#81 - The Six Pillars of Leadership: Lessons From a Life of Service and Success with Jim Carlough
In this powerful and deeply personal episode of The Personal Success Podcast, Ryan sits down with leadership veteran Jim Carlough, author of The Six Pillars of Effective Leadership, to explore what it truly means to lead with integrity, empathy, and humor.
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From a pivotal conversation with a city manager at just 23 years old to managing large-scale teams and cultural transformations, Jim unpacks the timeless values that shaped his leadership journey.
Together, they explore the six pillars that define great leadership:
- Integrity – the daily commitment to ethical self-reflection.
- Focus – aligning long-term vision with moment-to-moment leadership.
- Empathy – understanding others and solving problems from their perspective.
- Compassion – offering support when challenges emerge, without sacrificing accountability.
- Humor – cultivating humanity and joy in the workplace.
- Stability – being a calm, dependable presence, especially in turbulent times.
Jim shares stories that range from personal tragedy to executive resilience, the dangers of ego in leadership, and why he believes "leaders are made, not born." He also offers a candid take on the erosion of community in today’s hyper-individualistic, digital culture—and how leadership starts the moment your feet hit the floor in the morning.
What You’ll Learn:
- The nightly self-question that has guided Jim’s integrity for 40 years.
- Why leadership begins before the moment people are watching.
- How empathy differs from compassion—and why both matter.
- The strategic use of humor in diffusing conflict and fostering team cohesion.
- How real leaders build loyalty, trust, and resilience by showing up consistently.
- Stories from Jim’s time working alongside Ross Perot that will stay with you.
Memorable Quotes:
- “If you feel like you’re losing something by acting with integrity, you’re focused on the short-term.”
- “Leadership starts the moment your feet hit the floor.”
- “Humor isn’t about being a comedian—it’s about being human.”
- “Clarity is a gift you give your team—and yourself.”
Guest Bio:
Jim Carlough is a seasoned executive, mentor, and author of The Six Pillars of Effective Leadership: A Roadmap to Success. With over 40 years of experience in leading teams, managing change, and mentoring professionals, Jim brings wisdom, warmth, and practicality to every conversation. Learn more or connect with Jim at jimcarlough.com.
Links & Resources:
📖 Get Jim’s book: The Six Pillars of Effective Leadership on Amazon
🌐 Learn more about Jim’s work: www.jimcarlough.com
📅 Want to explore your own leadership journey? Book a complimentary session at ryanwattslifecoaching.com/schedule
