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Episode 60/13 October 2026/10 min/The High Performance Leader

Episode 60: The BRIDGE Model for Real-World Influence

Artwork for Episode 60: The BRIDGE Model for Real-World Influence

Also on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

In this episode, host Jimmy Burroughes tackles a challenge every leader eventually faces: how to get things done when you have no formal authority. Using a kayaking analogy, he introduces the BRIDGE model, a practical framework for building influence with people who don't report to you. From project managers navigating a restructure to cross-functional team leads, he breaks down exactly how to earn voluntary commitment without a title, a stick, or much carrot.

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Episode highlights:

(0:00) Intro

(2:39) Introducing the BRIDGE model

(2:48) Build the relationship

(4:23) Reciprocity and identifying their win

(5:24) Case example: engineering and sales finding common ground

(6:21) Direct with clarity, get commitment

(7:52) Execute and follow through

(8:36) What to do when you drop the ball

(9:10) Outro

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