In this episode of the Motivational Intelligence Podcast, hosts Dave Naylor and Sean Johnson sat down with Ryan Hawley, a distinguished servant leader with a remarkable track record of success. From his early days in a supportive family environment to his leadership role at Lincoln Financial, Ryan's journey offers profound insights into what makes a true servant leader. Here’s a closer look at the episode and the valuable takeaways from Ryan's experiences.

Meeting Ryan Hawley

The episode kicks off with Dave Naylor introducing Ryan Hawley as a standout individual who operates on a different plane of understanding and purpose. Dave first met Ryan in 2018 during a leadership initiative with Lincoln Financial, and he describes Ryan as one of the strongest servant leaders he's encountered. This acknowledgment sets the stage for an in-depth conversation about servant leadership, integrity, and purpose.

Early Influences and Foundations

Ryan attributes much of his success to his upbringing in an upper-middle-class family in Michigan. Growing up in a town between Detroit and Ann Arbor, Ryan was instilled with rich values of integrity, hard work, and respect for others. He vividly recalls observing these principles in action through his parents and other leaders in their community. This foundation laid the groundwork for his future leadership style.

Lessons from Interning at Detroit Diesel

One of the pivotal experiences in Ryan’s life was interning at Detroit Diesel, his father's company. These internships were a condition for his college funding and taught him invaluable lessons about hard work, leadership, and building relationships. Through these experiences, Ryan learned the importance of understanding what motivates others, showing value in collaborative efforts, and the subtleties of workplace dynamics.

The Timeless Impact of Handwritten Notes

In an era dominated by digital communication, Ryan emphasizes the timeless impact of a handwritten note. He recalls a mentor who introduced him to the power of personal touch in leadership. Writing notes to team members and clients conveys a message that extends beyond words, fostering deeper connections and respect.

Crafting a Culture Statement

Ryan shares the culture statement he crafted for his team, emphasizing four non-negotiables: Integrity, Urgency, Ownership, and Caring Professionalism. These principles drive every decision and action within the team, creating a clear and unwavering standard for behavior and performance.

Personal Connections and Understanding

Through various anecdotes, Ryan illustrates how life lessons translate into his professional practice. From the influence of his father inviting new hires to family dinners to a guidance counselor’s empathy during his school years, Ryan has consistently seen the value of personal connection and understanding in leadership.

Overcoming Learning Disabilities

One of the poignant parts of Ryan’s story is his struggle and subsequent triumph over a learning disability during his school years. This journey taught him resilience and the significance of adopting a growth mindset—seeing failures as opportunities to learn and grow.

A Daily Reminder of Commitment

Ryan carries a challenge coin inscribed with "Remember who you are and what you represent," reminding him daily of his commitment to make a meaningful impact through selfless service. This physical token serves as a constant anchor to his values and purpose.

Living with Purpose and Authenticity

In wrapping up, Ryan reflects on the importance of living each day with purpose and authenticity. His journey is a testament to the impact that servant leadership can have, not just in achieving business success but in enriching the lives of everyone involved.

Conclusion

Ryan Hawley’s life illustrates that true leadership is about more than just driving results—it's about fostering connections, embodying integrity, and making a profound difference in the lives of others. By embracing these principles, we can all strive to be the kind of leaders who inspire and uplift those around us.

For more insights and to listen to the full conversation, tune into the Motivational Intelligence Podcast episode featuring Ryan Hawley.

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