Join Dr. Fred Johnson, founder of Initiative One, and Dr. Paul Mettler, a long-time partner based in Knoxville, Tennessee, as they delve into the evolution of their organization since 2002. In this candid conversation, they discuss the challenges and triumphs of scaling, changing, and growing Initiative One into a significant player in leadership g…

Join Dr. Fred Johnson, founder of Initiative One, for an inspiring episode of "Transforming Education." This week, Dr. Johnson welcomes Dr. Jeff Fleig, the superintendent of the Fond du Lac School District in Wisconsin. Dr. Fleig shares his remarkable journey of leading profound change in a district that was once stagnant. Hear firsthand about the …

Join us as we venture into the heart of law enforcement, exploring the power of emotional intelligence in community trust and effective policing. Sheriff Matt and Dr. Fred talk about the critical intersection of tactical necessity and emotional intelligence, uncovering how empathy, respect, and self-awareness can reshape interactions between office…

Join Dr. Fred Johnson, founder of Initiative One, as he sits down with industry expert Lisa Flanary to explore the intersection of purpose-driven leadership and organizational success. Click here to register for our next Think Tank! InitiativeOne: Leadership Institute Eliminate Drama, Improve Decision-Making, and Win as a Team. Follow us on LinkedI…

Welcome to today's podcast! Hosted by Dr. Fred Johnson, this episode features a conversation with special guest Dr. Bryan Schwebke founder of Paramount Performance. Together, they dive into the world of entrepreneurship, exploring its intricacies, and trials. Tune in as they share insights, experiences, and practical tips for aspiring entrepreneurs…

In today's latest episode, Dr. Fred Johnson leads a profound exploration into the future landscape of leadership. Accompanying him is Austin Ertl, former Miami Redhawks Football Captain and the latest addition to InitiativeOne's dynamic team as an intern. Tune in as they delve into essential insights, uncovering the indispensable traits that define…

On today's episode, host Regina Woods is joined by Oconto Falls Superintendent Dr. Dean Hess. In this engaging conversation, they delve into various aspects of leadership, including stepping out of one's comfort zone, defining purpose, and effectively addressing conflict. Tune in as Regina and Dr. Hess explore the importance of embracing discomfort…

Do your emotions impact your leadership? How so? Maria Marshall Clarke joins Dr. Fred Johnson to discuss how fear and love profoundly impact how leaders live their day-to-day lives. If you want to lead at a world-class level, you must move away from fear-based decision-making and into a life of purpose. Fear of failure and imposter syndrome will bl…

Join us for a unique episode as Dr. Fred, our usual host, takes on a new role, fielding questions from Tracy Johnson, iOne's new CEO. Delve into the discussion on the essential anchors for team, company, and purpose growth, and explore strategies for continuity when dependable leaders transition. Click here to register for our next Think Tank! Init…

This week, your host, Dr. Paul Metler, engages in a compelling conversation with Dr. Margaret Gilmore, delving into the dynamic intersection of education and leadership. In this episode, they explore the multifaceted world of education and leadership, unraveling the intricacies that come with these roles. Explore the critical role of purpose in edu…

In this week's episode, Dr. Phil Ertl sits down with host Dr. Fred Johnson. Join the conversation as Dr. Ertl shares the highs and lows of his remarkable journey to becoming the influential leader he is today. Discover the profound impact of effective leadership in education and how it intertwines with personal growth. Dr. Ertl's stories of struggl…

On this week's episode, Joel Mckeefry joins Dr. Fred Johnson. Together, they discuss being stuck and how to take the steps needed to put business into action. Joel talks about being stuck without knowing he was stuck. He was comfortable but would soon realize the necessary steps for positive change to take place in his life. With Dr. Fred and Initi…

Tracy Johnson, CEO of InitiativeOne, joins our Founder, Dr. Fred Johnson, to discuss the evolution of InitiativeOne. They dive into the ways change, communication, and conflict impact the business. Together, they also explore the narratives they fight to overcome in their day-to-day lives. Moving toward self-belief is a daily choice of effective se…

Dr. Fred Johnson is joined by Stormy Kromer CEO, Gina Thorsen on the latest episode of the InitiativeOne Leadership Podcast. They discuss the challenges that arise when leading a family-owned business, leading change effectively, and learning to let go of perfectionism. They also dive into some key pivots that have helped Stormy Kromer thrive! Shop…

Fred Johnson and Adrià Passola deeply discuss what it takes to lead transformational change in organizations. Adrià leans on his experience of the InitativeOne Process to show that it takes high-performing leaders to create high-performing organizations. You can't do it on your own. They also discuss the launching of InitiativeOne's Global Team and…

Sit down with Dr. Paul Metler as he shares his inspiring leadership journey. Together with Dr. Fred, they explore: Paul's purpose to serve others by "encouraging transformation" The importance of stewardship Lessons learned through years of leading change Get comfortable being uncomfortable. Move out of the status quo and into a life of transformat…

In our latest episode, we sat down with Angela Peters, who shares her inspiring career journey. She dives into what motivated her to join InitiativeOne and how her drive to make a difference led her to establish "The Gentlemen and Ladies Club" with her husband, aiming to mentor and empower young minds. ►►Click here to learn more about the Gentlemen…

Dr. Stephen Peters returns to the InitiativeOne Leadership Podcast to talk with Dr. Fred about their upcoming book! They dive into the book, what inspired it, along with its purpose. Dr. Peters also talks about the transformational power of the Gentlemen's and Ladies Leadership Clubs for schools across the country. Click here to preorder your copy …

Tony Reale, Founder and Director of Media Productions for Creative Edge Productions, joins Dr. Fred Johnson on the latest episode of the InitiativeOne Leadership Podcast. Together, they discuss the importance of showing value to clients, learning from failure, and how to differentiate yourself in the crowded world of social media. Learn more about …

Ale Marroquín joins Dr. Fred Johnson on this week's episode to discuss her leadership journey. Together, they discuss Ale's shift from the financial industry into the world of leadership. Ale describes the importance of living in the present and not letting past failures or future worries get in the way of your present success. Fred and Ale also pr…

Chris Wendt, Vice President of Technology Services at Syscon, joins Dr. Fred Johnson on this week's episode. Together they talk about building a culture of trust, overcoming leadership challenges, and why embracing change is essential in today's workplace. Subscribe to stay up to date with new episodes! Learn more about Chris Wendt and Syscon: http…

Nick Metler, Marketing and Digital Content Director at InitiativeOne, joins Dr. Fred Johnson to discuss leading multiple generations in the workplace. Together, they discuss: What are the expectations of younger employees entering your organization? How can leaders set their teams up for greater success? Why is humility essential for effective lead…

The front lines of education reveal that education as we know it will dramatically change over the next 2-3 years. Dr. Stephen Peters explores what he sees as hopeful and frightening for schools nationwide. Dr. Peters and Dr. Johnson show that many of your greatest opportunities are disguised as challenges. Learning to lead through complexity is th…

Dr. Phil Ertl, VP of Educational Leadership, returns to the InitiativeOne Leadership Podcast to discuss: The Importance of Vulnerability in Modern Leadership The Value of Sideways Accountability Understanding Failure Doesn’t Mean You’re a Failure You won't want to miss his conversation with Dr. Fred Johnson. Learn more about the deep work happening…

Paul Metler, Ph.D., joins Dr. Fred Johnson this week as they reflect on their history at InitiativeOne. They discuss: 1️⃣ Living a Life of Purpose 2️⃣ Key Moments of Failure 3️⃣ Lessons They’ve Learned from Each Other Dr. Metler explores his purpose of "Encouraging Transformation," stating: "We love to see positive change in people's lives. We're t…

Jeff Mirkes, Executive Director of Downtown Green Bay, joins Dr. Fred on the InitiativeOne Leadership Podcast. Jeff explores the challenges he's faced in revitalizing downtown Green Bay, wins that have come along the way, and the meaning of his purpose statement: Ignite Confidence. ►►Learn more about Downtown Green Bay! ►►Register for our next Thin…

Howard-Suamico School District Superintendent Damian LaCroix joins Dr. Fred Johnson on the latest episode of the InitiativeOne Leadership Podcast. Together they talk about rising to meet the call of leadership in public education, learning from failure, and keys to leading with purpose in 2023. Damian became the 5th superintendent in 6 years at How…

Dr. Fred Johnson returns to the InitiativeOne Leadership Podcast to answer questions received from our monthly Think Tanks: How has the ideal workplace culture changed in the last couple of decades? Why is influence so important for leaders in today's environment? What do you think is the greatest challenge facing leaders today? Dr. Fred gives insi…

Dr. Phil Ertl returns to the InitiativeOne Leadership Podcast this week to discuss healthy leaders and creating sustainable change in the evolving Education landscape! Creating a culture where people lead with purpose and self-belie to address issues in the open isn't easy. It requires persistence and a commitment to excellence. You may be ready to…

Nick Nighbor is joined by Jason Perkins, Founder of Vestura, LLC., which offers a comprehensive range of personalized financial planning and portfolio management services to high-net-worth individuals. They discuss the leadership lessons and challenges that come from starting your own business, taking care of clients, and the importance of earning …

We're flipping the script on this week's episode as Nick Nighbor enters the hot seat and Regina Woods returns to the podcast (this time as host)! Nick opens up about struggling with 2.7 thinking and reveals the importance of understanding your value doesn't come from what you do. It comes from who you are. Hustle culture is at odds with this way of…

►►Grab your copy of "Is Everyone on the Boat?" ►►Register for our next Think Tank Tracy Johnson returns to the InitiativeOne Leadership Podcast to talk about Thoughtful Leaders. This is Part 3 of our dive into "Is Everyone on the Boat?" by Dr. Fred Johnson and Dr. Paul Metler. What makes thoughtful leaders so important in your organization? How do …

Click here to register for our next Think Tank! Mike Jeanquart joins the show to discuss his leadership journey moving from law enforcement to construction and now real estate investments! He outlines the sometimes painful journey of transforming your life. What lessons have been most helpful? How do you take the first step? Listen to the full conv…

►►Schedule a call with InitiativeOne Dr. Fred Johnson and Dr. Stephen Peters spoke to leaders gathered around the country on Leadership and Impact. Leadership today is NOT about authority, knowledge, or job title. Leadership today is about who you are. It's not what you know. It's who you are. Together, Dr. Johnson and Dr. Peters share stories of f…

Click here to register for our next Think Tank! "What story did I tell myself that created that reaction?" Nick Nighbor and Regina Woods speak about a recent conversation with a client. It is essential to take a step back and listen to the story you're telling yourself. You must ask yourself, "Is this true? Is this real?" People tend to react to th…

Click here to register for our next Think Tank! Host, Nick Nighbor, talks with Paper Transport’s VP of Business Development, Joe Shefchik, during the latest episode of the InitiativeOne Leadership Podcast. They talk about challenges within the transportation industry during the pandemic, sustaining a culture amid significant growth, and understandi…

Click here to register for our next Think Tank! On the latest episode of the InitiativeOne Leadership Podcast, Nick Nighbor talks to Viking Masek, Co-Founder and President Robb Leonhard. They discuss the importance of vulnerability when leading a team, how leaning on others helps you break through the ceilings you may be hitting in your career, and…

Click here to register for our next Think Tank! Are you satisfied with the current levels of accountability in your organization? What if you could make a pivot in your leadership and improve levels of commitment and ownership? Consensus-driven leadership fuels accountability and ownership. ​ What is consensus-driven leadership? What is it not? ​Wh…

Click here to register for our next Think Tank! A primary leader is the second tier in high change leaders. They are pragmatic and natural problem solvers; they connect the dots. Visionary leaders need primary leaders to ground them and set the course for success! Similarly, primary leaders need a visionary to push for excellence, not perfection. A…

Click here to register for our next Think Tank! What is a leadership challenge you're facing right now? Tracy Johnson and Nick Nighbor answer questions from you about leadership transformation! They talk about how to work with younger generations, deal with changes in a role, and get on the same page as your leader. Younger generations require the …

In Episode 31, Nick Nighbor sits down to talk to Dr. Stephen Peters. Dr. Peters shares his insight into the world of education. He talks about his commitment to humility and creating win-win scenarios for everyone. He shares stories from the frontlines as a teacher, principal, and superintendent. You don’t want to miss this conversation! Click here…

During our most recent Think Tank, we had an exciting surprise. Dr. Stephen Peters joined us and shared his inspiring story and passion for impacting future generations of leaders. Dr. Peters challenged us not to create followers but to create better leaders for the future. What a profound foundation for consensus-driven leadership! Register for ou…

In Episode 29 of the InitiativeOne Leadership Podcast, Nick Nighbor and Tracy Johnson discuss "Is Everyone on the Boat?" from authors Dr. Fred Johnson and Dr. Paul Metler. How well do you understand the people in your organization? Do you possess a clear grasp of the values that inspire their behavior? These are key to your journey to becoming a be…

It's time for another Q&A with Dr. Fred Johnson! In episode 28, Nick Nighbor and Dr. Fred dive into the following questions: 1. What are some ways to bridge the gap between the successful, individual contributor, to a successful, deliberate leader? 2. How do we, as leaders, adapt and adjust to the challenges we have in today's society? 3. Can intro…

Nick Nighbor and Dr. Phil Ertl sit down to discuss Dr. Ertl's 2-word purpose statement, his journey to InitiativeOne, and the areas that bring him the most joy in his life. Do you know your purpose? Who has made an impact on your life? Learn about Phil's passion for leadership and the mentors that helped shape who he is today! Click here to registe…

During our November Think Tank, Dr. Fred Johnson spoke on the pitfalls of every driven leader. He unpacked the 8 P's of Driven Leaders: 1. Performance is everything to a driven leader. 2. Driven leaders are pushed from behind. 3. Driven leaders push others away. 4. Driven leaders are parked when the snow comes. 5. Criticism causes panic in driven l…

Click here to register for our next Think Tank! In episode 25 of the InitiativeOne Leadership Podcast, Nick Nighbor sits down with Dr. Jared Cotton. They discuss the importance of purpose and leading a school system during the pandemic. Dr. Cotton also tracks his leadership journey from the classroom to his current role as Superintendent of Chesape…

Click here to register for our next Think Tank! ►►Watch for our free Masterclass: https://learn.initiativeone.com/masterclass In episode 24 of the InitiativeOne Leadership Podcast, Nick Nighbor asks Dr. Fred Johnson a few questions about the idea of quiet quitting. How do generational differences play a role in quiet quitting? Where do leaders and …

How can leaders create a culture of accountability that encourages passionate work? Tracy Johnson and Nick Nighbor dive deep into the three types of accountability, why sideways accountability is the most effective, and other ways to energize your team toward work that fuels their purpose! Quiet Quitting feels like it has taken the world by storm, …

Click here to register for our next Think Tank! In Episode 22 of the InitiativeOne Leadership Podcast, our host, Nick Nighbor, sits down with Paul Hermes, Director of Technology Services and Assessment for the Fond du Lac School District. They talk about excellence and the importance of self-leadership. InitiativeOne: Leadership Institute Eliminate…