The Learning To Lead Show with Mark J. Cundiff

Mark J. Cundiff
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The Learning to Lead Show with Mark J. Cundiff Helping Good Leaders Become Great—One Practical Insight at a Time You’re busy. The demands are real. But your desire to grow as a leader hasn’t gone anywhere. That’s why The Learning to Lead Show is designed for leaders like you—driven, growth-minded, and always on the go. Hosted by Executive Leadership Coach Mark J. Cundiff, this podcast delivers practical leadership insights you can use today, not someday. Each week, you’ll get: Short, focused teaching episodes packed with real-world lessons from decades of leadership experience, bestselling books, and proven frameworks. Authentic interviews with front-line leaders who share how they’re navigating challenges, building teams, and leading with purpose, right where they are. Whether you’re commuting, working out, or grabbing a few quiet minutes between meetings, this show helps you invest in your leadership without adding to your already busy schedule. Because great leadership isn’t about having more time—it’s about using the time you have to lead on purpose. This show is for growth-minded professionals who want more than titles and tactics. It’s for those who want to lead with purpose, develop a legacy, and make their future bigger than their past. So whether you're leading a team, a business, or yourself—tune in, take notes, and let’s grow together.

  1. JAN 27

    #26 Building Trust and Inspiring Leadership. A Conversation with Retired Marine, Sergeant Major Bobby Allen"

    In this episode of the Learning to Lead Show, host Mark Cundiff interviews Bobby Allen, a retired Marine Corps Sergeant Major and seasoned maintenance and reliability leader.  Bobby shares his leadership journey, starting from his early days in the Marine Corps to his extensive career in the corporate world. He discusses key leadership principles such as seeking responsibility, knowing your people, and leading through influence rather than authority.  Bobby also provides practical advice for young leaders, emphasizing the importance of trust, humility, and emotional intelligence. The episode is packed with valuable insights and actionable steps to help leaders improve their skills and drive organizational success.  Don't miss the expert tips on how to handle culture change and the impact of AI on maintenance and reliability. 00:00 Introduction to Leadership Challenges 01:46 Welcome to the Learning to Lead Show 03:24 Bobby Allen's Leadership Journey 04:46 Key Leadership Lessons from the Marines 06:15 Transitioning to the Corporate World 08:06 The Importance of Seeking Responsibility 11:00 Leading with Influence and Informal Leadership 19:50 Challenges in Maintenance and Reliability 20:48 The Role of Culture Change in Leadership 31:32 Building Trust and Credibility 36:54 Recommended Leadership Resources 41:29 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Connect with Bobby Allen: LinkedIn Free Learning To Lead Resources Free Book: The Trust Gap The Learning To Lead Newsletter LeaderNotes 🔎 About LeaderNotes LeaderNotes is a quick-hit companion to each episode of The Learning to Lead Show. In just 5–10 minutes, Mark Cundiff recaps the top leadership insights, frameworks, and action steps from each interview, designed for busy, growth-minded leaders who want to review and apply the episode’s biggest takeaways on the go. It’s like the highlight reel + playbook—all in one. Contact Mark at: mark@markjcundiff.com

    43 min

  2. JAN 22

    #25 Servant Leadership with a Backbone: My Insights from my conversation with Rick Rando

    Core Principles of Effective Leadership: Insights from Rick Rando In this episode of The Learning to Lead Show, host Mark Cundiff reflects on his conversation with Rick Rando, an eighth-degree black belt, discussing his key leadership lessons.  The episode is anchored by the idea 'What You Condone, You Endorse' and dives into five crucial takeaways: the importance of maintaining high standards, the essence of servant leadership with a backbone, establishing effective systems, and transitioning focus from individual to team success.  Mark underscores the need for leaders to provide candid feedback, create consistent systems, and foster a culture of trust and fairness, all while shifting from 'me' to 'we'. The episode is rich in practical advice and wisdom for aspiring leaders. 00:00 Introduction to the Learning to Lead Show 00:34 Key Takeaway 1: What You Condone, You Endorse 01:45 Key Takeaway 2: The Standard is the Standard 03:47 Key Takeaway 3: Servant Leadership Requires a Backbone 05:26 Key Takeaway 4: Systems Liberate, Not Limit 07:02 Key Takeaway 5: From Me to We 09:10 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Free Learning To Lead Resources Free Book: The Trust Gap The Learning To Lead Newsletter LeaderNotes 🔎 About LeaderNotes LeaderNotes is a quick-hit companion to each episode of The Learning to Lead Show. In just 5–10 minutes, Mark Cundiff recaps the top leadership insights, frameworks, and action steps from each interview, designed for busy, growth-minded leaders who want to review and apply the episode’s biggest takeaways on the go. It’s like the highlight reel + playbook—all in one. Contact Mark at: mark@markjcundiff.com

    10 min

  3. JAN 14

    #24 What You Condone, You Endorse. My conversation with 8th Degree Black Belt Grandmaster Rick Rando

    In this episode of the Learning to Lead Show, host Mark Cundiff interviews Grandmaster Rick Rando, 8th Degree Black Belt, owner and president of Kick Masters Karate and host of the Victory Couch Podcast.  Rick shares insights from his extensive career in martial arts and business leadership. He discusses the importance of maintaining high standards, recognizing and addressing toxic influences, and the significance of servant leadership.  Rick also recounts his journey from starting martial arts to owning a thriving business, highlighting key lessons learned along the way, especially during challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic.  The episode emphasizes the value of humility, continuous improvement, and building trust within teams. Rick's personal experiences and practical advice offer valuable takeaways for leaders in any industry. 00:00 Overcoming Toxic Relationships in Leadership 00:53 Introduction to the Learning to Lead Show 02:13 Rick Rando's Martial Arts Journey Begins 04:46 Early Leadership Lessons and Family Influence 06:04 Building a Successful Martial Arts Business 12:06 Servant Leadership and Team Culture 19:36 Balancing Humility and Confidence 23:11 Challenges and Growth in Business 27:12 Adapting to COVID-19: Safety Measures and Challenges 28:10 The Importance of Systems in Business 29:15 Continuous Improvement and Efficiency 31:45 Self-Leadership and Personal Growth 35:41 Building and Trusting Your Team 44:00 Lessons from Disney: Leadership and Service 47:02 Personal Development and Influences 49:46 The Role of Family in Leadership 52:00 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Connect with Grandmaster Rick Rando: Email: rando@randospeaks.com LinkedInrandospeaks.comThe Victory Couch Podcast (with Julie Rando)Rick's Recommended Reading List: The Go-Giver — Bob BurgThe Customer Rules — Lee CockerellRich Dad, Poor Dad -  Robert KiyosakiThe Tipping Point - Malcom GladwellUncommon - Tony DungyRick's Recommended Podcast: EntreLeadership - Dave RamseyThat Sounds Fun - Annie F. DownsFree Learning To Lead Resources Free Book: The Trust Gap The Learning To Lead Newsletter LeaderNotes 🔎 About LeaderNotes LeaderNotes is a quick-hit companion to each episode of The Learning to Lead Show. In just 5–10 minutes, Mark Cundiff recaps the top leadership insights, frameworks, and action steps from each interview, designed for busy, growth-minded leaders who want to review and apply the episode’s biggest takeaways on the go. It’s like the highlight reel + playbook—all in one. Contact Mark at: mark@markjcundiff.com

    54 min

  4. JAN 8

    #23 The Power of Self-Talk: A Leader's Guide to Success. My Reflections on my conversation with Marianne Renner

    In this first episode of the New Year 2026, host Mark Cundiff revisits a powerful conversation from a previous episode with Marianne Renner, author of 'Self-Talk: 10 Stories You Tell Yourself That Hold You Back'.  Mark outlines five key takeaways for growth-minded leaders. These include the significance of self-talk, the impact of self-doubt on workplace culture, strategies to challenge negative stories, the importance of differentiating facts from personal narratives, and Marianne’s SEAR framework for rewriting mental scripts.  Listeners are encouraged to read Renner's book for deeper insights and to access LeaderNotes available in the show notes to enhance their leadership journey. 00:00 Introduction to the Learning to Lead Show 00:10 Recap of Marianne Renner's Insights 00:37 Key Takeaways for Growth-Minded Leaders 01:21 Understanding Self-Doubt and Its Impact 02:26 Challenging the Invisible Bubble 03:18 Confusing Facts with Stories 04:12 The SEAR Framework for Rewriting Mental Scripts 05:08 Conclusion and Next Steps Connect with Marianne Renner: Email: marianne@mariannerenner.com  LinkedIn mariannerenner.com Marianne’s Books Self-TalkFrom Chaos to Clarity Success JournalStop Thinking Like an EmployeeFree Learning To Lead Resources Free Book: The Trust Gap The Learning To Lead Newsletter LeaderNotes 🔎 About LeaderNotes LeaderNotes is a quick-hit companion to each episode of The Learning to Lead Show. In just 5–10 minutes, Mark Cundiff recaps the top leadership insights, frameworks, and action steps from each interview, designed for busy, growth-minded leaders who want to review and apply the episode’s biggest takeaways on the go. It’s like the highlight reel + playbook—all in one. Contact Mark at: mark@markjcundiff.com

    6 min

  5. 12/23/2025

    #22 Mastering Your Mindset: A Journey of Self-Leadership with Marianne Renner

    In this episode of The Learning to Lead Show, host Mark Cundiff interviews leadership coach, trainer, and speaker Marianne Renner about her latest book, 'Self-Talk.'  Marianne shares her personal journey of overcoming decades of depression and addiction by mastering her mindset and transforming her self-talk. She discusses the profound impact self-talk has on leadership and personal growth, revealing tools and strategies to change negative self-talk patterns.  Through compelling stories and practical advice, Marianne emphasizes the importance of taking ownership of one's actions, thoughts, and feelings. Additionally, she highlights the crucial role of mentors and divine connections in shaping one's journey.  Marianne also touches on the significance of gratitude, affirmations, and acceptance in fostering a positive mindset. The episode provides valuable lessons for leaders on removing self-imposed barriers and unleashing their full potential. 00:00 The Power of Self-Talk 00:57 Introduction to Marianne Renner 02:15 Marianne's Personal Journey 04:54 The Impact of Self-Talk on Leadership 08:37 Understanding the Invisible Bubble 13:11 The SEAR Framework for Changing Your Story 17:43 Real-Life Success Stories 24:49 The Clock is Ticking: A Story of Perseverance 25:18 A Life-Changing Phone Call 26:34 Behind the Scenes: Coaching and Mindset 28:31 Changing Your Stories: Past, Present, and Future 32:54 The Turning Point: Acceptance and Empowerment 36:04 Owning Your Role: From Victim to Victor 40:13 The Importance of a Support System 43:41 Books and Mentors: Continuous Growth 45:31 Connecting with Marianne: Coaching and Resources Connect with Marianne Renner: Email: marianne@mariannerenner.com  LinkedIn mariannerenner.com Marianne’s Books Self-TalkFrom Chaos to Clarity Success JournalStop Thinking Like an EmployeeFree Learning To Lead Resources Free Book: The Trust Gap The Learning To Lead Newsletter LeaderNotes 🔎 About LeaderNotes LeaderNotes is a quick-hit companion to each episode of The Learning to Lead Show. In just 5–10 minutes, Mark Cundiff recaps the top leadership insights, frameworks, and action steps from each interview, designed for busy, growth-minded leaders who want to review and apply the episode’s biggest takeaways on the go. It’s like the highlight reel + playbook—all in one. Contact Mark at: mark@markjcundiff.com

    48 min

  6. 12/18/2025

    #21 Building Trust and Innovation: 5 Insights from The All-In Manager. Reflections on my conversation with Ali Merchant

    In this episode of the Learning to Lead Show, host Mark Cundiff reflects on Ali Merchant's book 'The All-In Manager', and shares key insights from their previous discussion.  He highlights five major takeaways for leaders:  The common phenomenon of accidental managersThe importance of trust is built on care, reliability, and competence. The role of psychological safety and candor in fostering innovation.The necessity for leaders to actively seek feedback and address blind spots.The shift from being a problem-fixer to a question-asker and debate-maker.Cundiff emphasizes that true leadership is about continual learning, meaningful results, and genuinely caring for team members. Listeners are encouraged to go back to the previous episode, download the leader notes, and subscribe to the podcast. 00:00 Introduction to the Learning to Lead Show 00:42 Key Takeaway 1: From Accidental Leader to All-In Manager 02:20 Key Takeaway 2: Building Trust as a Leader 03:35 Key Takeaway 3: Psychological Safety and Candor 05:00 Key Takeaway 4: Seeking Feedback and Busting Blind Spots 06:24 Key Takeaway 5: Stop Being the Fixer 07:57 Conclusion and Call to Action Connect with Ali Merchant: ali@allinmanager.comLinkedInallinmanager.com📚 Ali's Book RecommendationsThe All-In Manager: Become a Better Leader Today, Not Someday – Ali Merchant: Ali’s full framework on moving from accidental to all-in, with tools, templates, and practical scripts.Multipliers – Liz WisemanNo Rules Rules – Reed Hastings & Erin MeyerZen and the Art of Firefighting - Chris PrentissFree Learning To Lead Resources Free Book: The Trust Gap The Learning To Lead Newsletter LeaderNotes 🔎 About LeaderNotes LeaderNotes is a quick-hit companion to each episode of The Learning to Lead Show. In just 5–10 minutes, Mark Cundiff recaps the top leadership insights, frameworks, and action steps from each interview, designed for busy, growth-minded leaders who want to review and apply the episode’s biggest takeaways on the go. It’s like the highlight reel + playbook—all in one. Contact Mark at: mark@markjcundiff.com

    8 min

  7. 12/09/2025

    #20 From Accidental Leader to All-In Manager: Ali Merchant’s Leadership Journey

    In this episode, Ali discusses the pivotal role of trust in leadership, emphasizing that without trust, nothing else matters. He shares his personal journey from growing up in a bookstore in Karachi, Pakistan, to becoming a leader and now an author of 'The All In Manager.'  Ali explains the concept of an accidental manager and the importance of transitioning to an all-in manager, characterized by insatiable learning, delivering meaningful results, and caring personally for team members. He highlights the significance of psychological safety in fostering innovation and effective communication within organizations.  Ali offers practical advice on becoming a better leader, including the importance of learning and listening, asking the right questions, and conducting difficult conversations. He also discusses burnout and managing up as common issues leaders face today.  The episode wraps up with Ali sharing his methodologies for training and coaching leaders and recommending essential books that have shaped his leadership philosophy. 00:00 Building Trust: The Foundation of Leadership 00:58 Ali's Leadership Journey: From Bookstore to Boardroom 02:45 Navigating the Workforce: Applying Self-Development 05:35 The Accidental Leader: Rising to the Challenge 11:04 Psychological Safety: Creating a Safe Culture 20:58 The Power of Candor: Speaking Truth with Kindness 24:02 Establishing Rules for Candor 24:43 Rewarding Candor in Leadership 25:40 Learning from Mistakes 26:24 Challenges Leaders Face with Candor 27:31 The Importance of Feedback 31:25 Practical Steps for Leaders 33:05 Coaching and Training Leaders 36:04 Common Issues Leaders Face 41:38 Advice for New Leaders 43:53 Recommended Books for Leaders 45:30 Where to Find More Resources Connect with Ali Merchant: ali@allinmanager.comLinkedInallinmanager.com📚 Ali's Book RecommendationsThe All-In Manager: Become a Better Leader Today, Not Someday – Ali Merchant: Ali’s full framework on moving from accidental to all-in, with tools, templates, and practical scripts.Multipliers – Liz WisemanNo Rules Rules – Reed Hastings & Erin MeyerZen and the Art of Firefighting - Chris PrentissFree Learning To Lead Resources Free Book: The Trust Gap The Learning To Lead Newsletter LeaderNotes 🔎 About LeaderNotes LeaderNotes is a quick-hit companion to each episode of The Learning to Lead Show. In just 5–10 minutes, Mark Cundiff recaps the top leadership insights, frameworks, and action steps from each interview, designed for busy, growth-minded leaders who want to review and apply the episode’s biggest takeaways on the go. It’s like the highlight reel + playbook—all in one. Contact Mark at: mark@markjcundiff.com

    49 min

  8. 12/06/2025

    #19 From Discouragement to Empowerment: Five Strategies for Leaders. Reflections on my Conversation with David Pennington

    In this episode of the Learning to Lead Show, host Mark Cundiff reflects on his conversation with David Pennington. The discussion centers on key leadership lessons and insights from David, focusing on the importance of aligning work with passion, aiming for an 80% sweet spot in job roles, maintaining clarity and structure within organizations, adapting leadership styles to meet individual team members' needs, and ensuring a business's value isn't solely dependent on its owner. Mark summarizes these five takeaways and encourages leaders to apply them to enhance their effectiveness. 00:00 Introduction to the Learning to Lead Show 00:21 Guest Introduction: David Pennington's Diverse Leadership Experience 01:16 Key Takeaway 1: Understanding the Source of Discouragement 03:20 Key Takeaway 2: Aim for the 80% Sweet Spot 04:24 Key Takeaway 3: Clarity Beats Chaos 05:57 Key Takeaway 4: Adapting Leadership Styles 07:07 Key Takeaway 5: Building a Business Independent of the Owner 08:11 Conclusion and Call to Action Connect with Dave Pennington: dave@penncoaching.comLinkedInpenncoaching.comDave's Free ResourcesFree Learning To Lead Resources Free Book: The Trust Gap The Learning To Lead Newsletter LeaderNotes 🔎 About LeaderNotes LeaderNotes is a quick-hit companion to each episode of The Learning to Lead Show. In just 5–10 minutes, Mark Cundiff recaps the top leadership insights, frameworks, and action steps from each interview, designed for busy, growth-minded leaders who want to review and apply the episode’s biggest takeaways on the go. It’s like the highlight reel + playbook—all in one. Contact Mark at: mark@markjcundiff.com

    9 min
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About

The Learning to Lead Show with Mark J. Cundiff Helping Good Leaders Become Great—One Practical Insight at a Time You’re busy. The demands are real. But your desire to grow as a leader hasn’t gone anywhere. That’s why The Learning to Lead Show is designed for leaders like you—driven, growth-minded, and always on the go. Hosted by Executive Leadership Coach Mark J. Cundiff, this podcast delivers practical leadership insights you can use today, not someday. Each week, you’ll get: Short, focused teaching episodes packed with real-world lessons from decades of leadership experience, bestselling books, and proven frameworks. Authentic interviews with front-line leaders who share how they’re navigating challenges, building teams, and leading with purpose, right where they are. Whether you’re commuting, working out, or grabbing a few quiet minutes between meetings, this show helps you invest in your leadership without adding to your already busy schedule. Because great leadership isn’t about having more time—it’s about using the time you have to lead on purpose. This show is for growth-minded professionals who want more than titles and tactics. It’s for those who want to lead with purpose, develop a legacy, and make their future bigger than their past. So whether you're leading a team, a business, or yourself—tune in, take notes, and let’s grow together.

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