We're not here to sugarcoat it—some of the worst dumpster fires we see in business start at the top. And we know, because we’ve either helped put them out or accidentally started a few ourselves.

This episode came out of a real conversation about leadership gone sideways—owners jumping in to save the day when what they really need to do is get out of the way. From a 6:15 a.m. client text to job site chaos that didn’t need to happen, we broke down how leaders (especially ones clinging to control) often create the very problems they’re trying to fix.

We called out the difference between leading from trust and leading from fear, and why trying to be the hero might be hurting your people more than helping them. Whether it’s not training thoroughly, not letting go, or stepping into every fire thinking only you can fix it—that pattern keeps your business from scaling and your people from growing.

We also hit on why boomers get picked on (and why it’s not just a boomer issue), how business owners get bored when things are running well, and what to do when your ego is telling you no one can do it better than you.

If you're frustrated, tired, or wondering why the wheels keep falling off, this episode is for you. It’s not about blame—it’s about recognizing patterns and shifting from chaos mode to actual leadership.

Highlights:

• The "arsonist and firefighter" employee pattern.
• What makes leaders jump into messes they could've avoided.
• Why letting go feels impossible for some business owners.
• The leadership cost of ego and boredom.
• Delegation vs. dumping: where it goes wrong.
• Why leading from personal power beats title power every time.

Know someone who's stuck in the chaos loop? Send this their way. Then hit follow and leave a quick review—so we can keep bringing you the real stuff.

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Steve Doyle:

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Brad Herda:

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