We’re excited to introduce a third season of The Edge Podcast!

In this season, host Tim Leman continues to talk with leaders about what it’s like to ride the edge and own it. He also digs into what makes for a truly special team.

Tune in as we discuss leading on the edge!

Today we’re sharing insight from guest blogger Ron Kitchens, CEO of Birmingham Business Alliance and member of the Gibson Board of Advisors. We hope you enjoy Ron’s wisdom and perspective.

Sure, there are problems; yes, there are obstacles; but the future is bright and with hard work, we can accomplish some great things. - Jim Tressel

These days, it seems that not a day goes by that someone does not ask me for my opinion on the future and what it is going to take to achieve greatness. I am reminded of something Kathy Caulton once said, "When you are looking into the future, it's important to know which questions to ask. You don't need to ask, 'Do I have what it takes to be successful?' The answer to that is a resounding 'YES!' The key question is, 'Am I willing to pay the price for the success I desire?'"

I believe we all have a choice. We can either languish in the past or use the past to spring into the future; but you cannot do both. As Ms. Caulton said, we must choose and we must be willing to pay the price for our choices.

"I look for people who are going to think of things and see things differently, but also work as a team. This is a team sport.” – Scott Lewis

Scott Lewis, President and CEO at YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids, joins Tim for this episode. Growing up in the Y family since age 6, Scott shares his unique perspective on the YMCA, nonprofits, and his leadership roles. He also talks to us about building a great team and the importance of open communication.

"It’s not just the skill sets, but it’s the personality traits that really make a great team.” – Andrew Berlin

Tim talks with Andrew Berlin about building a great team by recruiting for character. Andrew keeps busy by being the Chairman and Owner of South Bend Cubs, partner and shareholder of the Chicago Cubs, and the Managing Director of Shield AI. In this episode, he highlights the importance of character and integrity. Andrew shares with us some of the great teams he's been on, and what about that team made it so great. Hint: hiring for a person's character can be more important than what you see on a person's resume. Listen now!

“Surround yourself with people that complement you, not compliment you.” – Cindy Salas Murphy

Cindy Salas Murphy, CEO of WithHealth, discusses why you need to surround yourself with the right people and how culture drives an organization. She and Tim also talk about the importance of embracing transparency, curiosity, and positivity.

"ESOPs are a unique structure that can really bring alignment and unite the culture." – Chris Fredericks

Chris Fredericks, of Empowered Ventures and TVF, joins Tim to discuss what it's like leading an employee-owned company. He shares what it means to be an ESOP, how he strives to foster strong employee-owned cultures, and what it takes to build a strong leadership team.

“When a door opens, walk through it. Seldom does it slam shut.” – Dr. Deborah Curtis

Dr. Deborah Curtis, President of Indiana State University, joins Tim to discuss her leadership experiences, the secret sauce to a strong & cohesive team, and the role gratitude plays in her life. You'll also hear stories of how leadership, diversity, and empowerment are making an impact at Indiana State.

Have you ever felt like you're on the edge of something great? You've put in the work, you've done the hard stuff most people aren't willing to do, and now you can just sense a magical run lies ahead.

In this season, we continue to talk with leaders and learn what it's like to ride that edge and own it. We dig into what makes for a truly special team.

Join host Tim Leman as we discuss leading on the edge with 5 new episodes!

“Nothing gives a person a better sense of both comfort and empowerment than to know someone else trusts them.” – Bill Manns

Bill Manns, President & CEO of Bronson Healthcare Group, joins Tim to discuss how he strives to empower his team. They dig into the importance of building a strong & cohesive leadership team, because as Bill shares, "dysfunction at the highest level of the organization creates dysfunction throughout the remainder of the organization."

“I think a lot of life is being coachable and surrounding yourself with friends who are willing to confront you, even when it’s not comfortable.” – Eric Doden

In this episode, Tim sits down with Eric Doden to discuss his passion for economic development and regionalism. They talk about the importance of alignment and accountability across team members, as well as how the combination of character, chemistry, and competency make for a powerful team.