The Jon Gordon Podcast

40 Episodes
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By: Jon Gordon

Positive Mindset and Leadership Strategies to Help You Overcome Challenges and Make a Greater Difference! Hosted by bestselling author, Jon Gordon.

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Finding Your Purpose Starts with Being Available | Kristin Johnson
Yesterday at 1:30 AM

What if discovering your purpose isn't about doing more, but about making yourself available for what God wants to do through you?

In this episode, I'm joined by Kristin Johnson, author of the new book I AM AVAILABLE: How to Receive and Live Your Unique Purpose, for a powerful conversation about faith, purpose, and learning to recognize the opportunities God places in front of us.

Kristin shares how a simple shift in her morning prayer to "Good morning, God. I'm available" transformed her perspective and ultimately changed the direction of her life.

We...


The Wellness Triangle: How Kurt Wargo Lost 100 Pounds and Found His Purpose
10/17/2026

What does it take to truly transform your life? And what happens when you stop seeing yourself as a victim of your circumstances and start taking ownership of your future?

In this episode, I sit down with Kurt Wargo, author of The Wellness Triangle: Where Alignment Becomes Transformation, to talk about his incredible journey of overcoming adversity, losing 100 pounds, rediscovering his purpose, and transforming his life from the inside out.

Kurt shares how personal loss, career challenges, and years of struggle ultimately led him to discover the importance of aligning three essential areas of wellness: p...


The LIGHT Framework: 5 Ways to Stay Positive
10/10/2026

How do you stay positive when life gets difficult, negativity creeps in, or you just need a little encouragement?

In this special episode, I'm sharing The LIGHT Framework: 5 Ways to Stay Positive, from my book The 7 Commitments of a Great Team.

I'll walk you through five simple but powerful principles to help you choose love over fear, focus on what you can control, embrace gratitude, strengthen your faith, and talk to yourself instead of listening to negative thoughts. These are practical ways to overcome challenges, strengthen your mindset, and bring more positivity into your life an...


Find a Way: The Mindset That Helped Richie Parker Defy Every Limitation
10/03/2026

What could you accomplish if you stopped focusing on your limitations and started focusing on your possibilities?

Richie Parker was born without arms. He went on to become a mechanical engineer, help contribute to nine NASCAR Cup championships with Hendrick Motorsports, work in college football, and even build and modify cars he drives with his feet.

But this conversation isn't really about everything Richie has accomplished.

It's about the mindset that made those accomplishments possible… and what you can learn from it.

On this episode of The Jon Gordon Podcast, I'm wi...


Ask Jon Anything: Leadership, Mindset & the Power of Connection
09/25/2026

On this episode of The Jon Gordon Podcast, I'm sharing a recent Ask Me Anything session where I answered real questions about leadership, mindset, relationships, and what it takes to lead with greater positivity and purpose.

We dive into what positive leadership looks like in everyday life—from building strong, connected teams to overcoming negativity, fear, and anxiety. I share why the best leaders combine love with accountability, how connection builds the trust needed to help people grow, and why great leadership always begins on the inside.

I also explore how your thoughts, beliefs, energy, an...


How to Use AI to Supercharge your Productivity and Team with Francis Ablola
09/17/2026

On this episode of The Jon Gordon Podcast, I sit down with Francis Ablola, pioneering entrepreneur and one of the world's leading AI experts, for an open and practical conversation about harnessing the transformative power of artificial intelligence in work and life. From his early days as a web developer and first-time entrepreneur—crossing paths with me at a book signing—to building a thriving team that's at the forefront of AI education and business applications, Francis Ablola's journey is one of relentless learning and reinvention. In our conversation, he shares how embracing AI has allowed him (and the people he m...


7 Commitments of a Great Team Keynote
09/11/2026

In this episode, I share a live speech I gave to the coaches and players of the Boston College football team  

Whether you're an athlete, coach, leader, or part of a team, this message will challenge you to rise above negativity, bring out the best in those around you, and become the kind of person others can count on—a forever teammate.

If this message encourages you, share the episode with someone who could use it!

 

Here's a few additional resources for you…

Do you feel called to share your story with t...


57 Years of Coaching and Winning: Coach Dwight Lundeen on Building a Culture, Program and Legacy
08/28/2026

On this episode I sit down with legendary high school football coach Dwight Lundeen for an inspiring conversation about his remarkable 57-year career and the heart-driven leadership philosophy that built a powerhouse program in Becker, Minnesota.

Coach Lundeen's story is one of humble beginnings—starting a football program from scratch, guiding it from just 17 players to over 500 boys involved. Through decades at the helm, he's not just amassed state championships and hundreds of wins, but left an imprint across three generations of student-athletes, families, and his community.

In our conversation, Coach Lundeen reveals the secret be...


Rise to Lead: The Leadership Shift That Changes Everything
08/21/2026

On this episode, I sit down with Doug Dentler, CFO and author of Rise to Lead, for an honest, insightful conversation about what it really takes to elevate your leadership in today's workplace.

Doug shares the highs and lows of his corporate journey, from early days "mimicking" leadership styles he thought would help him succeed, to reaching a breakthrough when he realized true leadership starts from within. Drawing from decades in finance and executive roles, Doug opens up about the transformative moments that led him to create the RISE Framework: Root yourself in purpose, Implement an intentional...


11 National Championships: Kelly Amonte Hiller on Winning Through Adversity
08/14/2026

Join me and legendary Northwestern women's lacrosse coach Kelly Amonte Hiller for an insightful and inspiring conversation about championship culture, adversity, and the mindset that drives sustained excellence.

Kelly's journey is a masterclass in resilience and evolution—from leading her team through an uncharacteristically tough start to the season, to capturing her ninth national championship as a coach on home turf. She shares the behind-the-scenes process of overcoming setbacks, the power of reflection, and the importance of getting everyone "rowing in the same direction." Kelly opens up about the origins of her work ethic, the blue-collar values in...


Legacy Letters with Chris Hodges: Timeless Principles for Life & Leadership
08/07/2026

On this episode of The Jon Gordon Podcast, I sit down with Chris Hodges, founder and former lead pastor of Church of the Highlands and current chancellor of Highlands College, for an inspiring conversation around his new book, Legacy Letters: Timeless Principles I Learned, Lived, and Leave Behind. Chris shares the heart and story behind Legacy Letters—a collection of the values, wisdom, and practical principles he's lived, taught, and now wants to pass on to the next generation. From humble beginnings and a move inspired by faith, Chris built one of America's largest churches and is now pouring his en...


How to Write, Publish, and Market a Book that Makes an Impact
07/31/2026

On this episode of The Jon Gordon Podcast, join Jon and Kathryn Gordon for a candid, behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to write, publish, and market a book that makes an impact. Drawing from their own experience - rejections, bestselling success, and the wisdom gained along the way - Jon and Kathryn share why your message matters and how a single book can ripple across lives, industries, and even generations.

From the "burning desire" that signals it's time to write, to the struggles of clarifying your core message and avoiding the trap of cramming several...


Brad Holcman, Former Hollywood Executive, Shares How to Use Your Unique Story to Impact the World
07/17/2026

On this episode of The Jon Gordon Podcast, I sit down with Brad Holcman—a Hollywood executive-turned-story coach—for an inspiring conversation about the power of story, embracing the unexpected, and using your unique journey to impact the world. Brad's journey is anything but typical: Growing up in Detroit, he followed his heart to California after college, left his management consulting job and worked his way from coffee runs at Paramount to shaping some of television's most memorable shows, including Sons of Anarchy, Intervention, 60 Days In, and Duck Dynasty. Along the way, Brad discovered that the most powerful way to conn...


Make It Without Losing It: Jess Ekstrom on Speaking, Purpose and Creating Success without Losing your Soul
07/10/2026

On this episode of The Jon Gordon Podcast, I sit down with Jess Ekstrom—entrepreneur, acclaimed speaker, and author for an inspiring exploration of what it truly means to "make it without losing it." From launching Headbands of Hope in college and scaling it into a nationally recognized business, to becoming one of the busiest keynote speakers and founding Mic Drop Workshop to empower women speakers, Jess's story is one of pursuing ambition with presence and heart. Jess opens up about her early days hustling for speaking gigs, the moment she realized her impact could multiply by helping others re...


Britt Reid on Rebuilding His Life with Mission and Purpose After Losing Everything
07/03/2026

On this episode of The Jon Gordon Podcast, I sit down with Britt Reid—Super Bowl-winning coach, son of Andy Reid, and now an inspiring speaker dedicated to helping others overcome life's hardest moments. Britt's journey is one of remarkable highs and deeply challenging lows. From growing up as the son of NFL head coach Andy Reid, to earning his place on the Kansas City Chiefs' coaching staff and celebrating a Super Bowl victory, Britt seemed to have it all. But behind the scenes, he battled addiction that ultimately led to a tragic accident, prison time, and the loss of hi...


Dan Hurley: Building a Championship Culture and the Mindset Behind Great Teams
06/26/2026

On this episode of The Jon Gordon Podcast, I sit down with legendary UConn basketball coach Dan Hurley for an honest and energizing conversation about building a championship culture, relentless leadership, and the transformative power of purpose-driven coaching. From his early days learning from a Hall of Fame father, to guiding players through the rigors of college basketball's toughest moments, Dan opens up about the realities of forming a great team in the era of the transfer portal, NIL, and social media. He shares the values at the core of the UConn program—relentless competitive effort, mindful communication, a dedication to...


How I Healed My Gut: The Breakthrough Science with Dr. John Gildea
06/05/2026

On this episode of The Jon Gordon Podcast, I sit down with Dr. John Gildea—a pioneering researcher on gut health, soil and healing. Our conversation goes deeper than science, tracing Dr. Gildea's unlikely journey from the lab at the University of Virginia to becoming an integral voice in the movement to restore health through soil-based nutrition.

Dr. Gildea shares how his partnership with Dr. Zach Bush set him on the path to groundbreaking discoveries in gut health. Together, we discuss the debilitating personal battle I faced with gut issues for over a decade, and how his research and so...


Holy Health with Justin Roethlingshoefer: Beat Burnout and Build lasting Health
05/29/2026

On this episode of The Jon Gordon Podcast, Jon sits down with Justin Roethlingshoefer, performance coach, and author of Holy Health, for a deeply inspiring conversation about the intersection of faith, science, and holistic well-being.

Justin Roethlingshoefer shares his own journey from witnessing burnout and health struggles among leaders, to stepping away in search of true wholeness, and ultimately returning with a renewed vision that integrates faith, science, and self-stewardship. Together, they explore the meaning of "holy health"—living set apart by honoring your body, mind, and spirit as a unified temple, and creating rhythms and environments th...


Meet John Wayne Walding, an American Hero who was Born on the 4th of July
05/22/2026

On this episode of The Jon Gordon Podcast, I sit down with John Wayne Walding—Green Beret, Purple Heart recipient, and speaker—for an extraordinary conversation about resilience, purpose, and faith in the aftermath of unimaginable adversity.

John shares the unforgettable story of April 6th, 2008: a harrowing firefight in Afghanistan that left him a below-knee amputee, fighting to survive while carrying his own leg down a mountain. With honesty and humility, John recounts not only the intense physical and mental battle in the aftermath, but also the spiritual turning points that transformed his pain into gratitude and a ne...


The Power of Positive Habits
05/16/2026

In this episode, I share twelve habits that have truly elevated my life and will make a big impact on yours. You'll hear some great stories of overcoming negativity, and the power of encouragement, forgiveness, and connection as well as habits to enhance your health and performance. You'll learn new practical, proven strategies to help you become your best self and build a better future. If these habits inspire you, you'll love all 93 habits I share in my new book "The Power of Positive Habits."

Grab your copy now at Amazon, Barnes & Noble or anywhere books are...


From Death to Purpose - A Miraculous Journey of Impact
05/08/2026

On this episode of The Jon Gordon Podcast, Jon Gordon sits down with Micah McElveen, founder of Vapor Ministries, for a remarkable conversation about purpose, transformation, and living a life that echoes in eternity.

Micah McElveen's story begins with devastating adversity—an accident as a teenager that left him dead on the beach, miraculously brought back to life, but facing total paralysis and a future filled with uncertainty. As Micah McElveen recounts his journey from ICU to recovering movement, wrestling with his identity, and enduring years of grueling rehab, he shares how those hardships became the ground wh...


Own with Intention: Minimalism, Mindset and Meaningful Impact with Lauren Craddock
05/01/2026

On this episode of The Jon Gordon Podcast, I sit down with Lauren Craddock—author, educator, and leading voice on living intentionally—for an eye-opening conversation about her journey from clutter and overwhelm to clarity, impact, and living with purpose.

Lauren shares her personal transformation from battling "collector at heart" tendencies in her home to uncovering the deeper reasons behind clutter and consumerism. She candidly describes the "perspective pivot" that changed her life, how she learned to curate her space based on what she truly uses, loves, and needs, and the power of letting go—not just of stu...


Worthy Wins: Finding Clarity & Success in What Matters Most with John Olinger
04/24/2026

On this episode of The Jon Gordon Podcast, I sit down with John Olinger—author, consultant, and former Nike marketing leader—for an honest and insightful conversation about his new book, Worthy Wins.

John's journey is shaped by both professional achievement and personal loss: from a decade with Nike working alongside elite athletes and the world's most advanced technology, to navigating the unexpected death of his father and the perspective-shifting realization that time is both scarce and uncertain. In our conversation, John shares the story behind Worthy Wins, the powerful concept of getting radically clear on what matt...


Health Checks That Could Save Your Life
04/17/2026

On this episode of The Jon Gordon Podcast, I sit down with Kevin Schneider—entrepreneur, founder, and co-owner of Paradigm Health System—and Dr. Andrew Adams, functional medicine and longevity physician, for an inspiring conversation about pioneering a proactive approach to health, longevity, and peace of mind.

Kevin's remarkable journey took him from early ambitions of medical school to founding a unique, physician-empowered private healthcare system that flips the script on traditional, reactive medicine. In our candid discussion, Kevin reveals the sparks of faith and vision that led him to Paradigm Health and how embracing an entrepreneurial spir...


Grant Udinski: Pursuing Excellence, Focusing on the Process and his Rise as an NFL Coach
04/10/2026

On this episode of The Jon Gordon Podcast, I sit down with Grant Udinski, offensive coordinator for the Jacksonville Jaguars, for a candid and inspiring conversation about his unconventional journey from a multi-position college football player to coaching at the highest level in the NFL.

Grant's path is a testament to relentless pursuit, adaptability, and the power of being obsessed with your craft—from early days playing every position on the field, to shifting between offensive and defensive coaching roles, to gratefully learning under renowned leaders like Matt Rhule and Kevin O'Connell. Grant shares the lessons forged in...


Don't Let Doubt Take You Out: Todd Mullins on Doubt, Miracles, and the Journey of Perseverance
04/03/2026

On this episode of The Jon Gordon Podcast, I sit down with Pastor Todd Mullins for a heartfelt and vulnerable conversation about his family's remarkable journey through doubt, faith, and resilience. Todd, the pastor of Christ Fellowship Church, opens up about the extraordinary challenges he and his wife Julie faced as parents—years of infertility, their son Jefferson's autism diagnosis, and a painful season when hope seemed all but lost. Todd's story is one of unwavering determination and deeper faith forged through adversity. He shares the raw struggle of leading a thriving church while wrestling privately with uncertainty and disappointment, an...


Stronger Health and Leadership: Lessons from NFL Hall of Fame Athletic Trainer Mike Ryan
03/27/2026

On this episode of The Jon Gordon Podcast, I sit down with Hall of Fame NFL athletic trainer and sports medicine expert Mike Ryan for an inspiring conversation that's filled with wisdom, stories from the NFL sidelines, and practical ways to stay healthy from his new book Foam Rolling made Easy. Mike shares his unique journey—from his early days as an assistant with the New York Giants to becoming the youngest head athletic trainer in the NFL with the Jacksonville Jaguars, and later transitioning to his current role with NBC's Sunday Night Football. Along the way, Mike opens up ab...


12 as One: The Making of a Championship Team with Mike Macdonald, Head Coach of the Seattle Seahawks
03/13/2026

On this episode of The Jon Gordon Podcast, I'm joined by Super Bowl-winning head coach Mike Macdonald for an inspiring, authentic conversation about faith, leadership, and building a championship culture. Mike opens up about his remarkable journey—from wrestling with self-doubt and societal expectations as a college student, to trusting his calling in coaching, and ultimately leading the Seahawks to Super Bowl glory. Together, we explore how Mike's faith has been a guiding force in his career, the power of gratitude in success, and why embracing trust, connection, and servant leadership can transform not only teams, but lives. We dive de...


Building a Winning CLEATS Culture with Liam Coen, Head coach of the Jacksonville Jaguars
03/06/2026

On this episode of The Jon Gordon Podcast, I sit down with Liam Coen, head coach of the Jacksonville Jaguars for an honest and inspiring conversation about building a new winning culture. Liam's journey began in a small Rhode Island community and inside a family devoted to teaching, coaching, and serving others. From growing up as a coach's son, to enduring the heartbreak of an NFL dream, to rapidly rising through the coaching ranks on the strength of relationships and unwavering commitment, Liam shares what it means to discover your "why" early—and how to live it out authentically, even as...


The Locker Room is Not for Sale | Brian White
02/27/2026

On this episode of The Jon Gordon Podcast, I sit down with Brian White, veteran football coach, Harvard alum, and author of the upcoming book 'The Locker Room is Not for Sale', out now!

Brian opens up about his forty-year journey through some of college football's leading programs, sharing powerful lessons on what makes the locker room a place for genuine connection, growth, and authenticity. Together, we discuss the challenge of nurturing team culture in today's world of NIL and big money, and why true success is built on brotherhood, unity, and the power of the human...


Look for Good | Kathy Rogers
02/20/2026

On this episode of The Jon Gordon Podcast, I sit down with Kathy Rogers, a business owner, and speaker. Kathy is also the author of the new book "Look for Good," which is out now. Our conversation is a heartfelt and inspiring look at finding hope through life's toughest moments.

Kathy opens up about her battles with cancer, the deep loss of both her mother and daughter, and how her faith and gratitude helped her keep moving forward. She shares how "Look for Good" draws from her personal journey and offers practical advice on choosing your attitude...


Love & Go | 12 Truths for a Blessed Life with Frank Kelly
02/13/2026

On this episode of The Jon Gordon Podcast, I sit down with Frank Kelly, CEO of Kelly Benefits and author of Love and Go: 12 Powerful Truths for a Blessed Life. Frank's story is rooted in family legacy, faith, and a commitment to generosity, growing a business alongside his brothers from humble beginnings to a 500-employee company, all while keeping love as its cornerstone.

Frank shares the inspiration behind his new book, revealing how a spiritual awakening at Cornell University transformed his perspective from religion to relationship. He opens up about distilling four decades of "notes and quotes"...


Listen to one of my Live Keynotes where I share Positive Leadership Principles and Practices
02/06/2026

I'm excited to share a recorded live keynote at the Health Experts Alliance. I shared a powerful message on why commitment, not just goals, is the real driver of high-performing teams and cultures. With practical leadership strategies and personal stories, I share how a positive mindset, intentional culture, and devotion to service can elevate your leadership, transform your organization, and help you make a lasting impact. Tune in to be equipped and encouraged to lead with principles, practices, commitments and habits.

Here's a few additional resources for you…

Do you feel called to share your sto...


Soul Leadership with Steve Robinson
01/24/2026

On this episode of The Jon Gordon Podcast, I sit down with Steve Robinson, pastor, leadership practitioner, and author of the upcoming book Soul Leadership. Together, we dive deep into the vital connection between leadership, trauma, and healing, exploring how leaders can move from burnout and brokenness to wholeness and real impact.

Steve opens up about his personal journey, sharing honestly about years of compounding trauma—including the devastation of Hurricane Katrina and the intense pressures of leading a growing church. These experiences led him to the edge of burnout, and ultimately to a powerful path of he...


Transformed by the Messiah | Rabbi Jason Sobel
12/19/2025

On this episode of The Jon Gordon Podcast, I sit down with Rabbi Jason Sobel for a powerful conversation about his book Transformed by the Messiah. Raised in a Jewish family in Long Island, Rabbi Jason Sobel shares his unexpected spiritual journey and how discovering Jesus as the Messiah brought about dramatic transformation in his life.

We dive into how connecting the dots between the Hebrew Scriptures and the New Testament reveals God's intentional story, and why faith isn't just about information...it's about experiencing deep change. Rabbi Jason Sobel discusses the importance of oneness, the link...


Lead Like a Shepherd | Jeff Little
12/12/2025

On this episode of The Jon Gordon Podcast, I sit down with Jeff Little, pastor, coach, and dedicated people-builder, for an uplifting conversation about leading with heart and purpose.

Jeff shares his journey from stepping into leadership at age 21 to guiding a thriving community, highlighting the power of authentic care and connection. Together, we explore the "shepherd" approach to leadership, the importance of building real relationships, and how leaders can create cultures where people truly thrive. Jeff also discusses practical lessons from his books, Win with People and The Way to Win, emphasizing the difference between leaders...


The Bumpy Road to Better | Tim Timberlake
12/05/2025

On this episode of The Jon Gordon Podcast, I sit down with Pastor Tim Timberlake for a conversation about embracing life's challenges as opportunities for growth. Tim shares how his own experiences with pain and hardship inspired his latest book, author of 'The Bumpy Road to Better', and why adversity is often the training ground for our greatest breakthroughs.

We talk about the importance of asking for help, the power of a grateful mindset, and how faith can transform even our darkest seasons. Tim opens about leading with humility, stewarding responsibility, and why the bumps along our...


Positive Leadership Tip | Ep 29: What is Your Legacy?
12/03/2025

In this episode, I share my reflections on legacy and how true impact is found in helping others accomplish their dreams. You'll hear my thoughts on shifting the focus from personal achievements to empowering those around you, and the powerful ripple effect that comes from investing in others' growth and purpose. Tune in for inspiration to lead with others in mind and to make a difference through your leadership. If this message encourages you, share it and help support someone else's journey toward greater impact!

 

Here's a few additional resources for you…

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Positive Mindset Monday | Ep 29: Purpose in the Pain
12/01/2025

In this episode of Positive Mindset Monday, I talk about how pain is an essential part of finding and living your purpose. I share why facing challenges can help you grow, make a greater impact, and become who you're meant to be. Listen in for honest encouragement to see purpose in your pain and use it to make a difference. If this message speaks to you or someone you know, share the episode and help motivate others through their pain and toward their purpose!

 

Here's a few additional resources for you…

Follow me on...


The Business Buffet | Real-World Leadership Skills with Matthew Tedesco
11/28/2025

On this episode of The Jon Gordon Podcast, I sit down with Matthew Tedesco, SVP at Miller Knoll and author of The Business Buffet, the very first official release from Gordon Publishing! We dig into the real-world leadership and communication skills that business schools leave out.

If you're looking for simple, practical takeaways to elevate your leadership and strengthen your team, this episode is for you.

About Matthew,

Matthew Tedesco is the author of The Business Buffet: 15 Career Skills They Never Teach—But Everyone Expects You to Know, which distills two decades of gl...