Dave Mull

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Category: leadership

  • Who hasn’t spoken yet?

    Some of the best leaders I’ve had in my career shared a key trait.

    They made space for people who thought differently than they did.

    Different experience levels. Different backgrounds. Different ways of working through a problem. They didn’t just tolerate that. They actively pulled it into the room.

    I’ve felt the impact of that firsthand, especially early in my career. Being brought into conversations I technically hadn’t earned a seat at yet. Having someone ask what I thought before I assumed I wasn’t supposed to weigh in. That kind of leadership doesn’t just build confidence. It builds capability, faster than almost anything else.

    Here’s what I’ve come to believe: leaders who genuinely empower their people aren’t just being generous. They’re being smart.

    Teams with more perspectives in the room make better decisions. Not occasionally. Consistently. The blind spots one person has get covered by someone who sees the problem differently. That’s not a values statement. That’s just how good decisions get made.

    But here’s the harder truth. It doesn’t happen by accident, especially now.

    With teams more dispersed than ever, this takes real intention. Nobody stumbles into pulling the quiet person into the conversation on a video call. Nobody accidentally mentors someone three time zones away. It has to be a conscious practice, not a hope.

    The leaders who do this well aren’t the loudest in the room. They’re the ones asking who hasn’t spoken yet.

  • Two Minutes, Ten Years



    I didn’t start doing it as a strategy. I started because I genuinely believe people deserve to know their work is seen. But I’ve watched it do something I didn’t expect.

    It builds something a paycheck can’t.

    Trust doesn’t come from a title. It comes from people knowing you actually see them — not just their output, but them. A specific note takes two minutes to write and remembers a moment for years. I still have people bring up notes I wrote them a decade ago.

    Here’s what I’ve come to believe about leadership: the people who show up for you in the hard seasons aren’t the ones you managed the hardest. They’re the ones you noticed the most.

    Servant leadership gets talked about a lot and practiced a little. It’s not complicated. It’s this: pay attention to people, and tell them what you noticed.

    That’s it. That’s the whole practice.

    If you’re a leader, here’s your nudge. Someone on your team did something this week that deserves more than a Slack emoji. Write them an actual sentence about it.

    It costs you two minutes.

    It might be the thing they remember in ten years.

  • Keep Your Own Score

    Golf has been teaching me things my whole life. I just didn’t always have time to listen.

    Lately, with the kids getting older, I’ve found my way back to the course. And I keep noticing that everything I love about the game is a lesson that works off the course too.

    You keep your own score. Nobody checks your math. The game only means something if you’re honest, and not the honesty that shows up in competition. The kind you practice when it’s just you, your ball, and a bad lie nobody saw.

    You play against yourself. The course doesn’t care what you shot last week. Every round is a fresh test of patience, discipline, and how you respond when a good drive ends up in a divot.

    Some evenings I’ll walk nine with the bag on my back. At 45 it feels like a ruck with a scorecard, and there’s something clarifying about it. Just you, the walk, and the next shot.

    And there’s the adventure of it. A course you’ve never played is a new puzzle every time. New holes, new views, and often new people worth knowing. This game has taken me places I’d never have gone otherwise.

    It reveals people too. Four hours on a course will teach you more about a business partner, a client, or a friend than a year of meetings. How they handle a bad hole. Whether they count every stroke. What they talk about when the conversation goes quiet. Who someone is shows up somewhere between the first tee and the eighteenth green.

    Some of my favorite rounds lately have been with my son. Same course, same game, two generations keeping our own scores.

    A gentleman’s game that demands honesty, rewards patience, keeps you humble, and gives you four hours of real conversation in a world that’s forgotten how.

    That’s not just golf. That’s a pretty good way to live.

  • Don’t Drift in Your First Leadership Role

    Leadership Starts Small

    The first time someone looks to you for direction, it can feel bigger than your title. New leaders often assume they need better answers, stronger presence, or a more polished voice. In reality, what people need most is steadiness, clarity, and someone who pays attention to what matters.

    That is the heart behind Dave Mull. This site is a place for young executives and early-career professionals who want to lead well without losing themselves in the process. Here you will find practical reflections on leadership, culture, faith, family, and intentional living, all grounded in real responsibility and real life.

    Why This Matters

    Ambition is not the problem. Drift is. It happens when success starts shaping your values instead of the other way around. It happens when work crowds out your family, when urgency replaces conviction, or when your calendar reveals a life you never meant to build.

    Don’t drift from what matters most.

    That line is more than a tagline. It is a reminder that leadership is not only about performance. It is also about formation. The habits you build, the people you become, and the priorities you protect will shape your influence long before your résumé does.

    What You Can Expect Here

    • Clear essays on leadership for people carrying real responsibility
    • Honest thoughts on culture, conviction, and decision-making
    • Encouragement for balancing work, faith, and family
    • Practical perspective for building a meaningful life on purpose

    Dave brings more than two decades of experience as a healthcare executive, along with the perspective of a husband, father of three, and writer. The goal is not to impress. The goal is to help you think clearly, lead faithfully, and stay anchored in what matters most.

    A Good Place to Begin

    If you are building a career, leading a team, or trying to live with greater intention, you are in the right place. Start with the blog, subscribe for new essays every Friday, and keep coming back for thoughtful encouragement that meets you where real leadership happens: at work, at home, and in the quiet choices no one else sees.

  • You’re There for a Reason: Don’t Shrink from the Moment

    At some point in your career, you’ll find yourself in a room where your voice could change the course of a conversation, a decision, or even a company’s direction. And in that moment, you’ll be faced with a choice: to speak up or to stay silent.

    This is where many people — even incredibly talented, thoughtful, capable people — shrink.

    We tell ourselves:

    • “I’m not the most senior person here.”

    • “Someone else probably has a better idea.”

    • “I don’t want to rock the boat.”

    But here’s the truth: you’re in the room for a reason.

    You weren’t hired to be invisible. You weren’t given a seat at the table to just nod along. You were brought in because of your experiences, your insight, and your perspective — things no one else in the room has in quite the same way.

    I learned this lesson the hard way.

    I was in a large meeting with several senior leaders — many of them ranked higher than me. The group was deep into a discussion on a topic I knew extremely well. But as the conversation unfolded, what I was hearing didn’t match my experience on the ground. I disagreed — not just a little, but significantly.

    And yet… I said nothing.

    I told myself it wasn’t the right time. That maybe I was missing something. That I’d follow up later.

    After the meeting, I pulled the most senior leader aside and shared my thoughts. His reaction caught me off guard. He wasn’t just disappointed — he was frustrated. He looked at me and said:

    “Dave, you’re in that meeting for a reason. You’re a trusted member of this team. I need you to speak up and share your experience. I can only act on what I know — and I need to hear all points of view.”

    That conversation stuck with me.

    I learned that day that staying silent doesn’t serve anyone — not your team, not your leadership, and not yourself. Your perspective might be exactly what’s needed to make the right decision, avoid a misstep, or spot a blind spot others missed. But it only matters if you share it.

    Your silence might feel safe, but your voice is what makes you valuable.

    There will be moments when speaking up feels risky. But that’s exactly when your voice matters most. Those moments define leadership — and they build trust, respect, and influence over time.

    So the next time you’re tempted to sit back and play small, remind yourself:

    • I’m not here by accident.

    • Playing it safe isn’t what got me this far.

    • This room needs what I have to offer.

    Use your voice. Don’t shrink. You belong.

  • Why Athletes Make GREAT Hires in Business

    Introduction

    Athletes know what it takes to win both on the field and in the workplace. The same mindset that drives success in sports can be a game-changer in business. Whether it’s the ability to set goals, handle pressure, work as part of a team, or understand failure, former athletes bring a unique set of skills that make them some of the best hires in any industry.

    1. The Power of Discipline and Consistency

    Athletes train daily, often sacrificing short-term comfort for long-term success.

    In business, this translates to:

    • A strong work ethic and commitment to continuous improvement.
    • The ability to show up and execute, even on tough days.
    • A deep understanding that success is the result of consistent effort over time.

    2. Handling Pressure and Performing Under Stress

    Game-winning shots and high-stakes negotiations have one thing in common : pressure.

    Athletes develop:

    • A high level of composure in fast-paced, high-pressure environments.
    • The ability to think strategically and execute under tight deadlines.
    • Resilience in the face of setbacks and failures.

    3. Goal-Setting and Performance Tracking

    Athletes don’t just train, they track progress and make adjustments.

    This mindset applies to:

    • Setting measurable business objectives and staying accountable.
    • Continuously evaluating and optimizing performance.
    • Taking feedback constructively to improve outcomes.

    4. Leadership and Teamwork

    Great teams win championships, and great companies succeed through collaboration.

    Athletes understand:

    • The importance of communication, accountability, and shared success.
    • How to lead by example and push teammates to perform at their best.
    • The necessity of adapting to different roles for the greater good.

    5. Competitiveness and Drive

    Athletes hate losing, but more importantly, they love winning.

    In business, this manifests as:

    • A natural hunger for results and continuous improvement.
    • The ability to push through challenges instead of quitting.
    • A strong focus on both personal and company-wide success.

    Conclusion: Why Companies Should Prioritize Hiring Athletes

    If you’re looking for employees who are disciplined, resilient, and team-oriented, former athletes should be at the top of your list. Their ability to handle pressure, adapt, and work toward goals makes them invaluable in any business setting.

    In my life, I’ve experienced this with myself, coworkers, people I’ve hired, my family and in my community. I’ve personally learned through training for and racing in triathlons while also nurturing a career and being a husband and dad. To do this and achieve my goals, it required discipline, planning, lots of hard work, commitment. It goes beyond “motivation” as that can come and go and really becomes who you are.

    Call to Action:

    Have you worked with or hired former athletes? What strengths have you seen them bring to the workplace? Let’s discuss!

  • Building a Positive Work Culture

    A positive work culture is not just a buzzword; it’s a powerful force that can transform a workplace into a hub of productivity, creativity, and employee satisfaction. In this blog post, we’ll explore the essential components of a positive work culture and dive into the five key themes that contribute to its success.

    1. Trust and Transparency:

    A cornerstone of a positive work culture is trust and transparency. When leaders are open and honest, it builds trust among employees. Transparent communication about company goals, strategies, and decisions fosters a sense of belonging and shared purpose.

    2. Employee Well-Being:

    A positive work culture places a high value on employee well-being. This includes not only physical health but also mental and emotional well-being. Organizations that prioritize wellness programs, flexible work arrangements, and initiatives that promote a healthy work-life balance create an environment where employees feel cared for and valued.

    3. Recognition and Appreciation:

    Feeling valued and appreciated is a fundamental human need. A positive work culture acknowledges and celebrates employees’ contributions. Regular recognition, whether through shout-outs, awards, or informal expressions of gratitude, boosts morale and motivates employees to perform at their best.

    4. Collaboration and Teamwork:

    A collaborative environment encourages employees to share ideas, work together on projects, and learn from one another. A positive work culture promotes teamwork by breaking down silos, fostering open communication, and providing opportunities for cross-functional collaboration.

    5. Growth and Development:

    Employees are more engaged when they see a clear path for their professional growth. A positive work culture invests in employee development through training programs, mentorship, and opportunities to take on new challenges. This not only benefits individuals but also contributes to the organization’s success by nurturing a skilled and motivated workforce.

    In summary, a positive work culture is an investment that pays dividends in employee satisfaction, productivity, and overall business success. By building trust, valuing well-being, recognizing contributions, promoting collaboration, and nurturing growth, you can create a workplace where employees thrive and look forward to contributing their best. Remember, a positive work culture isn’t just a destination; it’s a journey that requires ongoing commitment and effort from leaders and employees alike.

    The picture on this post is of my team from my prior role/org at Honest Medical Group. I’ve been blessed to lead many awesome teams throughout my career, this was the latest gathering in Nashville. Amazing group of folks!

  • Some Days…

    For this weeks entry I’m doing something a little different. I enjoy doing the blog thing, I enjoy talking about and sharing perspective on leadership. But some days, some weeks It feels more forced than not. This is one of those weeks. I have a topic to discuss and share, I have some insights to put out there but for some reason I’m not feeling it.

    So instead, let’s talk about how normal that is? How as an introvert it takes a lot of energy to put yourself out there. To show up as a leader the way your team, family, friends and others need you and deserve from you. At the same time, when I get into this “not feeling it” mode I do a lot of thinking, 2nd guessing, questioning myself and challenging where I am in life.

    I get deep into what is my true purpose, what is it that I‘m passionate about? Why is it so freaking hard to answer that question and figure this out? Why do I feel at 42 years old that I haven’t figured any of this out and that I really need to? Why does it pull me down into a rabbit hole of sorts that usually ends in me just moving on or getting distracted by something else?

    I’ve tried a lot of things, I’ve tried hobbies, blogging, podcasting and jobs. I’ve done Ironman’s, great jobs, bought nice cars, bought nice watches, moved homes, been in and out of church and a deeper relationship with Jesus. At the end of the day some days, I just haven’t been able to feel like I was on the right track consistently, kick the feeling that I was meant for more or at least something else, that I am supposed to be doing more with life.

    But then, it hits me, these feelings, these weeks are 100% normal and the best leaders, the most successful people work through them and come out the other side even better. Sometimes it’s a motivational video, quote, chat with a friend, family member, mentor or team mate that wakes you up. Reminds you of all the impact you’ve already made and for me I’m back in the game. Motivated and ready to go.

    I trust that I’ll figure it out, that I’m on the right path and that by being curious about life and experiences, I will find my way. That being the best husband, dad, brother, son, friend, team member, leader and more that I can be will lead me to the place I’m meant to go. It’s a journey and I want to enjoy every step and twist and turn along the way. I’m extremely grateful for my life!

    I put this out there this week because I’d love to hear from you and if/how you think about life? Do you go through these times, have these thoughts? Have you figured it out? Reach out because I’d love to hear about it.

    Dave

  • 5 Steps for Effective Goal Setting

    Goal setting is a great way to push us towards success and achievement. As a leader, mastering goal setting is important for both personal growth and organizational success. In this post, we will explore five essential steps for effective goal setting, providing you with valuable insights to set and achieve meaningful goals.

    1. Clarity is Key:

    The first step in goal setting is clarity and don’t over complicate it. Clearly define what you want to achieve and why it matters. Make your goals specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). The more specific, the easier it becomes to develop a focused plan.

    2. Align Goals with Vision and Values:

    Ensure your goals align with your vision and values. Your goals should reflect the long-term aspirations of yourself, team or organization. When your goals are in harmony with your purpose and values, they become a source of inspiration, motivating you and your team to persevere through challenges.

    3. Break it Down:

    Breaking down bigger goals into smaller, manageable milestones is a game-changer. It gives you a clear roadmap for progress. Each milestone achieved brings a sense of accomplishment, keeping you and your team motivated to take the next step.

    4. Monitor Progress and Celebrate Success:

    Tracking progress is essential for goal achievement. Regularly review your milestones and adjust your plan if necessary. Celebrate successes, no matter how small, to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of your team. Positive reinforcement keeps motivation high and creates a culture of achievement.

    5. Learn from Setbacks:

    Recognize that setbacks are a natural part of the goal-setting journey. Instead of viewing them as failures, treat setbacks as valuable learning experiences and CELEBRATE them as well. Analyze what went wrong, identify areas for improvement, and use this newfound knowledge to make informed decisions moving forward. If you aren’t failing along the way, there is a chance you aren’t pushing the boundaries enough.

    In summary, effective goal setting is the compass that guides us towards our desired destination. By ensuring clarity, alignment with vision and values, breaking down goals, monitoring progress, celebrating success, and learning from setbacks, you set yourself and your team up for resounding success. Embrace the power of goal setting, and witness how each milestone achieved brings you closer to your aspirations and dreams.

  • Leading Through Change

    It’s often said that change is the only constant in business and in life. It’s an inevitable and in the realm of leadership, it’s even more pronounced. As a leader, your ability to navigate through change with resilience is crucial for the success of your team and organization. In this post, we will explore strategies for leading through change, empowering your team, and embracing transformation as an opportunity for growth and innovation.

    1. Embrace Change as an Unavoidable and Welcome Reality:

    The first step in leading through change is acknowledging that it’s a natural part of progress. Embrace change as an inevitable reality and communicate this to your team. By setting the tone and mindset that change is an opportunity for growth, you instill confidence and readiness for what lies ahead.

    2. Communicate Openly and Transparently:

    During times of change, open and transparent communication is critical. Keep your team informed about the reasons for change, its potential impact, and the targeted outcomes. Address concerns and questions promptly, and encourage open dialogue to foster a sense of trust and understanding.

    3. Provide Clarity of Purpose:

    Amidst change, your team may feel uncertain or anxious. Provide clarity of purpose by articulating a vision and the desired end goals. When team members understand the purpose behind the change, they are more likely to rally together and commit to the shared objectives.

    4. Empower Your Team:

    Empower your team members to participate in the change process. Encourage them to share their ideas, and concerns. By involving them in decision-making and problem-solving, you instill a sense of ownership and collective responsibility, fostering a culture of adaptability and innovation.

    5. Lead by Example:

    As a leader, your behavior and response to change set the tone for your team. Demonstrate resilience, adaptability, and a positive attitude. When your team sees you embracing change with confidence, they are more likely to follow suit and navigate through transitions with a sense of optimism.

    6. Support During Transition:

    Change can bring about challenges, so be prepared to support your team members during the transition. Offer resources, training, or mentorship to equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in the new environment. Be attentive to their emotional needs, offering encouragement and reassurance throughout the process.

    7. Learn from Setbacks and Celebrate Progress:

    Leading through change may encounter setbacks, and that’s normal. Use setbacks as learning opportunities and encourage your team to do the same. Celebrate progress, even if it’s small, and acknowledge the efforts made along the way. Recognize and appreciate the adaptability and resilience displayed by your team members.

    In summary, leading through change is a challenging yet essential aspect of effective leadership. By embracing change as an opportunity for growth, communicating openly, providing clarity of purpose, empowering your team, leading by example, offering support, and celebrating progress, you can navigate through transformations successfully. Remember, a positive and adaptable leadership approach fosters a culture where change is embraced, innovation thrives, and your team rises to new heights of success.