Best Mark Tilsher Podcasts (2025)

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188. Climb With Purpose: Introduction to the Sherpa Code 11:25

4d ago11:25

11:25

Core values are essential—but too often, they don’t show us how to actually lead people, develop ourselves, or build high-performing teams. In this kickoff to our 14-part Sherpa Code series, we dive into why military values are necessary but incomplete, and why every leader needs a clearly defined code to climb with others. This episode lays the fo…

1
187. Leading Without Stripes: Influence When Authority Fades 10:39

13d ago10:39

10:39

As you rise through the ranks, leadership stops being about authority and starts being about influence. From tough personalities to volunteer teams with no obligation to follow, the true test of your leadership is who listens when they don’t have to. In this episode, we explore how to build influence early—and why it's one of the most critical skil…

1
186. Creating Clarity Like Mandela in Prison 11:34

20d ago11:34

11:34

What kind of leadership legacy can you build from a prison cell? In this episode, we examine Nelson Mandela’s 27-year imprisonment and how he used rhythm, reflection, and relationship to lead without authority. Explore how to bring clarity and culture to your team—even when you feel powerless to change your situation. Conversation Prompts: Have you…

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185. Fog of War: Petraeus, Baghdad, and Briefing with Uncertainty 14:11

27d ago14:11

14:11

How do you lead when every answer you give might be wrong—but silence would be worse? In this episode, we dive into General David Petraeus’s leadership during the height of the Iraq War, where urban warfare and political scrutiny collided. Learn how to communicate clarity when certainty isn’t an option—and why your presence, tone, and timing can ma…

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184. Your Soul Is Not a Collateral Cost 13:40

1M ago13:40

13:40

Part of the Lost in the Climb series — a 4-part deep dive into how high-performing leaders lose themselves chasing success, and how to find the way back. Feeling stuck in a system you once believed in? You’re not alone. In this final episode, we expose the myth that you have to quit to find peace — and show how recalibration, not resignation, is th…

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183. The Dangerous Myth of ‘Balance’ 11:06

1M ago11:06

11:06

Part of the Lost in the Climb series — a 4-part deep dive into how high-performing leaders lose themselves chasing success, and how to find the way back. What if “work-life balance” is the wrong goal? In this episode, we dismantle the illusion that you can do it all — equally and perfectly. Instead, we offer a values-based approach that empowers le…

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182. The Real Reason You’re Burnt Out (And It’s Not the Mission) 19:58

1M ago19:58

19:58

Part of the Lost in the Climb series — a 4-part deep dive into how high-performing leaders lose themselves chasing success, and how to find the way back. Burnout isn't always about doing too much — sometimes it's about doing too much of what doesn’t matter. In this episode, we explore the hidden costs of chasing rank, status, and approval at the ex…

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181: When the Mask Becomes the Man 19:58

1M ago19:58

19:58

Part of the Lost in the Climb series — a 4-part deep dive into how high-performing leaders lose themselves chasing success, and how to find the way back. What happens when the rank, the role, or the reputation becomes who you are? In this episode, we explore how leadership identities form — and distort — in high-performance environments. We'll walk…

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180. The Enemy Gets a Vote: Eisenhower and the D-Day Delay 14:11

2M ago14:11

14:11

What do you do when the biggest decision of your life hinges on a weather report? In this episode, we explore the story of General Dwight D. Eisenhower’s decision to delay the D-Day invasion by 24 hours—a move that may have changed the course of history. Learn why strategic patience, humility, and clarity are essential leadership traits in times of…

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179. Chaos in the Cockpit: Apollo 13 & Mission Drift 12:42

2M ago12:42

12:42

What happens when your plan blows up—literally? In this episode, we unpack the Apollo 13 crisis as a leadership masterclass in clarity under pressure. Learn how to anchor your team when the mission changes overnight, and walk away with practical tools to lead through the fog. Conversation Prompts: When have you experienced a "mission drift" moment …

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178. Leading When They Don’t Like You: Standing Firm in the Storm 16:16

2M ago16:16

16:16

Description: You can do everything right—and still get criticized. In this episode, we unpack the leadership reality that you can’t please everyone, and more importantly, you shouldn’t try. Learn how to lead with clarity, hold the line with accountability, and deal with the emotional fallout of being misunderstood or disliked. Team Discussion Promp…

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177. Bridging Generational Divides: Resolving Team Conflicts with Confidence 17:08

2M ago17:08

17:08

Conflict is inevitable in a diverse, multi-generational workforce—but it doesn’t have to be destructive. In this episode, we unpack universal principles and guidelines to help leaders de-escalate tensions, navigate generational misunderstandings, and foster stronger team dynamics. Learn how to turn conflict into collaboration using proven strategie…

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176. Generational Feedback: How Each Generation Prefers to Receive Praise and Criticism 14:31

3M ago14:31

14:31

Feedback is the fuel of leadership, but not everyone receives it the same way. What works for a Baby Boomer might alienate a Gen Z Airman. In this episode, we break down how different generations prefer to receive both praise and constructive criticism. From private conversations to public recognition, understanding these preferences can be the key…

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175. Communication Across Generations: Speaking the Same Language 11:43

3M ago11:43

11:43

Effective communication is a fundamental leadership skill, but generational differences can often create unintentional barriers. In this episode, we’ll dive into the unique communication preferences of each generation, provide actionable advice to bridge these gaps, and help leaders foster understanding and clarity across age groups. Conversation P…

1
174. Understanding the Generations at Work: Building Bridges Across the Ages 21:29

3M ago21:29

21:29

In this episode, we explore the unique traits, values, and expectations that each generation brings to the workplace. From Baby Boomers to Gen Z, we’ll break down what makes each group tick and how leaders can leverage these diverse perspectives to create thriving, collaborative teams. Conversation Prompts for Leaders What do you think is the great…

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173. Staying Above Board: Legal Compliance and Organizational Management 17:31

3M ago17:31

17:31

Running a private org isn’t just about fundraising and events—it’s about staying compliant with 501(c) regulations, managing relationships with base offices, and avoiding common pitfalls. In this episode, we dive into legal requirements, effective relationship-building strategies, and micro-fundraising tactics to keep your organization thriving. Le…

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172. Teamwork in Action: Empowering Committees for Success 9:42

3M ago9:42

9:42

Empowered committees are the backbone of successful private organizations, but fostering collaboration and ownership can be challenging. In this episode, we explore strategies to set clear expectations, delegate effectively, and help committees align with your organization’s mission. Discover how to overcome generational and cultural divides and un…

1
171. More Than Showing Up: Maximizing Member Contributions 9:34

4M ago9:34

9:34

Strong private organizations thrive when members actively engage and contribute beyond attendance. This episode explores practical strategies to motivate members, align roles with their strengths, and foster a culture of meaningful involvement. Shift from passive participation to impactful action and watch your organization flourish. Conversation S…

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170. The Heart of Leadership: Guiding Your Private Org with Vision and Credibility 13:28

4M ago13:28

13:28

Effective leadership within private organizations on military bases demands more than authority—it requires influence, vision, and credibility. In this episode, we explore how leading volunteers differs from leading in the workplace, especially when faced with one-year cycles and peer-dominated environments. You’ll learn how to cast a compelling vi…

1
169. Executing the Vision: Turning Alignment into Action 11:23

4M ago11:23

11:23

Many leaders succeed in defining a vision and building buy-in, but execution is where most initiatives falter. In this episode, we explore the art of turning vision into reality by breaking it into actionable steps, fostering accountability, and keeping teams aligned. Packed with practical strategies and real-world examples, this episode will help …

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168. Sustaining Momentum: Turning Vision into Results 9:31

4M ago9:31

9:31

Momentum is easy to lose but critical to sustain. In the final episode of this series, we explore practical strategies to keep your team aligned, motivated, and moving forward long after the initial excitement of change fades. Using proven tools like the CORE Process and the 100X Indicator, you’ll learn how to maintain focus, adapt as needed, and e…

1
167. Building Buy-In: The Heart of Alignment 13:32

5M ago13:32

13:32

Struggling to get your team on the same page? Alignment is the secret ingredient for building momentum and achieving success, but it requires trust, strategy, and intentionality. In this episode of The Military Sherpa Leadership Podcast, we dive into the art of building buy-in and creating alignment within your team. From navigating challenging per…

1
166. Building Momentum: Why Vision Matters 14:07

5M ago14:07

14:07

Do you feel like your team is stuck in neutral as the new year begins? Starting strong isn't about resolutions—it's about creating a vision that inspires action. In this episode of The Military Sherpa Leadership Podcast, we explore why vision matters, how it unlocks brainpower and initiative, and the powerful impact it has on team productivity. Lea…

1
165. Doing More with Less: Finding Your Leadership Sweet Spot 23:18

8M ago23:18

23:18

We’ve all heard it: Do more with less. But how do you manage that without letting your work-life balance fall apart? In this episode, we tackle the listener question, “How do we keep getting told to do more with less, and why are we surprised when work-life balance is askew?” We’ll break down five strategies for becoming more effective while protec…

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164. Part 2, How to Deal with a Horrible Boss Without Killing Them: Leadership Under Fire 15:31

8M ago15:31

15:31

We’ve all been there—stuck under a boss who doesn’t seem to see past your rank or give you the support you deserve. But in the military, you can’t pick your boss, and sometimes you have to make the best of a bad situation. In this episode, we’ll dive into four key strategies for navigating a difficult leadership dynamic: protecting your boss’s posi…

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163. How to Deal with a Horrible Boss Without Killing Them 16:13

9M ago16:13

16:13

We’ve all been there—working under a boss who seems more like a villain than a leader. In this episode, we tackle the tough topic of dealing with a horrible boss. Whether they’re micromanaging, inconsistent, or just plain toxic, a bad boss can make even the best job feel unbearable. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Join us as we explore practica…

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Special Episode: Launching a Legacy: Justice Tilsher’s Journey to Becoming a Young Entrepreneur 13:47

9M ago13:47

13:47

In this special episode, I sit down with my son, Justice Tilsher, a bestselling author and young entrepreneur, to talk about his new business and exciting podcast for aspiring writers. We dive into the world of young writers and explore how Justice is helping them finish and publish their first book. Join us for a heartfelt conversation about legac…

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162. Silent Firing: The Coward’s Shortcut in Leadership 12:26

9M ago12:26

12:26

In this episode, we dive into the concept of "Silent Firing"—the subtle yet damaging practice of quietly sidelining underperforming team members without clear communication or accountability. We'll explore how this passive approach not only demoralizes the individual but also undermines the entire team's performance and culture. Discover how to rec…

1
161. Taking a Leadership Inventory 10:50

9M ago10:50

10:50

In leadership, the gap between theory and practice often marks the difference between success and failure. As we conclude our Basecamp series, this episode offers a deep dive into the strategies necessary to embody the qualities of effective leadership. Drawing on advanced leadership theories, such as Google's Project Oxygen and Gallup's research o…

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160. Leading Like Google: Key Traits from Project Oxygen (Part 2) 12:14

10M ago12:14

12:14

(Part 2) What does it take to be a leader worth following? In this episode, we’re breaking down Google’s Project Oxygen to uncover the top leadership traits that can transform any team. We’ll focus on the key behaviors that Google identified as essential: being a good coach, empowering teams, avoiding micromanagement, creating an inclusive team env…

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159. Leading Like Google: Key Traits from Project Oxygen (Part 1) 24:02

10M ago24:02

24:02

What does it take to be a leader worth following? In this episode, we’re breaking down Google’s Project Oxygen to uncover the top leadership traits that can transform any team. We’ll focus on the key behaviors that Google identified as essential: being a good coach, empowering teams, avoiding micromanagement, creating an inclusive team environment,…

1
158. Recharge to Lead Better 12:13

10M ago12:13

12:13

In this episode, Mark Tilsher explores the critical role of rest and downtime in enhancing team performance and leadership effectiveness. Sharing personal anecdotes and backed by research, Mark delves into why rest is essential for leaders and their teams, how to incorporate intentional rest periods, and the benefits of play and downtime in fosteri…

1
157. The Assertiveness Trap: Competence Over Noise 13:23

11M ago13:23

13:23

Episode Title: Description: In this episode, Mark Tilsher dives deep into the concept of assertiveness in leadership. Often mistaken for competence, assertiveness can either make or break your influence in a team setting. Mark shares personal anecdotes from his military career, backed by research and practical tips on how to harness the power of as…

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156. Reflecting on Independence: Gratitude and Patriotism in Leadership 5:43

11M ago5:43

5:43

Join us for a special Fourth of July episode of the Military Sherpa Leadership Podcast as we celebrate Independence Day with a blend of history, reflection, and gratitude. In this episode, host Mark Tilsher takes us back to July 4th, 1776, spotlighting the inspiring story of John Adams and the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Explore how…

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155. Gaining Influence: How Sydney Cox Uses Military Sherpa Tools to Transform Leadership on Base 28:30

11M ago28:30

28:30

In this episode of the Military Sherpa Leadership Podcast, we sit down with Sydney Cox, an Air Force Development Advisor who has gained significant influence on her base by effectively utilizing Military Sherpa Coaching tools. Sydney shares her journey, revealing the strategies she employed to gain traction and trust within organizations like Milit…

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154. Empowering Leaders: Beyond Accountability 17:33

1+ y ago17:33

17:33

Dive into the essence of true empowerment in this episode of The Military Sherpa Leadership Podcast, where we explore the top tier of the Empowerment Hierarchy. Understand why empowerment is not just about freedom, but also about fostering trust, innovation, and engagement among your team. Learn how to identify if your team is truly empowered and d…

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153. Responsible Leadership: The Empowerment Catalyst 12:36

1+ y ago12:36

12:36

Unpack the 'Responsible' layer of the Empowerment Hierarchy in this episode and learn how it serves as a catalyst for leadership empowerment. Master the art of fostering trust and ownership to transform your team. Tune in for a profound exploration of proactive leadership strategies.By Mark Tilsher

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152. Shaping Order: The Accountable Tier Unveiled 12:29

1+ y ago12:29

12:29

Peel back the layers of the Accountable tier in this insightful dive into the empowerment hierarchy. Discover its role in your team’s dynamic and how to foster growth from this crucial foundation. Tune in and transform accountability into a stepping stone for leadership excellence.By Mark Tilsher

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151. Elevating Beyond Toxicity: Empowerment Hierarchy 11:35

1+ y ago11:35

11:35

In this episode of The Military Sherpa Leadership Podcast, we embark on a strategic journey beyond toxic followership. Dive deep into the Empowerment Hierarchy, a transformative framework designed to replace insecurity and control with empowerment and trust in military leadership. Learn how to elevate your team's performance and morale by understan…

1
150. The Origin of Toxic Followership, Pt. 2 15:47

1+ y ago15:47

15:47

Toxicity, in its many guises, creeps silently, leaving in its wake leaders who are revered and reviled. As we journey deeper in this three-part series, we shed light on the triad of toxic traits—Insecurity, Arrogance, and Pride. These traits, often seen in toxic followers, can germinate into devastating leadership flaws. The fine line between arrog…

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149 - Visioning Your Future: A New Year's Resolution Revolution 13:20

1+ y ago13:20

13:20

In this thought-provoking episode of The Military Sherpa Leadership Podcast, we embark on a journey of transformation, leaving traditional New Year's resolutions behind. Instead, we delve into the power of envisioning your future, guided by a seasoned veteran's wisdom. Join us as we explore how shifting from resolutions to vision can reshape your l…

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148. Thanksgiving in Service - The Heartwarming Tale of the USS Kirk (23 Nov) 2:46

1+ y ago2:46

2:46

Welcome to a special Thanksgiving edition of The Military Sherpa Leadership Podcast. As we gather with family and friends, it's essential to remember those who've served and continue to serve our nation, often far from their homes and loved ones during this season. Today, I'll share with you a touching story from our nation's history, reflecting th…

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147. The Origin of Toxic Followership, Pt. 1 14:42

1+ y ago14:42

14:42

Every military unit fears toxic leadership, but how often do we trace its roots? This is the first episode in a three-part series that dives deep into the emergence of toxic leaders. It's an unsettling truth—these leaders often rise from the ranks of toxic followers. By understanding and addressing the three core traits that fuel toxicity, we can i…

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146. The Toxic Follower Series, The Kickoff 13:50

1+ y ago13:50

13:50

Delve into the roots of toxic leadership in this eye-opening episode. Discover the signs of toxic followership, and learn actionable strategies for nurturing a healthier leadership culture. Tune in for transformative insights every week.By Mark Tilsher

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145. If I Were King For A Day - Prioritizing Peace 16:03

1+ y ago16:03

16:03

Delve into a visionary blueprint for a transformed Department of Defense (DoD). Understand the peace index's unparalleled significance for service members on the cusp of transitioning and its potential to rewrite the narrative of post-military life. Let's explore together the profound implications of prioritizing peace and holistic well-being in ou…

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144. The Art of Leadership: Saying No Strategically 10:40

2y ago10:40

10:40

In this episode of The Military Sherpa Leadership Podcast, we delve into the art of leadership and the power of saying no strategically. With a focus on simplifying the coaching process for military leaders, we explore how the ability to say no can enhance leadership effectiveness and foster high-performing teams. Join us as we discuss the importan…

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143. Unveiling the Overlaps: Exploring the Intersections Between 5 Voices and Mental Health 9:55

2y ago9:55

9:55

Join us for an insightful episode of The Military Sherpa Leadership Podcast as we explore the fascinating question: Is there a correlation between mental health DSM and the 5 Voices? Dive into the overlaps and distinctions between these two domains, gaining valuable insights into human behavior and relationships. Discover how specific voices may re…

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142. Unleashing Leadership Innovation: Driving High-Performance and Growth 12:33

2y ago12:33

12:33

Join us in this episode of The Military Sherpa Leadership Podcast as we explore the transformative power of innovation in leadership. Inspired by Steve Jobs' quote, "Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower," we delve into five key areas that will help you harness innovation as a leader. From leveraging data to delegating effectivel…

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141. Opportunity in Adversity: How to Embrace a Positive Mindset 15:55

2y ago15:55

15:55

In this episode of The Military Sherpa Leadership Podcast, we explore the power of a positive mindset when facing adversity. Inspired by Winston Churchill's quote, "The pessimist sees difficulty in every opportunity. The optimist sees opportunity in every difficulty," we discuss how negativity can hinder problem-solving, creativity, and progress. B…

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140. Mastering Military Leadership: Your Registration Blueprint 8:20

2y ago8:20

8:20

Unlock the path to stronger leadership in the military sector with episode 125 of our series. We take you step by step through the process of registration, providing insights into what participation in our transformative classes looks like. Get ready to decode the blueprint of your potential leadership growth, embrace new challenges, and craft a th…

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