The hardest conversations are often the ones that help us grow.

John Baird has spent 30 years coaching leaders at Apple. At 82, he’s still coaching, trying new things, and making time for what matters most.

In this episode of The Midlife Chrysalis, John joins Chip Conley for a warm, candid conversation about leading with heart, making tough decisions, and building a meaningful life. He shares:

How to hold people accountable while treating them with care.
Why strong teams say the things everyone is thinking.
How to turn your experience into a coaching career in midlife.
Why revisiting your priorities matters in both work and marriage.
How curiosity and gratitude keep life rich at any age.

Watch for practical wisdom on becoming a better leader and making more room for the people who matter to you.

Timestamps:

(02:31) Meet John Baird

(03:25) Rethinking Work, Marriage, and Family

(05:53) Coaching Leaders at Apple

(09:50) Steve Jobs’ Leadership After His Return

(11:26) Honest Feedback and Stronger Teams

(13:11) Leading with Heart and Toughness

(14:10) Seven Habits of Tough Leadership

(19:09) Helping Intel Navigate Change

(20:38) Finding Purpose at 82

(23:36) Becoming a Coach in Midlife

(27:55) Measuring Coaching Results

(29:59) Do You Need Coaching Credentials?

(31:36) Questions That Turn Insight into Action

(34:22) Curiosity, Gratitude, and Difficult Conversations

Learn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/

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How to Lead with Heart and Still Make Tough Calls | John Baird

The Midlife Chrysalis

How to Lead with Heart and Still Make Tough Calls | John Baird