The Lonely Leader helps existing and aspiring leaders become the best version of themselves.
We believe that leadership on the outside begins within.
By sharing decades of leadership experience, insights and best practice we can help you sharpen your skills.
Our unique and authentic style, drawing upon learnings from success and failure, will ensure you are better prepared to optimise your performance and meet the challenges of the modern day leader.
We regularly discuss creating and sustaining high performance, enhancing resilience, empowering our mindset and finding professional and personal fulfilment.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The Lonely Leader helps existing and aspiring leaders become the best version of themselves.
We believe that leadership on the outside begins within.
By sharing decades of leadership experience, insights and best practice we can help you sharpen your skills.
Our unique and authentic style, drawing upon learnings from success and failure, will ensure you are better prepared to optimise your performance and meet the challenges of the modern day leader.
We regularly discuss creating and sustaining high performance, enhancing resilience, empowering our mindset and finding professional and personal fulfilment.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episode 101
Leadership Essentials: Discipline - The Foundation of High Performance
SUMMARY SECTION
In this episode of The Lonely Leader Podcast, James Rule explores the leadership essential of discipline. Far from being rigid or punishing, discipline is the quiet force that drives consistency, focus, momentum, clarity and long-term high performance.
James breaks down the three biggest myths about discipline and reveals why disciplined leaders outperform their peers over the long term. Drawing on insights from Tom Brady, David Goggins, and Jocko Willink, he shows how the world’s top performers use discipline to stay focused, overcome obstacles and take complete ownership of their growth.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
This episode is packed with actionable strategies to strengthen your self-discipline, reduce distraction, eliminate comparison, reclaim your attention, and create daily habits that support exceptional leadership.
Whether you’re leading a team, a business, or simply striving to become a better version of yourself, this is essential listening for anyone committed to lasting high performance.
ABOUT THE HOST
James is an experienced mentor, coach and thought leader who works with a range of clients from FTSE 100 companies, SME´s the NHS and wider public and not for profit sectors.
His twenty year career in elite sport initially as a professional rugby player but predominantly as a chief executive has given him an invaluable insight in managing the success, failures and pressures associated with leadership at the highest level.
As a high performance coach James specialises in enhancing resilience and leadership development. He is a passionate advocate of the notion that to find lasting fulfilment we need to take a holistic view of high performance.
EPISODES TO CHECK OUT NEXT
Episode 99 - Leadership Essentials: Productivity - Reclaiming focus in a distracted world
Episode 93 - Inside The Lonely Leader: My story, my philosophy, my purpose
Episode 11- Leadership Essentials: Delegation
CONNECT & CONTACT
Website www.thelonelyleader.co.uk
Email: hello@thelonelyleader.co.uk
NEWSLETTER
Sign Up to The Leadership Accelerator Newsletter for advice, inspiration and ideas, you'll also receive James' Tackling Imposter Syndrome guide.
THIS SHOW WAS BROUGHT TO YOU BY LONELY LEADER MEDIA
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Celebrating 100 Episodes. The wins, the work and what comes next
In celebration of this milestone episode James shares lessons learned from his podcasting journey over the last two years and how they relate to your growth and development. He profiles the most downloaded episodes and shares the chance to win one of five complimentary high performance executive coaching sessions with him. There is also a coveted place on The Leadership Accelerator, our flagship coaching programme available to be won.
OUR TOP DOWNLOADED EPISODES SO FAR
Episode 83 - Leadership Essentials: Approachability
Episode 7 - Maximising First Impressions
Episode 65 -Leadership Essentials: Consistency
Episode 10 - Leadership Essentials: Authenticity
Episode 11 - Leadership Essentials: Delegation
Episode - 9 Warning signs of burnout and tips to prevent it
Episode 80 - Feedback culture: The secret weapon of high performing teams (Part 1: Giving feedback)
Episode 57 - Lessons from my leadership journey
ABOUT THE HOST
James is an experienced mentor, coach and thought leader who works with a range of clients from FTSE 100 companies, SME´s the NHS and wider public and not for profit sectors. His twenty year career in elite sport initially as a professional rugby player but predominantly as a chief executive has given him an invaluable insight in managing the success, failures and pressures associated with leadership at the highest level. As a high performance coach James specialises in enhancing resilience and leadership development. He is a passionate advocate of the notion that to find lasting fulfilment we need to take a holistic view of high performance.
CONNECT & CONTACT
Website www.thelonelyleader.co.uk
Email: hello@thelonelyleader.co.uk
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episode 99
Leadership Essentials: Productivity - Reclaiming focus in a distracted world
SUMMARY SECTION
In this episode of The Lonely Leader Podcast, James Rule explores how society is sleep walking into the destruction of our productivity and associated fulfilment. He guides the listener through simple steps to identify the main disruptors of our productivity and shares a road map to diminish them and build new levels of professional and personal performance. You deserve to bring the best version of you to every role you take on. We hope this episode will help you to do exactly that.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
ABOUT THE HOST
James is an experienced mentor, coach and thought leader who works with a range of clients from FTSE 100 companies, SME´s the NHS and wider public and not for profit sectors. His twenty year career in elite sport initially as a professional rugby player but predominantly as a chief executive has given him an invaluable insight in managing the success, failures and pressures associated with leadership at the highest level.
As a high performance coach James specialises in enhancing resilience and leadership development. He is a passionate advocate of the notion that to find lasting fulfilment we need to take a holistic view of high performance.
EPISODES TO CHECK OUT NEXT
Episode 48 - Leadership Essentials: Presence
Episode 37 - Recovery: The missing link for high performance
Episode 18 - Reclaim control over digital distraction
CONNECT & CONTACT
Website www.thelonelyleader.co.uk
Email: hello@thelonelyleader.co.uk
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episode 98
Leadership Essentials: Resilience - Creating strength that endures
SUMMARY
In this episode of The Lonely Leader Podcast, James Rule explores a leadership essential we all need in our professional role and personal life - resilience. Drawing from his personal journey and world leaders in sport, business, and the military, James unpacks what it truly means to lead with strength, adaptability, and grace under pressure.
Whether you’re navigating a professional setback, leading a team through uncertainty, or simply striving for sustainable success, this episode will help you create unshakeable resilience from the inside out.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
The three biggest misconceptions about resilience that hold leaders back.
How to build resilience not just for the crises, but for everyday high performance.
Eight actionable takeaways to help you strengthen your mindset, resilience and ability to lead through adversity.
Real world examples from J.K. Rowling, and Admiral James Stockdale.
“Resilience is not just for surviving the worst day of your life. It’s for thriving every day of your life.” – Dr. Rick Hansen
ABOUT THE HOST
James is an experienced mentor, coach and thought leader who works with a range of clients from FTSE 100 companies, SME´s the NHS and wider public and not for profit sectors.
His twenty year career in elite sport initially as a professional rugby player but predominantly as a chief executive has given him an invaluable insight in managing the success, failures and pressures associated with leadership at the highest level.
As a high performance coach James specialises in enhancing resilience and leadership development. He is a passionate advocate of the notion that to find lasting fulfilment we need to take a holistic view of high performance.
EPISODES TO CHECK OUT NEXT
Episode 93 - Inside The Lonely Leader: My story, my philosophy, my purpose
Episode 71 - Holiday Illness: A warning sign you cannot ignore
Episode 54 - The Power of Rest: Unlocking high performance through recovery
CONNECT & CONTACT
Website www.thelonelyleader.co.uk
Email: hello@thelonelyleader.co.uk
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episode 97
The Comfort Trap: Why we stay stuck (and how to get unstuck)
SUMMARY SECTION
Why do so many talented leaders stay stuck in jobs, relationships, or routines that no longer serve them? In this episode of The Lonely Leader Podcast, James Rule explores the hidden forces that keep us trapped in our comfort zones from the sunk cost fallacy to identity attachment and fear of judgment. Discover practical ways to push through discomfort, redefine success and create meaningful change in your leadership and life.
Whether you’re feeling stuck in your career, your business, or your mindset this episode will help you see that staying comfortable comes at a cost.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
In this powerful follow on to How to get comfortable with being uncomfortable, James Rule dives deeper into why we stay stuck and how to finally move beyond the limits of comfort.
Drawing from psychology, leadership experience, and real-world coaching insights, this episode uncovers the truth behind the comfort trap that quiet, invisible space where growth goes to die.
ABOUT THE HOST
James is an experienced mentor, coach and thought leader who works with a range of clients from FTSE 100 companies, SME´s the NHS and wider public and not for profit sectors.
His twenty year career in elite sport initially as a professional rugby player but predominantly as a chief executive has given him an invaluable insight in managing the success, failures and pressures associated with leadership at the highest level.
As a high performance coach James specialises in enhancing resilience and leadership development. He is a passionate advocate of the notion that to find lasting fulfilment we need to take a holistic view of high performance.
EPISODES TO CHECK OUT NEXT
Episode 93 - Inside The Lonely Leader: My story, my philosophy, my purpose
Episode 96 - How to get comfortable with being uncomfortable
Episode 6 - Combatting Sunday afternoon work anxiety
CONNECT & CONTACT
Website www.thelonelyleader.co.uk
Email: hello@thelonelyleader.co.uk
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episode 96
How to get comfortable with being uncomfortable
SUMMARY SECTION
The negative impacts previously associated with a mid-life crisis are now striking people in their 20's and 30's. Through his coaching, James Rule regularly encounters individuals who are feeling stuck and this is compromising their performance and fulfilment in both their personal lives and professional roles. In this episode he highlights the power of getting comfortable with being uncomfortable in order to make the changes required to reconnect with your purpose and obtain new levels of fulfilment. He shares key moments in his life where he was rewarded for making big changes and pushing through adversity and discomfort.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Listen to your gut feeling. You know when something, a role, a relationship, is no longer fulfilling you.
Rather than worrying about what people will think if you make a significant change, worry about what you will think years down the line if your don’t and are filled with regret.
Do not fear the creation of a new identity that is not solely built around your professional role but also factors in who you are as a person.
Expect change to be uncomfortable but remind yourself of the rewards for persisting and pushing through that discomfort.
ABOUT THE HOST
James is an experienced mentor, coach and thought leader who works with a range of clients from FTSE 100 companies, SME´s the NHS and wider public and not for profit sectors.
His twenty year career in elite sport initially as a professional rugby player but predominantly as a chief executive has given him an invaluable insight in managing the success, failures and pressures associated with leadership at the highest level.
As a high performance coach James specialises in enhancing resilience and leadership development. He is a passionate advocate of the notion that to find lasting fulfilment we need to take a holistic view of high performance.
EPISODES TO CHECK OUT NEXT
Episode 93 - Inside The Lonely Leader: My story, my philosophy, my purpose
Episode 90 - The Leadership Accelerator: Built by leaders for leaders
Episode 85 -Leadership Essentials: Gratitude
CONNECT & CONTACT
Website www.thelonelyleader.co.uk
Email: hello@thelonelyleader.co.uk
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episode 95
Leadership Essentials: Motivation - Fuel for you and your team
SUMMARY
In this episode of The Lonely Leader Podcast, host James Rule explores the latest trait in the Leadership Essential Series - Motivation. James breaks down how leaders can sustain their own self motivation and how they can inspire and maintain motivation within their teams.
Drawing on powerful examples from Jürgen Klopp, Richard Branson, and General Sir Richard Dannatt, this episode reveals how motivation is built not through speeches or slogans, but through connection, consistency, and example.
James also discusses the science of motivation, intrinsic vs extrinsic and shares 8 actionable takeaways to help leaders refuel their motivation and that of their wider teams.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Why motivation is the bridge between knowing and doing
The crucial difference between self-motivation and team motivation
How to inspire your people through trust, autonomy, and recognition
8 practical steps you can take to build unstoppable momentum for yourself and your team
KEY QUOTES FEATURED
“The things you do when no one else is looking are the things that define you.” – Unknown
“Good, better, best. Never let it rest. Until your good is better and your better is best.” – Tim Duncan
“Motivation is when your dreams put on work clothes.” – Benjamin Franklin
“It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent. It is the one most adaptable to change.” – Charles Darwin
ABOUT THE HOST
James is an experienced mentor, coach and thought leader who works with a range of clients from FTSE 100 companies, SME´s the NHS and wider public and not for profit sectors.
His twenty year career in elite sport initially as a professional rugby player but predominantly as a chief executive has given him an invaluable insight in managing the success, failures and pressures associated with leadership at the highest level.
As a high performance coach James specialises in enhancing resilience and leadership development. He is a passionate advocate of the notion that to find lasting fulfilment we need to take a holistic view of high performance.
EPISODES TO CHECK OUT NEXT
Episode 79 - Why active listening is the skill that changes everything
Episode 21 - Value your people
Episode 12 - Eight steps to create a quality culture
CONNECT & CONTACT
Website www.thelonelyleader.co.uk
Email: hello@thelonelyleader.co.uk
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episode 94
Leadership Essentials: Adaptability - Thriving Through Change
SUMMARY SECTION
In this episode of The Lonely Leader Podcast, James Rule explores a cornerstone of impactful leadership, adaptability. Discover how elite leaders from sport, the military, and business embrace change, pivot fast, and stay effective under pressure. If you want to thrive when everything around you shifts, this episode is your blueprint for flexible, forward-thinking leadership.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
ABOUT THE HOST
James is an experienced mentor, coach and thought leader who works with a range of clients from FTSE 100 companies, SME´s the NHS and wider public and not for profit sectors.
His twenty year career in elite sport initially as a professional rugby player but predominantly as a chief executive has given him an invaluable insight in managing the success, failures and pressures associated with leadership at the highest level.
As a high performance coach James specialises in enhancing resilience and leadership development. He is a passionate advocate of the notion that to find lasting fulfilment we need to take a holistic view of high performance.
EPISODES TO CHECK OUT NEXT
Episode 93 - Inside The Lonely Leader: My story, my philosophy, my purpose
Episode 89 - Leadership Essentials: Belief - The fuel that drives you forward
Episode 76 - The strength in vulnerability. A Leadership Essential
CONNECT & CONTACT
Website www.thelonelyleader.co.uk
Email: hello@thelonelyleader.co.uk
NEWSLETTER
Sign Up to The Leadership Accelerator Newsletter for advice, inspiration and ideas, you'll also receive James' Tackling Imposter Syndrome guide.
THIS SHOW WAS BROUGHT TO YOU BY LONELY LEADER MEDIA
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episode 93
Inside The Lonely Leader: My story, my philosophy, my purpose
SUMMARY
In this special episode, I (James Rule) share my journey from playing professional rugby to my tenures as a CEO into my role now at The Lonely Leader, coaching a diverse range of leaders. I reveal the philosophy that underpins everything I do: Find clarity, build resilience, drive performance, and enhance fulfilment. You’ll hear why I started The Lonely Leader, the purpose that drives me, and the key programmes we have to support your growth and development.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Lessons I carried from professional sport into the boardroom
How failure shaped my philosophy on leadership
The four pillars every leader needs: clarity, resilience, performance, fulfilment
Why purpose fuels performance and why fulfilment matters as much as results
Whether you’re a CEO, entrepreneur, senior executive, or aspiring leader, my hope is that this episode gives you both insight and reassurance: you don’t have to lead alone.
ABOUT THE HOST
James is an experienced mentor, coach and thought leader who works with a range of clients from FTSE 100 companies, SME´s the NHS and wider public and not for profit sectors.
His twenty year career in elite sport initially as a professional rugby player but predominantly as a chief executive has given him an invaluable insight in managing the success, failures and pressures associated with leadership at the highest level.
As a high performance coach James specialises in enhancing resilience and leadership development. He is a passionate advocate of the notion that to find lasting fulfilment we need to take a holistic view of high performance.
EPISODES TO CHECK OUT NEXT
Episode1 - Why are we called The Lonely Leader
Episode 2- Why leaders must adopt a holistic view to create and sustain high performance
Episode 21 - Value your people
Episode 90 - The Leadership Accelerator: Built by leaders for leaders
CONNECT & CONTACT
Website www.thelonelyleader.co.uk
Email: hello@thelonelyleader.co.uk
NEWSLETTER
Sign Up to The Leadership Accelerator Newsletter for advice, inspiration and ideas, you'll also receive James' Tackling Imposter Syndrome guide.
THIS SHOW WAS BROUGHT TO YOU BY LONELY LEADER MEDIA
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episode 92
Leadership Essentials: Body Language
SUMMARY SECTION
Your body speaks before you do. Research shows that up to 93% of communication is non-verbal, meaning how you carry yourself can inspire confidence or trigger doubt.
In this episode of The Lonely Leader Podcast, James Rule explores the leadership essential of body language. He highlights how the way you stand, gesture, and compose yourself directly influences trust and performance.
From Roger Federer’s composure on the tennis court, to Winston Churchill’s physical presence during the Blitz, this episode reveals how the world’s most effective leaders use body language to inspire and lead.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Practical strategies to improve your own body language
How to project confidence even under pressure
Use your posture and presence to build trust
Harness your body language to boost resilience and performance
Whether you’re leading a team meeting, delivering a keynote, or navigating a crisis, your body language can be your greatest leadership asset or your biggest liability.
ABOUT THE HOST
James is an experienced mentor, coach and thought leader who works with a range of clients from FTSE 100 companies, SME´s the NHS and wider public and not for profit sectors.
His twenty year career in elite sport initially as a professional rugby player but predominantly as a chief executive has given him an invaluable insight in managing the success, failures and pressures associated with leadership at the highest level.
As a high performance coach James specialises in enhancing resilience and leadership development. He is a passionate advocate of the notion that to find lasting fulfilment we need to take a holistic view of high performance.
EPISODES TO CHECK OUT NEXT
Episode 26 - Ten ways to tackle worry
Episode 20 - Tackling Imposter Syndrome
Episode 4 - High performers do this everyday to empower their mindset
CONNECT & CONTACT
Website www.thelonelyleader.co.uk
Email: hello@thelonelyleader.co.uk
NEWSLETTER
Sign Up to The Leadership Accelerator Newsletter for advice, inspiration and ideas, you'll also receive James' Tackling Imposter Syndrome guide.
THIS SHOW WAS BROUGHT TO YOU BY LONELY LEADER MEDIA
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episode 91
Leadership Essentials: Visualisation
SUMMARY
In this episode of The Lonely Leader Podcast, James Rule explores how visualisation can give leaders the same X-factor that elite athletes, visionary entrepreneurs, and even world leaders rely on to achieve extraordinary results. Far from “wishful thinking,” visualisation is about mentally rehearsing success, anticipating challenges, and training your brain to perform under pressure. When combined with belief and consistent action, it becomes a leadership superpower.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Why visualisation is a common practice among Olympians, special forces, and high-performing CEOs
How Arnold Schwarzenegger used visualisation to become Mr. Universe, a Hollywood icon, and Governor of California
How Michael Phelps and Lindsey Vonn rehearsed victory in their minds long before stepping onto the world stage
How Steve Jobs envisioned the iPhone years before it existed and brought it to life
Simple, actionable steps to start practising visualisation in under 10 minutes a day.
ABOUT THE HOST
James is an experienced mentor, coach and thought leader who works with a range of clients from FTSE 100 companies, SME´s the NHS and wider public and not for profit sectors.
His twenty year career in elite sport initially as a professional rugby player but predominantly as a chief executive has given him an invaluable insight in managing the success, failures and pressures associated with leadership at the highest level.
As a high performance coach James specialises in enhancing resilience and leadership development. He is a passionate advocate of the notion that to find lasting fulfilment we need to take a holistic view of high performance.
EPISODES TO CHECK OUT NEXT
Episode 90 - The Leadership Accelerator: Built by leaders for leaders
Episode 89 - Leadership Essentials: Belief - The fuel that drives you forward
Episode 88 - The Leadership Essential of Preparation
CONNECT & CONTACT
Website www.thelonelyleader.co.uk
Email: hello@thelonelyleader.co.uk
NEWSLETTER
Sign Up to The Leadership Accelerator Newsletter for advice, inspiration and ideas, you'll also receive James' Tackling Imposter Syndrome guide.
THIS SHOW WAS BROUGHT TO YOU BY LONELY LEADER MEDIA
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episode 90
The Leadership Accelerator: Built by leaders for leaders.
SUMMARY
The Lonely Leader just turned six years old! To celebrate we going to provide six people with access to our flagship programme The Leadership Accelerator. James discusses how this coaching programme has been built by leaders for leaders to tackle the most frequently expressed challenges high performing leaders are facing today.
The Leadership Accelerator Testimonials.
James' LinkedIn Recommendations.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
The six core challenges of modern day leadership.
Why work life integration and taking a holistic approach is essential for sustaining high performance.
The importance of the authentic delivery of content derived from lived life experience as opposed to regurgitation of theoretical rhetoric.
Why we all deserve to access the best version of ourselves and attain the highest level of fulfilment in our professional role and personal lives.
ABOUT THE HOST
James is an experienced mentor, coach and thought leader who works with a range of clients from FTSE 100 companies, SME´s the NHS and wider public and not for profit sectors.
His twenty year career in elite sport initially as a professional rugby player but predominantly as a chief executive has given him an invaluable insight in managing the success, failures and pressures associated with leadership at the highest level.
As a high performance coach James specialises in enhancing resilience and leadership development. He is a passionate advocate of the notion that to find lasting fulfilment we need to take a holistic view of high performance.
EPISODES TO CHECK OUT NEXT
Episode 73 - Invisible Drains: 7 Silent Killers of Leadership Energy
Episode 71 - Holiday Illness: A warning sign you can’t ignore
Episode 64 - Leading without regrets
CONNECT & CONTACT
Website www.thelonelyleader.co.uk
Email: hello@thelonelyleader.co.uk
NEWSLETTER
Sign Up to The Leadership Accelerator Newsletter for advice, inspiration and ideas, you'll also receive James' Tackling Imposter Syndrome guide.
THIS SHOW WAS BROUGHT TO YOU BY LONELY LEADER MEDIA
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episode 89
Leadership Essentials: Belief - The fuel that drives you forward
SUMMARY SECTION
In this episode of The Lonely Leader Podcast, James Rule explores the Leadership Essential of Belief the foundation that underpins courage, resilience, and innovation. Without belief, leadership falters. With it, almost anything is possible.
James outlines why belief matters, how it spreads through teams, and why it becomes the emotional thermostat of leadership. Drawing lessons from:
Through these real world examples and his own personal reflections and actionable takeaways, James shows how belief helps leaders create clarity, inspire confidence, and push through adversity.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Leadership is lonely, but it doesn’t have to be. Belief is the fuel that turns doubt into determination.
ABOUT THE HOST
James is an experienced mentor, coach and thought leader who works with a range of clients from FTSE 100 companies, SME´s the NHS and wider public and not for profit sectors.
His twenty year career in elite sport initially as a professional rugby player but predominantly as a chief executive has given him an invaluable insight in managing the success, failures and pressures associated with leadership at the highest level.
As a high performance coach James specialises in enhancing resilience and leadership development. He is a passionate advocate of the notion that to find lasting fulfilment we need to take a holistic view of high performance.
EPISODES TO CHECK OUT NEXT
Episode 84 - Leadership Essentials: Clarity
Episode 48 - Leadership Essentials: Presence
Episode 14 - Leadership Essentials: Humility
CONNECT & CONTACT
Website www.thelonelyleader.co.uk
Email: hello@thelonelyleader.co.uk
NEWSLETTER
Sign Up to The Leadership Accelerator Newsletter for advice, inspiration and ideas, you'll also receive James' Tackling Imposter Syndrome guide.
THIS SHOW WAS BROUGHT TO YOU BY LONELY LEADER MEDIA
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episode 88
The Leadership Essential of Preparation
SUMMARY SECTION
James Rule explores why preparation is a non-negotiable leadership essential. Drawing on lessons from sport, business, and the military, James shares how Eliud Kipchoge, Sheryl Sandberg, and Admiral William McRaven use meticulous preparation to consistently deliver under pressure.
From communication and diary planning to recovery and rehearsing under pressure, you’ll discover actionable takeaways to strengthen your preparation habits and lead with greater confidence.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Why preparation separates good leaders from great ones
How top performers in sport, business, and the military prepare for success
7 practical strategies to improve your preparation
How preparation builds confidence, resilience and our ability to optimise performance
ABOUT THE HOST
James is an experienced mentor, coach and thought leader who works with a range of clients from FTSE 100 companies, SME´s the NHS and wider public and not for profit sectors.
His twenty year career in elite sport initially as a professional rugby player but predominantly as a chief executive has given him an invaluable insight in managing the success, failures and pressures associated with leadership at the highest level.
As a high performance coach James specialises in enhancing resilience and leadership development. He is a passionate advocate of the notion that to find lasting fulfilment we need to take a holistic view of high performance.
EPISODES TO CHECK OUT NEXT
Episode 56 - Leadership Essentials: Positivity
Episode 54 -The power of rest: Unlocking high performance through recovery
Episode 52 - The legacy you leave
CONNECT & CONTACT
Website www.thelonelyleader.co.uk
Email: hello@thelonelyleader.co.uk
NEWSLETTER
Sign Up to The Leadership Accelerator Newsletter for advice, inspiration and ideas, you'll also receive James' Tackling Imposter Syndrome guide.
THIS SHOW WAS BROUGHT TO YOU BY LONELY LEADER MEDIA
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episode 87
Leadership Essentials: Curiosity
SUMMARY SECTION
James Rule explores how curiosity enhances leadership impact, sharpens performance, and deepens fulfilment. Hear lessons from Lewis Hamilton, Sara Blakely, and Admiral William H. McRaven leaders whose questions changed the game. Discover 8 actionable ways to build curiosity into your daily life and your leadership style.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Why curiosity separates great leaders from good ones
How fear shuts down curiosity and how to overcome it
Sporting, business, and military examples of curiosity in action
8 actionable ways to enhance your curiosity
ABOUT THE HOST
James is an experienced mentor, coach and thought leader who works with a range of clients from FTSE 100 companies, SME´s the NHS and wider public and not for profit sectors.
His twenty year career in elite sport initially as a professional rugby player but predominantly as a chief executive has given him an invaluable insight in managing the success, failures and pressures associated with leadership at the highest level.
As a high performance coach James specialises in enhancing resilience and leadership development. He is a passionate advocate of the notion that to find lasting fulfilment we need to take a holistic view of high performance.
EPISODES TO CHECK OUT NEXT
Episode 86 - Leadership Essentials: Lifelong Learning
Episode 77 - Leadership Essentials: Tenacity. Holding the line when it gets tough
Episode 68 - Course correcting an underperforming team
CONNECT & CONTACT
Website www.thelonelyleader.co.uk
Email: hello@thelonelyleader.co.uk
NEWSLETTER
Sign Up to The Leadership Accelerator Newsletter for advice, inspiration and ideas, you'll also receive James' Tackling Imposter Syndrome guide.
THIS SHOW WAS BROUGHT TO YOU BY LONELY LEADER MEDIA
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episode 86
Leadership Essentials: Lifelong Learning
SUMMARY SECTION
In this episode of The Lonely Leader Podcast James Rule explores why a commitment to lifelong learning is a critical leadership essential. From childhood classrooms to corporate boardrooms, learning often fades as responsibility increases. Great leaders however, never stop growing.
James shares insights from Admiral James Stavridis, Kobe Bryant, and Bill Belichick to show how cross disciplinary learning, relentless curiosity, and humility fuel exceptional leadership.
He explores concepts like Accelerated Learning and NET Time. In addition he provides eight actionable takeaways you can implement this week to reignite your growth.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Read outside your field
Use NET Time to learn while doing daily tasks
Ask your team for insight
Study a leader you admire
Start a “Lessons Learned” journal
Join or start a round table learning circle
Teach what you’ve learned to others
ABOUT THE HOST
James is an experienced mentor, coach and thought leader who works with a range of clients from FTSE 100 companies, SME´s the NHS and wider public and not for profit sectors.
His twenty year career in elite sport initially as a professional rugby player but predominantly as a chief executive has given him an invaluable insight in managing the success, failures and pressures associated with leadership at the highest level.
As a high performance coach James specialises in enhancing resilience and leadership development. He is a passionate advocate of the notion that to find lasting fulfilment we need to take a holistic view of high performance.
EPISODES TO CHECK OUT NEXT
Episode 69 - Leadership books every leader should read
Episode 67 - How mentorship fuels your leadership journey
Episode 30 - Preventing loneliness in leadership
CONNECT & CONTACT
Website www.thelonelyleader.co.uk
Email: hello@thelonelyleader.co.uk
NEWSLETTER
Sign Up to The Leadership Accelerator Newsletter for advice, inspiration and ideas, you'll also receive James' Top 10 Tips for Combating Your Fear of Public Speaking.
THIS SHOW WAS BROUGHT TO YOU BY LONELY LEADER MEDIA
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episode 85
Leadership Essentials: Gratitude
SUMMARY SECTION
In this episode of The Lonely Leader Podcast, James Rule explores one of the most overlooked but high impact traits in leadership: Gratitude. Part of the Leadership Essentials series, this episode breaks down why gratitude isn't just about being nice, it’s integral to building resilient, loyal, and high-performing teams. James shares real-world examples from leaders such as Richard Branson and John Wooden and offers 8 practical ways to make gratitude part of your leadership toolkit.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Why gratitude is a performance driver, not a soft skill
Three reasons gratitude is essential for every leader
How top leaders use gratitude to fuel loyalty and enhance culture
Eight actionable steps to embed gratitude in your leadership style
ABOUT THE HOST
James is an experienced mentor, coach and thought leader who works with a range of clients from FTSE 100 companies, SME´s the NHS and wider public and not for profit sectors.
His twenty year career in elite sport initially as a professional rugby player but predominantly as a chief executive has given him an invaluable insight in managing the success, failures and pressures associated with leadership at the highest level.
As a high performance coach James specialises in enhancing resilience and leadership development. He is a passionate advocate of the notion that to find lasting fulfilment we need to take a holistic view of high performance.
EPISODES TO CHECK OUT NEXT
Episode 83 - Leadership Essentials: Approachability
Episode 61 - Set your standards high
Episode 48 - Leadership Essentials: Presence
CONNECT & CONTACT
NEWSLETTER
Sign Up to The Leadership Accelerator Newsletter for advice, inspiration and ideas, you'll also receive James' Top 10 Tips for Combating Your Fear of Public Speaking.
THIS SHOW WAS BROUGHT TO YOU BY LONELY LEADER MEDIA
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episode 84
Leadership Essentials: Clarity
SUMMARY SECTION
In this episode of The Lonely Leader Podcast, James Rule explores the Leadership Essential: Clarity. Using analogies and examples from business, politics, and elite sport, James shows why clarity is the antidote to confusion, misalignment, and inertia in modern leadership. Whether you're driving performance, leading change, or simply trying to feel less overwhelmed this episode will help you simplify and focus.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Why clarity is the foundation of all great leadership
The difference between being busy and being intentional
3 types of clarity every leader must master
What Clive Woodward, Sean McVay, and Lee Kuan Yew can teach us about focused leadership
8 actionable strategies to sharpen your clarity in work and life
ABOUT THE HOST
James is an experienced mentor, coach and thought leader who works with a range of clients from FTSE 100 companies, SME´s the NHS and wider public and not for profit sectors.
His twenty year career in elite sport initially as a professional rugby player but predominantly as a chief executive has given him an invaluable insight in managing the success, failures and pressures associated with leadership at the highest level.
As a high performance coach James specialises in enhancing resilience and leadership development. He is a passionate advocate of the notion that to find lasting fulfilment we need to take a holistic view of high performance and create it in both our professional roles and personal lives.
EPISODES TO CHECK OUT NEXT
Episode 52 - Leadership Essentials: The legacy you leave
Episode 38 - Mastering the art of communication
Episode 24 - What do you have to breakthrough to create your breakthrough
CONNECT & CONTACT
NEWSLETTER
Sign Up to The Leadership Accelerator Newsletter for advice, inspiration and ideas, you'll also receive James' Top 10 Tips for Combating Your Fear of Public Speaking.
THIS SHOW WAS BROUGHT TO YOU BY LONELY LEADER MEDIA
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episode 83
Leadership Essentials: Approachability
SUMMARY SECTION
In this episode of The Lonely Leader Podcast, James Rule explores why approachability isn’t just a “nice to have” it’s a leadership essential. Being approachable unlocks ideas, invites honest feedback, improves team wellbeing, and builds deep loyalty. James shares how approachability can build trust and drive results. Plus, 8 practical strategies to immediately make yourself a more approachable leader.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
The four core benefits of being an approachable leader
How body language, language, and accessibility shape your leadership presence
What sport coaches can teach us about approachable leadership
Why vulnerability and consistency are critical to creating psychological safety
8 actionable steps to become a more approachable leader
ABOUT THE HOST
James is an experienced mentor, coach and thought leader who works with a range of clients from FTSE 100 companies, SME´s the NHS and wider public and not for profit sectors.
His twenty year career in elite sport initially as a professional rugby player but predominantly as a chief executive has given him an invaluable insight in managing the success, failures and pressures associated with leadership at the highest level.
As a high performance coach James specialises in enhancing resilience and leadership development. He is a passionate advocate of the notion that to find lasting fulfilment we need to take a holistic view of high performance and create it in both our professional roles and personal lives.
EPISODES TO CHECK OUT NEXT
Episode 51 - Leadership Essentials: The Power of Optimism
Episode 52 - Leadership Essentials: The legacy you leave
Episode 36 - Leadership Essentials: Confidence
CONNECT & CONTACT
NEWSLETTER
Sign Up to The Leadership Accelerator Newsletter for advice, inspiration and ideas, you'll also receive James' Top 10 Tips for Combating Your Fear of Public Speaking.
THIS SHOW WAS BROUGHT TO YOU BY LONELY LEADER MEDIA
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episode 82
Leadership Essentials: The strength of decisiveness
SUMMARY SECTION
In this episode of The Lonely Leader Podcast, James Rule dives into one of the most underrated yet vital leadership traits: Decisiveness. From the pressure of daily decision making to the paralysis caused by over analysis, James breaks down why the ability to decide and act separates effective leaders from stagnant ones.
Hear real world stories from sport, and business. Learn how decisive leadership removes confusion, inspires trust and builds momentum, and walk away with 10 practical tips to sharpen your decision making ability.
If you’ve been stuck, hesitating, or overthinking this episode is your call to move.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Why indecision is still a decision and often the worst one
Colin Powell’s 40–70 Rule and how it applies to your leadership
The real cost of hesitation in high stakes moments
How Anne Mulcahy - CEO Xerox and former President Theodore Roosevelt modelled decisive leadership
10 actionable strategies to enhance your decisiveness
ABOUT THE HOST
James is an experienced mentor, coach and thought leader who works with a range of clients from FTSE 100 companies, SME´s the NHS and wider public and not for profit sectors.
His twenty year career in elite sport initially as a professional rugby player but predominantly as a chief executive has given him an invaluable insight in managing the success, failures and pressures associated with leadership at the highest level.
As a high performance coach James specialises in enhancing resilience and leadership development. He is a passionate advocate of the notion that to find lasting fulfilment we need to take a holistic view of high performance and create it in both our professional roles and personal lives.
EPISODES TO CHECK OUT NEXT
Episode 77 - Leadership Essentials: Tenacity - Holding the line when it gets tough
Episode 56 - Leadership Essentials : Positivity
Episode 48 - Leadership Essentials: Presence
CONNECT & CONTACT
NEWSLETTER
Sign Up to The Leadership Accelerator Newsletter for advice, inspiration and ideas, you'll also receive James' Top 10 Tips for Combating Your Fear of Public Speaking.
THIS SHOW WAS BROUGHT TO YOU BY LONELY LEADER MEDIA
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.