In this episode of The John Eades Podcast, I sit down with my friend Scott Cornwell, author of The Present Executive and founder of the Center for Intentional Leadership. Scott shares powerful insights on identity, presence, leadership, and sustaining meaningful behavior change.

We discuss:

• Why presence matters more than the title of “executive”

• The role of identity and how “I am” statements shape your behaviors and results

• The power of codes, core values, and mantras in leadership

• Balancing short-term execution with long-term purpose

• How to create lasting behavior change through mindset, structure, and practice

Scott also draws on his experiences at The Citadel and his work with executives, offering practical ways leaders can influence and inspire while staying grounded in purpose.

Learn more about Scott’s work and resources:

The Center for Intentional Leadership: https://www.centerforintentionalleadership.com/

The Present Executive book: https://www.centerforintentionalleadership.com/the-present-executive

Forty-one years ago, Bob Bowler walked into a Special Olympics event during his lunch break. He had no plan, no role, and no agenda—only a desire to serve. That small step turned into a lifetime of impact: raising funds, starting sports programs, and founding a camp for children with special needs that now serves over 335 campers and draws more than 500 volunteers each year.

In this episode, I share Bob’s story and the three leadership lessons I learned from him:

• Find joy in other people’s dreams coming true

• Serve expecting nothing in return

• Choose positivity over negativity

Bob’s example shows that leadership starts with initiative, service, and discipline. His story might inspire you to take the next step in your own journey.

In this episode, John shares a preview of his new keynote and workshop, The Teamwork Advantage: Turning Groups into High-Performing Teams.

Learn the formula and behaviors that separate elite teams from average ones, and walk away with practical strategies to build alignment, strengthen communication, and inspire action.

John also brings you the latest Optimistic Outlook story: English golfer Tommy Fleetwood’s long journey to his first PGA Tour win and the reminder he gave us all after — “Be a good person first.”

For more details on The Teamwork Advantage keynote and workshop, visit johneades.com or LearnLoft.com.