“A true challenge in leadership is learning when to step back and let others find their own path from A to Z.”

In this episode of Executive Evolution, Craig Anderson talks with Adam Hayes, owner of Hayes Group Marketing, about the journey of leading and scaling a small business. Adam shares how he transitioned from a hands-on approach to a visionary role, focusing on empowering his team through trust, clear communication, and structured systems.

Drawing on over 20 years of experience, Adam emphasizes the importance of balancing guidance with autonomy, building a solid organizational framework, and using regular check-ins to maintain alignment with the company’s vision.

After You Listen:

• Connect with Adam on LinkedIn
• Check out Hayes Group Marketing
• Connect with Craig on LinkedIn
• Subscribe to Craig’s "The Evolving Leader" newsletter
• Check out Craig’s monthly free training on holding difficult conversations

Key Takeaways:

• Define a clear vision. Make sure your team understands it, so they can align their actions with your business goals
• Encourage team ownership. Let them be part of the solution, which drives engagement and accountability
• Learn to balance empathy with tough conversations. Compassionate leadership fosters trust and better outcomes

Things to listen for:

(00:00) Intro

(02:01) Leadership influences and favorite books

(06:29) First experiences in leadership and early lessons

(09:18) Balancing guidance and independence

(12:35) The importance of structured communication

(17:30) Scaling a small business with a vision-driven approach

(20:01) Goals for the future and stepping into a full-time visionary role

"A really powerful lesson is knowing that it is okay to admit when you've made a mistake. That shows people that your ego isn’t getting in the way of you showing up as a good human.”

In this episode of Executive Evolution, Craig Anderson sits down with Susan Baroncini-Moe, Executive Coach and CEO at Baroncini-Moe Executive Coaching, about leadership grounded in empathy, self-awareness, and authenticity. Susan shares the importance of vulnerability in building team trust and explains why candid feedback, rather than anonymous reviews, strengthens teams.

Susan reflects on her early career managing her father’s medical practice and shares the leadership lessons she learned firsthand through these experiences. She also advises fostering a safe, open culture that promotes honesty, growth, and authenticity, which is essential for today’s executives.

After You Listen:

• Get your copy of Fierce Leadership by Susan Scott
• Connect with Susan Baroncini-Moe on LinkedIn
• Check out Baroncini-Moe Executive Coaching
• Connect with Craig on LinkedIn
• Subscribe to Craig’s "The Evolving Leader" newsletter
• Check out Craig’s monthly free training on holding difficult conversations

Key Takeaways:

• Develop emotional intelligence and self-awareness to inspire authentic connections
• Build a legacy of integrity and growth through honest, open communication
• Approach difficult conversations with empathy and listening first

Things to listen for:

(00:00) Intro

(02:26) Lightning round

(17:46) Mastering self-awareness

(18:29) Evolving leadership philosophy

(19:00) The power of vulnerability

(20:01) Handling mistakes with grace

(20:52) The weight of leadership

(27:30) The role of a coach

(31:31) The pitfalls of Performance Improvement Plans

"Instead of protecting their feelings for them, I’ve learned that it’s their job to protect their feelings. It’s my job to give them the truth, and you can do it in an empathic way.”

In this episode, Craig Anderson speaks with Peter Dunn, CEO of Your Money Line, about the leadership lessons that come from embracing empathy and self-awareness. Peter recounts his early experiences where he focused on achieving his personal goals, only to realize that true leadership means helping others grow. He shares how this shift in perspective transformed his approach and led to better team outcomes.

After You Listen:

• Get your copy of Give and Take by Adam Grant

• Connect with Peter Dunn on LinkedIn

• Check out Your Money Line

• Connect with Craig on LinkedIn

• Subscribe to Craig’s "The Evolving Leader" newsletter

• Check out Craig’s monthly free training on holding difficult conversations

Key Takeaways:

• Leadership is about providing resources and removing obstacles to help your team succeed

• Empathy in communication, especially during difficult conversations, is crucial for effective leadership

• Nurturing potential in team members who may not see it in themselves promotes internal growth and leadership development

Things to listen for:

(00:00) Intro

(02:32) Lightning round with Peter Dunn

(04:05) Setting up a “talent bomb”

(11:09) How self-awareness shapes leadership growth

(15:35) Leadership is a privilege

(16:37) The power of empathy in leadership

(21:57) Maturity means being comfortable with difficult conversations