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Jeff's speech on "Putin's War"

Jeff's speech on "Putin's War"

Tonight, I will be giving an unusual Founders Day speech. I have been asked to talk about the challenges to our nation’s national security and more specifically Putin’s War (as I like to call it) in Ukraine. My analysis is from the vantage point of not only my 30 years on active duty but also the last 19 years working as a national security consultant for CBS Radio and Television. I fear we are now facing not only an inflection point in our history but also one of the most perilous moments since the end of the Cold War.

How we lead ourselves - physically and mentally - is our foundation.

At the beginning of COVID, nearly 2 years ago, I briefly started watching home improvement shows with my wife and daughter.

After long days of "pandemic business management" and generally trying to process what this pandemic was going to mean for me and my family, some mindless tv was just what I needed.

And, to be honest, it was a fun way to relax and connect with my family!

If you've watched ANY home improvement show you know the drill....buy a house, fix the house, everyone oohs and aah over the house.

One of the first things they look into is the house foundation. I was amazed at the damage they often found - termites, water damage, bad building practices, and so on.

Sometimes, home that look great on the surface are almost beyond repair if the foundation is severely damaged.

If it is salvageable it can put the entire project on hold, cost tons of money, time, and energy.

After several home improvement shows I was struck by the analogy we can draw from this crumbling house foundations.

How we lead ourselves - physically and mentally - is our foundation.

Foundations are easy to ignore.

They are hidden, out of sight, and we don't notice them until we take a closer look.

We have no idea they're crumbling until we get out our flashlight and take a really close look.

And let's be honest, often we see the signs.

A strange sound, a little drip, a concerning stain.

Fatigue, heightened anxiety, a general feeling of grumpiness.

But, we ignore the signs. They're pretty inconvenient.

The problem is, the more we ignore them the worse they will get.

The house foundation will continue to crumble.

Our bodies will continue to crumble too.

If you feel like you're crumbling a bit, don't be afraid to take a closer look.

Get out your flashlight, get curious, and ask yourself, "how am I feeling? How does my body feel?"

And, if you want some guidance and support to strengthen your foundation take a look at the Lead Yourself program with Tanya.

Tanya is taking only 10 participants. There are a few spots left.

She will be getting the ball rolling with a Welcome Call on Wednesday, March 16th.

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Jeff on NBC: Why Putin and Russia's Ukraine war should matter to America

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Less than a week ago the world was led down the path of a new crisis.

I have been on the radio and in meetings virtually nonstop since Russia invaded Ukraine.

The stories and images coming out of the region are simultaneously heartbreaking and inspiring. Terrifying and courageous.

Ukraine is certainly showing the world, and its aggressor, what patriotism truly is.

While the Russia-Ukraine conflict is geographically distant, the consequences of Putin's aggression could have ripple effects beyond Eastern Europe.

As leaders, it is critical we remain informed and aware of what is happening in our ever shrinking world. What happens thousands of miles away will, for better or worse, have an impact on us here at home.

I wrote an opinion article for NBC News THINK. And, I have read several other articles that I think provide valuable information and analysis on the current situation.

All these articles are listed below.

If you have questions or comments please let me know.

Because, an informed world is a safer world.

Jeff's article recommendations about
Russia-Ukraine conflict

Don't forget! Lead Yourself starts in less than two weeks.

In a world where we are surrounded by crisis and tragedy it can feel like our troubles and challenges pale in comparison. #firstworldproblems

But, this doesn't meant that our needs are less valid or important.

Our kids, families, colleagues, and organizations still need us. They need us now more than ever. They need us physically healthy and mentally sound. They need us to be an example.

THIS is how you lead yourself so you can lead those around you..
THIS is how we create our collective comeback.

Space is limited to just 10 people.

If you're needing support in creating a solid-self care foundation this course is right up your alley.

CLICK BELOW to learn more and reserve your spot.

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Does poor sleep make a leader irresponsible?

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When is the last time you got a good night’s sleep?

As in, waking up refreshed and well rested!

Feeling grumpy or not being able to focus during the day are common, and well-known effects of not getting enough zzzz's. 

These may not be detrimental effects, but they definitely don't make for a great day.

Not sleeping well can put you at risk for long-term health conditions like diabetes and heart disease. Plus, your immune system becomes suppressed. 

A good night's sleep is critical for our mental health too. Studies have shown that chronic poor sleep can make us more susceptible to depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders. 

Showing up for your family or colleagues as a sleep deprived zombie is not an effective way to lead. 

We could argue that it's irresponsible. 

When it comes to sleep, often it's more about quality than quantity.

Chances are the things you're doing right before bed are having a big impact on the quality of your sleep.

In the Lead Yourself program we will talk all about "sleep hygiene" and the simple steps you can take to get better quality sleep.

Plus, you'll have a chance to experiment with some of the sleep hygiene strategies, learn from others in the program, and create a sleep routine that works for you.

Sleep is just one of the critical self-care topics you can learn about in the Lead Yourself program.

We will be addressing physical and mental self-care topics during the 4 weeks. Physical health topics such as hydration and eating for energy alongside mental self-care focused on mindfulness and stress management.

Most importantly, we will hold each other accountable to follow through on creating powerful self-care habits that stick!

I hope you will join me for this virtual live program starting next month.

Click below to learn more.

Talk soon!
Tanya

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It's here!

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It's here!

I'm not going to beat around the bush.....

Tanya is finally running her own virtual, live, program!

(I say finally because this has been a top request of mine, and many of you, for quite a some time now).

It's called Lead Yourself and is a 4-week group program for busy leaders.

As she says, "how you lead yourself - physically and emotionally - is directly correlated to how you lead others".

That last two years have left us weary, drained, and under insurmountable stress. And, we're going to continue to feel the effects for a while.

Tanya's goal with this program is to help us get back to basics and identify key strategies to take care of our physical AND emotional health.

If you have heard her teach her executive wellness presentation you know that she is all about small changes that make a big impact.

She has continued this theme in the Lead Yourself program. But now, it's even better!

Now, you get the added advantage of having her guide you through the process and group support to hold you accountable.

The program starts Monday, March 14th and space is limited.
Cost is $198.

Click below to read up on all the details.

Plus, you will learn more about how Tanya's approach to leading yourself, self-care, and why it's the foundation of good leadership.

If you have any questions for her about this program feel fee to contact her at info@diamondsixleadership.com.

And, if you're so inclined share this with a friend!

Current events: Jeff talks Ukraine

When certain world leaders start to make headlines we feel the effects right here at Diamond6.

Jeff gets pulled into the vortex of CBS News to share his expertise as a national security consultant.

Sometimes our meetings go from talking about an upcoming client workshop to learning about the latest international crisis.

(Here's lookin' at you Mr. P!)

In all seriousness....we are grateful to have the opportunity to hear Jeff's perspective and "off the record" comments on current events.

The pending crisis between Ukraine and Russia is no different.

Jeff has given umpteen interviews between staff meetings and planning upcoming travel to see clients out west.

(Side note...We think he's going to Colorado to go skiing. He says it's for work. It's probably a little bit of both!)

We get direct access to these real time leadership lessons on a regular basis.

Leadership is not just about what's happening in our own offices.

Below we've included an interview Jeff gave to KDKA, a CBS radio affiliate in Pittsburgh. Plus, his analysis and commentary over the last few weeks as this crisis started to escalate on the John Batchelor Show podcast.

These brief interviews may help provide you some insight and context for the current situation in Ukraine.

It's important to note that this is a quickly evolving story. We highly recommend getting the most up to date information from a trusted news source to learn the latest on this story.

Jeff Interview on KDKA in Pittsburgh with Rob Pratte

January 25th

How Serious is the Russian Threat?

(18:40 mins)

CLICK HERE for this interview.

Jeff on John Batchelor Show - Ukraine and Russia

January 12th

Do the Russians Leave?

(5:15 mins)

CLICK HERE for this interview.

January 12th

Senior Russian Uniforms at NATO

(13:24 mins)

CLICK HERE for this interview.

January 19th

NATO Doubting Deutschland

(6:15 mins)

CLICK HERE for this interview.

January 19th

Those Snap Exercises in Belarus

(13:46 mins)

CLICK HERE for this interview.

D6 Team Books

D6 Team Books

One of my favorite things about having a small team at Diamond6 is that we know each other really well! We enjoy each other very much, have fun working together, support each other through personal and professional challenges. We also like to share ideas and resources for personal and professional development with each other. During our Monday staff meeting we had a brief conversation about books...what we're currently reading, what we've read recently, and books we hope to read again.

[5-min leadership] Communicate your vision like Lincoln

[5-min leadership] Communicate your vision like Lincoln

On this Friday, (158 years ago!) on November 19th, 1863 Abraham Lincoln gave the infamous Gettysburg Address. And still, his vision and the words used to describe can be used as a lesson for contemporary leaders. Leaders must describe a vision for their organization and communicate it effectively. It is fundamental. Vision is a mental image of what the future world ought to be like and is important for several reasons.

Lessons from Afghanistan: Interview with Adam Mendler

Jeff had the privilege to have a one-on-one interview with Adam Mendler, CEO of The Veloz Group, to be featured in Adam’s online leadership blog.

Curious of Jeff’s thoughts surrounding the War on in Afghanistan, the withdrawal of US troops, and the aftermath?

Click HERE to read Jeff and Adam’s full interview, Lessons from Afghanistan.

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From understanding to mastery - how adults learn

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From understanding to mastery - how adults learn

In leadership, simplicity often works best. Thus one liners such as “leaders teach” are valuable for their simplicity and effectiveness. Some appointed “leaders” try to avoid the teaching role required of good and great leaders. However, teaching is essential for effective leadership because the development of others is likewise essential for the growth of the individual and especially for the growth and success of the team and organization.

[5-min leadership] Having Solitude

[5-min leadership] Having Solitude

Many experts argue that effective modern leaders must be “thinkers,” those who can take time in solitude to consider what should be done and – and perhaps more importantly – why. Thinkers who question the routine can formulate new ideas and directions with independence, creativity, and flexibility.

The three Colin Powell rules I live and lead by

The three Colin Powell rules I live and lead by

Last week we lost a distinguished American leaders, trailblazer, and military officer. I greatly admired Colin Powell for not only his incredible leadership. I admired him, and still do, for his honesty, integrity, and courage to do what he felt was right. Even when it meant admitting he had been wrong or he chose to go against popular opinion.

[5-min leadership] Indispensable Leadership

[5-min leadership] Indispensable Leadership

As a leader you should always be developing those who are coming up behind you. Make sure that if, or when you leave, your organization or team won’t miss a beat. They will catch the ball and keep right on dribbling it down the court. Think about who may be able to fill your shoes should your time come to step aside, retire, or move to a new organization. How can you make this person your “brain double” and “shadow” advisor?

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Faculty Article - The #1 killer of a great strategy

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Faculty Article - The #1 killer of a great strategy

Most Americans don’t know much about the American Revolution. All most of us remember from school is “taxation without representation”, dumping tea into Boston Harbor, and the minutemen on Lexington green. A few more learned about Valley Forge, a guy named von Steuben who trained troops there, and the final victory at Yorktown. Can useful lessons to be learned from a war fought two centuries ago? I submit the answer is a resounding Yes!

[5-min leadership] Thinking in the Future

Being a leader feels tricky and complicated at times. And, there are days when it's just hard! On top of that, there just never seems to be enough time to read and implement all the things that will help us get better. If you're feeling overwhelmed we've got you covered! Today we're starting a "5-minute leadership" series.

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Learn diversity from a bunch of con artists - here's how!

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Learn diversity from a bunch of con artists - here's how!

2-D diversity creates a space where “out of the box” thinking is encouraged, and “crazy ideas” are heard. Teams and organizations with inherent AND acquired diversity benefit from greater critical thinking, innovation, and creativity. You can accomplish great things, overcome big challenges, and create innovative solutions. 2-D diversity also massively improves your bottom line.

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Remembering the unlikely leaders of 9/11

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Remembering the unlikely leaders of 9/11

Tom is the author of Flight 93, The Story, the Aftermath, and the Legacy of American Courage on 9/11. What I find so captivating about Flight 93 is how a group of 40 people came together for a united cause in only a few short minutes. The unlikely leaders that emerged, seemingly out of nowhere, to do the unthinkable - during and after the tragedy.

My thoughts on the Afghanistan withdrawal & evacuation

My thoughts on the Afghanistan withdrawal & evacuation

As with any momentous news story, we will get more answers to these questions, and others, as time goes by. I strongly encourage you to remain curious, stay informed, and not to jump to conclusions too quickly. What we can do is analyze and discuss President Biden’s and his predecessor’s decisions and the immediate implications of them. There are three main thoughts I have about what we have seen over the last few weeks and how leaders can learn and act as we move forward….