The Jon Gordon Podcast

Some of the most inspiring people you'll ever meet aren't those who have had an easy life, but those who have faced incredible adversity and continue to move forward with faith, courage, and hope. In this episode, I sit down with Lisa Dugal for an incredibly moving conversation about faith, resilience, overcoming adversity, and finding hope in life's most difficult moments. Lisa shares her remarkable journey of being adopted, reconnecting with her birth parents, overcoming alcohol addiction, returning to college later in life, and navigating the heartbreaking loss of her husband, Steven. Through it all, she's discovered that our past doesn't have to define our future, that it's never too late to pursue our dreams, and that God has a purpose for each of us. One of the things I love most about Lisa's story is her determination to keep moving forward, even through grief and uncertainty. She's a powerful example of what it means to live with faith, courage, and hope. We also talk about Lisa's inspiring new bestselling book, CHOSEN, proudly published by Gordon Publishing, the publishing company founded by my wife, Kathryn and I. It's a story that reminds us that no matter what we've been through, we are worthy, we have purpose, and our story is still being written. Get your copy of CHOSEN by Lisa Dugal on Amazon now! I hope this conversation encourages you to keep believing, keep growing, and remember that the best is yet to come.

What if discovering your purpose isn't about doing more, but about making yourself available for what God wants to do through you? In this episode, I'm joined by Kristin Johnson, author of the new book I AM AVAILABLE: How to Receive and Live Your Unique Purpose, for a powerful conversation about faith, purpose, and learning to recognize the opportunities God places in front of us. Kristin shares how a simple shift in her morning prayer to "Good morning, God. I'm available" transformed her perspective and ultimately changed the direction of her life. We talk about why distraction is one of the greatest enemies of purpose, the importance of stillness, and how preparing your mind, body, and spirit can position you to make a greater impact. I also share how a similar prayer in my own life led me down the path of writing, speaking, and doing the work I'm called to do today. If you've been searching for greater purpose, clarity, or direction, I believe this conversation will encourage you to slow down, open your heart, and make yourself available. Kristin's new book, I AM AVAILABLE, is proudly published by Gordon Publishing and is available now on Amazon. Get your copy today!

What does it take to truly transform your life? And what happens when you stop seeing yourself as a victim of your circumstances and start taking ownership of your future? In this episode, I sit down with Kurt Wargo, author of The Wellness Triangle: Where Alignment Becomes Transformation, to talk about his incredible journey of overcoming adversity, losing 100 pounds, rediscovering his purpose, and transforming his life from the inside out. Kurt shares how personal loss, career challenges, and years of struggle ultimately led him to discover the importance of aligning three essential areas of wellness: physical health, nutrition, and emotional and spiritual well-being. We talk about the power of mindset, the importance of faith, how adversity can become an opportunity for growth, and why taking care of yourself physically, mentally, and spiritually makes you a better person and leader. Kurt's story is a powerful reminder that your past doesn't have to define your future, and sometimes our greatest challenges prepare us for our greatest purpose. Learn more about Kurt and his book The Wellness Triangle at kurtwargo.com.

How do you stay positive when life gets difficult, negativity creeps in, or you just need a little encouragement? In this special episode, I'm sharing The LIGHT Framework: 5 Ways to Stay Positive, from my book The 7 Commitments of a Great Team. I'll walk you through five simple but powerful principles to help you choose love over fear, focus on what you can control, embrace gratitude, strengthen your faith, and talk to yourself instead of listening to negative thoughts. These are practical ways to overcome challenges, strengthen your mindset, and bring more positivity into your life and the lives of others. This is a special message from Check-In for Mindset Monday, a free weekly online gathering I host with Gordie McClay. Every Monday at 9 AM ET, we come together for 15–20 minutes of encouragement, inspiration, and connection. Our goal is simple: to remind people that they matter, they're not alone, and that sometimes a simple check-in can make all the difference. Whether you're going through a difficult season, struggling, or simply want to start your week with a more positive mindset, I'd love for you to join us! JOIN US LIVE EVERY MONDAY AT 9 AM ET: https://jongordon.com/checkin It's free, open to everyone, and I encourage you to invite someone who could use a little encouragement. And don't forget to check in on the people around you. You never know the difference it might make. Stay positive, and remember, the best is yet to come!

What could you accomplish if you stopped focusing on your limitations and started focusing on your possibilities? Richie Parker was born without arms. He went on to become a mechanical engineer, help contribute to nine NASCAR Cup championships with Hendrick Motorsports, work in college football, and even build and modify cars he drives with his feet. But this conversation isn't really about everything Richie has accomplished. It's about the mindset that made those accomplishments possible… and what you can learn from it. On this episode of The Jon Gordon Podcast, I'm with Richie Parker for a powerful conversation about belief, resilience, faith, problem-solving, and his simple approach to obstacles: Find a way. Richie shares how he learned from an early age not to accept the limitations other people placed on him, how he developed the ability to adapt and solve problems, and why he believes we're all capable of far more than we realize. You'll learn how to shift your focus from limitations to possibilities, develop greater belief in what you're capable of, approach obstacles as problems to solve instead of reasons to quit, and find joy and purpose even in difficult seasons. We also talk about Richie's faith and why he chooses to view the challenges in his life not as a curse, but as an assignment… an opportunity to learn, grow, make the most of what he's been given, and ultimately help others do the same. No matter what challenge you're facing right now, Richie's story will challenge you to stop asking why you can't… and start looking for the way forward. Find a way. Find joy along the way. And help others find their way.

On this episode of The Jon Gordon Podcast, I'm sharing a recent Ask Me Anything session where I answered real questions about leadership, mindset, relationships, and what it takes to lead with greater positivity and purpose. We dive into what positive leadership looks like in everyday life—from building strong, connected teams to overcoming negativity, fear, and anxiety. I share why the best leaders combine love with accountability, how connection builds the trust needed to help people grow, and why great leadership always begins on the inside. I also explore how your thoughts, beliefs, energy, and mindset shape the way you lead others, along with practical habits for staying positive through challenges, strengthening relationships, and bringing out the best in the people around you. Whether you're leading a team, an organization, or your family, my hope is that this conversation encourages you to lead with greater purpose, connection, and positive impact. If it helps you, share this episode with someone who wants to grow as a leader. Here's a few additional resources for you… Do you feel called to share your story with the world? Check out Gordon Publishing  Follow me on Instagram: @JonGordon11 Check out my newest book, The Power of Positive Habits.  Every week, I send out a free Positive Tip newsletter via email. It's advice for your life, work and team. You can sign up now here and catch up on past newsletters. Ready to lead with greater clarity, confidence, and purpose? The Certified Positive Leader Program is for anyone who wants to grow as a leader from the inside out. It's a self-paced experience built around my most impactful leadership principles with tools you can apply right away to improve your mindset, relationships, and results. You'll discover what it really means to lead with positivity… and how to do it every day. Learn more here! Do you feel called to do more? Would you like to impact more people as a leader, writer, speaker, coach and trainer? Get Jon Gordon Certified if you want to be mentored by me and my team to teach my proven frameworks principles, and programs for businesses, sports, education, healthcare!

On this episode of The Jon Gordon Podcast, I sit down with Francis Ablola, pioneering entrepreneur and one of the world's leading AI experts, for an open and practical conversation about harnessing the transformative power of artificial intelligence in work and life.   From his early days as a web developer and first-time entrepreneur—crossing paths with me at a book signing—to building a thriving team that's at the forefront of AI education and business applications, Francis Ablola's journey is one of relentless learning and reinvention. In our conversation, he shares how embracing AI has allowed him (and the people he mentors) to do more—to delegate, streamline, and even delete the day's biggest distractions. Together, we dive into real-life examples of using AI as a "second brain," building custom digital assistants, and creating systems that empower both business leaders and everyday people.   Along the way, Francis Ablola addresses the fears and misconceptions about AI replacing jobs, explains why learning these new tools is the key to becoming "superhuman" at work, and offers actionable ways anyone—no matter their experience—can get started, stay productive, and have fun with AI. Whether you're a leader looking to empower your team, a business owner searching for efficiency, or simply curious about what AI can do for your daily life, this episode will inspire you to see technology not as a threat, but as a tool for growth, creativity, and balance. Dive in for meaningful insights, uplifting encouragement, and a practical roadmap to thrive in the age of AI.   About Francis - Francis Ablola is an entrepreneur, marketing strategist, AI expert, and CEO of REAL Advisors, LLC. For more than a decade, he has helped entrepreneurs and organizations accelerate growth through innovative marketing, advertising, technology, and business strategy. Today, Francis is at the forefront of helping business leaders harness the power of artificial intelligence to work smarter, create more efficiently, and scale their impact. He teaches practical ways to integrate AI into everyday workflows—from developing a distinct brand voice and creating content to conducting audience research, streamlining marketing, and building AI-powered systems and tools. Francis has managed millions of dollars in online advertising that has generated tens of millions of dollars in revenue and helped grow REAL Advisors into one of America's fastest-growing private companies, reaching #80 on the Inc. 500 list in 2020. A sought-after speaker, trainer, and consultant, he has presented to audiences across the United States and around the world on AI, marketing, sales, and rapid business growth. Known for making emerging technology practical and approachable, Francis helps leaders move beyond simply experimenting with AI and begin using it intentionally to save time, amplify their authentic voice, and build more effective businesses. For free training on how to get started using AI in your business, join Francis's 3-day virtual event at AIforBusiness.com. Here's a few additional resources for you… Do you feel called to share your story with the world? Check out Gordon Publishing  Follow me on Instagram: @JonGordon11 Check out my newest book, The Power of Positive Habits.  Every week, I send out a free Positive Tip newsletter via email. It's advice for your life, work and team. You can sign up now here and catch up on past newsletters. Ready to lead with greater clarity, confidence, and purpose? The Certified Positive Leader Program is for anyone who wants to grow as a leader from the inside out. It's a self-paced experience built around my most impactful leadership principles with tools you can apply right away to improve your mindset, relationships, and results. You'll discover what it really means to lead with positivity… and how to do it every day. Learn more here! Do you feel called to do more? Would you like to impact more people as a leader, writer, speaker, coach and trainer? Get Jon Gordon Certified if you want to be mentored by me and my team to teach my proven frameworks principles, and programs for businesses, sports, education, healthcare!

In this episode, I share a live speech I gave to the coaches and players of the Boston College football team   Whether you're an athlete, coach, leader, or part of a team, this message will challenge you to rise above negativity, bring out the best in those around you, and become the kind of person others can count on—a forever teammate. If this message encourages you, share the episode with someone who could use it!   Here's a few additional resources for you… Do you feel called to share your story with the world? Check out Gordon Publishing  Follow me on Instagram: @JonGordon11 Check out my newest book, The Power of Positive Habits.  Every week, I send out a free Positive Tip newsletter via email. It's advice for your life, work and team. You can sign up now here and catch up on past newsletters. Ready to lead with greater clarity, confidence, and purpose? The Certified Positive Leader Program is for anyone who wants to grow as a leader from the inside out. It's a self-paced experience built around my most impactful leadership principles with tools you can apply right away to improve your mindset, relationships, and results. You'll discover what it really means to lead with positivity… and how to do it every day. Learn more here! Do you feel called to do more? Would you like to impact more people as a leader, writer, speaker, coach and trainer? Get Jon Gordon Certified if you want to be mentored by me and my team to teach my proven frameworks principles, and programs for businesses, sports, education, healthcare!  

On this episode I sit down with legendary high school football coach Dwight Lundeen for an inspiring conversation about his remarkable 57-year career and the heart-driven leadership philosophy that built a powerhouse program in Becker, Minnesota. Coach Lundeen's story is one of humble beginnings—starting a football program from scratch, guiding it from just 17 players to over 500 boys involved. Through decades at the helm, he's not just amassed state championships and hundreds of wins, but left an imprint across three generations of student-athletes, families, and his community. In our conversation, Coach Lundeen reveals the secret behind his longevity and success: building an unshakable culture rooted in positivity, servant leadership, and above all, love. He shares practical wisdom for connecting with both players and parents, modeling gratitude and resilience, and fostering an environment where young men grow as teammates and people—win or lose. From "happy hour" practices, to intentional team-building traditions at his family cabin, to his steadfast standard of accountability, Coach Lundeen offers a blueprint for how connection yields commitment, and how love can transform lives and communities. About Dwight - For 57 years, Dwight Lundeen has done something almost unheard of in high school football: He has dedicated his entire head coaching career to one school, Becker High School in Becker, Minnesota.  He is the only head coach in Becker School history and has led the program to more than 400 victories along with championships, awards, and countless memorable moments. But the numbers only tell part of the story. What makes Coach Lundeen remarkable is that after 57 years, his greatest measure of success isn't the wins, the championships or the records – it's the lives he has influenced.  He has used football as a vehicle to teach young people about character,  discipline, perseverance, relationships, leadership and what it means to live with purpose. Thousands of players have called him Coach Lundeen.  But his greatest legacy may be found in the men they became long after they stopped playing for him. His story is a powerful reminder than success can be measured in wins, but impact is measured in lives. Success is Temporary, Impact is Forever. - 57 Years of Influence Here's a few additional resources for you… Do you feel called to share your story with the world? Check out Gordon Publishing  Follow me on Instagram: @JonGordon11 Check out my newest book, The Power of Positive Habits.  Every week, I send out a free Positive Tip newsletter via email. It's advice for your life, work and team. You can sign up now here and catch up on past newsletters. Ready to lead with greater clarity, confidence, and purpose? The Certified Positive Leader Program is for anyone who wants to grow as a leader from the inside out. It's a self-paced experience built around my most impactful leadership principles with tools you can apply right away to improve your mindset, relationships, and results. You'll discover what it really means to lead with positivity… and how to do it every day. Learn more here! Do you feel called to do more? Would you like to impact more people as a leader, writer, speaker, coach and trainer? Get Jon Gordon Certified if you want to be mentored by me and my team to teach my proven frameworks principles, and programs for businesses, sports, education, healthcare!

On this episode, I sit down with Doug Dentler, CFO and author of Rise to Lead, for an honest, insightful conversation about what it really takes to elevate your leadership in today's workplace. Doug shares the highs and lows of his corporate journey, from early days "mimicking" leadership styles he thought would help him succeed, to reaching a breakthrough when he realized true leadership starts from within. Drawing from decades in finance and executive roles, Doug opens up about the transformative moments that led him to create the RISE Framework: Root yourself in purpose, Implement an intentional plan, Serve others, and Elevate with positivity. In our discussion, Doug reflects on how leadership has evolved from the days of tough accountability to a more human, purpose-driven approach. He reveals powerful stories of personal change - how re-centering his purpose impacted both his career and family, why coaching was a turning point, and the legacy that comes from serving others and fostering positive cultures. Doug's practical tips for being intentional, learning from mistakes, and investing in people will inspire any leader, seasoned or aspiring, to rethink what's possible in their own journey. About Doug – Doug Dentler is a financial executive and leadership strategist with more than 25 years of experience across Fortune 500 and privately held organizations. He combines operational finance expertise with a disciplined, people-centered leadership approach that drives execution and performance. He leads complex, global operations, including oversight of more than $1.5B in revenue, 1,900 employees, and multi-site organizations. He builds teams that operate as strategic partners, aligns cross-functional leaders around clear priorities, and implements processes that increase efficiency, accountability, and results. Grounded in values learned working in his family's business, he serves others with transparency, consistency, and a commitment to both performance and people. Colleagues consistently recognize his ability to remain steady under pressure, quickly identify core issues, and guide teams toward focused execution. But he also experienced burnout, disconnection, and promotions that felt hollow. He was climbing but not growing, until he finally learned to lead as his authentic self. He developed the RISE Framework to give leaders and teams what he wished he had – a clear, proven system for leading from the inside out, backed by time-tested leadership principles. His work strengthens leaders, improves team engagement, and creates cultures that sustain performance. To work with Doug for coaching, team development, executive strategy, or speaking engagements, visit dougdentler.com. Connect with Doug: [email protected] Buy the book plus claim the bonus resource: http://dougdentler.com/risetolead     Let us help you take your next steps in writing or publishing your book! Schedule a free Author Session at: https://gordonpublishing.com/session   Rather watch this message? You can access the workshop replay at: https://jongordon.com/webinar-how-to-write-publish-and-market-a-book/ Here's a few additional resources for you… Follow me on Instagram: @JonGordon11 Check out my newest book, The Power of Positive Habits.  Every week, I send out a free Positive Tip newsletter via email. It's advice for your life, work and team. You can sign up now here and catch up on past newsletters. Ready to lead with greater clarity, confidence, and purpose? The Certified Positive Leader Program is for anyone who wants to grow as a leader from the inside out. It's a self-paced experience built around my most impactful leadership principles with tools you can apply right away to improve your mindset, relationships, and results. You'll discover what it really means to lead with positivity… and how to do it every day. Learn more here! Do you feel called to do more? Would you like to impact more people as a leader, writer, speaker, coach and trainer? Get Jon Gordon Certified if you want to be mentored by me and my team to teach my proven frameworks principles, and programs for businesses, sports, education, healthcare!