Are you chasing goals that feel just out of reach? In our first-ever live episode, Adrian and Bri tackle the concept of Chasing Smoke—the relentless pursuit of dreams and expectations that often leave us feeling empty. Too often, we measure success by society's scoreboard, only to find ourselves disillusioned. But what if the real victory comes from defining success on your own terms? Broadcasted in front of a live audience, Adrian shares his journey of redefining his personal scoreboard, breaking away from comparison and societal pressures. He reflects on the challenge of balancing ambition with authenticity, explaining how true fulfillment comes not from achieving external markers but from living in alignment with one's calling and purpose. Bri adds insight on sacrifice and faith, emphasizing the importance of trusting that the time invested now will pay dividends in the future. Key Takeaways:

• The dangers of "Chasing Smoke"—pursuing success based on external expectations.
• How to redefine success by setting your own scoreboard in life. 🎯
• The importance of sacrifice and resilience, and why sometimes saying "no" is essential for growth.
• Practical tips for discovering your purpose and remaining authentic in a world full of comparisons.
• How to build a legacy beyond the workplace by focusing on values that truly matter. 🌱

Join us on this journey as we dive deep in our first live episode, bringing real-time insights and raw reflections. Ready to stop chasing and start living with purpose? Reflect this week on what matters most, and consider redefining your scoreboard for a more fulfilling journey. Let us know how you’re shifting your focus, and check out the full episode for more insights!

 

📲 Connect with Us:

Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review! Share your thoughts on how power and fear have played a role in your own leadership experiences.

Whether you are a corporate leader, parent, or any individual who finds themselves in a position of leadership - we hope this podcast brings you one step closer on the journey to becoming authentically yourself. 

We'd love to hear your thoughts! After listening, don't forget to leave a comment on YouTube, leave a review, and share your favorite takeaways on social media.

More of a visual person? 

You can WATCH today’s episode on our Youtube Channel: 

Youtube: youtube.com/WriteNewRules

 

To stay connected, visit us at the following places to help as a guide for you on your journey to becoming an authentic leader!

 

LinkedIn: Adrian Crawford

Instagram: @writenewrules

TikTok: @writenewrules

 

Are you a leader who simply manages tasks, or are you someone who transforms lives? In this episode, Bri and Adrian dive into the critical difference between transformational leadership and transactional leadership. Too often, leaders fall into the trap of operating in a give-and-take dynamic, where interactions are merely transactions. But transformational leaders aim to create deep, lasting impact across every sphere they touch—whether in the workplace, their community, or personal relationships. Bri and Adrian unpack what it means to lead with purpose, focusing on long-term growth and developing people, rather than just achieving short-term results. They highlight how a transformational approach encourages trust, loyalty, and true engagement from those being led, and why these leaders leave a legacy far beyond the transactional. Key Takeaways:

• The difference between transactional leadership and transformational leadership.
• How transformational leaders impact lives deeply by creating meaningful connections and inspiring growth.
• The importance of purpose in leadership and how to move beyond simply managing tasks.
• Why transformational leadership drives higher loyalty and engagement from teams, fostering stronger relationships.
• Practical steps to shift from being a transactional leader to one that truly transforms.

Are you leading just for results, or are you looking to transform lives? Evaluate your leadership approach this week. Think about where you might be operating transactionally, and identify one area where you can make a transformational shift. Leave us a comment or share your thoughts on social media about your leadership journey—what’s working, and where you’re looking to grow! 📲 Connect with Us:

Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review! Share your thoughts on how power and fear have played a role in your own leadership experiences.

To check out the Dan Hurley interview mentions, click here! : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rAjqC85tS5o&list=PLox03BctkPtW8U7bfRq9uFIkXywrm-2fc 

Whether you are a corporate leader, parent, or any individual who finds themselves in a position of leadership - we hope this podcast brings you one step closer on the journey to becoming authentically yourself. 

We'd love to hear your thoughts! After listening, don't forget to leave a comment on YouTube, leave a review, and share your favorite takeaways on social media.

 

More of a visual person? 

You can WATCH today’s episode on our Youtube Channel: 

Youtube: youtube.com/WriteNewRules

 

To stay connected, visit us at the following places to help as a guide for you on your journey to becoming an authentic leader!

 

LinkedIn: Adrian Crawford

Instagram: @writenewrules

TikTok: @writenewrules

 

Have you ever been paralyzed by a piece of criticism, feeling like it cut deeper than just your work—like it was an attack on who you are? What if you could learn to see feedback as fuel for growth instead of a personal blow? In this episode, we dive deep into the power of resilience when it comes to handling criticism and feedback. For leaders, creators, and individuals alike, the ability to separate feedback from personal identity is a crucial skill—one that requires practice and self-awareness. Key Takeaways:

• Building the Feedback Muscle: How learning to receive and respond to feedback without internalizing it is like training a muscle—you get stronger the more you do it. We explore strategies to embrace constructive criticism while maintaining your self-worth and confidence.
• Parts of the Whole: Your actions, decisions, and work are only parts of who you are. Understanding that feedback often targets those parts, not your whole identity, can help you process it without feeling attacked.
• Self-Awareness and Resilience: Growing in self-awareness is key to building resilience. We discuss why developing an accurate sense of self and separating it from external opinions is essential to thriving in leadership roles and personal growth.
• The Spectrum of Sensitivity: Why some people take things too personally and others build walls too thick to let in feedback. How leaders can help balance these tendencies in themselves and their teams.
• Fulfilling Roles While Keeping a Sense of Self: Leadership requires fulfilling roles that may be subject to criticism. We talk about how to stay true to yourself while performing duties that might receive pushback or scrutiny.
• Leading Through Criticism: Practical tips for leaders on navigating and giving constructive feedback to their teams while fostering an environment that encourages growth and open communication.

Why People Take It Personally: We examine why people often feel personally attacked by feedback—whether it’s insecurity, lack of self-awareness, or past experiences. Understanding the root of these reactions can help leaders provide feedback more effectively and guide their teams with empathy. When Feedback Doesn't Stick: On the flip side, we discuss the danger of becoming too hardened to feedback. When the armor is too thick, nothing gets through, leading to stagnation and missed opportunities for growth. Criticism, when received well, is a powerful tool for growth. But it’s up to us to build the resilience to let feedback refine us without defining us. Have you ever struggled with receiving feedback? How do you lead yourself and others through critical moments? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments, and don't forget to subscribe for more leadership insights and tools! 📲 Connect with Us:

Whether you are a corporate leader, parent, or any individual who finds themselves in a position of leadership - we hope this podcast brings you one step closer on the journey to becoming authentically yourself. 

We'd love to hear your thoughts! After listening, don't forget to leave a comment on YouTube, leave a review, and share your favorite takeaways on social media.

More of a visual person? 

You can WATCH today’s episode on our Youtube Channel: 

Youtube: youtube.com/cadriancrawford

 

To stay connected, visit us at the following places to help as a guide for you on your journey to becoming an authentic leader!

 

LinkedIn: Adrian Crawford

Instagram: @writenewrules

TikTok: @writenewrules

 

How do you handle feedback that hits you hard? In this episode, Adrian and Bri dive into the art of receiving feedback—even when it’s not given in the most loving way. They unpack the uncomfortable but necessary role of feedback in leadership growth, sharing personal stories of the hardest feedback they’ve received (and had to give). Through these experiences, they highlight how enduring painful feedback is often the key to unlocking growth and becoming a better leader. Join us as we explore how to turn criticism into strength and why true progress often requires embracing discomfort. Key Takeaways:

• Feedback Fuels Growth: The toughest feedback often leads to the most significant breakthroughs.
• Receiving with Grace: Learn to hear the message without becoming defensive, even when feedback is harsh.
• Growth Requires Discomfort: Personal development comes with challenges, but pain is a crucial part of progress.
• Giving Tough Feedback: Leaders must learn to deliver feedback effectively, balancing honesty with empathy.

Actionable Steps:

• Reflect on Tough Feedback: Think about a time you received harsh feedback and what it taught you.
• Seek Feedback Regularly: Don’t wait for others to give it—ask for it.
• Process Before Responding: Take a moment to reflect before reacting to feedback, especially if it's critical.

What’s the toughest feedback you’ve ever received? Share your experience and let us know how it shaped your leadership journey. Ready to embrace the growth that comes with discomfort? Start by reflecting on your most recent feedback and see how it can push you forward. Don’t forget to subscribe for more insights on leadership and personal development!

Whether you are a corporate leader, parent, or any individual who finds themselves in a position of leadership - we hope this podcast brings you one step closer on the journey to becoming authentically yourself. 

We'd love to hear your thoughts! After listening, don't forget to leave a comment on YouTube, leave a review, and share your favorite takeaways on social media.

 

📲 Connect with Us:

Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review! Share your thoughts on how power and fear have played a role in your own leadership experiences.

 

More of a visual person? 

You can WATCH today’s episode on our Youtube Channel: 

Youtube: youtube.com/cadriancrawford

 

To stay connected, visit us at the following places to help as a guide for you on your journey to becoming an authentic leader!

 

LinkedIn: Adrian Crawford

Instagram: @writenewrules

TikTok: @writenewrules

 

What happens when a team full of potential crashes under the weight of expectations? Florida State Football was supposed to dominate this season, but instead, they've become a case study in how even the most talented teams can struggle without the right direction. Adrian, a seasoned expert on team dynamics and cultures, walks us through his approach to identifying and addressing the core issues holding the team back. In this episode, we dive into the unexpected struggles of Florida State Football. Once a team predicted to be a top contender, they've fallen short of expectations, leaving fans and experts alike questioning what went wrong.  But this isn't just about football. Adrian highlights the broader leadership lessons we can all take from the challenges FSU is facing. Whether you’re leading in the boardroom, a community, or even in your own home, there’s something to learn from how teams fall apart—and more importantly, how they can be rebuilt.

 

 

🔥 Key Takeaways:

• How to assess team dysfunction from a leadership perspective
• Why talent alone isn't enough to create a winning culture
• The critical importance of addressing underlying issues instead of quick fixes
• How leaders can apply these strategies to turn around their own struggling teams
• The role of self-awareness and humility in leadership when things aren’t going as planned

 

 

Tune in to hear Adrian’s thoughtful breakdown of where FSU went wrong and how those same strategies can translate into real-world leadership growth. Have you ever led a team that wasn’t meeting expectations? Share your experience in the comments or tag us in your leadership stories on social media!

 

📲 Connect with Us:

Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review! Share your thoughts on how power and fear have played a role in your own leadership experiences.

Whether you are a corporate leader, parent, or any individual who finds themselves in a position of leadership - we hope this podcast brings you one step closer on the journey to becoming authentically yourself. 

We'd love to hear your thoughts! After listening, don't forget to leave a comment on YouTube, leave a review, and share your favorite takeaways on social media.

More of a visual person? 

You can WATCH today’s episode on our Youtube Channel: 

Youtube: youtube.com/cadriancrawford

To stay connected, visit us at the following places to help as a guide for you on your journey to becoming an authentic leader!

LinkedIn: Adrian Crawford

Instagram: @writenewrules

TikTok: @writenewrules

 

What happens when you take a hard look at reality? How do we truly assess where we are, what we're capable of, and where we should be going? In this episode, Adrian and Bri explore the often uncomfortable but necessary process of interrogating reality. From understanding your current skill set to mapping out a realistic path forward, they discuss the discipline required to grow without getting stuck in self-doubt or unrealistic expectations.

Adrian shares personal stories from his days playing basketball alongside legends like Kobe Bryant and Michael Jordan, reflecting on how those experiences forced him to confront the reality of his own skills. Meanwhile, Bri dives into her journey of less thinking and more doing—learning how to stop overanalyzing and start taking action.

Together, they offer strategies to accurately assess where you are, tools to help you embrace that reality without spiraling, and practical advice for cultivating the discipline needed to move forward, regardless of your current skill set.

Highlights:

Interrogating Reality:

• Self-Assessment: How to honestly evaluate your current skills and what you’re capable of achieving.

• Adrian’s Journey: Lessons learned from playing with basketball legends and how they shaped his understanding of his own abilities.

• Bri’s Challenge: The balance between overthinking and taking action, and how she’s learning to lean into doing more.

The Reality Check:

• Tools for Growth: Practical methods to assess yourself accurately and move forward with clarity.

• Avoiding the Spiral: How to embrace your current abilities—whether positive or negative—without letting them derail your progress.

Discipline and Action:

• Taking the Next Step: How to cultivate the discipline to take action, even when reality is daunting.

• The Power of Doing: Bri’s insights on breaking free from paralysis by analysis and embracing a mindset of action.

Join us as we explore how to confront reality head-on, embrace where you’re at, and build the discipline to take action toward real growth—no matter your starting point.

 

Whether you are a corporate leader, parent, or any individual who finds themselves in a position of leadership - we hope this podcast brings you one step closer on the journey to becoming authentically yourself. 

We'd love to hear your thoughts! After listening, don't forget to leave a comment on YouTube, leave a review, and share your favorite takeaways on social media.

 

More of a visual person? 

You can WATCH today’s episode on our Youtube Channel: 

Youtube: youtube.com/cadriancrawford?sub_confirmation=1 

 

To stay connected, visit us at the following places to help as a guide for you on your journey to becoming an authentic leader!

 

LinkedIn: Adrian Crawford

Instagram: @writenewrules

TikTok: @writenewrules

 

Have you ever wondered what happens when power meets fear? 🤔

This week on the New Rules Podcast, we're diving into the Tyreek Hill controversy to explore the deeper lessons on power, authority, and how fear shapes our reactions to both. 🏈💼

Starting with Tyreek Hill's recent incident, we break down the power dynamics in leadership, discussing how power can be wielded, misused, and even reformed. 🛠️ But the conversation doesn't stop there—we tackle the often unspoken reality: the fear many Black Americans have toward police interactions. 🚔

Even though many cops are good, this fear is rooted in history and experience. We’re exploring how power and fear intersect, and what it means for leaders—whether in sports or everyday life—to navigate these complexities. ✊🏽

Tune in this Thursday as we unpack:

• ⚖️ Power Moves: What they are and how to use them effectively

• 🏈 Tyreek Hill's incident: Leadership lessons from authority conflicts

• 🚔 Black Americans' fear of police: Why it's real, and how leaders should respond

• 🔑 Leadership in difficult situations: Balancing power, fear, and responsibility

• 🌍 When power stagnates: What happens when power goes unchecked?

Get ready for a thought-provoking discussion on how leaders can use power responsibly, while acknowledging the real fears that shape our society. 🎧

 

 

🔥 Key Takeaways:

• Power isn't just about control—it’s about using influence to uplift others.

• Fear of authority is a reality many face, especially in Black communities. Leaders must understand this context and respond thoughtfully.

• Great leadership requires awareness of power dynamics—knowing when to wield it and when to listen.

 

 

📲 Connect with Us:

Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review! Share your thoughts on how power and fear have played a role in your own leadership experiences.

Whether you are a corporate leader, parent, or any individual who finds themselves in a position of leadership - we hope this podcast brings you one step closer on the journey to becoming authentically yourself. 

We'd love to hear your thoughts! After listening, don't forget to leave a comment on YouTube, leave a review, and share your favorite takeaways on social media.

 

More of a visual person? 

You can WATCH today’s episode on our Youtube Channel: 

Youtube: youtube.com/cadriancrawford

 

To stay connected, visit us at the following places to help as a guide for you on your journey to becoming an authentic leader!

 

LinkedIn: Adrian Crawford

Instagram: @writenewrules

TikTok: @writenewrules

 

What happens when creators meet critics? Are they truly at odds, or do they share more common ground than we think? We explore the complexities of these roles, offering insights on how to navigate the delicate balance between creation and critique. Discover how to engage in conversations that uplift rather than tear down, and learn how to take criticism without letting it stifle your creativity.

We’ll also examine how to deconstruct entrenched ideals and how different generations can come together to rebuild with fresh perspectives and collaborative spirit.

Highlights:

Creators vs. Critics:

• Defining the Roles: Understanding the core differences between creators and critics.

• Shared Traits: How creators and critics can exhibit similar behaviors and thought patterns.

Constructive Critique:

• Offering Help, Not Harm: Techniques for giving feedback that encourages growth.

• Critique vs. Criticism: Distinguishing between helpful critique and criticism that stifles creativity.

Receiving Critique:

• Maintaining Perspective: How to avoid taking criticism personally.

• Growth Through Feedback: Using critique as a tool for personal and professional development.

Inspired Creation:

• Staying Motivated: Strategies for keeping your creative spark alive amidst feedback.

• Purpose-Driven Work: Creating with intention and resilience.

Deconstructing Ideals:

• Breaking Down Barriers: The importance of challenging outdated beliefs and practices.

• Collaborative Rebuilding: How different generations can work together to reconstruct ideals that better serve everyone.

Generational Collaboration:

• Bridging the Gap: Strategies for fostering understanding and cooperation across generational lines.

• Innovative Rebuilding: Leveraging the strengths of each generation to create a more inclusive and forward-thinking future.

Join us as we explore the delicate balance between creation and critique, offering insights to help you thrive as both a creator and a critic in today’s culture. 

Whether you are a corporate leader, parent, or any individual who finds themselves in a position of leadership - we hope this podcast brings you one step closer on the journey to becoming authentically yourself. 

We'd love to hear your thoughts! After listening, don't forget to leave a comment on YouTube, leave a review, and share your favorite takeaways on social media.

 

More of a visual person? 

You can WATCH today’s episode on our Youtube Channel: 

Youtube: youtube.com/cadriancrawford

 

To stay connected, visit us at the following places to help as a guide for you on your journey to becoming an authentic leader!

 

LinkedIn: Adrian Crawford

Instagram: @writenewrules

TikTok: @writenewrules

 

What happens when we live in a world of extremes? How do these polarizing forces shape our beliefs, influence our consumption, and affect our relationships? In this episode, Bri and Adrian tackle the complexities of extremism—its pervasive impact on every aspect of our lives, and the critical importance of finding balance in the "gray zone.”

We also touch on unifying moments like USA Women's Gymnastics and divisive topics such as the current presidential race, examining how these extremes shape our world. Bri and Adrian share practical strategies to avoid the pitfalls of extremism, while also acknowledging situations where extreme stances can be beneficial.

Plus, don’t miss out on a special interactive segment! As it’s their birthday month, Bri and Adrian (in their 20s and 40s) have asked subscribers to leave advice for navigating life in these different stages. Your insights could be featured in an upcoming episode!

Highlights:

Understanding Extremism:

• Defining Extremism: What it means and how it manifests in our beliefs and behaviors.

• Impact on Consumption: How extreme viewpoints influence what we choose to consume.

Navigating the Gray Zone:

• Internal Checks: The importance of self-evaluation to avoid being swayed by extremes.

• Access Points: Identifying influences that may lead to extreme thinking.

• Healthy Relationships: Building connections that keep us grounded in diverse perspectives.

Unifying vs. Divisive Moments:

• USA Women’s Gymnastics: How shared moments of triumph bring us together.

• Presidential Race: A look at how political extremes can drive us apart.

Staying Grounded:

• Practical Strategies: Tips for staying balanced and avoiding the pull of extremism.

• When Extremes Help: Situations where taking a strong stance can be beneficial.

Interactive Segment:

• Subscriber Advice: Celebrating Bri and Adrian’s birthday month by gathering wisdom from listeners for their respective age groups.

Join us as we explore how to navigate a world of extremes, offering practical insights to help you stay balanced and connected in today’s polarized culture.

Whether you are a corporate leader, parent, or any individual who finds themselves in a position of leadership - we hope this podcast brings you one step closer on the journey to becoming authentically yourself. 

We'd love to hear your thoughts! After listening, don't forget to leave a comment on YouTube, leave a review, and share your favorite takeaways on social media.

 

To purchase Black Leadership Summit merch, DM Adrian or Bri on instagram!

Adrian: @adriancrawford5

Bri: @bri.nclrk

 

More of a visual person? 

You can WATCH today’s episode on our Youtube Channel: 

Youtube: youtube.com/cadriancrawford

 

To stay connected, visit us at the following places to help as a guide for you on your journey to becoming an authentic leader!

 

LinkedIn: Adrian Crawford

Instagram: @writenewrules

TikTok: @writenewrules

 

What made Team USA’s Men’s Basketball team so successful in securing the gold medal? Was it just pure talent, or was there something more profound at play? Bri and Adrian break down the key factors behind Team USA’s triumph, highlighting the leadership of legends like Steph Curry, LeBron James, and Coach Steve Kerr, along with the relentless drive of stars like Devin Booker.

We’ll explore how a blend of elite teamwork, strategic coaching, and the championship mindset set them apart from the competition. Discover the power of team chemistry and how these athletes overcame challenges to unite as one cohesive unit, showcasing what it truly means to embody the USA Basketball legacy.

Highlights:

The Leadership Edge:

• Steph Curry and LeBron James: How their leadership and experience shaped the team's direction.

• Coach Steve Kerr: Strategic decisions that maximized the team’s potential.

Team Chemistry:

• Building Trust: The importance of fostering strong relationships on and off the court.

• Overcoming Egos: How top-tier players like Devin Booker put the team first.

The Championship Mindset:

• Resilience and Focus: The mental toughness required to handle international pressure.

• Clutch Performances: Key moments where players stepped up to secure victories.

Strategic Coaching:

• Tactical Adjustments: How Coach Kerr’s in-game decisions made the difference.

• Preparation: The behind-the-scenes work that prepared the team for success.

Teamwork Makes the Dream Work:

• Unified Vision: The collective goal that drove the team to the gold medal.

• Synergy in Action: How blending diverse talents created unstoppable momentum.

Join us as we dive into what it takes to build a winning team at the highest level, offering insights that apply far beyond the basketball court. Whether you’re a fan of the game or just curious about what makes champions tick, this episode is packed with lessons on leadership, team dynamics, and the pursuit of greatness.

Whether you are a corporate leader, parent, or any individual who finds themselves in a position of leadership - we hope this podcast brings you one step closer on the journey to becoming authentically yourself. 

We'd love to hear your thoughts! After listening, don't forget to leave a comment on YouTube, leave a review, and share your favorite takeaways on social media.

 

More of a visual person? 

You can WATCH today’s episode on our Youtube Channel: 

Youtube: youtube.com/cadriancrawford

 

To stay connected, visit us at the following places to help as a guide for you on your journey to becoming an authentic leader!

 

LinkedIn: Adrian Crawford

Instagram: @writenewrules

TikTok: @writenewrules

 

In this episode, we explore the complexities and  intricacies of team dynamics. Discover the art of managing gossip, effectively addressing conflicts, and fostering genuine, positive connections within your team. Learn practical strategies to transform your workplace into a harmonious and productive environment. Join us as we unravel the secrets to mastering team dynamics and creating a culture of trust and collaboration.

Highlights:

Dealing with Gossip:

• Understanding Gossip: The reasons behind gossip and its impact on team morale.

• Combatting Gossip: Strategies to reduce gossip, promote open communication, and build a culture of transparency.

Addressing Conflict:

• Root Causes: Common sources of conflict within teams.

• Conflict Resolution: Steps for resolving conflicts, emphasizing listening, empathy, and finding common ground.

Leadership in Conflict Management:

• When to Intervene: Knowing when and how to address team conflicts.

• Facilitating Conversations: Conducting difficult conversations respectfully and effectively.

Balancing Authenticity and Perceptions:

• The Challenge: Staying true to oneself while managing others' perceptions.

• Setting Boundaries: Maintaining authenticity without compromising professionalism.

Building Positive Connections:

• Healthy Relationships: Ways to connect without negative behaviors.

• Positive Interactions: Practices that foster genuine, supportive relationships.

Join us for this insightful episode to enhance your leadership skills and build a supportive, collaborative team environment

To purchase Black Leadership Summit merch, DM Adrian or Bri on instagram!

Adrian: @adriancrawford5

Bri: @bri.nclrk

Listen to the full conversation on your favorite platform:

• Listen on Spotify

• Listen on Apple Podcasts

• Watch on YouTube

We'd love to hear your thoughts! After listening, don't forget to leave a comment on YouTube, leave a review, and share your favorite takeaways on social media.

Whether you are a corporate leader, parent, or any individual who finds themselves in a position of leadership - we hope this podcast brings you one step closer on the journey to becoming authentically yourself. 

More of a visual person? 

You can WATCH today’s episode on our Youtube Channel: 

Youtube: youtube.com/cadriancrawford

 

To stay connected, visit us at the following places to help as a guide for you on your journey to becoming an authentic leader!

 

LinkedIn: Adrian Crawford

Instagram: @writenewrules

TikTok: @writenewrules