Respond Like a Leader, Don't React Like a Boss

How People-First Leaders Handle What Bosses Just React To

Episode Description:
It’s easy to lead when everything’s running smoothly. But real leadership shows up in the messy moments—the missed deadlines, the underperforming team member, the big mistake that lands in your inbox first thing Monday morning.

In this episode of Things Leaders Do, Colby walks through five real-world scenarios leaders face every week—and shows how a people-first leader responds differently than a reactive boss.

From late arrivals to burned-out top performers, you’ll see the stark contrast between managing behavior and developing people. Through story, insight, and practical conversation prompts, Colby helps you shift from reacting to root causes to responding with intentionality, clarity, and compassion.

You’ll also hear insights inspired by Jon Acuff’s Soundtracks and Jocko Willink’s Extreme Ownership, and how the mindsets of great leaders shape their teams for the long haul.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How to handle chronic lateness without sacrificing accountability
• Why missed deadlines are often symptoms, not problems
• What to do when a high performer starts to disengage
• How to keep your best people from burning out
• How to turn a costly mistake into a system improvement

If you're ready to lead differently, respond thoughtfully, and create a culture where people grow—not just perform—this episode is for you.

Connect with Colby:
🔗 nxtstepadvisors.com
🔗 Colby on LinkedIn

Whether you're looking for coaching, training, or a keynote that moves your leaders to action—Colby helps you build a culture that performs and lasts.

Because caring for your people and getting results aren't opposites.
 That’s what leaders do.

• Colby's LinkedIn Profile
• Things Leaders Do Instagram