Ever left a leadership team meeting feeling like it was so productive—then realized a week later nothing really changed?In this solo episode, Darrin unpacks why that gap between effort and impact is rarely about commitment—and almost always about clarity. Building on his “Cycle of Chaos” episode, he shares the ALIGN Framework, a practical system for strengthening team dynamics and keeping teams focused on what matters most.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why strong teams drift into reactivity when clarity is missingHow alignment breaks the Cycle of Chaos—not just “working harder”The ALIGN Framework for healthier team dynamics:A — Agree on the Vision and Goals: Ensure everyone can name the top priorities in the same languageL — Language and Communication: Teams don’t just make decisions—they carry the messageI — Intentional Role Clarity: Clear ownership prevents duplication, avoidance, and frustrationG — Growth Through Cross-Training: Build continuity and empathy without eroding rolesN — Navigate with Intention: Protect focus, pause before adding initiatives, and stay anchored to prioritiesReflection questions to take back to your team:If I asked each team member privately, would they name the same top three priorities?Are we clear on what gets communicated, who communicates it, and how it’s framed?Where might I be stepping in that’s keeping someone else from stepping up?Are we moving the goal forward—or just filling the calendar?Support for leaders and teamsIf you’re thinking, “This sounds like my team, but we’re struggling to get there,” Darrin invites you to reach out for coaching, team support, or a leadership team alignment retreat designed to reset vision, roles, and priorities.Connect with Darrin: darrinpeppard.com | roadtoawesome.net | @darrinmpeppardThank you to our Amazing SponsorsThis episode is brought to you by HeyTutor, delivering high-impact, research-based tutoring that supports students while reducing leadership overwhelm. Connect with them at HeyTutor.comThis episode is also sponored by DigiCoach, helping leaders capture real-time instructional data, provide meaningful feedback, and build clarity through strong systems. Go to https://www.digicoach.com/ and tell them you heard about them here on the Leaning into Leadership podcast for special partner pricing.