Episode 248: Path to Leadership Excellence: Navigating Success with Susan Ireland

Episode Summary: Join hosts Michelle and Tracy as they delve into the essence of leadership success with guest Susan Ireland. With a storied 30-year career at Boeing and the co-founding of Seasoned Leadership under her belt, Susan brings a wealth of experience and insight to this illuminating discussion.

Key Points Discussed:

Journey to Leadership: Susan Ireland talks about her unexpected transition from Boeing to co-founding her leadership development program, revealing the spontaneity behind her career evolution.
Leadership Principles: The conversation covers foundational leadership principles and cautions against the risks of promoting individuals to leadership roles solely based on technical expertise.
Micromanagement: The potential pitfalls of micromanagement are explored, highlighting how a leader’s approach can deeply affect team dynamics.
Influence of Attitude: The hosts and Susan discuss the far-reaching impact a leader’s attitude can have, for better or worse, on their team’s morale and performance.
Personal Development for Leaders: New leaders are encouraged to focus on personal development, which includes cultivating a leadership mindset and utilizing resources like mentors and coaches.
Organization and Core Values: The importance of maintaining personal management systems and embracing core values is emphasized to ensure decisions align with one’s beliefs.
Self-Awareness and Leadership Identity: Susan stresses the importance of understanding one’s own leadership identity and how personal values shape leadership style.
Adaptability in Times of Crisis: The need for flexible leadership approaches, particularly during unprecedented events like the COVID-19 pandemic, is underscored.
Memorable Leadership Anecdote: A story about Alan, a notable leader at Boeing, illustrates the power of personable, approachable leadership and the importance of connecting with team members on a personal level.
Legacy of Leadership at Boeing: Susan reflects on Alan’s legacy in establishing a leadership and management system that was instrumental in the development of the triple 7 airplane, a testament to effective collaboration.
Timeless Leadership Values: The episode wraps up with a focus on the enduring nature of leadership values, the significance of partnerships, and the imperative of ongoing learning and adaptability for leaders.

Closing Thoughts:  This episode is a must-listen for both emerging and established leaders seeking to refine their leadership skills and influence. Susan Ireland’s experiences and insights offer valuable lessons on the human side of leadership and the continuous journey of growth and adaptation that defines successful leadership.

Connect with Susan Ireland: Listeners can connect with Susan and learn more about her work at Seasoned Leadership through the links provided below:

Website: https://www.seasonsleadership.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/seasons-leadership-development/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/seasonsleadership

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