Episode 6: Focus On Ripples Not Just Waves (with Greg Thompson)

Focus On Ripples Not Just Waves | Greg Thompson | One & Done Podcast In Episode 6 of One & Done, Tanner Konrady sits down with Greg Thompson, Executive Coach at BTB Solutions, for a powerful conversation about leadership, legacy, and the lasting impact of the small moments we often overlook. Greg introduces the principle “Focus on Ripples, Not Just Waves”—the idea that while leaders naturally gravitate toward big projects, major accomplishments, promotions, and transformational moments, some of the most meaningful impact comes from everyday interactions. A simple conversation, a thoughtful question, a moment of active listening, or making someone feel valued can create a ripple effect that reaches far beyond what we see in the moment. Greg shares personal experiences from his career that demonstrate how small actions can influence people for years, often without us even realizing it. Together, Tanner and Greg explore why leaders can become so focused on the next big achievement that they miss the opportunities right in front of them. They discuss the connection between leadership and legacy, the importance of curiosity and intentional listening, and how the way we make people feel may ultimately matter more than the projects we complete. Greg also shares practical ways to recognize these opportunities, act on the nudges to connect with others, and build the habit of creating meaningful moments every day. One of the biggest takeaways? You can’t control the ripple—you can only control the drop. Focus on showing up, making a positive impact, and trusting that even the smallest moments can make a lasting difference. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to One & Done 01:13 – Meet Greg Thompson 02:14 – What Does “Focus on Ripples, Not Just Waves” Mean? 04:10 – Small Moments That Create Lasting Impact 06:12 – Why Leaders Overlook the Ripples 08:03 – How to Recognize and Act on Small Moments 09:59 – Curiosity, Awareness, and Building the Muscle 10:46 – Leadership, Influence, and Legacy 11:50 – How the Small Moments Shape Your Legacy 14:08 – What Leaders Should Never Overlook 15:24 – Making Time for the People Around You 15:55 – You Can’t Control the Ripple, Only the Drop 16:32 – Connect with Greg Thompson 17:13 – Closing Thoughts Connect with Greg Thompson Website: https://btbcoaching.net Email: greg@btbcoaching.net Connect with Konrady & Son Construction Website: https://konradyandsonconstruction.com Subscribe to One & Done for more conversations with leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals sharing the principles that have shaped how they lead, build, and operate. One person. One conversation. One core principle. One & Done.