167 Why Authentic Leaders Get Extraordinary Results with Jim Huling

What if the key to becoming a more impactful leader had less to do with strategy—and everything to do with presence?

In this powerful episode, Lisa McGuire is joined once again by Jim Huling, executive coach and co-author of the best-selling book The Four Disciplines of Execution. Together, they explore what it means to lead with humanity, especially in a time when workplaces are craving connection, meaning, and authenticity more than ever.

Jim breaks down how leadership has evolved—from the old days of command-and-control to today’s growing need for purpose-driven, human-centered leadership. With four decades of experience, he shares real stories, thoughtful insights, and practical ways leaders can begin to build trust, foster engagement, and create meaningful cultures—starting now.

From the power of a handwritten note to the simple question every team member is asking (“Does what I do matter?”), this episode is a reminder that leadership isn’t about authority—it’s about impact.

Whether you lead a team of five or five thousand, this conversation will challenge and encourage you to lead in a way that’s not only more effective—but deeply human.

Key Takeaways

• The best leaders connect before they correct.

• “No involvement, no commitment” — people support what they help create.

• Trust and psychological safety drive real performance.

• Small gestures, like handwritten notes, leave lasting legacies.

• Authentic leadership is about being, not just appearing.

• Every employee wants to feel like they matter—and that someone cares.

• Culture lives in daily behaviors, not in a framed mission statement.

• Your energy and rituals set the emotional climate for your team.

• Leading others well starts with leading yourself well.

• Your legacy will be defined by how you led, not what you achieved.

CONNECT WITH JIM

LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimhuling/

CONNECT WITH LISA

Next Steps to the New You: https://go.lisamcguire.com/next-steps-to-the-new-you 

Instagram: @iamlisamcguire
Facebook: @iamlisamcguire
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-mcguire/ 
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iamlisamcguire