Listening for Leadership Growth

Every good leader knows personal leadership growth is essential to staying relevant.  “Leadership development” is not just a fad; it is a belief that input from credible sources into an influencer’s life pays big dividends over time.  However, the world of leadership development is ever-changing and expanding.  What was once the “hot” hardbound leadership book that every young leader had to read has become the most downloaded e-book.  Leadership texts can be in your hands via Kindle in less than the time it takes to answer a couple of emails. 

Another innovation is podcasting.  Certainly sports programs, churches, and a myriad of other life genres have benefited from this innovation.  Leadership is no different.  What was once an expensive tape series or CD package on leadership is now available for free, for download via iTunes.  The best part... Because the content is regularly uploaded it is fresh and meaningful for the leader in current environments.

Maybe you are relatively new to listening to some of the best and brightest leaders of our day through the world of podcasting.  Maybe you have been a part of this for a while, but you are looking for some new content.  Whatever the case may be here are three podcasts that are worth a listen if you have not already downloaded them. 

The EntreLeadership Podcast – Dave Ramsey is the powerhouse behind this podcast.  There have only been three podcasts so far, but it has been well received.  At the time of this writing, this podcast is at the top of the “Business” podcast rankings on iTunes.  It includes excerpts from some of Dave’s talks and interviews with top exec’s in thriving organizations.  The podcast takes the leadership development conversation a step beyond the principles discussed in Dave Ramsey’s book, EntreLeadership.

Catalyst Podcast – You may already know Catalyst puts together one of the finest leadership conferences in America, but they also produce a fantastic podcast.  Hosted by Ken Coleman and Brad Lomenick, this podcast is mostly interview based.  They talk with all kinds of leaders in organizational, church, and sports-life. Guests include Craig Groeschel, Jim Collins, David Platt, Mack Brown, Tony Romo (and that is just in 2011).  A new podcast comes out every two weeks or less.  Great insights from credible sources.

The Andy Stanley Leadership Podcast – Having led one of the most groundbreaking churches in North America, Andy Stanley has a lot of wisdom to impart on leadership.  This podcast usually includes and excerpt from one of Andy’s messages and a follow up interview with Andy to further flesh out a principle.  It is almost always near the top of the “Religion and Spirituality” iTunes rankings.  This is perhaps the most influential podcast from one of the most influential people in the church today.

Grab your iPod, iPhone, or iTunes and get these podcasts if you do not already.  Carve out some time to listen while you run, drive, or work.  You will be a better leader because of it!