There is a destructive yet persistent American culture that sees people elevated to leadership positions without the required training or coaching. Today’s guest aims to ease this particular pain point by bringing military-style leadership to the civilian world.
John Gronski is a former Major General who's pivoted to being a motivational speaker and life coach. He begins our conversation by describing everything that happens at the coaching and consulting company he founded: Leader Grove. We learn about John’s journey from rural Pennsylvania to coaching and via the Army before honing in on the challenges he faced while deployed with the Army in Ramadi, Iraq.
John also shares what he learned about being a leader from his time in active service, the ins and outs of his three leadership-centered books, the undeniable value of mentorship, and the best practices for building resilience and a never-say-die mindset.
Key Points From This Episode:
• Unpacking the American culture of raising leaders without adequate leadership training.
• From rural Pennsylvania to the Army to coaching: How it happened for John.
• Understanding the value of mentorship and practical advice for seeking the right mentors.
Quotes:
“My personal purpose is to help leaders who want to improve and become better leaders. That’s why I started Leader Grove.” — Major General John Gronski
“We need people in our life who make us stronger and we have to look for people that we could make stronger. That’s what leadership, in my mind, is all about.” — Major General John Gronski
“Mentorship is 360 degrees. Which means, I not only get mentored from people who are senior than me; I could get mentored from someone who is much junior that I am. You can learn from everybody, no matter what their level of life experience is.” — Major General John Gronski
“I believe leaders are grown and not born.” — Major General John Gronski
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.