Making the Call: Managing Decisions on a World Stage

Imagine having to make decisions in front of the largest audience simultaneously tuning into a single moment in U.S. television history. That’s exactly what happened to respected NFL lead Referee Mr. Shawn Smith.

According to NBC Universal Media, an estimated 137.8 million viewers watched the 2026 NFL Super Bowl LX keeping a keen eye on the teams and observing the moves of the officials.

In every industry—from corporate offices to athletic fields—leaders are asked to make tough calls, manage pressure, and guide teams through uncertainty. Few roles embody this challenge more clearly than sports officiating. I have had the pleasure of working with those tasked with the crucial choices and the world of officiating offers a powerful lens into leadership, emotional intelligence, and personal development, and its lessons extend far beyond the game.

Drawing from my interview and insights shared on my global PinLeader Podcast Episode 23 with NFL Super Bowl LX Referee and corporate leader Mr. Shawn Smith, we explore universal themes that define strong leadership and sustainable growth.

1. Leadership Begins with Self-Awareness and Service

Many leaders don’t set out to lead—they grow into it. Leadership often starts with simply doing things the right way, staying consistent, and being someone others can rely on.

Mr. Smith explains how he sees his role evolving.  “I didn’t necessarily see myself as a leader early on. I just became a person that wanted to do things the right way,” said Smith.

A key takeaway from the officiating world is that leadership isn’t about authority; it’s about responsibility.

2. Mentorship Is a Two-Way Street

One of the strongest themes in the officiating community is the emphasis on mentorship. New officials grow because someone invests in them—and because they stay open to learning.

“Being a mentor, I’ve learned just as much from my mentees as they get from me, and I probably get more from them,” said Smith.

Great mentors build what some call a “personal board of directors”—a diverse group of advisors who offer different perspectives, strengths, and experiences.

3. The Path to Success Is Never Linear

Another lesson from officiating—and from leadership in general—is that there is no single path to success. People arrive at their goals through different routes, timelines, and experiences.

“There’s more than one way to get to where you want to go… don’t be fixated on one route,” said Smith.

The officiating world is full of individuals who started as athletes, teachers, accountants, engineers, or students. Some begin in high school, others in adulthood. Some discover officiating by accident.

The broader message: Your journey doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s.

4. Emotional Intelligence Is a Competitive Advantage

Whether managing a football game or leading a corporate team, emotional intelligence is essential. Officials must tune out noise—literally and figuratively. They can’t afford “elephant ears,” absorbing every comment from the crowd or sideline.

“You can’t listen to everything you hear from the stands. You’ve got to stay focused on the job at hand,” said Smith.

Leaders in any field must manage their own reactions, read the emotions of others, and make decisions without taking things personally.

5. Growth Requires Discomfort

Every official remembers their first game—and almost all describe it the same way: uncomfortable, overwhelming, and humbling. But discomfort is a sign of growth.

Smith recalled his own early experience:

“I was a fish out of water. I felt so uncomfortable… but when it was all said and done, I was happy, and I came back.”

His advice for anyone starting something new is universal:

“Don’t be discouraged when things don’t go right at the beginning. Make the commitment to getting better.”

6. The Future Depends on Developing New Talent

Across the country, sports organizations face shortages of officials. The reasons mirror challenges in many industries: pressure, criticism, and lack of early exposure.

Smith has seen firsthand how early engagement can change that.

“I try to get them at all the different stages of life… high school, college, just out of college. You never know who might fall in love with it.”

The solution is to always be in a proactive development mode.

7. Continuous Improvement Is Non-Negotiable

In officiating, the game evolves every year. Rules change. Players get faster. Technology advances. Officials must study film, attend clinics, and constantly refine their craft.

The same is true in any profession.

If you’re not actively improving, you’re falling behind.

“If you’re not trying to get better, then you’re getting worse,” said Smith.

Growth is a daily commitment, not a one-time achievement.

Final Thoughts: Leadership Is a Daily Decision

The world of officiating offers a powerful metaphor for leadership:

You can’t control everything, but you can control how you show up.

Leadership isn’t about making the perfect call—it’s about making the right call for the moment, learning from the outcome, and stepping back onto the field ready to grow.

Presented by ROAR Studio Productions, #1 International Best Selling Author Dr. Shanda Gore hosts The PinLeader™ Podcast, an interview format show that provides effective tips to those that are currently leaders or have a desire to become leaders. A new episode is released every Wednesday and is available on most podcast streaming services as well as www.maysassociatesltd.com.