Nov. 11, 2025

488 :: The Integrity Fee: The Leadership Failure of NBA Commissioner Adam Silver

488 :: The Integrity Fee: The Leadership Failure of NBA Commissioner Adam Silver

Are you building a leadership legacy—or risking your credibility one decision at a time?

 

In episode 488, we examine what construction leaders can learn from the complete credibility collapse of NBA Commissioner Adam Silver. Through the lens of a century-old story involving telegraphs, horse racing, and mafia control, we explore how short-term incentives can quietly erode long-term trust, even for the most well-intentioned leaders.

 

In this episode you will:

 

  • Understand the 4 components of credibility every leader must master: honesty, competence, inspiration, and being forward-looking.
  • Learn how perverse incentives—even if profitable in the short term—can destroy team trust and long-term cultural integrity.
  • Evaluate your own leadership style through a powerful breakdown of real-time failure and timeless leadership wisdom.

 

 

Hit play now to discover why credibility is your most valuable leadership asset—and how to protect it before it’s gone.

 

Learn more about Bradley Hartmann's Sales Fundamentals Workshop here

 

The Construction Leadership Podcast dives into essential leadership topics in construction, including strategy, emotional intelligence, communication skills, confidence, innovation, and effective decision-making. You'll also gain insights into delegation, cultural intelligence, goal setting, team building, employee engagement, and how to overcome common culture problems. Whether you're leading a crew or managing an entire organization, these conversations will equip you with tools to lead smarter and build stronger teams. 

 

 This episode is brought to you by The Simple Sales Pipeline® —the most efficient way to organize and value any construction sales rep's roster of customers and prospects in under 30 minutes once every 30 days.

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If you have suggestions for improvements, topics you'd like the show to explore, or have recommendations for future guests, do not hesitate to contact us directly at info@bradleyhartmannandco.com.