What really makes someone a leader, and how do you know if you're showing up as one? In this episode of Hard Hat to CEO, Chris G chats with Andy Neillie, founder of Neillie Leadership Group, about the difference between just managing and truly leading. Andy shares how a bad boss on a construction site inspired him to help others lead better. He talks through the Four Leadership Necessities that help turn managers into trusted leaders, ones who earn loyalty and
build strong teams. If you're running a business, especially in construction or with family, and want to lead with heart, clear vision, and real impact even from a distance, this one’s for you.

Andy Neillie is the founder of Neillie Leadership Group, a global leadership training and coaching firm born from his own experience on a construction crew with a “bad boss.” With over 25 years of experience, Andy has traveled internationally, helping companies turn managers into authentic leaders.

Rooted in his strong Christian faith and shaped by an early belief that no one deserves a bad boss, he’s built a practice focused on practical, people-first leadership. His work emphasizes four core traits—Conviction, Competence, Character, and Covenant—to foster trust, loyalty, and growth in teams. Andy works across industries, including construction and family-owned businesses, and supports remote teams too. He’s passionate about helping leaders become someone their people want to follow, not just someone in charge.

Connect with Andy:
Website: https://neillieleadershipgroup.com/

Download his eBook: https://leadershipmaterials.com/

Episode highlights:
(0:00 ) Intro
(1:35 ) Andy’s start in leadership and how Neillie Leadership Group started
(4:21 ) The real difference between a manager vs. a leader
(5:32 ) The Four Leadership Necessities
(12:40 ) The hiring and retention challenge in today’s market
(15:53 ) How leaders can know if they’re doing a good job
(20:12 ) Ego in leadership and the danger of blind spots
(22:09 ) Challenges of leading family-owned businesses
(25:52 ) The Dunbar number
(28:17 ) How to clearly share your vision with your team
(30:44 ) Leading virtual teams the right way
(32:13 ) How to connect with Andy and get free leadership resources
(33:46 ) Outro

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