Catching Leadership

Today we celebrate 5 years of dedication toward leadership development.

Thank you all for being part of this journey!

Tight Lines 😎✌️🎣

“If you care about what others think, you will be a prisoner to their thoughts your whole life.”😇

Conformity makes us act in unnatural ways. 👀

Instead of following the crowd, nurture your uniqueness. ✌️

🌟 Exciting Collaboration in the Steel and Aluminum Industry! 🏭 Yesterday, we had the privilege of facilitating a dynamic client session for a Midwest manufacturing company.

🔍 Focus Group Recap: We hosted an insightful focus group to assist them in crafting their very own organizational-wide competency model. This is just the beginning of our journey as we pave the way for their performance management process.

🤝 Our Partnership: It's more than just a successful facilitation; it's a commitment to empowering our client with tools for excellence for years to come.

🛣️ Next Steps: Our journey continues! The next phase involves hosting focused sessions with various job families to establish job-specific competency models across the organization. This ensures a tailored approach, aligning individual roles with overarching organizational goals.

🙌 Gratitude: A big thank you to the participants for their active involvement and enthusiasm. Together, we're laying the foundation for a high-performing, future-focused organization!

🔗

📈 Stay tuned for more updates as we embark on the next phase of this exciting journey in the manufacturing sector! 🛠️💡

A few years ago I decided to take the career path less traveled. 🛣️

Instead of chasing carrots or avoiding sticks, I decided to pursue a dream. ✨

It was scary at first putting myself out there knowing that every post I wrote, event I hosted, or framework I created would be open to scrutiny. 🧐

Was I ready? Heck no, no one ever is at first. 😅

But staying true to my vision to establish Catching Leadership has never been something I’ve regretted. 📚🚀 💪

It’s been challenging, unbelievably so at times, but it’s the fight I’m supposed to be fighting. 😤

In this new year, I invite you to go for it in a big way. Place a wager on yourself 🎰.

Know that whatever you do, you will likely suck at first. I don’t mean to be disheartening, but if you could have seen me trying to fly fish on this trip you would have laughed. The suck is part of the process, so embrace it. Over time, you will get better and a few years from now you will be so proud of yourself for having the courage to do it. 😎

Tight Lines Everyone ✌️

In the spirit of gratitude and tradition we are happy to announce this year’s Catching Leadership Angler of Year Award!

This designation goes out to an employee or client who has gone above and beyond to help us fulfill our Mission of ‘Making the World a Better Place One Leader at a Time’.

Through the ups and downs of 2023, one leader in particular had our team’s back through thick and thin, Jason Goedken. Thank you for your loyalty and willingness to support something you believe in.

We can say with confidence that you have been our biggest advocate since Day 1. You have consistently welcomed us with open arms to work with you and your team at Significant Productions Inc.. You have attended every single Catching Leadership Retreat to date, and we can’t tell you how much that means to us! During a down time in our business, you proactively decided it was the right time to engage with us on a Performance Management Project. Perhaps most touching of all, was your willingness to introduce us to a brand new client following the Utah Retreat without us even asking. This new lead has the potential to take our business to new heights for years to come.

We love you J, and we don’t say that lightly. Congratulations on winning Angler of the Year, you will always be a huge part of the Catching Leadership story.

We can't wait to see you again this Fall for our next Catching Leadership Retreat in Montana.

Until Then, Tight Lines!

The month of December can produce a variety of emotions in people.

Some days you may experience great joy and gratitude for the upcoming holidays and other days you find yourself swirling in a cloud of guilt for not achieving everything you set out to accomplish this year.

Perhaps this is the first holiday without a loved one, or maybe you are stressing out about money and how you are going to make this year special.

The ups and downs are normal. 🙏

Instead of rushing around this year trying to please everyone else, I encourage you to spend a little more time reflecting on your own emotions.

I invite you to be more mindful in your thoughts and actions.

Try to have more grace for yourself and those you interact with.

A practice that has helped me in recent years is embracing the concept of “Hygge” (pronounced: “hue-gah”) when the days get short and the weather gets cold.

Instead of complaining about the hardships that winter and the holidays bring, I now look forward to slowing down, reading more, and indulging in the comforts of life during the winter season.

As a leader, use this time to reflect and discover greater truths about yourself.

Don’t worry about setting goals, or figuring out what the next best thing is. Instead focus on being present and experiencing all the emotions this season has to offer.

Wishing you all the best this month ❄️🕯️📖

Tight Lines 🎣😎✌️

When you first start anything new in life, there is a tendency to solely focus on an end result. The big sale, the sexy title, or the trophy fish you can brag to your buddies about over a beer.

Through time and reflection you begin to understand that the thing you thought you wanted wasn’t actually “the thing” at all.

Yet, instead of figuring out the essence of your desires, you allow yourself to become distracted by the shiny lures that come into your life.

If you seek to gain more inner peace, learn to love the cast.

Honor the very process that offers you new opportunities to grow.

Cut ties with attachment to specific outcomes and lose yourself in the moment.

To the mindful leader, Catching Leadership has little to do with catching fish. 🙏

Tight Lines 😎✌️

Unplugging 🔌
Grounding ✋
Forest Bathing 🌳

Just some of the many tools the mindful leader taps into when work and life become overwhelming.

Thank you Alisha Leytem 🙏🏼 for creating the space for me to do some inner work and facilitate a session on mindful leadership during your One-Day Retreat in Galena, IL this past weekend. 🍂😇

For those of you ready to experience a new angle of leadership, I invite you to check out Catching Leadership.

Tight Lines Everyone! 🎣😎✌️

There are ✌️ways you can work with me this month to improve your leadership and mindfulness skills.

1️⃣. Sign up for “Empowered 2 Lead” A Virtual 6-Week Group Coaching Program that starts next Tuesday (Oct. 17th - Nov. 21st).

2️⃣. Join Alisha Leytem and me in-person for our “Lean In to Let Go” One Day Retreat in Galena, Illinois on Saturday, Oct. 21st from 9am - 5pm.

Links 🔗 to both programs can be found in the comments below ⬇️ .

Now is the perfect time to invest in yourself and do the inner work. 💫

Tight Lines Everyone 🎣😎✌️



Follow ➡️ Catching Leadership

Exciting News!

The Catching Leadership Team will be hosting our signature program “Empowered 2 Lead” again this Fall!

“Empowered 2 Lead” is an interactive 6-Week Group Coaching Program that will be facilitated every Tuesday from Oct. 17th - Nov. 21st.

Over the last few years we have had over 35 professionals complete this program with many participants saying it was the best leadership program they have ever experienced. 🙌

Here’s what’s included:

✅ Six 90 - Minute Live Group Coaching Sessions

✅ A Customized Leadership Assessment Report

✅ A Signed Copy of Catching Leadership Mailed To You

✅ Empowered 2 Lead Class Certificate Upon Completion of Program

💫 There is also a VIP option to receive 1:1 executive coaching if you wish to dig deeper into your own challenges and path forward.

📚 The Session Topics:

Session 1: Redefining Yourself as a Leader

Session 2: Learning How to Let Go

Session 3: Finding Greater Balance

Session 4: Improving Communication

Session 5: Casting Your Vision

Session 6: Creating Your 2024 Roadmap

Learn more about this signature program in the comments below ⬇️

Tight Lines Everyone 🎣😎✌️

Have you or someone you know been impacted by a recent layoff? ❤️‍🩹

The shock, pain, and guilt resulting from a layoff can be paralyzing for both the professionals let go and those who survive the reduction in force.

Being laid off can feel like a personal attack on an employee's identity and send some really talented professionals into a downward spiral if not handled properly. 😵‍💫

With layoffs come an erosion of organizational trust, a decline in engagement, and mental anguish that can linger for years. 📉

This year in particular, I have been hearing numerous stories of really good people being let go during these uncertain times.

Similarly, I have been hearing from organizational leaders that the morale of their teams has been declining for a while now due to stress, anxiety, and the fear of future layoffs. 😔

So what’s someone to do if they have been let go, or have survived a recent layoff but don't have much hope for their organization's ability to recover? 🤷‍♂️

I am here to help answer those questions at my upcoming free webinar on Oct. 3rd where I will:

1️⃣ Explain what typically goes wrong during layoffs and some of the ways trust can be regained with an employee base. 🫂

2️⃣ Provide the survivors of layoffs with tools they can use to help lead their teams back to higher levels of engagement. 🛠️

3️⃣ Help those who have been let go change the narrative in order to relaunch their careers into a new direction. 🚀

To register for this free webinar use the link in the comments below ⬇️

Be well everyone, better days are ahead! 🙏



Catching Leadership

“Michael, what’s my next career move?”

As an executive coach I get ask this question all the time. 🤔

So here are a few pointers to help you get headed in the right direction. 🧭

1. Are you happy? If so, don’t run away from happiness just because you feel external pressure to be “doing something new.” 🏃‍♂️

2. So you’re not happy? Unfortunately you aren’t alone. Often times we trick ourselves into thinking we will be happy in a new role, only to find ourselves unfulfilled and wishing for something different. Instead of scouring job boards, or hitting up recruiters, ask yourself what it is about your current role, the culture, or situation that you are in that is contributing to the lack luster. If you don’t identify the problem you will soon find yourself right back in the same place. 🕵️‍♂️

3. Scrap the concept of the ideal career path, and ask yourself what it is you REALLY want to do. Allow yourself to go there, without care of money, title, or what your parents will think. What is it about your dream that lights you up? Is there a way to bring even a small portion of that to your next role? Think of your next career move as a stepping stone toward a more fulfilling future. It might not happen all at once, but it’s moving in the right direction. 💫

4. If your physical, mental, and emotional well-being are suffering in your current role, it’s time to explore new options. No job, or stack of cash is worth long-term ailments. You have permission to seek better options. Don’t ever let yourself feel trapped from doing what is best for you and your family long-term. 🤕

5. Seek counsel from someone you trust. They will help you sift through the stories you’ve been telling yourself. Some stories may have merit and some may need to be let go. Partnering with a coach can be a great option. 🙌

At the end of the day, your career is shorter than you think, so be intentional with what is you want and where you would like to go.

Tight Lines Everyone, 😎✌️🎣

Michael

How to find more enjoyment in your role. 🤔

1. Make your role unique by volunteering to take on a variety of tasks. This will make each day feel different.

2. Help others grow and you in return will discover growth yourself.

3. At least once a year, try doing something you never thought you could.

4. Give thanks for the work you “get to” do.

5. Be authentic to your brand, especially when it challenges outdated and detrimental norms.

You alone hold the keys to your career and happiness.

For me, that means facilitating leadership programs with “fish themed” tables and team building “fishing competitions.”

When everything is said and done, have no regrets about living the life that made you most proud.

Tight Lines Everyone 😎🎣✌️

As I reflect on this year, three undeniable lessons keep showing up in my life 🙏

1. If you aspire to do anything meaningful, you will be tested. Patience will drive you crazy. Doubt will creep in and make you uncomfortable. Outlast the struggle, it will make you proud some day.

2. Don’t underestimate the power that social interactions have on your well-being. Your soul yearns for connection. Texting, DMs, and scrolling keeps your informed, but does a lousy job of making you feel heard. Give yourself the gift of more authentic conversations. Schedule that catch up call you’ve been wanting to. Laugh, cry, and simply be yourself in the presence of others.

3. Every day has a gift to share with you. Notice the subtle changes in your environment. Breathe it in, give thanks, and be more mindful. The “good ole days” are happening right now.

Tight Lines Everyone 😎✌️

Follow ➡️ Catching Leadership

🎣 Join us for a truly unique leadership experience on the magnificent Green River in Dutch John, Utah! 🌿🏞️

👥 Our Leadership Fly Fishing Retreat is all about the power of connections and the extraordinary people you'll meet along the way. Immerse yourself in a vibrant community of like-minded professionals as you refine your leadership skills amidst the stunning beauty of nature.

🍽️ Engage in thought-provoking networking dinners, where stimulating conversations flow as freely as the river itself. Share insights, forge meaningful connections, and broaden your horizons while enjoying delicious, home-cooked meals prepared with care.

🔥 Experience intimate fireside chats, where facilitators will share their wisdom and engage in lively discussions on leadership principles, resilience, and personal growth. Be inspired by their stories and take away valuable lessons to apply in your own leadership journey.

🤝 Our retreat is designed to foster collaboration and camaraderie. You'll have the opportunity to receive group coaching sessions, harnessing the collective knowledge and experiences of your fellow retreat attendees. Gain fresh perspectives, receive valuable feedback, and discover innovative approaches to tackle challenges head-on.

🌟 Don't miss out on the Early Bird offering for this exceptional leadership retreat (20% off through July 21st)! Secure your spot today and embark on a journey of growth, connection, and unforgettable memories.

Link to learn more in comments!

4 years ago we placed a wager on ourselves.

We listened to our dreams.

We paved a new path.

And grew in so many ways.

It’s been the best career decision we’ve ever made, not because it’s been easy but because it’s been worthwhile.

Thanks for the support over the years everyone!

Cheers to many more 🎉 🎉🎉

Tight Lines 😎🎣✌🏼



Alisha Leytem Well-Being
Alisha Leytem
Caitlyn Alford

Announcement Time!

We are excited to share that Catching Leadership will be heading to Dutch John, UT this Sept. 21st-24th to host a 3 night / 4 day all-inclusive Leadership Retreat on The Green River!

Leaders from across the country will embark on an epic adventure to learn, grow, and unplug with one another in a pristine setting.

What’s included:

Executive Coaching ✅
Meals ✅
Private Lodging ✅
Guided Fly Fishing Activities ✅
Workbooks, Tools, and New Connections ✅

Don’t miss your chance to save 20% by enrolling today! Only 5 spots are available for this one of a kind leadership development experience.

To learn more visit the link in the comments below! ⬇️

Please tag/share this opportunity with anyone in your network that you think would be a great fit for this program.

Tight Lines Everyone 😎✌🏼

The Green River Retreat What is The Green River? Learn more about the location of the upcoming retreat. The Green River is located in parts of Wyoming, Colorado, and Utah. The river’s 27-mile course is a riparian oasis that descends into Utah from the north slope of the Uinta Mountains, slicing through the high desert sa...

We’re trying to do something different.

Something that may not be your cup of tea today, but eventually will be a non-negotiable in the business world.

As I observe the trajectory of both work and life, it has become abundantly clear that major shifts need to occur.

The truth is, many of our habits are not sustainable.

Trading health for wealth.

Putting profits over people.

Becoming infatuated with virtual reality over actual reality.

Although declines in physical, mental, and emotional health plague the news, you still have the opportunity to take your power back before it’s too late.

Our mission is purposeful and our modalities are timeless.

Join Alisha Leytem and myself on June 15-17th for a leadership and well-being experience like no other.

Find time to reflect in nature.

Enjoy the solitude of sleeping in your own cabin.

Practice mindfulness and gain clarity on your next steps in life.

Build some new connections and appreciate a part of the country you’ve likely overlooked (SW Wisconsin).

More information on The Mindfulness Reset Retreat can be found in the link below.

Jump on this unique opportunity while you still can. You won’t be disappointed.

Tight Lines Everyone 😎✌🏼



Alisha Leytem Well-Being

I want to challenge you to reach higher this summer.

To take a more active role in your own development.

To stop feeling stuck, disengaged, or scared of an upcoming event in your life.

Quiet the noise and distractions and rediscover your why.

Breakthroughs in your life require shifts in your thoughts and actions.

So if you’re ready, join Alisha Leytem and myself next month at The Catching Leadership Mindfulness Retreat where you will be guided through a series of techniques and activities that will light you up and change your outlook on the future.

When: June 15th-17th 📅

Where: La Farge, Wisconsin 🧭

What: All Inclusive Remote Cabin Getaway🪵🌲

Who: Professionals Seeking Community and Growth 🫂

Message me if you are interested in learning more!

Link in the comments below ⬇️

Tight Lines 😎✌🏼



Alisha Leytem Well-Being

Jon Kabat-Zinn, Professor of Medicine emeritus at the University of Massachusetts Medical School and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) expert, once said, "The best way to capture moments is to pay attention. This is how we cultivate mindfulness."

The importance of mindfulness in leadership cannot be overstated. In today's fast-paced business world, leaders face a myriad of challenges on a daily basis. From managing complex projects to navigating team dynamics, the demands of leadership can be overwhelming at times. That's why the practice of mindfulness has become increasingly important for effective leadership.

At its core, mindfulness is the practice of being fully present in the moment, without judgment or distraction. When leaders incorporate mindfulness into their daily routines, they can gain a greater sense of self-awareness, which can help them better manage stress and make more intentional decisions.

Are you interested in navigating ways to implement mindfulness in your leadership practice?

Join us at The Catching Leadership Mindfulness Reset Retreat June 15-17th in SW Wisconsin.

Link below ⬇️

Tight Lines 😎✌🏼

I wanted to take a minute to thank all the amazing people who attended my keynote at CalGovHR earlier this month.

It was great seeing how passionate HR professionals are to help their organizations address some of today’s greatest challenges.

The truth is, our workforce is struggling right now, and quite frankly they have been for a while.

According to the U.S. Surgeon General, 76% of employees have experienced at least one mental health condition this past year and 84% say their workplace contributes to their mental health challenges.

Well-Being, Leadership Development, and Talent Management all go hand and hand, and knowing how to align them strategically makes all the difference.

If you are looking for a keynote speaker to provide your organization with some new angles on talent development hit us up.

➡️ Catching Leadership

Are you an emerging leader and ready to take your career to the next level?📈

Have you ever thought about engaging with a leadership coach, but couldn’t support it financially?💰

If so, today is your lucky day!

Catching Leadership’s CEO, Michael Leytem, was gifted the opportunity to work with an Executive Coach when he first entered his professional career, and the experience had an overwhelming positive impact on the trajectory of his career. Now, he wants to pay forward the same opportunity that he received.

In order to do so, we are looking for an emerging leader who is ready to take their career to the next level. The ideal candidate is motivated to change, open-minded, and seeking a developmental experience they wouldn’t otherwise have the means to participate in.

This is a 3-month coaching engagement consisting of (10) 45-60 minute coaching sessions held weekly with Catching Leadership’s Executive Coach, Ryan Tucker. The engagement will begin in March of 2023.

We invite you to apply using the application below! Feel free to share this opportunity with others who may be interested.

If you have any questions or wish to receive more details regarding the coaching opportunity, please contact our Operations Manager, Caitlyn Alford, M.A., at [email protected].

Happy Presidents' Day! 🇺🇸 Read below to learn more about the leadership styles of some of our best Presidents. We invite you to dive even deeper into leadership by taking Catching Leadership’s, FREE, leadership assessment to discover your style.

Link in the comments below ⬇️

Calling all leaders! If you struggle with any of these skills or doubts in your workplace, consider checking out Catching Leadership’s NEW, online and self-paced, Master Class!

To learn more, reach out to Ryan Tucker, Sales Director at Catching Leadership, at [email protected] or visit www.catchingleadership.com.

This fish was an omen 🙏🏼

It was the biggest fish of my life, and it was caught just a few weeks after we moved back to the Midwest.

I was with my dad, and the experience gave me peace of mind knowing everything was going to be alright amidst all the changes.