Great leaders do the small things well. Listen to these 3 tips to lead better today. Go to www.leadersipislistening.com on the bottom of the page find Daniel Merritt’s song “Ruckus”.

A story about two leaders and how one of them created chaos and problems while the other boosted moral and turned not only the school around but the community as well.

SMART Goals can help you organize your plan, stay productive, and accomplish what you want. It’s a good method to try if you want to achieve more and get better results, have better relationships, and make more money. Keep us Simple, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and time based.

My thoughts to open this year... what do you want in 2018? Instead of a New Years resolution I’m focusing my energy into 4 things that I want. In this podcast you will hear some tips and ideas to help you get what you want. Please share your thoughts and comments on my Facebook page and website, Leadership is Listening.

Matt Paul has been with State Farm for 8 years and now holds the position as Sales Leader.  He works with 28 different agents in Central and West Texas to help maximize their earnings, crush their sales goals, and grow professionally as they lead their teams.  As a Texas Tech graduate, banker, pharmaceutical sales rep, and previous State Farm Agent himself, he understands what it takes to succeed and grow a business.  He does it with a Christlike attitude and passion.

Joey Light is the Superintendent of Wylie ISD in Abilene, TX.  He has led his school from 2000, first as an assistant superintendent.  But before tackling administration he led in the classroom and as a coach.   Joey leads with passion, integrity, and believes prayer is the most important attribute a leader can possess.  He is an inspiration to many and dedicates his bandwidth to educating kids how to be the leaders of tomorrow.

Dr. Gary McCaleb is the Vice President of Abilene Christian University, Executive Director of Center for Building Communities, and professor of management at ACU. He has authored and produced two books, "Community: The 'Other' Side of Self" and "The Gift of Community: Reflections on the Way We Live and Work Together." He served as Mayor of Abilene, TX for 9 years and speaks nationally and internationally on city issues and particularly the importance of building community. See more about Dr. McCaleb at ACU's Website.

Mark Spurlock is a 37-year-old Xerox legend. He owned and operated Innovative Business Systems, Xerox Authorized Platinum Sales Agency for 21 years.  He led a team of 9-10 with passion, integrity, honesty, and authenticity.  He is a family man and was married before the passing of his wife in 2013.  He has two children and two grandchildren.

Katie Alford is the President & CEO of Community Foundation of Abilene. She oversees the foundation's $100 million in assets. She graduated from Abilene Christian University and is now on four different boards-Hendrick Home for Children, Abilene Industrial Foundation, ContinueCare Hospital, and First Financial Bank of Abilene.

Seaton Higginbotham has been a part of Arrow for since 1974.  A family owned business since its birth, Arrow remains one of the most reputable Ford dealerships in the nation.  Seaton is currently President and General Manager.  He graduated from Texas Tech University.  He has chaired numerous boards and currently is Chairman of the Workforce Development.