Bigger Brakes, Better Leaders: High-Performance Leadership with Gen. Chris Inglis
Mon Nov 17 2025
What in the world do high-performance race cars and your team have in common?
More than you might think.
In this episode of The Teamwork Advantage, Gregg sits down with Brigadier General John C. “Chris” Inglis, retired USAF. Beyond his distinguished Air Force career, Chris served as Deputy Director of the National Security Agency and became the first National Cyber Director, coordinating federal cyber efforts and helping shape the United States’ digital defense strategy.
Chris breaks down the real difference between managing and leading, revealing why most of us are doing both without realizing where the boundary between them is. He shares no-nonsense techniques that any leader or manager can use, regardless of industry, to help their people perform at a higher level without burning them out.
You’ll hear how he:
Explains why great leaders, like great race cars, need “bigger brakes:" the capacity to slow down, think clearly, and make intentional choices under speed and stress.Draws a clear line between control and trust, and how that impacts culture, accountability, and results.Highlights the power of often-unsung contributors, like cryptologic pioneer Laura Holmes, and what her story teaches us about quiet, consistent leadership behind the scenes. If you're serious about building a high-performing team ON-Purpose, this conversation with Gen. Chris Inglis will help you tap the brakes, find your focus, and be a more effective leader.
Listen now, listen often!
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What in the world do high-performance race cars and your team have in common? More than you might think. In this episode of The Teamwork Advantage, Gregg sits down with Brigadier General John C. “Chris” Inglis, retired USAF. Beyond his distinguished Air Force career, Chris served as Deputy Director of the National Security Agency and became the first National Cyber Director, coordinating federal cyber efforts and helping shape the United States’ digital defense strategy. Chris breaks down the real difference between managing and leading, revealing why most of us are doing both without realizing where the boundary between them is. He shares no-nonsense techniques that any leader or manager can use, regardless of industry, to help their people perform at a higher level without burning them out. You’ll hear how he: Explains why great leaders, like great race cars, need “bigger brakes:" the capacity to slow down, think clearly, and make intentional choices under speed and stress.Draws a clear line between control and trust, and how that impacts culture, accountability, and results.Highlights the power of often-unsung contributors, like cryptologic pioneer Laura Holmes, and what her story teaches us about quiet, consistent leadership behind the scenes. If you're serious about building a high-performing team ON-Purpose, this conversation with Gen. Chris Inglis will help you tap the brakes, find your focus, and be a more effective leader. Listen now, listen often!