Russ Laraway breaks down why your leadership isn’t working—and how to fix it.

Stuck in a cycle of vague goals, half-hearted feedback, and meaningless career talks? Let’s call it what it is—bad leadership. In part one of this two part episode, Kim, Amy, and Russ Laraway rip into the mistakes that are killing your team’s engagement and results. Russ brings the heat with his “Big Three” leadership essentials—direction, coaching, and career—and doesn’t hold back on why so many managers fail to deliver. Why are leaders so scared to prioritize? Why do career conversations feel like an empty HR theater? And why does feedback either go ignored or turn into a dreaded confrontation? If you’re ready to ditch the excuses, face the hard truths, and lead with real purpose and impact, this episode is your wake-up call. It’s time to step up, get clear, and transform the way you lead—before it’s too late.

Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast.

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Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction
Kim and Amy introduce Russ Laraway and the "Big Three" of leadership.

(00:03:00) What Are the Big Three?
Russ explains the framework of direction, coaching, and career.

(00:07:24) The Flintstones House
Kim and Russ share stories about the unique office space of Candor Inc.

(00:10:31) Defining Direction in Leadership
The importance of clarity in expectations and ruthless prioritization.

(00:15:11) Long-Term Leadership Tools
How managers can collaboratively define purpose and vision.

(00:17:24) Crafting Team Goals and Priorities
Setting measurable goals and the role of weekly prioritization.

(00:26:12) Purpose and Vision Statements

Examples of vision statements and their impact on team alignment.

(00:31:43) Coaching for Engagement
Coaching elements that drive employee engagement.

(00:33:29) The Book and Specific Praise
Using praise to motivate teams and reinforce standards.

(00:38:59) Soliciting Feedback from Teams
The importance of creating a culture where feedback flows both ways.

(00:43:53) Leadership and Power Dynamics
Strategies to balance authority and empower team collaboration.

(00:45:25) Radical Candor Tips
Practical tips for applying direction, coaching, and career insights.

(00:47:29) Conclusion

Russ Laraway Shares Why “The Big 3” Are the Secret to Being a Successful Leader 7 | 5

Radical Candor: Communication at Work