Today we’d like to introduce you to Brian Vaughan.
Hi Brian, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I am a highly skilled professional with over 24 years of experience in training, leadership, and organizational development. I am a multi-certified professional with diverse certifications across various domains, such as Certified Training and Development Professional, CTDP, Certified Technical Trainer, CTT+, AchieveGlobal Leadership Certified Facilitator, MBTI Certified Practitioner (Myers-Briggs), and FranklinCovey Certified Facilitator. I have worked with various organizations focusing on creating tailored leadership programs for managers and senior leaders, equipping them with effective communication, conflict resolution, and enhanced team effectiveness.
From an early age, leadership roles consistently found their way to me, whether by choice or circumstance. Surprisingly, my personal life did not present models of leadership; most of my initial impressions were shaped by media and sports figures. My true leadership potential came to the forefront during my time in the Army when I was entrusted with leading an entire platoon during basic training (talk about a difficult experience and challenge for an 18-year-old). This experience provided profound insights into the essence of effective leadership and the reasons behind why people follow great leaders.
My professional journey into leadership emerged later when I was promoted to a key role responsible for training and overseeing staff. Each subsequent position I held facilitated significant growth in the areas of learning and leadership development. My tenure at Verizon Wireless marked a turning point where I began to invest deeply in the field of leadership and organizational development. Subsequently, I achieved national and international certifications in training, leadership, and organizational development domains.
Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of mentoring numerous leaders across a spectrum of organizations, focusing on areas such as leadership development, performance management, team efficacy, and enhanced decision-making abilities. My expertise also includes crafting leadership programs that equip managers and senior executives with skills in communication, conflict resolution, and problem-solving.
Currently, I am the Leadership Program Director for a high-potential development program I developed. This initiative identifies and nurtures future leaders through targeted learning experiences, mentoring, and challenging projects. By preparing high-potential individuals for leadership roles, I play a pivotal role in the organization’s growth and success.
I am also the Founder and CEO of The Leadership Cheat Code, a transformative leadership development, coaching, and training organization tailored for today’s leaders. My aim is to help leaders develop the right mindset, skillset, and toolset by unlocking the cheat code of effective leadership. Through my leadership platform, I combine engaging discussions, expert insights, practical techniques, and a wealth of resources that equip leaders with the necessary tools and insights to excel in their roles. You can learn more and join the leadership platform at https://www.theleadershipcheatcode.com/.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I firmly believe that every journey is bound to encounter its share of challenges, unexpected twists, and setbacks. In my personal voyage, I have certainly faced my fair share of such obstacles. What truly defines a person, however, is their response to these trials and tribulations. For the longest time, I grappled with imposter syndrome, particularly in professional settings among my peers, especially those of different racial backgrounds. I possessed the intellect, skills, and accomplishments necessary for success, yet I constantly battled with an internal struggle to articulate my worth. It took a transformative conversation with my mentor to shatter this self-doubt. They challenged my perspective and mindset, ultimately helping me recognize that I was not just competent but regarded as an expert in my field, regardless of my background.
Another significant hurdle I faced was my incomplete college education. The absence of a degree can often be viewed as a limiting factor in one’s career, as society tends to place undue importance on this credential. Life’s unpredictable ups and downs had deterred me from pursuing higher education, leading me to question my professional growth. However, as I progressed in my career, I discovered that real-world expertise was equally valuable. I encountered individuals with advanced degrees in entry-level positions and others without degrees in prominent leadership roles. Initially, I considered this a hindrance, but I gradually realized that I was accumulating specialized knowledge in the field of training and leadership development. My career, particularly during my tenure at Verizon Wireless, witnessed a profound shift as I delved deeper into leadership and organizational development. While I may not possess a formal degree, I have continuously expanded my knowledge through various courses, which collectively could rival a college education. This dynamic approach has not only altered the course of my career but has also positioned me for professional success.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about The Leadership Cheat Code?
The Leadership Cheat Code, located in Fulton County, is a transformative leadership development, coaching, and training organization tailored for today’s leaders. My aim is to empower leaders to reach their full potential and thrive in their roles. The Leadership Cheat Code is built on three foundational pillars: Mindset, Skillset, and Toolset. Through these pillars, I aim to equip leaders with the essential tools and knowledge to excel in their roles.
Mindset: Discover the Winning Mindset for Leadership Success: At The Leadership Cheat Code, we understand that mindset is the foundation of exceptional leadership. We dive deep into the psychology behind effective leadership and provide you with the tools to develop a growth-oriented mindset. Our meaningful conversations and dynamic learning experiences will challenge your existing beliefs, inspire self-reflection, and equip you with the right mindset to overcome any obstacle.
Skillset: Master the Essential Skills of Leadership: Exceptional leadership demands a diverse skillset. “The Leadership Cheat Code” dives deep into the essential skills that set extraordinary leaders apart. From effective communication and strategic decision-making to fostering innovation and building high-performance teams, this platform provides practical techniques and expert advice from renowned leaders across industries. Prepare to elevate your leadership prowess and unleash your full potential as you master these crucial skills.
Toolset: Access the Tools for Leadership Excellence: Equipping yourself with the right tools is vital for driving impactful leadership. With “The Leadership Cheat Code,” you gain access to a treasure trove of invaluable resources and practical tools to support your growth. From downloadable templates to interactive assessments, we provide you with the necessary resources to optimize your decision-making, streamline processes, and maximize your leadership effectiveness.
Through The Leadership Cheat Code, I’ve sculpted a vibrant ecosystem where leaders can engage in meaningful dialogues, utilize practical resources, engulf themselves in my thought-provoking podcast, and immerse themselves in insightful expert articles and discussions. You can learn more and join the leadership platform at https://www.theleadershipcheatcode.com/.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
The first is to ensure that you take the time to count the cost of whatever it is that you want to pursue. Really sit down and think about what it is going to take to make your endeavor work. From planning to execution, spend time on these things as it will help you to create a roadmap that you can be used to guide your thoughts, behaviors, and actions. Always begin with the end in mind as this will help you to understand the goal that you want to reach, and for you to begin the practice of outlining how you want to achieve those goals.
Second is to believe in yourself! Believe in yourself when no one else does. Fight the temptation to be acknowledged and accepted by everyone. Validate yourself first and foremost because if you do not, the criticism and feedback that you will get from others will start to shape your mindset and perspective and people will have you believing that you aren’t smart enough, not skilled enough, not the right color, and the list goes on. If you deal with Imposter Syndrome, figure out ways to overcome it quickly, as it can inhibit or derail your overall progress.
Lastly, stay focused on your goals. Remember, these are your goals, no one else’s. What are you going to do in the face of compromise when you know you should be working towards your goals, but you are doing other unproductive things that compete for your time and energy. I am not saying that every day, all day you should focus on your goals, but you definitely need to prioritize the things in your life, as the little things can keep you from achieving your goals. If you need to set boundaries, do so. If you need to say no to some things, do so. Remember, these are your goals, no one else’s.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.theleadershipcheatcode.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theleadershipcheatcode/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianvaughan/
