Lead Well

Brandon Holland
  • 4.6 (14)
  • Self-Improvement
  • Updated Bimonthly

Hosted by Brandon Holland the Lead Well podcast is for anyone who wants to be better. From leadership to life, if you want to better yourself this podcast is for you. Brandon also does motivational speaking and leadership training at the college/university level. Look out for The occasional motivational track to spark your fire to be great! More info at www.thecoachholland.com.

  1. Sep 25

    071 w Jude Leonard - Internship, Mapping, AI, Leadership

    Jude Leonard on Local Government, GIS, and Learning to Lead Well Brandon Holland sits down with Jude Leonard, a 21-year-old GIS graduate student who interned with the City of Newton, to talk about what local government looks like behind the scenes. The conversation covers how public processes really work, why communication matters in government and in school, and how technology and AI are changing the way people do map-based work.Jude also shares practical encouragement for students and a leadership lesson about using good questions to help others think differently and grow. Key Topics How Jude’s internship with the City of Newton changed his perspective on local government and community issuesWhat happens during a rezoning process, from application to final decisionWhy citizens need to report infrastructure problems in their communitiesThe importance of clear, confident communication in planning and public-facing workHow updated GIS software can make local government workflows faster and more efficientThe differences between ArcMap and ArcGISHow machine learning tools can assist with address-point creationWhere useful AI support ends and overuse beginsWhy human judgment and visual hierarchy still matter in designEncouragement for students and professionals facing difficult seasonsHow leaders can use thoughtful questions to help others growWhy it is never too late to pursue a new interest or career pathTimestamps00:00 Welcome to the Lead Well Podcast and introduction to Jude Leonard 01:16 Jude’s background in geography and GIS graduate study 02:02 How the internship changed Jude’s view of local government 04:01 The importance of communication in planning and public-facing work 06:25 How updated GIS software speeds up local government workflows 07:54 Machine learning tools for address-point creation 09:38 Jude’s perspective on when AI use goes too far 12:54 Visual hierarchy and why AI can miss design fundamentals 14:21 Encouragement for students under pressure 16:46 Leadership lessons from leading classroom discussions 19:18 Why it is never too late to start learning maps or try something new Notable Quotes “Everything’s a process.”“People aren’t dumb. They can tell when a response is AI.”“There’s always tomorrow.”“As a leader, it can be your job to insert that seed into people’s minds to get them thinking, to change, to grow.”About Jude Leonard Jude Leonard is a geography graduate and current master’s student in geographic information science and technology at NC State. After completing an internship with the City of Newton, Jude is continuing to build his career in GIS, mapping, and local government.Listeners interested in maps, GIS, and Jude’s work can search for Jude Leonard on LinkedIn . Resources Mentioned Shackerford Leadership InstituteHyperXArcMapArcGISQGISGRASS GIS

    071 w Jude Leonard - Internship, Mapping, AI, Leadership

  2. Sep 4

    070 w Sylvia Baffour on Street EI, Public Speaking World Championship, Maya Angelou as a mentor

    Sylvia Baffour on Street EI, leadership, and the hidden work behind great communication Brandon Holland sits down with Sylvia Baffour, a globally recognized speaker who has worked with Fortune 500 companies and studied under the influence of Maya Angelou, to explore what she calls Street EI. The conversation centers on emotional intelligence in unscripted, real-world moments and why leaders need more than charm or agreeableness to truly connect.We discuss how self-awareness, curiosity, and cultural humility shape better leadership, speaking, and relationships. Sylvia also shares lessons from her upbringing across eight countries, her experience at the World Championship of Public Speaking, and the unforgettable mentorship moments that shaped her career. Key topics Sylvia explains Street EI as emotional intelligence for the unscripted moments of life, focused on practical behavior rather than theory.She shares the boarding school intervention in Zimbabwe that first showed her how others experienced her, becoming a turning point in her growth.In this episode, Sylvia breaks down the biggest misconception about emotional intelligence - that it means being nice, soft, or agreeable.She reframes emotional intelligence as a human skill that shows up in difficult conversations, accountability, and respectful disagreement.Brandon and Sylvia discuss how living in eight countries and speaking multiple languages taught her that no single worldview is universal.Sylvia shares why she leads with curiosity instead of judgment, because judgment finishes other people’s stories while curiosity opens space for understanding.She offers a practical method for improving self-awareness through reflection, noticing triggers, and asking for anonymous feedback from people in your life.Sylvia tells the story of meeting Maya Angelou while waiting tables in Washington, DC, and how that relationship shaped her confidence and standards.She shares Maya Angelou’s lesson that "easy reading is damn hard writing" and applies it to leadership, speaking, and relationships.Sylvia reflects on the World Championship of Public Speaking and how focusing on presence, preparation, and service mattered more than fixating on winning.Notable quotes "Emotional intelligence for the unscripted moments of your life." "When I lead with judgment, I get to finish your story for you. But when I lead with curiosity, I give you a chance to enlighten me about your world." "Easy reading is damn hard writing."

    070 w Sylvia Baffour on Street EI, Public Speaking World Championship, Maya Angelou as a mentor

  3. Jul 27

    069 w/ Taylor Lunin and Larry Long Jr

    Today's conversation features Larry Long Jr., one of the nation's leading motivational speakers, sales coaches, and customer experience experts, alongside Taylor Lunin, speaker strategist and co-founder of Business of Speaking. Together, they share practical insights on building a successful speaking business, creating lasting relationships, and turning your message into meaningful impact. Together they've created The Abundant Speaker community and this episode goes in-depth on why community is valuable.Larry Long Jr.🌐 Website: https://larrylongjr.com💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/longjr7📧 Email: larry@larrylongjr.comTaylor Lunin💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-lunin🌐 Learn more about Business of Speaking through her LinkedIn profile and professional network.Listen to More EpisodesIf you enjoyed this conversation, be sure to subscribe to the Lead Well Podcast for inspiring conversations with leaders, entrepreneurs, authors, and changemakers who are making a difference in their communities and organizations.🎙️ Subscribe on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.KeywordsLeadership Podcast • Public Speaking • Professional Speaker • Speaker Business • Sales Leadership • Personal Branding • Business Growth • Motivation • Communication Skills • Executive Leadership • Storytelling • Lead Well Podcast • Larry Long Jr. • Taylor Lunin • Business of Speaking

    069 w/ Taylor Lunin and Larry Long Jr

  4. Jul 14

    Lead Well Podcast 068 w/ Larry Burks

    In this episode of the Lead Well Podcast, Brandon Holland sits down with Larry Burks, Executive Director of the Millcreek Valley Conservancy District and an experienced public-sector leader, for a practical conversation about leadership, organizational performance, and the next generation of leaders.   Larry shares the leadership principle he believes can work anywhere, what he pays attention to when an organization isn’t performing, and what excites him about emerging leaders. We also discuss a question every aspiring leader should consider: What should you be doing now if you want to lead later? This conversation explores: Leadership principles that translate across organizationsHow leaders identify organizational performance problemsWhat to watch when a team isn’t reaching its potentialThe strengths of the next generation of leadersPractical advice for aspiring leadersPublic-sector leadership and organizational development Whether you’re a city manager, local government professional, executive, emerging leader, or someone simply trying to lead well, this episode offers practical leadership insight you can apply immediately. Subscribe to the Lead Well Podcast for conversations about leadership, resilience, growth, and the real work of leading people. ABOUT THE LEAD WELL PODCAST The Lead Well Podcast features real conversations with leaders, authors, executives, public servants, and changemakers about leadership, resilience, personal growth, and what it actually takes to lead well. 🎙️ Hosted by Brandon Holland. Sponsored by: Shackleford Leadership Institute | Hyper-X Topics: Leadership Development | Local Government Leadership | Public Sector Leadership | Organizational Performance | Emerging Leaders | Executive Leadership | Leadership Advice #Leadership #LeadershipDevelopment #LeadWellPodcast #PublicLeadership #LocalGovernment #EmergingLeaders #OrganizationalLeadership #ExecutiveLeadership #LeadershipPodcast #ProfessionalDevelopment

    Lead Well Podcast 068 w/ Larry Burks

  5. Jun 8

    067 w/ Michael Burroughs

    🎙️ Lead Well Podcast – Show NotesLeadership, Growth, and Becoming a City Manager In this episode of the Lead Well Podcast, I sit down with the new City Manager of Trinity to discuss his leadership journey, the experiences that shaped him, and the lessons he learned on the path to local government leadership. We explore the challenges, opportunities, and mindset required to grow as a leader while serving communities and building strong relationships along the way. His path to becoming City Manager Leadership lessons learned throughout his career Overcoming challenges and embracing growth The value of mentorship and continuous learning Advice for aspiring local government leaders His vision for the future of Trinity Leadership is built through experience and service. Growth often comes from stepping outside your comfort zone. Strong relationships are essential to effective leadership. Every opportunity can prepare you for the next step. 🎧 Subscribe to the Lead Well Podcast for conversations that inspire better leadership, stronger communities, and personal growth. #LeadWellPodcast #Leadership #CityManager #LocalGovernment #PublicService #LeadershipDevelopment #CommunityLeadership #NorthCarolina #ProfessionalGrowth #EmergingLeaders #ServantLeadership In This Episode:Key Takeaways:

    067 w/ Michael Burroughs

  6. May 15

    066 Beyond My Pit w/ Ben Cranford

    In this powerful episode of The Lead Well Podcast, host Brandon Holland sits down with Ben Cranford, author of Beyond My Pit, for a raw and inspiring conversation about overcoming adversity, finding purpose in pain, and leading through life’s deepest struggles. Ben shares the personal journey behind his book, opening up about the “pit moments” that shaped his faith, mindset, and mission. From battling setbacks and emotional hardship to discovering resilience and hope, this episode delivers practical encouragement for anyone feeling stuck, discouraged, or uncertain about their next chapter. Whether you’re a leader, entrepreneur, person of faith, or someone simply trying to navigate difficult seasons, this conversation will challenge you to rise above your circumstances and step into growth. The story behind Beyond My Pit How adversity can shape leadership Faith, resilience, and mental toughness Lessons learned from painful seasons Encouragement for people feeling trapped or overwhelmed Why your story still has purpose If you’ve ever faced setbacks, disappointment, burnout, or moments where life felt heavier than you could carry, this episode will remind you that the pit is not the end of your story. Ben Cranford offers wisdom, authenticity, and hope that listeners can immediately apply to their own lives and leadership journeys. Ben Cranford podcast, Beyond My Pit, overcoming adversity podcast, Christian leadership podcast, resilience and faith, motivational podcast, leadership through hardship, personal growth podcast, inspirational author interview, The Lead Well Podcast, Brandon Holland podcast, overcoming struggles, finding purpose in pain, faith-based leadership conversations Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs encouragement today. Follow The Lead Well Podcast for more conversations on leadership, resilience, growth, and purpose-driven living. www.beyondmypit.com

    066 Beyond My Pit w/ Ben Cranford

  7. Apr 24

    065 Dr. Pat Mitchell on the Appalachian State MPA Program

    In this episode of The Lead Well Podcast, Brandon sits down with the Director of the Master of Public Administration (MPA) program at Appalachian State University for an insightful conversation on the evolving landscape of public service education. From curriculum updates to program expansion, this discussion offers a behind-the-scenes look at how one of North Carolina’s leading MPA programs is preparing the next generation of local government leaders. Whether you're a current public servant, aspiring city manager, or someone passionate about community impact, this episode provides valuable perspective on where the profession is headed. Vision of the Appalachian State MPA program Recent and upcoming changes to curriculum and delivery Expansion efforts and what they mean for accessibility and growth How the program is adapting to meet the needs of modern local government The skills and competencies future public leaders need to succeed Advice for prospective students considering an MPA The importance of leadership, ethics, and service in today’s environment If you’re in local government, considering graduate school, or simply interested in how leadership pipelines are being developed in public service, this episode offers practical insights and forward-thinking ideas you can apply right away. Thanks to the sponsors: Hyperx.com https://www.shacklefordleadership.com/ For more info on APP STATE: https://www.appstate.edu/academics/graduate/id/public-administration-mpa?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=23690619343&gbraid=0AAAAADAr0kG2GU3Aoh__keyJNSk2URy9p&gclid=CjwKCAjwhqfPBhBWEiwAZo196mvbF9QYxJKlCcYenw-NoCHzuM86eNOwtsy_YjbyHxKU49r9FvqU9xoCH6MQAvD_BwE

    065 Dr. Pat Mitchell on the Appalachian State MPA Program

  8. Apr 10

    064 Power in Caring w/ Glenn Hasteadt

    What if the most powerful leadership strategy isn’t authority—but care? In this episode of The Lead Well Podcast, Brandon sits down with Glenn Hasteadt, author of Power in Caring, to break down the true meaning of servant leadership and why it’s more relevant than ever. With a background as a career IT professional, Glenn shares real-world leadership insights on how empathy, trust, and intentional care can transform teams, strengthen culture, and drive results. Now a speaker and leadership coach, he helps organizations embrace people-first leadership that actually works. In this conversation, you’ll learn: What servant leadership really looks like in practiceHow caring can be a leadership advantageWays to build trust and accountability on your teamHow to lead with purpose in any organizationIf you're a leader in business, government, or any organization looking to grow your impact, this episode is for you. www.powerincaring.com https://www.amazon.com/Power-Caring-How-Transforms-Leadership/dp/B0GSKL131P/ref=sr_1_1?crid=37CBVSOTSWQJJ&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.EAkVdsFZAdSYqwQp_T5Bi6SWHU857T0RgZWsoLkZ3IhP9VzTfbmbZmUB5dyDkw1oqUUd2UsW6r3wL_pN0cg4GDErDru1i3iNnZgb3lI72_rupZ2t_Hf-1oKx2fp9n8gL-AL5hkNzbY-S-pxcTbjXZMRwpq4xQ9MHAOFyVPdzR7H_javRy3tbCNa1aeOGJI5ZnPOkor6hyHblMSPoTmp4sPS4nWBvBiQaoFtTeyeInpA.7kVnPq8C9d4ISZ4qUaZ-PNoX2Mgl2ymVpdKQYwwQ4Cs&dib_tag=se&keywords=Power+in+caring&qid=1775818194&sprefix=power+in+caring%2Caps%2C247&sr=8-1 👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with someone who wants to lead better.

    064 Power in Caring w/ Glenn Hasteadt
See All (66)

4.6
out of 5
14 Ratings

About

Hosted by Brandon Holland the Lead Well podcast is for anyone who wants to be better. From leadership to life, if you want to better yourself this podcast is for you. Brandon also does motivational speaking and leadership training at the college/university level. Look out for The occasional motivational track to spark your fire to be great! More info at www.thecoachholland.com.

Information

  • Creator
    Brandon Holland
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    66
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Brandon Holland
  • Show Website
    Lead Well