The third annual Maximum Impact Simulcast was, for Brookhaven,possibly one of the best so far, with inspiring speakers withimportant messages for leaders, officials said.

“It was dynamic!” said Student and Family Pastor Hampton Sims.”I heard many comments that this may have been the best yearyet.”

The leadership simulcast, piped in straight from where it wasbeing held live in Atlanta, Ga., included speakers like formerIndianapolis Head Coach Tony Dungy, SAS CEO Jim Goodnight,leadership development expert Connie Podesta, and Delta AirlinesPresident Ed Bastian.

Speakers took turns on the simulcast that was broadcast all overthe country, meanwhile, local business leaders gathered atEasthaven were able to watch and take notes in a laid-backenvironment where they could come and go as they pleased.

And there was something for everyone to walk away with,lesson-wise, said Entergy Customer Accounts Manager Kenny Goza.

“I thought it was very motivating,” said Goza. “They were greatspeakers with great messages. It created a lot of self-examinationfor me.”

During one sit-down session, Goodnight and Bastian answeredquestions together because of the differences in their companyhistories. SAS, a successful computer software company, has made itthrough the downturn in the economy quite well, Goodnight said,while Delta Airlines has been to the brink of disaster.

But both company leaders said part of what builds and maintainsa good company even in bad times is good leadership.

“In difficult times our employees need us even more because ofthe uncertainty they’re facing,” Bastian said.

Meanwhile Goodnight, who assured his employees no layoffs inspite of anything the economy might do, said part of the secret isto remember important priorities.

“You need to go home at 5 and be with your family, be with yourkids, instead of being holed up in an office all night makingmistakes because you’re tired,” he said.

Maximum Impact creator John Maxwell also spoke about influenceand connection, telling leaders that being able to find commonground with their employees and others they come into contact withis the first step to successful relationships.

“‘It’s lonely at the top,'” he said. “No leader ever said that.Nobody’s following you at the top. If you’re at the top you’re allalone. You’re taking a hike.”

The point, Maxwell said, is to bring your employees to the topwith you.

“Leaders never cross the finish line first because they’rebringing people with them,” he said.

Friday marked the third year of the Maximum Impact Simulcast inBrookhaven, and officials said they certainly hope to continue thetradition this time next year.