Episode 78 with Joshua K. McMillion
Leadership is a multifaceted journey that requires a continuous evolution of skills, influence, and intelligence. In a recent episode of the Tells the Leadership podcast, Joshua McMillion, an active-duty Army officer and leadership coach, offers an in-depth analysis of the different phases of leadership development, emphasizing the importance of aligning emotional intelligence with the operational needs of an organization.
McMillion begins by introducing the concept of leadership intelligence, defining it as the blend of emotional intelligence and the organizational needs within a leader's operating environment. He suggests that as leaders progress, their role shifts from a tactical focus, where success is determined by personal efforts, to a strategic one, where success hinges on the leader's ability to invest time in others. McMillion uses a scatter plot diagram to visualize this concept, highlighting that the commitment required from leaders grows exponentially with their influence.
The conversation transitions to the indispensable role of accountability in leadership. McMillian underscores that failing to hold team members accountable can diminish standards within an organization. He introduces his Resiliency-Based Leadership Program (RBLP), which focuses on creating resilient, winning cultures through coaching and identifying the root causes of failure. He shares his personal leadership journey and the dynamic nature of leadership intelligence, comprising tactical, operational, and strategic levels.
McMillion challenges leaders to assess their daily activities and categorize them into these levels of leadership intelligence. By doing so, leaders can understand their influence and identify ways to enhance their success. He stresses the need for strategic intelligence in shaping organizations and the importance of dreaming big, fostering alignment, and inspiring others to achieve a compelling collective vision.
In the episode, McMillion also discusses resiliency-based leadership, explaining that leaders must build teams capable of overcoming adversity and adapting to change. He argues that resilient teams are not only stronger together but also essential for individual and organizational growth.
McMillion concludes the episode with an exercise for listeners, urging them to write down their weekly job activities and categorize them as tactical, operational, or strategic. This exercise helps leaders understand where they fall within the leadership spectrum, how to align their actions with their roles and responsibilities, and the needs of their team.
The podcast episode with Joshua McMillion offers valuable insights into leadership intelligence, development, and accountability. It provides listeners with practical tools and strategies for evolving as leaders, creating winning cultures, and achieving success at various levels of leadership intelligence. Whether you are a new leader or a seasoned veteran, this episode is a must-listen for anyone committed to excellence in leadership.
Leadership Resources: https://linktr.ee/McMillionLeadership
Resilence-Based Leadership Program: https://resiliencebuildingleader.com/
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My Mission: I will end toxic leadership practices by equipping leaders with transformational leadership skills.
Together, we will impact 1 MILLION lives!!!
Every day is a gift, don't waste yours!
Joshua K. McMillion | Founder MLC
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Episode 78 with Joshua K. McMillion

My passion is to help leaders burdened by their increased responsibilities become transformational leaders. For the past 16 years in the military, I have led and helped thousands of men and women achieve professional and personal success. Let me help you achieve your true leadership potential.
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Born during the Great Depression and raised on a farm in rural Minnesota, Jake’s journey took him from poverty to the front lines of history. At just 15 years old, he joined the National Guard by lying about his age. That bold decision would place him on the path to help plan the D-Day invasion as part of G3 Operations. Armed with a skill most overlooked—typing—Jake was responsible for processing the very orders that sent thousands of men onto Omaha Beach, including himself.