The New Rules Podcast

Adrian Crawford
The New Rules Podcast

Helping you write New Rules no matter what place and space you find yourself.

  1. 1 DAY AGO

    E67: Why Success Feels Empty: The Real Meaning of Fulfillment

    Are you chasing goals that feel just out of reach? In our first-ever live episode, Adrian and Bri tackle the concept of Chasing Smoke—the relentless pursuit of dreams and expectations that often leave us feeling empty. Too often, we measure success by society's scoreboard, only to find ourselves disillusioned. But what if the real victory comes from defining success on your own terms? Broadcasted in front of a live audience, Adrian shares his journey of redefining his personal scoreboard, breaking away from comparison and societal pressures. He reflects on the challenge of balancing ambition with authenticity, explaining how true fulfillment comes not from achieving external markers but from living in alignment with one's calling and purpose. Bri adds insight on sacrifice and faith, emphasizing the importance of trusting that the time invested now will pay dividends in the future. Key Takeaways: The dangers of "Chasing Smoke"—pursuing success based on external expectations. How to redefine success by setting your own scoreboard in life. 🎯 The importance of sacrifice and resilience, and why sometimes saying "no" is essential for growth. Practical tips for discovering your purpose and remaining authentic in a world full of comparisons. How to build a legacy beyond the workplace by focusing on values that truly matter. 🌱 Join us on this journey as we dive deep in our first live episode, bringing real-time insights and raw reflections. Ready to stop chasing and start living with purpose? Reflect this week on what matters most, and consider redefining your scoreboard for a more fulfilling journey. Let us know how you’re shifting your focus, and check out the full episode for more insights!   📲 Connect with Us: Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review! Share your thoughts on how power and fear have played a role in your own leadership experiences. Whether you are a corporate leader, parent, or any individual who finds themselves in a position of leadership - we hope this podcast brings you one step closer on the journey to becoming authentically yourself.  We'd love to hear your thoughts! After listening, don't forget to leave a comment on YouTube, leave a review, and share your favorite takeaways on social media. More of a visual person?  You can WATCH today’s episode on our Youtube Channel:  Youtube: youtube.com/WriteNewRules   To stay connected, visit us at the following places to help as a guide for you on your journey to becoming an authentic leader!   LinkedIn: Adrian Crawford Instagram: @writenewrules TikTok: @writenewrules

    1h 7m
  2. NOV 6

    E66: How Transformational Leaders Leave a Lasting Legacy

    Are you a leader who simply manages tasks, or are you someone who transforms lives? In this episode, Bri and Adrian dive into the critical difference between transformational leadership and transactional leadership. Too often, leaders fall into the trap of operating in a give-and-take dynamic, where interactions are merely transactions. But transformational leaders aim to create deep, lasting impact across every sphere they touch—whether in the workplace, their community, or personal relationships. Bri and Adrian unpack what it means to lead with purpose, focusing on long-term growth and developing people, rather than just achieving short-term results. They highlight how a transformational approach encourages trust, loyalty, and true engagement from those being led, and why these leaders leave a legacy far beyond the transactional. Key Takeaways: The difference between transactional leadership and transformational leadership. How transformational leaders impact lives deeply by creating meaningful connections and inspiring growth. The importance of purpose in leadership and how to move beyond simply managing tasks. Why transformational leadership drives higher loyalty and engagement from teams, fostering stronger relationships. Practical steps to shift from being a transactional leader to one that truly transforms. Are you leading just for results, or are you looking to transform lives? Evaluate your leadership approach this week. Think about where you might be operating transactionally, and identify one area where you can make a transformational shift. Leave us a comment or share your thoughts on social media about your leadership journey—what’s working, and where you’re looking to grow! 📲 Connect with Us: Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review! Share your thoughts on how power and fear have played a role in your own leadership experiences. To check out the Dan Hurley interview mentions, click here! : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rAjqC85tS5o&list=PLox03BctkPtW8U7bfRq9uFIkXywrm-2fc  Whether you are a corporate leader, parent, or any individual who finds themselves in a position of leadership - we hope this podcast brings you one step closer on the journey to becoming authentically yourself.  We'd love to hear your thoughts! After listening, don't forget to leave a comment on YouTube, leave a review, and share your favorite takeaways on social media.   More of a visual person?  You can WATCH today’s episode on our Youtube Channel:  Youtube: youtube.com/WriteNewRules   To stay connected, visit us at the following places to help as a guide for you on your journey to becoming an authentic leader!   LinkedIn: Adrian Crawford Instagram: @writenewrules TikTok: @writenewrules

    38 min
  3. OCT 16

    E65: Why Great Leaders Don’t Take Criticism Personally

    Have you ever been paralyzed by a piece of criticism, feeling like it cut deeper than just your work—like it was an attack on who you are? What if you could learn to see feedback as fuel for growth instead of a personal blow? In this episode, we dive deep into the power of resilience when it comes to handling criticism and feedback. For leaders, creators, and individuals alike, the ability to separate feedback from personal identity is a crucial skill—one that requires practice and self-awareness. Key Takeaways: Building the Feedback Muscle: How learning to receive and respond to feedback without internalizing it is like training a muscle—you get stronger the more you do it. We explore strategies to embrace constructive criticism while maintaining your self-worth and confidence. Parts of the Whole: Your actions, decisions, and work are only parts of who you are. Understanding that feedback often targets those parts, not your whole identity, can help you process it without feeling attacked. Self-Awareness and Resilience: Growing in self-awareness is key to building resilience. We discuss why developing an accurate sense of self and separating it from external opinions is essential to thriving in leadership roles and personal growth. The Spectrum of Sensitivity: Why some people take things too personally and others build walls too thick to let in feedback. How leaders can help balance these tendencies in themselves and their teams. Fulfilling Roles While Keeping a Sense of Self: Leadership requires fulfilling roles that may be subject to criticism. We talk about how to stay true to yourself while performing duties that might receive pushback or scrutiny. Leading Through Criticism: Practical tips for leaders on navigating and giving constructive feedback to their teams while fostering an environment that encourages growth and open communication. Why People Take It Personally: We examine why people often feel personally attacked by feedback—whether it’s insecurity, lack of self-awareness, or past experiences. Understanding the root of these reactions can help leaders provide feedback more effectively and guide their teams with empathy. When Feedback Doesn't Stick: On the flip side, we discuss the danger of becoming too hardened to feedback. When the armor is too thick, nothing gets through, leading to stagnation and missed opportunities for growth. Criticism, when received well, is a powerful tool for growth. But it’s up to us to build the resilience to let feedback refine us without defining us. Have you ever struggled with receiving feedback? How do you lead yourself and others through critical moments? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments, and don't forget to subscribe for more leadership insights and tools! 📲 Connect with Us: Whether you are a corporate leader, parent, or any individual who finds themselves in a position of leadership - we hope this podcast brings you one step closer on the journey to becoming authentically yourself.  We'd love to hear your thoughts! After listening, don't forget to leave a comment on YouTube, leave a review, and share your favorite takeaways on social media. More of a visual person?  You can WATCH today’s episode on our Youtube Channel:  Youtube: youtube.com/cadriancrawford   To stay connected, visit us at the following places to help as a guide for you on your journey to becoming an authentic leader!   LinkedIn: Adrian Crawford Instagram: @writenewrules TikTok: @writenewrules

    36 min
  4. OCT 9

    E64: The Feedback You Need (Even If You Don’t Want It)

    How do you handle feedback that hits you hard? In this episode, Adrian and Bri dive into the art of receiving feedback—even when it’s not given in the most loving way. They unpack the uncomfortable but necessary role of feedback in leadership growth, sharing personal stories of the hardest feedback they’ve received (and had to give). Through these experiences, they highlight how enduring painful feedback is often the key to unlocking growth and becoming a better leader. Join us as we explore how to turn criticism into strength and why true progress often requires embracing discomfort. Key Takeaways: Feedback Fuels Growth: The toughest feedback often leads to the most significant breakthroughs. Receiving with Grace: Learn to hear the message without becoming defensive, even when feedback is harsh. Growth Requires Discomfort: Personal development comes with challenges, but pain is a crucial part of progress. Giving Tough Feedback: Leaders must learn to deliver feedback effectively, balancing honesty with empathy. Actionable Steps: Reflect on Tough Feedback: Think about a time you received harsh feedback and what it taught you. Seek Feedback Regularly: Don’t wait for others to give it—ask for it. Process Before Responding: Take a moment to reflect before reacting to feedback, especially if it's critical. What’s the toughest feedback you’ve ever received? Share your experience and let us know how it shaped your leadership journey. Ready to embrace the growth that comes with discomfort? Start by reflecting on your most recent feedback and see how it can push you forward. Don’t forget to subscribe for more insights on leadership and personal development! Whether you are a corporate leader, parent, or any individual who finds themselves in a position of leadership - we hope this podcast brings you one step closer on the journey to becoming authentically yourself.  We'd love to hear your thoughts! After listening, don't forget to leave a comment on YouTube, leave a review, and share your favorite takeaways on social media.   📲 Connect with Us: Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review! Share your thoughts on how power and fear have played a role in your own leadership experiences.   More of a visual person?  You can WATCH today’s episode on our Youtube Channel:  Youtube: youtube.com/cadriancrawford   To stay connected, visit us at the following places to help as a guide for you on your journey to becoming an authentic leader!   LinkedIn: Adrian Crawford Instagram: @writenewrules TikTok: @writenewrules

    32 min
  5. OCT 2

    E63: Building a Winning Team: Leadership Lessons from Florida State

    What happens when a team full of potential crashes under the weight of expectations? Florida State Football was supposed to dominate this season, but instead, they've become a case study in how even the most talented teams can struggle without the right direction. Adrian, a seasoned expert on team dynamics and cultures, walks us through his approach to identifying and addressing the core issues holding the team back. In this episode, we dive into the unexpected struggles of Florida State Football. Once a team predicted to be a top contender, they've fallen short of expectations, leaving fans and experts alike questioning what went wrong.  But this isn't just about football. Adrian highlights the broader leadership lessons we can all take from the challenges FSU is facing. Whether you’re leading in the boardroom, a community, or even in your own home, there’s something to learn from how teams fall apart—and more importantly, how they can be rebuilt.     🔥 Key Takeaways: How to assess team dysfunction from a leadership perspective Why talent alone isn't enough to create a winning culture The critical importance of addressing underlying issues instead of quick fixes How leaders can apply these strategies to turn around their own struggling teams The role of self-awareness and humility in leadership when things aren’t going as planned     Tune in to hear Adrian’s thoughtful breakdown of where FSU went wrong and how those same strategies can translate into real-world leadership growth. Have you ever led a team that wasn’t meeting expectations? Share your experience in the comments or tag us in your leadership stories on social media!   📲 Connect with Us: Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review! Share your thoughts on how power and fear have played a role in your own leadership experiences. Whether you are a corporate leader, parent, or any individual who finds themselves in a position of leadership - we hope this podcast brings you one step closer on the journey to becoming authentically yourself.  We'd love to hear your thoughts! After listening, don't forget to leave a comment on YouTube, leave a review, and share your favorite takeaways on social media. More of a visual person?  You can WATCH today’s episode on our Youtube Channel:  Youtube: youtube.com/cadriancrawford To stay connected, visit us at the following places to help as a guide for you on your journey to becoming an authentic leader! LinkedIn: Adrian Crawford Instagram: @writenewrules TikTok: @writenewrules

    45 min
  6. SEP 18

    E62: Feeling Stuck? How Discipline and Self-Awareness Can Help You Break Free

    What happens when you take a hard look at reality? How do we truly assess where we are, what we're capable of, and where we should be going? In this episode, Adrian and Bri explore the often uncomfortable but necessary process of interrogating reality. From understanding your current skill set to mapping out a realistic path forward, they discuss the discipline required to grow without getting stuck in self-doubt or unrealistic expectations. Adrian shares personal stories from his days playing basketball alongside legends like Kobe Bryant and Michael Jordan, reflecting on how those experiences forced him to confront the reality of his own skills. Meanwhile, Bri dives into her journey of less thinking and more doing—learning how to stop overanalyzing and start taking action. Together, they offer strategies to accurately assess where you are, tools to help you embrace that reality without spiraling, and practical advice for cultivating the discipline needed to move forward, regardless of your current skill set. Highlights: Interrogating Reality: Self-Assessment: How to honestly evaluate your current skills and what you’re capable of achieving. Adrian’s Journey: Lessons learned from playing with basketball legends and how they shaped his understanding of his own abilities. Bri’s Challenge: The balance between overthinking and taking action, and how she’s learning to lean into doing more. The Reality Check: Tools for Growth: Practical methods to assess yourself accurately and move forward with clarity. Avoiding the Spiral: How to embrace your current abilities—whether positive or negative—without letting them derail your progress. Discipline and Action: Taking the Next Step: How to cultivate the discipline to take action, even when reality is daunting. The Power of Doing: Bri’s insights on breaking free from paralysis by analysis and embracing a mindset of action. Join us as we explore how to confront reality head-on, embrace where you’re at, and build the discipline to take action toward real growth—no matter your starting point.   Whether you are a corporate leader, parent, or any individual who finds themselves in a position of leadership - we hope this podcast brings you one step closer on the journey to becoming authentically yourself.  We'd love to hear your thoughts! After listening, don't forget to leave a comment on YouTube, leave a review, and share your favorite takeaways on social media.   More of a visual person?  You can WATCH today’s episode on our Youtube Channel:  Youtube: youtube.com/cadriancrawford?sub_confirmation=1    To stay connected, visit us at the following places to help as a guide for you on your journey to becoming an authentic leader!   LinkedIn: Adrian Crawford Instagram: @writenewrules TikTok: @writenewrules

    39 min
  7. SEP 12

    E61: Power Struggles: Tyreek Hill, Cops, and Dealing with Authority

    Have you ever wondered what happens when power meets fear? 🤔 This week on the New Rules Podcast, we're diving into the Tyreek Hill controversy to explore the deeper lessons on power, authority, and how fear shapes our reactions to both. 🏈💼 Starting with Tyreek Hill's recent incident, we break down the power dynamics in leadership, discussing how power can be wielded, misused, and even reformed. 🛠️ But the conversation doesn't stop there—we tackle the often unspoken reality: the fear many Black Americans have toward police interactions. 🚔 Even though many cops are good, this fear is rooted in history and experience. We’re exploring how power and fear intersect, and what it means for leaders—whether in sports or everyday life—to navigate these complexities. ✊🏽 Tune in this Thursday as we unpack: ⚖️ Power Moves: What they are and how to use them effectively 🏈 Tyreek Hill's incident: Leadership lessons from authority conflicts 🚔 Black Americans' fear of police: Why it's real, and how leaders should respond 🔑 Leadership in difficult situations: Balancing power, fear, and responsibility 🌍 When power stagnates: What happens when power goes unchecked? Get ready for a thought-provoking discussion on how leaders can use power responsibly, while acknowledging the real fears that shape our society. 🎧     🔥 Key Takeaways: Power isn't just about control—it’s about using influence to uplift others. Fear of authority is a reality many face, especially in Black communities. Leaders must understand this context and respond thoughtfully. Great leadership requires awareness of power dynamics—knowing when to wield it and when to listen.     📲 Connect with Us: Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review! Share your thoughts on how power and fear have played a role in your own leadership experiences. Whether you are a corporate leader, parent, or any individual who finds themselves in a position of leadership - we hope this podcast brings you one step closer on the journey to becoming authentically yourself.  We'd love to hear your thoughts! After listening, don't forget to leave a comment on YouTube, leave a review, and share your favorite takeaways on social media.   More of a visual person?  You can WATCH today’s episode on our Youtube Channel:  Youtube: youtube.com/cadriancrawford   To stay connected, visit us at the following places to help as a guide for you on your journey to becoming an authentic leader!   LinkedIn: Adrian Crawford Instagram: @writenewrules TikTok: @writenewrules

    54 min
  8. SEP 4

    E60: Why Critics May Be Your Best Allies (Or Worst Enemies) || New Rules Podcast

    What happens when creators meet critics? Are they truly at odds, or do they share more common ground than we think? We explore the complexities of these roles, offering insights on how to navigate the delicate balance between creation and critique. Discover how to engage in conversations that uplift rather than tear down, and learn how to take criticism without letting it stifle your creativity. We’ll also examine how to deconstruct entrenched ideals and how different generations can come together to rebuild with fresh perspectives and collaborative spirit. Highlights: Creators vs. Critics: Defining the Roles: Understanding the core differences between creators and critics. Shared Traits: How creators and critics can exhibit similar behaviors and thought patterns. Constructive Critique: Offering Help, Not Harm: Techniques for giving feedback that encourages growth. Critique vs. Criticism: Distinguishing between helpful critique and criticism that stifles creativity. Receiving Critique: Maintaining Perspective: How to avoid taking criticism personally. Growth Through Feedback: Using critique as a tool for personal and professional development. Inspired Creation: Staying Motivated: Strategies for keeping your creative spark alive amidst feedback. Purpose-Driven Work: Creating with intention and resilience. Deconstructing Ideals: Breaking Down Barriers: The importance of challenging outdated beliefs and practices. Collaborative Rebuilding: How different generations can work together to reconstruct ideals that better serve everyone. Generational Collaboration: Bridging the Gap: Strategies for fostering understanding and cooperation across generational lines. Innovative Rebuilding: Leveraging the strengths of each generation to create a more inclusive and forward-thinking future. Join us as we explore the delicate balance between creation and critique, offering insights to help you thrive as both a creator and a critic in today’s culture.  Whether you are a corporate leader, parent, or any individual who finds themselves in a position of leadership - we hope this podcast brings you one step closer on the journey to becoming authentically yourself.  We'd love to hear your thoughts! After listening, don't forget to leave a comment on YouTube, leave a review, and share your favorite takeaways on social media.   More of a visual person?  You can WATCH today’s episode on our Youtube Channel:  Youtube: youtube.com/cadriancrawford   To stay connected, visit us at the following places to help as a guide for you on your journey to becoming an authentic leader!   LinkedIn: Adrian Crawford Instagram: @writenewrules TikTok: @writenewrules

    56 min
4.8
out of 5
39 Ratings

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Helping you write New Rules no matter what place and space you find yourself.

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