160: Ask More. Lead Better.
At 77, Bob Tiede isn’t slowing down – he’s doubling down on purpose. In this episode of iRetire4Him, he explains why retirement isn’t about stepping away, but stepping into your most strategic years of influence (just like Moses, Joshua, and Caleb).
Bob admits he once led as a “benevolent dictator:” kind but convinced a leader’s job was to figure it out and tell others what to do. Everything changed when he discovered a better model: lead with questions.
Here’s what that might look like:
In leadership roles, ask: “What do you think we should do?”
Let others talk 80% of the time.
Follow up with: “Tell me more.”
In mentoring, ask deeper questions like: “What three or four events most shaped who you are today?”
Why? Because when people answer their own questions, they own the outcome. And when they feel heard, they trust you.
Bob also shares how this approach bridges generations. Younger leaders don’t want lectures. They want someone genuinely curious about their story. Ask well, listen carefully, and watch how influence grows naturally.
His newest book, Success Unlocked, features 39 of the most impactful blog posts from over 1,300 blog articles on question-based leadership.
Interested in putting your experience to work? Bob invites retirees to coach emerging leaders through Cru, just one hour every other week for two years (training provided). Just reach out to Bob at bob.tiede@cru.org.
Retirement isn’t about having all the answers.
It’s about asking better questions!
FEATURING: Bob Tiede
ORGANIZATION: Leading with Questions