To be an effective leader, you must believe that other people matter and, as a result, that leadership is a relationship.
This is the belief of today’s guest, Mike Erwin. A soldier, educator, author, non-profit founder, veteran advocate, and Executive Director at Team Red, White & Blue (RWB), America's leading health and wellness community for veterans. Mike is also CEO of the Character & Leadership Center and co-founder and president of The Positivity Project, a non-profit organization that aims to empower America’s youth to build positive relationships.
As you’ll learn in this episode, Mike is an exemplary leader who has dedicated his life to serving his nation and empowering people to become more resilient. Mike shares his perspective on leadership development, how Positive Psychology has influenced his personal and professional outlook on life, and why it’s important to not just coexist but learn to collaborate with others. (even when they have radically different personalities from you).
Mike and BJ also discuss the books that have profoundly impacted Mike’s life, the people who inspire him most, his definition of legacy, and much more! To find out why the leaders who put people first tend to be more successful (and memorable), be sure to tune in today.
Key Points From This Episode:
• Steps to cultivating a leadership mindset and a “relentless focus on other people.”
• The origin story of Team RWB and how it connects veterans with their communities.
• How The Positivity Project started and the five areas of leadership it promotes.
• Practical advice for balancing a busy calendar by doing each task to your best ability.
Quotes:
“For the most part, we go through life with other people. How we understand other people is [hugely important].” — Mike Erwin
“Understand yourself – Start there, then prioritize and be able to understand other people. In other words, leading yourself first matters because it allows you to lead other people and build relationships well.” — Mike Erwin
“I’m inspired by people who’ve got a good character and who treat other people well, regardless of their circumstance.” — Mike Erwin
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
What is Leadership Blueprints?
Leadership Blueprints is a podcast dedicated to helping leaders align teams, navigate chaos, and accomplish the mission. Hosted by BJ Kraemer—West Point graduate, combat veteran, and President & CEO of MCFA—this show dives into the principles, stories, and strategies behind effective leadership.
With a background in military service and experience leading teams in business, infrastructure, and complex projects, BJ understands that success comes down to execution, adaptability, and leading people well. Through in-depth interviews with accomplished leaders across business, sports, the military, and beyond, Leadership Blueprints will help you bring your vision to reality on projects that shape communities and industries.
Whether you’re leading in the boardroom, on the field, in the military, or within your own organization, this podcast is designed to provide the tools and mindset needed to lead with clarity, resilience, and purpose. Subscribe now and start building your Leadership Blueprint.