11 Ten Leadership

Leadership teams can easily get caught in the weekly grind of putting out fires, solving immediate problems, and managing day-to-day operations. But when is there time to step back, evaluate progress, and focus on the people and priorities that shape an organization’s future?

In this episode of the 11 Ten Leadership Podcast, David Spickard interviews Rob Shields about the importance of establishing a consistent rhythm of quarterly and annual planning meetings. They explore how these gatherings help leadership teams gain clarity, align around priorities, assess team health, and make meaningful progress toward long-term goals.

David an...

What do the people you lead need most from you? According to a global Gallup study, the answer is hope, followed closely by trust. In this replay of Episode 91, Rob Shields and David Spickard welcome back longtime friend Jes Averhart for a wide-ranging conversation about how leadership is shifting and what that shift asks of leaders today.

Jes is a leadership advisor, master certified life coach, award-winning author, and creator of the Reinvention Road Trip. She traces the evolution of leadership from the Great Man theory to transformational leadership and asks where AI and today's competing leadership...

What makes a one-on-one truly effective, and why do so many leaders struggle to make them a priority? Kim Scott, author of Radical Candor, calls regular one-on-ones probably the most important thing a leader can do, yet almost half of employees rarely or never get one. In this episode, Rob Shields and David Spickard kick off a new series on the success indicators of leadership health, starting with one of the most basic and often overlooked leadership rhythms.

Drawing from research and their work with leaders through 11 Ten Leadership, Rob and David explore why one-on-ones matter, what...

In this episode of the 11 Ten Leadership Podcast, Rob Shields and David Spickard revisit the rapidly evolving conversation around artificial intelligence and explore what it means to lead well in a world where AI can outrun our teams, our judgment, and even our rest.

Drawing from Notre Dame's DELTA framework: Dignity, Embodiment, Love, Transcendence, and Agency and 11 Ten Leadership's THRIVE model, Rob and David consider how leaders can embrace the real benefits of AI without allowing efficiency, productivity, or the pressure to keep up to redefine what matters most. They explore the tension between using AI to...

Most leaders are handed a simple scoreboard: achievement and wealth. Jessie Hathcock opens with a harder claim — success is neither of those. It's whether nine core needs are actually being met. And when a leader quietly stops tending to them, the people who count on them feel the cost long before the leader ever names it.

Jessie is president of The Loading Dock, a Raleigh coworking community, with two decades of leadership across education, nonprofits, and business — and a story of burning out twice before thirty that reshaped how she defines a life well led. With Rob Shie...

Every leader hits a wall and the instinct is to blame what's around us: the budget, the team, the difficult boss. But after two decades coaching hundreds of executives, Muriel Wilkins found the biggest blockers almost never live out there. They live in here, in beliefs so ingrained we don't even know we're carrying them.

In this episode, Rob and David explore Wilkins's seven hidden blockers — from “I know I'm right” to “I can't make a mistake” to “I don't belong here” — and self-diagnose in real time. They walk her three-step framework (uncover, unpack, unblock) and connect it to the work o...

What separates good teams from great ones?

The answer often isn’t another superstar—it’s someone who quietly helps everyone else become better. Inspired by a recent Harvard Business Review article, Rob and David explore the role of the super facilitator and why every high-performing team needs one.

Drawing on Jamil Zaki’s research and the “Chris Paul effect”—the remarkable ability to elevate every team he joins—they unpack the three practices that define a super facilitator: Attunement (making people feel seen), Communication (helping them believe in themselves), and Distribution (making sure every voice is heard...

In the final episode of our State of Leadership series, Rob Shields and David Spickard move from insight to action. After analyzing leadership data from organizations across the country, one conclusion rises to the surface: leaders don’t have a passion problem—they have a sustainability problem.

Many leaders genuinely care deeply about their people. In fact, “I truly care for my employees” was the highest-scoring statement in the THRIVE Assessment. Yet leader health continues to decline, work-life balance remains a struggle, and giving power away ranks among the lowest-scoring leadership habits. So what needs to change?

In...

Across 100-plus episodes, one thread has continually surfaced without ever being fully pulled: place. In this episode, Rob and David finally pull on that thread, asking a deceptively simple question: How does where you lead actually shape the way you lead? For leaders whose work has become increasingly remote, individualized, and untethered, it’s a question that gets to the very purpose of business.

Drawing on insights from the State of Leadership Report, Rob and David explore why Giving Power Away ranks as the lowest of the four qualities of Just Leadership. They unpack the gap between in...

Employees with a strong sense of purpose are 5.6 times more likely to be engaged at work—yet only 18% of workers say their job has a purpose they believe in. In the 11 Ten Leadership’s State of Leadership Report, leaders consistently reported feeling more connected to their organization’s purpose than their teams. That gap isn’t just a statistic; it’s a leadership challenge.

In this episode, Rob Shields and David Spickard explore why purpose has become one of the most important conversations in leadership today. From the impact of COVID and remote work to the rise of AI and...

What does it take to build a team that keeps getting better? The Oklahoma City Thunder's rise from a 24-win team to NBA champions in just three seasons offers an unexpected leadership blueprint.

In this episode, Rob and David explore research on "super teams" and unpack the three traits that set them apart: they get more done, they make each other better, and they continually improve. Along the way, they discuss why great leaders create permission to fail, how intellectual humility builds trust, and why coaching conversations often matter more than status updates.

The conversation...

What does it actually mean to “give power away” as a leader — and why is it so difficult to do?

In this episode, Rob Shields and David Spickard why leaders often hold onto control without realizing it, how identity and fear of insignificance drive that behavior, and what it costs teams when leaders don’t fully let go.

The conversation also reframes vulnerability — not as weakness, but as strength — and shows how giving power away can lead to greater freedom, trust, and healthier team culture.

Finally, they offer practical first steps for leaders who want to...

In this episode of the 11 Ten Leadership Podcast, Rob Shields and David Spickard unpack one of the most concerning findings from the 2026 State of Leadership report: leader health is declining even as other leadership metrics improve.

The conversation explores the growing tension between external success and internal depletion, revealing how burnout, stress, overwork, and “always-on” leadership cultures are impacting both leaders and their teams. Rob and David discuss the ripple effects unhealthy leadership has on trust, morale, communication, and workplace culture and why organizations can no longer afford to ignore employee well-being.

They also tackle gene...

What does it look like when leaders and their teams are in perfect alignment on trust, down to the decimal? In this episode, David Spickard and Rob Shields dive deep into one of the most compelling findings from 11 Ten Leadership's State of Leadership Report: trust scores that were identical between leaders and their teams, and what that means for building a thriving culture.

The conversation gets practical fast, exploring what happens when leaders get stuck in the weeds of day-to-day execution, why leaving the office might be the single best thing a leader can do to build...

In this episode, David Spickard and Rob Shields introduce the 2026 State of Leadership Report, built from insights gathered through the THRIVE Assessment™.

The data reveals an encouraging trend: leaders and teams are thriving more than in previous years, with noticeable gains in trust, relationships, and value. However, a major tension remains—leader health continues to decline, highlighting a growing gap between external success and internal sustainability.

00:00 – Welcome + intro to the State of Leadership report

02:00 – What the report is + how data was gathered

04:30 – Key insight: leaders are thriving more

06:00 – Why scores are i...

In this replay from August 2023, David Spickard and Rob Shielfs introduce David's book The Just Leader: Thriving in a Fractured World and share the heart behind it. Drawing from years of leadership experience and work in underserved communities, they explore why justice and thriving are deeply connected and why leaders today must be equipped to navigate both.

This episode sets the stage for a conversation at the intersection of faith, leadership, and culture, offering a broader vision for what it means to lead well in a complex and divided world.

00:00 – Intro + episode context

02:00 – Book...

We’re taking it all the way back to our very first podcast episode.

In this kickoff conversation that originally aired on June 9, 2023, David Spickard and Rob Shields unpack the vision behind the 11 Ten Leadership Podcast and the powerful idea from Proverbs 11:10: when the righteous prosper, the city rejoices.

They explore why leadership matters, how thriving leaders shape thriving organizations, and why your leadership has the potential to impact far more than just your workplace. You’ll also get an introduction to the THRIVE framework, six practical areas every leader can grow in.

Whet...

In this replay episode from November of 2024 David and Rob explore the integration of mental health and leadership, both for oneself and for the people you lead. Dr. Jason Young, a seasoned psychotherapist, shares insights from his work with business leaders, discussing the impacts of exhaustion, isolation, and the need for human connection.

The conversation emphasizes the interplay between spiritual formation and pursuing justice, offering practical guidance for leaders to start small and go slow in their mental health journey. Dr. Young also introduces the Six Stones retreat program, designed to help men engage deeply with their...

In this replay episode from March 2024, Rob and David unpack the concept of becoming a “Super Communicator” and why communication is at the heart of trust, leadership, and healthy team culture. Drawing from research and real-world leadership experience, they explore how the best communicators aren’t necessarily the most persuasive speakers — they are the most curious listeners.

The conversation centers on four practical ways leaders can strengthen connection, build trust, and improve team dynamics through more intentional conversations. From asking deeper questions to reading nonverbal cues, this episode offers simple yet powerful shifts that can transform how leaders...

In this replay episode from September 2024, we revisit a powerful conversation with Lauren Gill. Lauren brings a deeply thoughtful, accessible, and biblically grounded perspective on faith, work, and justice, helping leaders understand how the gospel reshapes not only what we do, but why and how we do it every day.

Together, David and Rob explore how our daily work fits into God’s larger redemptive story, why justice and mercy belong at the center of faithful leadership, and how leaders can become restorative presences in their workplaces and cities. Whether you lead a team, a church, or si...

In this special 100th episode of the 11 Ten Leadership Podcast, hosts David Spickard and Rob Shields reflect on nearly three years of conversations at the intersection of leadership, faith, justice, and culture.

This milestone episode looks back on the ideas that have shaped the journey so far—from thriving leadership and rest, to justice, generosity, money, place, and community. Through curated clips and reflections, Rob and David revisit some of the podcast’s most resonant moments and the themes that continue to guide their work.

Listeners will hear insights from past guests including Ross Chapman, Laur...

In this replay episode from January 2024 David and Rob tackle the biggest challenges leaders face when setting business goals, break down the key areas every leader and business owner must consider when planning for the year, and explore why it’s never too late to start—or reset—your goals.

Whether you’re leading a team or growing a business, this episode offers practical insight to help you approach goal setting with clarity and confidence.

In this replay from November 2023, David and Rob explore the world of philanthropy—where giving can go wrong—and how leaders can pursue justice in their generosity. They share five guiding principles to help shape thoughtful, responsible giving.

This episode originally aired in January 2024, and its message is just as relevant today. David and Rob kick off a series around the pursuit of wholeness by unpacking the importance of knowing why your organization exists, the difference between profit-centric vs. people-centric leadership, and how to integrate your why into everything we do—at work and beyond.

Leading today means understanding the motivations of a diverse, multigenerational workforce. In this episode of the 11 Ten Leadership Podcast, Rob Shields and David Spickard explore how leaders can inspire purpose, engagement, and growth among employees from every generation.

Drawing on Gallup and Deloitte research, we discuss why younger employees prioritize purpose, why only a small percentage aspire to traditional leadership roles, and how leaders can adapt to meet these changing expectations. Rob and David offer practical strategies for cultivating engagement, aligning individual purpose with organizational goals, and creating a leadership culture that nurtures growth, trust, and fulfillment.<...

In this episode hosts Rob Shields and David Spickard discuss the delicate balance leaders must maintain between micromanaging and delegating effectively. Drawing from a real-life example involving Carlie Irsay-Gordon of the Indianapolis Colts, they explore how leaders can set the right context for their teams to operate autonomously while ensuring accountability. The conversation delves into common challenges such as the dopamine hit from personal productivity, employees' requests for help, bosses' expectations, and the importance of having a broader definition of work. The episode concludes with practical advice for leaders on maintaining strategic focus and self-care.

00:00 Introduction to...

David and Rob sit down with Jon Houghton, CEO of Holy Post Media and Director of Chicago Fellowship, to explore what it truly means to lead with justice, faith, and compassion.

Jon shares his journey from over two decades with Young Life to leading organizations that help people flourish—both spiritually and practically—in complex, post-Christian cultural contexts. From developing emotionally healthy leaders to creating spaces where historically marginalized communities can thrive, Jon’s insights cut straight to the heart of just leadership.

Listeners will learn how Jon applies his “diagnose, prescribe, flourish” framework, why emotional...

David and Rob engage in a profound conversation with Gabrielle Clowdus, founder of Settled, an organization focused on addressing homelessness in the Twin Cities. Gabrielle shares her journey from international poverty research to tackling homelessness in her own community through innovative tiny home villages and strong church partnerships. The discussion explores themes of proximity, rest, time, and transformative leadership, highlighting the importance of seeing and treating everyone as family. Challenges and opposition faced by Settled are also addressed, emphasizing the power of prayer and community.

00:00 Introduction to the 11 Ten Leadership Podcast

01:21 Meet Our Guest: Gabrielle...

Rob and David welcome Steadman Harrison, a leadership expert dialing in from Ethiopia. Steadman shares his journey of democratizing leadership development through Lead Beyond, an initiative originating from the Center for Creative Leadership. The episode explores the challenges and solutions for effective leadership, including the importance of shifting from individual to collective success, navigating cultural differences, and fostering psychological safety. Listeners are provided with insights on creating thriving leadership environments, emphasizing curiosity, active listening, and genuine transparency. This episode offers a global perspective on leadership trends and practical strategies for cultivating communities where everyone can prosper.

00:00 The...

Rob and David welcome back Jes Averhart, a leadership advisor and life coach, to discuss the evolution of leadership theories, the practical integration of AI as a co-creator in business, and the importance of ambidextrous leadership. The conversation touches on the significance of hope and trust in the workplace, strategies for maintaining curiosity in leadership, and the role of past successes in fostering hope for the future. Listeners can expect a rich discussion on how to balance innovation with execution and the ethical considerations of new technologies in leadership.

00:00 Introduction to the 11 Ten Leadership Podcast

00:48...

Rob and returning guest Dr. Jason Young explore the intricate relationship between contemplation and action within leadership. They define contemplation as a 'long loving look at the real,' emphasizing stillness, letting go, and hearing God's voice. Conversely, action is described as unpopular, disruptive, and slow, aimed at challenging the status quo in a just and authentic manner. They discuss practical ways to cultivate these qualities in high-octane environments, emphasizing the importance of community and ongoing spiritual practices. With insights from scripture and personal experiences, the conversation weaves a rich tapestry of what it means to be a truly...

Rob and David engage in a meaningful conversation with two special guests, Dr. Keith Daniel and Steve Swain. Dr. Keith Daniel, co-founder of Resilient Ventures, and Steve Swain, Director of St. Francis Springs Prayer Center, share personal stories and insights into their leadership journeys, emphasizing the necessity for intentionality, proximity, and non-violence in leadership. They underscore the concept of creating a culture of belonging to enable cities and communities to truly rejoice.

00:00 Introduction to the 11 Ten Leadership Podcast

01:11 Meet Our Special Guests: Dr. Keith Daniel and Steve Swain

04:00 The Journey of Friendship and...

David and Rob discuss leadership, faith, and culture with Tim Spence, CEO of BSA LifeStructures. Tim shares his leadership journey, the importance of being faithful in small things, and how to foster a culture that prioritizes people and purpose. He recounts his transition into the CEO role, emphasizing trust, empowerment, and development. Tim also discusses his company's mission to improve lives through innovative architectural designs for healthcare, education, and science sectors. Listeners are encouraged to explore the deeper 'why' behind their leadership and the impact they can make on others’ lives.

00:00 Introduction and Faithfulness in Small Things

Rob and David are joined by Ryan O'Donnell, co-founder and CEO of Sunlight, a tech startup focused on improving the foster care system. Ryan shares his journey from launching tech startups to using technology for social good, driven by his personal experience as a foster parent.

The discussion dives into the complexities of the foster care system, common misconceptions, and how Sunlight's product, 'Your Case Plan,' is working to reduce the time children spend in foster care by improving communication and coordination among stakeholders. Ryan also reflects on the importance of leaders working at the intersection...

Rob and David engage with Jesse Marble, entrepreneur and General Partner at Wildwood Ventures. Jesse shares his thoughts on the nature of challenges, stating that hard tasks don't necessarily indicate you're in the wrong situation.

The team discusses the intersection of leadership, faith, and culture. Jesse details his unique approach to venture capital that emphasizes human-centered relationships and holistic support for founders. He also highlights the importance of being present and still in both professional and personal realms. The conversation touches on the purpose of investing in businesses that promote human flourishing, including mental and physical health...

David and Rob engage in a profound conversation with David Swanson, an author and pastor with a deep commitment to justice and reconciliation. They explore the themes of Swanson's book, Rediscipling the White Church, and its impact over the past five years.

The discussion delves into the current cultural backlash against diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, and the importance of understanding the deeper roots of greed and fear in addressing systemic injustices. Swanson emphasizes the need for leaders to embody the principles of the kingdom of God, focusing on abundance, playfulness, and a deep connection to...

David and Rob engage in a profound conversation with Gregory Thompson, a scholar, writer, and creative strategist. Greg discusses the nature of effective Christian ministry through the renunciation of control and the importance of repairing harm in the context of racial justice. The episode delves into Greg's transformative experiences in Memphis, his book Reparations: A Christian Call to Repentance and Repair, and the theological foundations of repair.

Highlighting themes of proximity to the poor, relinquishing power, and embracing Christ in places of pain, this episode provides a powerful narrative on leadership that prioritizes justice and wholeness for...

Rob and David engage in an insightful discussion with Lauren Gill and Missy Wallace, co-authors of Faith and Work: Galvanizing Your Church for Everyday Impact. The conversation explores how work matters deeply to God and how it plays a crucial role in His unfolding plan for the world.

The episode focuses on the importance of integrating faith into one's work, practical tools for pastors, and the personal and systemic changes needed to align one's work with God’s mission for the redemption of all things. The guests share valuable frameworks and personal experiences that highlight the significance of...

David and Rob sit down with Jared Korver, a wealth manager and advocate for just leadership. They delve into the concept of "artificial poverty," how money can paradoxically lead to anxiety, and the importance of generosity and community. Jared shares his journey from dissatisfaction in a high-demand job to finding purpose in wealth management. He explains his philosophy shaped by his humble upbringing and how he aims to help clients and employees find balance and contentment.

The episode also touches on the role of leadership assessments and the importance of communal support in navigating the complexities of...

When the team is thriving but the leader isn’t, something has to shift. In this episode, Jesse Jones, founder of Fourscore Business Law, shares how executive coaching helped him rediscover purpose, rebuild culture, and step into the hard but holy work of leading with clarity, courage, and conviction.

0:00 Introduction and Personal Struggles

00:52 Welcome to the 11 Ten Leadership Podcast

01:44 Wedding Weekend and Speech Writing

03:58 Introducing Jesse Jones

05:13 Jesse's Leadership Journey and Values

13:33 Personal Mission Statement and Cultivating Culture

17:11 The Thrive Assessment and Executive Coaching

...