What does it really mean to lead? In this thought-provoking episode, we introduce "leadering"—a fresh, action-oriented approach to leadership that goes beyond titles and checklists. Drawing from personal stories on the curling rink and powerful real-life examples, we explore how true leadership is revealed in moments of pressure, rooted in values, and sustained through authentic connection.

Discover why "leadering" is about being intentional, encouraging, and accountable, and how it shapes workplace culture, engagement, and well-being. Hear the contrasting stories of two employers faced with tragedy, and learn why people follow those they trust and respect—not just those with impressive résumés.

If you're ready to move beyond traditional leadership and create a culture where people want to grow and thrive, this episode is for you. Tune in to learn how to lead with identity, lift the rocks in your life and work, and become the person others want to follow.

Leadership is not about outsourcing care.
And it never was.

In this video, I talk about something I see happening in organizations everywhere. Leaders are handing the people side of leadership to HR and hoping culture will take care of itself. It doesn't. It never has.

HR is essential. I say that clearly. Policies matter. Procedures matter. Support matters. But culture does not come from a department. It comes from leaders. It shows up in conversations, in silence, and especially under pressure.

When things heat up, what leaks out of us is what was already inside us. That is the real culture. Not the poster. Not the website. Not the values statement.

I walk through why disengagement keeps growing, why burnout is rising, and why so many leaders feel frustrated even though they are busy doing important work. I also share simple actions leaders can take to stop outsourcing care and start owning the role they already have.

This is about leadering. Showing up. Modeling behavior. Owning culture. Having the conversations that policies can't fix.

If you care about people, culture, and building a workplace where trust actually exists, this conversation is for you.

In this episode, John Robertson challenges leaders to rethink what it means to show up—especially when life and work feel full. He shares how presence, not performance, defines effective leadership and why the best leaders lead from who they are, not what they have. Listen in for practical ways to connect, show up, and lead well during the busiest season of the year.

When life or leadership turns up the heat, the real test isn't the event—it's your response.

In this episode, John Robertson shares one of his most practical leadership lessons: the "hot water teabag" principle. Whatever is inside you always leaks out when the water gets hot. The same is true for every leader and organization.

John explains why values aren't posters or slogans but everyday behaviors under pressure. He unpacks how to define what matters most before the next crisis arrives, how to identify your non-negotiables, and why your time and money always tell the truth about your real priorities.

You'll also hear:

• The difference between Crisis U and Crisis L organizations

• How to align your behavior with your values when tested

• Why feedback from others is vital for closing the gap between what you say and what you live

• How to finish well by surrounding yourself with people who challenge you to stay true

Values aren't proven in comfort. They're proven in crisis. The question is, when you're in hot water—what leaks out?

In this episode, John Robertson reflects on a simple lesson from his grandkids that reshaped how he views growth and leadership. Watching a four-year-old endlessly ask "why" reminded him that curiosity isn't just a child's habit—it's a crucial tool for adults who want to thrive.

John explores how our frustration with "why" often reveals more about us than the question itself. From the way we rush through our mornings to the empty promises of "we should grab coffee sometime," he challenges listeners to pause and ask what's really driving their actions.

Using his signature storytelling and practical insight, John explains how asking "why" helps uncover core values, exposes misplaced priorities, and realigns relationships that have drifted into routine. He shares personal experiences about losing his job, redefining what mattered, and discovering how values—not busyness—anchor true growth.

Listeners will walk away with three actions:

1. Pause and ask why. Notice when you're rushing or reacting.

2. Speak the truth gently. Be honest about what's urgent versus what's important.

3. Reframe conversations around values. Whether at work or home, make "why" your guide.

As John says, growth is rarely comfortable—but when we change and look back, that discomfort is what we call growth.

In this episode, I walk through a pattern I see everywhere. Leaders build plans. They set priorities. They outline steps. And still nothing moves. I call it the failure to launch.

Most organizations rely on performance, productivity, and protocols to drive action. That creates an accountability culture, not a values anchored one. People don't take initiative when they fear being judged. They would rather look lazy than incompetent. So they hesitate, and leaders end up repeating the same programs every two to five years.

I break down why this keeps happening and how leaders can finally break the cycle. The turning point is moving from a decision to a commitment. Commitment depends on values. Values are what create the motivation for action, especially in critical moments.

I also explain how the Four A's help any team shift from planning to progress
Aim… define success
Anchor… tie it to your real values
Act… take the step
Align… adjust once you're actually moving

If you're tired of stalled plans and constant resets, this episode gives you the next step in building a culture where people step forward instead of sitting back.

In this episode of Run Toward the Roar, it is John Robertson's desire to encourage and empower you to honor your passion and values. He emphasizes the importance of thriving, not just surviving.

He also shares insights on the significance of budgeting, not just financially, but also in terms of time, emotions, physical activities, spirituality, and more.

He highlights the key benefits of budgeting, such as financial stability, independence, and peace of mind, and reflects on a unique approach to budgeting time and emotions shared with him by a listener.

John reiterates his desire for you to thrive, finish well, and run toward the roar.

What to expect in this episode:

00:00 Desire to help and encourage others' potential.

03:30 New approach to budgeting and finance.

08:06 Spiritual budgeting involves art, nature, positivity.

10:57 Helping others navigate and overcome obstacles together.

13:58 Pickleball: smaller court, kitchen rule confusion.

18:32 Receiving unwanted attention, frustration leads to confrontation.

20:30 Seek help, find courage, be faithful, finish.

24:05 Discovery of love through Alzheimer's and dementia.

26:58 Grateful for our conversation. Thank you.

About John Robertson

John Robertson is one of the leading Coaches, Consultants, and Speakers that Leaders in the workplace look to "when things start to feel like they're falling apart" due to issues with their staff, support systems, and company "ethos" (character and habit driven behaviors that either make or break an organization during times of crisis). Find out more about his THRIVE-based Books, Training, and Resources here.

Driven by a "recognition of others' strengths" and a deep-seated faith in their ability to find their way through even the most challenging of times— John creates an intensely inspiring environment for recovery, optimization, and triumph.

With over 30 years of experience leading large groups through his involvement in the church alongside shepherding public-service organizations (such as Townships, Firefighters, Police, and First Responders) through their own points of crisis and transition, John is counted on time and time again as "the steady voice of reason during even the most challenging of storms".

Websites:
https://runtowardtheroar.online/resources-download
https://fortlog.co/

Email: Hello@fortlog.co

If you would like to follow along in an easy format please go to Amazon and purchase a copy of the book Run Toward The Roar: Transforming Crisis and Change into the Opportunity to Thrive, as that is the theme that we will be building on.

If you're willing to please send me an e-mail, hello@fortlog.co I would like to send you chapter one of the discovery guide so that I can encourage you in the thinking of this journey.

In this episode of Run Toward the Roar, host John Robertson dives into the lousy part of adulting and the importance of thriving even when faced with challenges.

He discusses the concept of "adulting stinks" and how it requires individuals to do things they don't feel like doing.

John also delves into the old English word for patience, "long suffering," and shares a story about how a shift in perspective helped reduce complaints about long wait times at an airport.

Through the episode, John expands on the theme of drifting and the significance of not losing sight of one's reference points, which can lead to being a danger not only to oneself but also to others.

You are reminded to savor and honor their accomplishments and surroundings, emphasizing the importance of enjoying the journey and making meaningful connections along the way.

What to expect in this episode:

00:00 Houston airport reduced baggage claim wait time.

06:35 Americans spend 37 billion hours waiting annually. Emotional cost of waiting is significant.

07:57 Connection lost as phones become priority. Slow down.

11:19 Challenges of dropping off the elderly summarized.

17:43 Global elite seek treatment at Mayo Clinic.

19:58 Memorable moments, unexpected challenges, and perseverance.

23:25 Reflect on past, cherish memories, value connections.

25:55 Embrace the journey to stand out.

About John Robertson

John Robertson is one of the leading Coaches, Consultants, and Speakers that Leaders in the workplace look to "when things start to feel like they're falling apart" due to issues with their staff, support systems, and company "ethos" (character and habit driven behaviors that either make or break an organization during times of crisis). Find out more about his THRIVE-based Books, Training, and Resources here.

Driven by a "recognition of others' strengths" and a deep-seated faith in their ability to find their way through even the most challenging of times— John creates an intensely inspiring environment for recovery, optimization, and triumph.

With over 30 years of experience leading large groups through his involvement in the church alongside shepherding public-service organizations (such as Townships, Firefighters, Police, and First Responders) through their own points of crisis and transition, John is counted on time and time again as "the steady voice of reason during even the most challenging of storms".

Websites:
https://runtowardtheroar.online/resources-download
https://fortlog.co/

Email: Hello@fortlog.co

If you would like to follow along in an easy format please go to Amazon and purchase a copy of the book Run Toward The Roar: Transforming Crisis and Change into the Opportunity to Thrive, as that is the theme that we will be building on.

If you're willing to please send me an e-mail, hello@fortlog.co I would like to send you chapter one of the discovery guide so that I can encourage you in the thinking of this journey.