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March 20.2025
3 Minutes Read

Finding Fulfillment as a Master Chair: A Journey Through Leadership Coaching

Finding Fulfillment as a Master Chair, man smiling on garden bench.

Unlocking Fulfillment: The Journey of a Master Chair

As business leaders shoulder the tremendous pressures of running a company, few have the opportunity to directly impact the lives of others in the same way that executive coaches do. Jess Hartmann, a Master Chair with Vistage, embodies this potential to inspire and guide leaders on their journey to success, not just as a former CEO but now as a facilitator for others seeking growth.

From CEO to Master Chair: A Transformational Path

Hartmann's transition from the CEO role to a Vistage Master Chair reflects a pivotal turning point in his career. After years at the helm of ProMAX Systems, he was left searching for a new purpose—feeling too young to retire yet unwilling to start anew in the demanding world of technology. Joining Vistage, first as a member, provided Hartmann not only with essential skills but opened doors to a future where he could dedicate his talents to coaching others.

The rigorous training he underwent at the Vistage Chair Academy gave him the confidence he initially lacked. “Going in with seriousness, I knew I had to make this happen, even though fear was a constant distraction,” he recalled. Surrounded by fellow aspiring Chairs and armed with practical knowledge about coaching and the sales side of group facilitation, he was ready to embrace his new role.

Creating Empathy and Connection

In his role, Hartmann leads five groups of executives, dedicating his time to helping 99 members develop their leadership abilities. His secret? Fostering a safe space where challenging discussions can thrive. “Providing executives with a supportive environment is crucial,” he emphasizes. This not only enhances their decision-making skills but also cultivates a culture of camaraderie and support among peers.

The success stories ripple outward from these groups—members not only improve their business acumen but also build lasting relationships, often sharing personal experiences that elevate discussions. “As leaders, we need tough love sometimes, but also a space to explore what we’re truly passionate about,” Hartmann adds.

The Ripple Effect of Executive Coaching

Hartmann's experiences remind us of the broader implications of executive coaching within the business ecosystem. Many CEOs and business leaders find themselves feeling isolated at the top; engaging with a Coach opens pathways not just to personal growth but team development as well. A common misconception is that leadership is a solitary endeavor. The reality is that shared experiences and mutual support fuel not just personal but organizational progress.

The Growth Mindset: Building on Challenges

Throughout his journey, Hartmann has adopted a growth mindset, viewing challenges as opportunities to learn and grow. “Every day, what matters is not the looming deadlines but the lives you’ve touched,” he notes. This perspective not only serves him but forms the bedrock upon which he guides his group members, encouraging them to shift focus from obstacles to opportunities.

The Future of Leadership Coaching

Looking forward, the importance of executive coaching in leadership cannot be overstated. In an era where businesses face unprecedented challenges—from digital transformation to socio-economic shifts—the insights gained from engagement in groups like Vistage provide leaders with tools necessary to navigate these complexities. Hartmann’s role becomes critical as he continues shaping the leaders of tomorrow, helping them find clarity amid chaos.

Conclusion: Take the Leap Towards Growth

To aspiring Chandlers and established CEOs alike: consider the potential you have at your own table. Engaging with a Vistage group, whether through a Coach or as a member, can transform your leadership style and impact, just as it did for Jess Hartmann. Why wait to take charge of your success story? Seek the guidance that many have found invaluable, ensuring not only your growth but that of your organization.

Leadership Strategies

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02.20.2026

How CEOs Can Navigate Uncertainty with Essential Leadership Advice

Update Navigating the Uncertainty: Essential Leadership Priorities for Today’s CEOs In today’s rapidly changing business landscape, CEOs are beset by numerous challenges. With shifting political climates, fluctuating economies, and emerging technologies, the pressure is on business leaders to steer their organizations through uncertainty. Craig Weber, a seasoned Vistage speaker, emphasizes that the key to success lies in the ability to provide clarity, cultivate a positive culture, and make strategic decisions even in murky waters. 1. Creating Clarity Amidst Confusion As David Friedman asserts, clarity is paramount for effective leadership. CEOs must articulate a clear vision for their companies while ensuring that every team member understands and aligns with this direction. Ambiguity often breeds conflict, hindering progress and collaboration. Rather than getting trapped in day-to-day crises, CEOs are advised to dedicate their time to strategic thinking—ideally devoting 80% of their focus to long-term goals. This approach fosters an environment where everyone knows their roles and responsibilities, creating unity and direction. 2. Fostering a Culture of Ownership Weber argues that CEOs should aim to build a culture of ownership rather than mere compliance. When employees feel trusted and empowered, they are more likely to engage in meaningful dialogue about challenges. This “high conversational capacity” allows teams to navigate crises constructively. For instance, in the face of losing a major client, a team with strong communication skills will strategize effectively, while a team lacking this capacity may devolve into blame games and unproductive complaints. 3. Prioritizing Talent and Decision-Making Finding and nurturing talent is increasingly critical as the job market tightens. CEOs need to invest time in understanding the strengths and weaknesses of their teams and make informed decisions to fill gaps where necessary. Furthermore, decision-making in uncertain conditions should be grounded in data-driven analysis paired with intuitive understanding of the business environment. This balanced approach positions leaders to make choices that reflect both ambition and risk management. 4. Leading Through Change Effective change leadership is another essential priority highlighted by Weber. In an era where disruption is constant, CEOs must be able to guide their organizations through transitions. This entails communicating the need for change effectively, engaging employees in the process, and continuously reinforcing the organizational vision. By addressing resistance to change and acknowledging the emotional impacts on teams, leaders can create smoother transitions that harness the full potential of their workforce. 5. Learning and Adapting The most effective CEOs are those who commit to lifelong learning and understanding their landscape’s evolving intricacies. Sharing knowledge with peers and being open to new ideas fuels innovation and helps executives remain relevant amid considerable uncertainty. Networking and engaging with advisory groups like Vistage provide leaders with valuable insights from fellow executives, which can drive better decision-making. As National Leadership Day approaches on February 20, it presents a critical opportunity for CEOs, especially in small and mid-size businesses, to reassess their leadership strategies in light of these essential principles. Utilizing these insights not only leads to personal growth but also strengthens the organizations they lead. The future may be uncertain, but with clarity, culture, and a commitment to excellence, CEOs can navigate through the chaos and emerge stronger, ready to embrace new opportunities. For business leaders seeking to thrive in today’s unpredictable market, the advice from seasoned experts can provide a roadmap to success. It’s crucial to prioritize clarity, foster a culture of accountability, and continuously adapt to change. Emphasizing these priorities can empower CEOs to lead their organizations confidently into an ever-evolving future.
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Unlock Success with FDR's Leadership Lessons to Inspire Change

Update Leadership Lessons from FDR: A Blueprint for Modern Leaders As Franklin D. Roosevelt took the helm of the United States during one of its most turbulent times, his leadership strategies have become iconic. These approaches not only shaped a nation through immense economic challenges but have also established enduring lessons for business leaders navigating the complexities of today's corporate environment. Providing an Inspiring Vision to Ignite Change FDR's campaign promised a "New Deal," a phrase that transcended policy specifics to encapsulate hope and transformation. In business, a powerful vision serves a similar purpose. By articulating a clear and inspiring narrative, leaders can motivate teams even in the face of uncertainty. For contemporary CEOs, this means communicating optimism and strategic vision, especially during difficult phases. Cultivating an Optimistic Leadership Style No matter how dire the circumstances, FDR's unwavering optimism was infectious. As he famously proclaimed, “The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.” Optimism can create a resilient company culture, encouraging employees to face challenges head-on. Modern business leaders can enhance employee morale and productivity through positive reinforcement and a forward-thinking attitude. Collaboration as the Key to Strategic Planning FDR was notable for the collaborative relationships he fostered within his administration. He surrounded himself with a diverse mix of experts, which was crucial for generating innovative solutions to pressing national problems. This model is critical in today’s corporate governance; leaders should encourage a diverse range of viewpoints within their management teams to enhance creativity and address challenges comprehensively. Taking Bold Actions: The Essence of Leadership One of FDR’s most celebrated qualities was his readiness to take decisive actions. His early days in office were marked by a series of bold initiatives, grounded in the assurance that calculated risks could lead to meaningful change. Business leaders today must similarly balance risk with opportunity—seizing the moment to innovate and evolve their organizations, particularly as markets shift rapidly. The Need for Adaptability in Leadership FDR’s leadership exemplifies the importance of adaptability in the face of change. In his first 100 days, he implemented a flurry of reforms that addressed urgent economic woes. Today’s leaders can learn that flexibility and willingness to pivot are essential traits in an ever-evolving business landscape. Staying agile in decision-making allows companies to not just survive, but thrive amidst disruption. Decision-Making in Times of Crisis The landscape of leadership has transformed drastically since FDR’s time; however, the need for resolute decision-making remains unchanged. As crises arise, leaders must weigh the benefits and potential consequences of their decisions carefully, ensuring that they protect their employees, stakeholders, and bottom lines. The ability to navigate tough choices with confidence is a hallmark of great leadership. Engaging with the Community for Greater Impact FDR famously embraced a “fireside chat” format to communicate directly with the American people, explaining policies and connecting emotionally with the public. Business leaders today should also prioritize engagement with their communities and stakeholders, fostering transparency that builds trust and loyalty. Community engagement can serve as a catalyst for innovation and support during challenging times. Conclusion: Channeling Your Inner FDR The principles of leadership exhibited by FDR are as relevant now as they were in the 1930s. By inspiring vision, fostering collaboration, taking bold action, and practicing steadfast optimism, contemporary leaders can navigate their companies through difficult landscapes effectively. In turbulent times, channeling one's inner FDR could indeed be the key to inspiring change and ensuring a thriving organization.
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How Building AI Agents Through Workshops Can Transform Business Outcomes

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