In the Loop: Why Great Leaders Start by Listening with Greg Ballard

Leadership is not loudest when it gives orders. Sometimes, it sounds like a mayor sitting in a neighborhood meeting, listening long enough to hear what the city actually needs.

Katherine sits down with Greg Ballard, author, businessman, former Marine, and the 48th mayor of Indianapolis, to explore the leadership habits that shaped his journey from the Marine Corps to city hall. Greg shares why clarity, collaboration, sincerity, and listening are not just communication skills, they are the foundation of trust.

From grassroots campaigning to leading a major metropolitan city, Greg offers a grounded reminder for every people-first leader: you do not need to have every answer, but you do need the humility to listen, the courage to decide, and the consistency to do the right thing for the right reasons.

 

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Key Takeaways:

• Leadership is influence, not authority.
• Listening builds credibility before words do.
• Strong teams challenge your thinking.
• Start with yes, then solve.
• Trust grows through consistency and sincerity.