.  

In this special episode, I sit down with my son, Justice Tilsher, a bestselling author and young entrepreneur, to talk about his new business and exciting podcast for aspiring writers. We dive into the world of young writers and explore how Justice is helping them finish and publish their first book. Join us for a heartfelt conversation about legacy, perseverance, and the impact of storytelling. Whether you're a young writer or simply interested in the creative process, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration. Tune in to hear how Justice’s journey is just beginning and how his passion for helping others reach their goals is setting the stage for the next generation of authors. Don’t miss this chance to support a young visionary who’s making waves in the world of publishing.

In this episode, we dive into the concept of "Silent Firing"—the subtle yet damaging practice of quietly sidelining underperforming team members without clear communication or accountability. We'll explore how this passive approach not only demoralizes the individual but also undermines the entire team's performance and culture. Discover how to recognize the signs of silent firing in your organization and learn actionable strategies to address underperformance head-on, fostering a culture of growth, accountability, and transparency. Whether you're a leader struggling with difficult conversations or a team member feeling left in the dark, this episode will empower you to face these challenges with clarity and courage.

In leadership, the gap between theory and practice often marks the difference between success and failure. As we conclude our Basecamp series, this episode offers a deep dive into the strategies necessary to embody the qualities of effective leadership. Drawing on advanced leadership theories, such as Google's Project Oxygen and Gallup's research on leadership traits, we will explore a strategic framework for taking inventory of your leadership skills, clearly defining your objectives, and aligning your team's focus with these critical areas. This episode is designed to challenge you and push your leadership development to the next level before we begin our climb.

(Part 2) What does it take to be a leader worth following? In this episode, we’re breaking down Google’s Project Oxygen to uncover the top leadership traits that can transform any team. We’ll focus on the key behaviors that Google identified as essential: being a good coach, empowering teams, avoiding micromanagement, creating an inclusive team environment, and focusing on productive behavior and results. These aren’t just tech industry buzzwords—they’re actionable insights for military leaders at every level. Tune in for practical tips on how to develop these traits in yourself and your team, and a few humorous pitfalls to avoid. And remember, there are only two certification classes left this year—visit militarysherpa.com and click “Get Certified” to sign up today!

What does it take to be a leader worth following? In this episode, we’re breaking down Google’s Project Oxygen to uncover the top leadership traits that can transform any team. We’ll focus on the key behaviors that Google identified as essential: being a good coach, empowering teams, avoiding micromanagement, creating an inclusive team environment, and focusing on productive behavior and results. These aren’t just tech industry buzzwords—they’re actionable insights for military leaders at every level. Tune in for practical tips on how to develop these traits in yourself and your team, and a few humorous pitfalls to avoid. And remember, there are only two certification classes left this year—visit militarysherpa.com and click “Get Certified” to sign up today!

In this episode, Mark Tilsher explores the critical role of rest and downtime in enhancing team performance and leadership effectiveness. Sharing personal anecdotes and backed by research, Mark delves into why rest is essential for leaders and their teams, how to incorporate intentional rest periods, and the benefits of play and downtime in fostering a productive and happy work environment. Key Takeaways: Understanding the importance of rest for leaders and teams. How to intentionally set aside time for rest. Benefits of integrating play and downtime into the work routine. Real-world examples and strategies for military and civilian leaders.  

Episode Title: Description: In this episode, Mark Tilsher dives deep into the concept of assertiveness in leadership. Often mistaken for competence, assertiveness can either make or break your influence in a team setting. Mark shares personal anecdotes from his military career, backed by research and practical tips on how to harness the power of assertiveness to build relational capital and lead effectively.   Key Takeaways: Understanding the difference between assertiveness and competence. How to manage conflict constructively. Building relational capital through effective communication. Real-world examples and strategies for military and civilian leaders.   Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction 02:15 – The misconception of assertiveness as competence 07:30 – Personal story: Feeling left out and frustrated in military meetings 12:45 – Research insights on assertiveness and relational capital 18:20 – Practical tips for managing conflict and building influence 24:10 – Real-world examples from military and civilian settings 30:00 – Conclusion and key takeaways   Keywords: Assertiveness, Leadership, Conflict Resolution, Relational Capital, Military Leadership, Influence, Communication, Team Dynamics, Mark Tilsher, Military Sherpa

Join us for a special Fourth of July episode of the Military Sherpa Leadership Podcast as we celebrate Independence Day with a blend of history, reflection, and gratitude. In this episode, host Mark Tilsher takes us back to July 4th, 1776, spotlighting the inspiring story of John Adams and the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Explore how themes of gratitude and patriotism can enrich your leadership journey. Discover how Adams' unwavering commitment and sense of purpose can inspire you to lead with integrity and unity. We'll delve into the importance of expressing gratitude, fostering a sense of patriotism, and building strong, unified teams. Tune in to reflect on the values that make our nation strong and how you can embody these principles in your leadership approach. This episode is perfect for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of leadership through the lens of historical significance and personal reflection. Happy Fourth of July! 🇺🇸 Listen now and let the spirit of Independence Day inspire your leadership journey!

In this episode of the Military Sherpa Leadership Podcast, we sit down with Sydney Cox, an Air Force Development Advisor who has gained significant influence on her base by effectively utilizing Military Sherpa Coaching tools. Sydney shares her journey, revealing the strategies she employed to gain traction and trust within organizations like Military Equal Opportunity. Our discussion covers the specific tools she finds most effective, how she tailors her approach to meet the unique needs of different military groups, and the impactful results she has achieved. Sydney also provides invaluable advice for other military members striving to use these coaching tools on their own bases, offering insights on overcoming resistance and building strong relationships with key stakeholders. Join us as we uncover practical tips and real-world applications of Military Sherpa Coaching tools that can help you enhance your influence and effectiveness as a leader. Whether you're new to coaching or looking to refine your approach, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to help you succeed. Tune in to learn from Sydney's experiences and take your leadership skills to the next level!

Dive into the essence of true empowerment in this episode of The Military Sherpa Leadership Podcast, where we explore the top tier of the Empowerment Hierarchy. Understand why empowerment is not just about freedom, but also about fostering trust, innovation, and engagement among your team. Learn how to identify if your team is truly empowered and discover strategies to help them reach their highest potential. #Leadership #MilitarySherpa #EmpowermentHierarchy

Unpack the 'Responsible' layer of the Empowerment Hierarchy in this episode and learn how it serves as a catalyst for leadership empowerment. Master the art of fostering trust and ownership to transform your team. Tune in for a profound exploration of proactive leadership strategies.

Peel back the layers of the Accountable tier in this insightful dive into the empowerment hierarchy. Discover its role in your team’s dynamic and how to foster growth from this crucial foundation. Tune in and transform accountability into a stepping stone for leadership excellence.

In this episode of The Military Sherpa Leadership Podcast, we embark on a strategic journey beyond toxic followership. Dive deep into the Empowerment Hierarchy, a transformative framework designed to replace insecurity and control with empowerment and trust in military leadership. Learn how to elevate your team's performance and morale by understanding the core principles that foster a high-trust, innovative, and engaged culture. **Key Takeaways:** - Empowerment Hierarchy: Discover how this framework can revolutionize your leadership approach and drive meaningful change within your team. - Overcoming Toxicity: Learn strategies to identify and eliminate toxic behaviors, fostering a healthier and more productive environment. - Building Trust: Understand the importance of trust and autonomy in creating a proactive and empowered team. Join us for this insightful episode and prepare to elevate your leadership skills. Tune in, take notes, and be ready to implement these powerful concepts in your own leadership journey.

Toxicity, in its many guises, creeps silently, leaving in its wake leaders who are revered and reviled. As we journey deeper in this three-part series, we shed light on the triad of toxic traits—Insecurity, Arrogance, and Pride. These traits, often seen in toxic followers, can germinate into devastating leadership flaws. The fine line between arrogance and pride, where one stems from overconfidence and the other from sensitivity, can be perplexing. Yet, by recognizing, understanding, and mitigating these traits, we're taking steps toward nurturing a harmonious military environment. Listen in to identify, address, and lead with intent.

In this thought-provoking episode of The Military Sherpa Leadership Podcast, we embark on a journey of transformation, leaving traditional New Year's resolutions behind. Instead, we delve into the power of envisioning your future, guided by a seasoned veteran's wisdom. Join us as we explore how shifting from resolutions to vision can reshape your life, business, and impact on others.

Welcome to a special Thanksgiving edition of The Military Sherpa Leadership Podcast. As we gather with family and friends, it's essential to remember those who've served and continue to serve our nation, often far from their homes and loved ones during this season. Today, I'll share with you a touching story from our nation's history, reflecting the true essence of Thanksgiving.

Every military unit fears toxic leadership, but how often do we trace its roots? This is the first episode in a three-part series that dives deep into the emergence of toxic leaders. It's an unsettling truth—these leaders often rise from the ranks of toxic followers. By understanding and addressing the three core traits that fuel toxicity, we can initiate transformative change, fostering healthier leadership for tomorrow. Dive in, as we unravel the markers of a budding toxic leader and provide actionable strategies for course correction.