The Leadership Podcast

Advertise on podcast: The Leadership Podcast

Rating
4.9
from
93 reviews
This podcast has
405 episodes
Language
Date created
2016/06/16
Average duration
40 min.
Release period
7 days

Description

We interview great leaders, review the books they read, and speak with highly influential authors who study them.

Social media

Check The Leadership Podcast social media presence


Podcast episodes

Check latest episodes from The Leadership Podcast podcast


TLP397: How to Control Your Attention with Nir Eyal
2024/02/21
Nir Eyal, a consultant, educator, and author of "Indistractable: How to Control Your Attention and Choose Your Life," delves into his personal journey with distractions and parenting. He highlights the crucial role of mastering distraction control for success in various life aspects. Eyal points out that despite the vast availability of information in today's world, the real challenge is to overcome personal distractions. He advocates against a generic approach, suggesting instead that individuals make deliberate choices that reflect their personal values. A key focus of his discussion is on internal triggers, noting that about 90% of distractions are self-originated. Eyal identifies discomfort as a primary cause of distraction and underscores the importance of becoming aware of and managing these emotional states for better self-regulation. Key Takeaways: [06:45] Nir Eyal shares that he published the "Indistractable" book before COVID-19, grateful for completing it amid global chaos. Criticizing simplistic advice blaming technology for distractions, he stresses its integral role in the modern world. He also shares that the book covers distractions, especially while working from home, emphasizing that 90% come from within. Nir Eyal challenges the idea that distraction is a recent issue, citing Plato's writings 2500 years ago. Distractions are not solely due to technology, but a longstanding, complex challenge with deeper roots, requiring a more empowering solution. [12:15] He shares his realization that the power to be "indistractable" is crucial in every aspect of life, including mental health, physical health, business, and relationships. Nir Eyal argues that controlling attention is essential for acquiring new skills and being productive. The title of the book, "Indistractable," reflects this focus on mastering attention to shape one's life. He then addresses the concept of being "hooked" and clarifies that it's not in opposition to being "indistractable", believing that it's possible to leverage psychological tools to create positive habits. He also acknowledges the potential risks of overusing well-designed products, particularly in the realm of media and social platforms.  [18:08] Nir Eyal emphasizes the difficulty in building addictive products and highlights his book's contribution to applying consumer psychology to habit-forming products. He also discusses his goal of helping individuals turn their values into time and execute their priorities effectively, clarifying that their focus is not on dictating how people should spend their time, but on assisting them in aligning their actions with their values. He argues that the most dangerous distraction is the one unnoticed by individuals, illustrated by personal experiences of getting sidetracked by seemingly productive tasks that deviate from the original plan. [26:23] Nir Eyal clarifies that the issue with to-do lists is not in using them, but in the way people traditionally use them. He also talks about the importance of moving beyond simply listing tasks and emphasizes the need for a prioritization process. The problems with traditional to-do lists are the lack of constraints, leading to an endless list, and the tendency for people to measure their self-worth based on completed tasks. Nir Eyal challenges the notion of measuring productivity by what is finished, suggesting that the key metric is whether individuals do what they said they would do without distraction. He promotes the "indistractable" method, advocating for focused, distraction-free work in specific time intervals.  [36:56] He introduces the technique of schedule syncing, especially beneficial for those dealing with interruptions from superiors. Nir Eyal describes the process of creating a time box calendar, allowing individuals to physically show their boss how they plan to spend their time. This proactive approach seeks the boss's assistance in prioritizing tasks rather than bluntly saying no. H
more
TLP396: The Action Fallacy with Martin Gutmann
2024/02/14
Martin Gutmann, an author and professor at the Lucerne School of Business, challenges traditional views on leadership with his concept of the "action fallacy." He argues that effective leadership often involves subtle, unnoticed actions rather than just visible, dramatic ones. Gutmann emphasizes the importance of historical skills in the digital era, particularly in scrutinizing and distilling information. He also highlights the value of strategic inaction in leadership, as exemplified by Churchill's delay of the Normandy invasions. Additionally, he notes that while emotional intelligence is important, not all impactful leaders visibly exhibit it. His perspective broadens the understanding of leadership, recognizing the significance of quieter, less conspicuous contributions. Key Takeaways [03:57] Martin sheds light on his intriguing book, "The Unseen Leader: How History Can Help Us Rethink Leadership." He talks about the concept of the "action fallacy," challenging the common misconception that effective leaders are defined by dramatic actions. He shares insights into the disconnect between historical scholarship and contemporary leadership narratives. Using examples like Churchill, he highlights the importance of recognizing unseen leaders who strategically navigate challenges rather than creating chaos. Martin also explores the less-known explorer Roald Amundsen, emphasizing his overlooked achievements due to a lack of sensational crises. [11:07] Martin discusses the intriguing dynamics of crisis management and leadership recognition. He draws parallels between special operations and the business world, exploring the tendency to reward leaders when situations go awry. He emphasizes the need to celebrate those who adeptly navigate and mitigate crises, challenging the prevailing culture that often glorifies crisis-oriented behavior. Martin also touches on the paradox of success going unnoticed and reflects on the story of Lawrence of Arabia, exploring misconceptions and contrasting narratives of characters.  [13:27] Martin shares the captivating story of Gertrude Bell, an often-overlooked leader in the post-World War I Middle East. Despite being the driving force behind the creation of Iraq and achieving remarkable feats in archaeology and translation, Bell's contributions have been overshadowed by the more cinematic narrative of Lawrence of Arabia. He delves into Bell's leadership style, emphasizing her pen-and-paper approach and strategic diplomacy in contrast to Lawrence's adventurous exploits.  [17:22] Martin unveils the nuanced leadership of Winston Churchill during World War II, challenging common misconceptions. Jim and Jan also express amazement at discovering previously overlooked aspects of Churchill's role, emphasizing the deliberate crafting of the narrative portraying Britain standing alone in 1940. Martin highlights Churchill's strategic communication skills in influencing U.S. involvement and draws parallels to modern political strategies. He also touches on the power of storytelling in shaping history and explores how the Internet age has democratized historical perspectives. [19:24] Martin discusses the challenges historians face in navigating the vast sea of information, from scarcity in ancient times to the overwhelming abundance today. He talks about how emerging digital tools and AI are reshaping historical scholarship, emphasizing the need for historians to adapt their skill sets. He then shifts to talk about the relevance of historical disciplines for contemporary business professionals, highlighting the importance of adopting investigative mindsets and discernment in distilling relevant information. Martin underscores the significance of applying lessons from historical narratives to enhance decision-making in the modern business landscape. [25:31] Martin challenges the traditional notion that action is always the hallmark of effective leadership, arguing for the virtue of strategic inaction. Dra
more
TLP395: AI Won't Take Your Job, but AI-Savvy Marketers Will with Chris Johnson
2024/02/07
As CEO of LaneTerralever (LT), Chris Johnson views AI as a tool augmenting human roles, not replacing them. Chris observes a chasm in the business world - a divide between those who harness AI with clear intent and those who remain oblivious to its sweeping impact. He forewarns of potential unemployment for individuals who shy away from embracing AI and its learning curve.  He recognizes AI's benefits but also stresses the need for strategic oversight due to concerns about explainability and accuracy. Discussing AI in hiring and employee resistance, Chris underlines the importance of change management strategies for successful AI integration. He also touches on the challenges of trust and authenticity in an AI-driven world and explores how AI can enhance skills in sales, emphasizing its role in complementing human abilities. Key Takeaways: [3:31] Chris discusses the current state of AI, particularly generative AI, within their team. They highlight both excitement and fear surrounding AI's capabilities. He stated that AI is not a threat to jobs, but rather it empowers those who know how to use it. Chris also shares the importance of learning to use AI tools strategically and creatively. While AI can handle repetitive tasks, individuals still need to understand how to leverage these tools for maximum efficiency. He shares the need for a continual learning mindset, as AI technology evolves rapidly, and younger individuals are more open to adopting new technologies, while older ones may be resistant due to established work habits.  [7:03] He expresses concern about how the automation of tasks in professions like accounting and law might impact the learning curve for younger professionals. It is a question whether AI reliance could hinder the development of in-depth knowledge gained through hands-on experience and mistakes. Chris also shares the capabilities of large language models like GPT, highlighting their proficiency in processing contextual information. However, there is still need for verification, as these models may not recognize when they provide incorrect or misleading information.  [12:37] Chris mentions that AI tools are affordable, with some versions even free. The real divide is in individuals' willingness to learn and adapt to these tools. He predicts a widening gap between those who embrace AI for efficiency and quality work and those who resist change. There is an impact on white-collar jobs is, emphasizing that AI is entering professions like accounting and marketing. In executive briefings, Chris observes a lack of investment in AI technologies and aims to raise awareness about their capabilities, such as coding, executing tasks, and data analysis.  [17:00] He shares that he introduced ChatGPT 4 to their company, providing licenses for all employees. However, they faced challenges in adoption and realized it was a leadership issue. They are now focusing on change management through regular teaching sessions to help employees use the tool effectively. Chris also encourages others to try ChatGPT Plus and experiment with the tool before starting tasks. He mentions the importance of time-saving potential, especially for tasks like writing emails, where the tool can generate a substantial portion, allowing users to edit and refine the content.  [21:28] Chris shares that AI champion as an empowering force for entrepreneurs, reducing barriers and facilitating independent business operations. However, he expresses concern about the surge in low-quality AI-generated content flooding the internet. This abundance poses challenges for reliable information, impacting search engines and customer reviews. Chris, then, advises caution, urging teams to cross-verify information from multiple sources to navigate the influx of potentially unreliable content. [28:37] He addresses AI concerns such as copyright and regulations, emphasizing open communication with clients and educating them about AI's benefits while respectin
more
TLP394: Calmness and Charisma with Dr. Benjamin Ritter
2024/01/31
Dr. Benjamin Ritter, founder of Live for Yourself Consulting, emphasizes the importance of humor in public speaking and maintaining a balance between calmness and charisma. He highlights the significance of standing out in leadership and embracing awkward situations to build confidence. Ben defines executive presence through three pillars: vision, credibility, and presence, and links it to a filtered level of emotional intelligence, focusing on authenticity and adaptation to organizational norms. He discusses building positive relationships, adapting, and situational leadership within organizations. Sharing his journey of overcoming social awkwardness, Ben contrasts this with his clients' fears and stresses the importance of identifying and addressing client pain points. He gives practical advice on personal development, such as minimizing media consumption and focusing on impactful content. Lastly, he advises employees to seek regular one-on-one meetings with leaders and suggests that job candidates inquire about a company's current focus during interviews.  Key Takeaways:  [02:21] Dr. Ben shares the importance of humor when speaking in front of the crowd. He also stated that it is important to maintain calmness while giving value to charisma in their professional life. Dr. Ben discusses his adaptability in soccer, being a "Swiss army knife”, praising adaptability but stresses the importance of standing out and occasionally being unconventional for leadership development. He also talked about the idea of intentionally embracing awkward situations to build confidence. [05:40] He discusses clients seeking to develop executive presence for success. Dr. Ben stresses the importance of defining it based on organizational expectations. Executive presence is broken down into three pillars: vision, credibility, and presence. These encompass actions, speech, and appearance. He also explains that executive presence is a filtered level of emotional intelligence, emphasizing authenticity while adapting to organizational expectations. He also mentions the importance of building positive relationships, adapting, and situationally leading within an organization. [12:35] Dr. Ben defines executive presence as the ability to influence and persuade without authority. He also discusses qualities of effective sports team captains, emphasizing the importance of quiet yet commanding composure and leading by example. Dr. Ben also mentions an article on self-leadership, where clarity is identified as the first pillar, crucial for avoiding feeling lost and achieving intentional goals. [20:35] He shares about personal growth, recounting how overcoming social awkwardness involved intentionally facing discomfort. Dr. Ben contrasts his experiences with clients who fear basic actions. He emphasizes the significance of identifying pain points, connecting with clients, and leading them towards beneficial solutions. Dr. Ben also mentions the importance of sales, especially for those looking to build side businesses.  [25:55] Dr. Ben emphasizes the importance of effective self-promotion, linking it to self-belief. Discomfort with self-promotion often stems from a lack of confidence in one's own value. He also exchanges lessons learned with Jim and Jan from hosting podcasts, including the realization that alcohol impairs podcast quality and the discovery of personal speech fillers during editing. Dr. Ben believes that famous individuals often have less interesting talk tracks, while real gems come from everyday stories.  [30:03] He offers practical advice on learning and personal development, like reducing media intake and focusing on impactful content repeatedly. Dr. Ben talks about the challenge of remembering key information and stresses the value of embedding learned concepts into daily life. Organizations prioritizing employee satisfaction only during prosperous times and suggests the need for improved metrics. Dr. Ben advocates for a shift in per
more
TLP393: Transitioning from Expert to Leader with Ed Batista
2024/01/24
Ed Batista, an executive coach and Stanford lecturer, discusses self-coaching, highlighting its relational aspect and the value of writing for self-reflection. He underscores the necessity of personalizing documentation techniques and references Stanford's successful "touchy-feely" course, explaining its organizational impact. Ed addresses the crucial role of coaching in today's divisive climate, focusing on the challenges leaders face in navigating polarizing social and political issues and providing guidance on effective leadership and team management through strong communication. Key Takeaways: [2:44] Ed describes his significant life transition from living in San Francisco for 30 years to unexpectedly moving to a working sheep and cattle ranch in Marin County due to the pandemic. Various factors, including the change to virtual work, retirement from teaching at Stanford, and a reassessment of priorities, led to this shift. He reflects on the challenges and educational experiences of rural living and shares the difficult decision to step away from teaching a course they founded at Stanford, "The Art of Self Coaching," but later on, realize that it was the right choice. [7:10] He explains that self-coaching is a self-directed process, but not a solitary one. Ed believes that while reflection is crucial, it is equally important to engage with others in the process. His teaching approach, which involves giving students readings and prompting them to integrate the material with personal experiences through writing. He then encourages students to recognize the need for both solitary reflection and engagement with others, as the latter is essential for discussing challenges and seeking help. [9:33] Ed shares about the value of reflective writing, such as journaling, for personal development. He mentions that traditional diary-style journaling can be tedious and unsustainable, leading many to abandon the practice. Subsequently, he advocates for a more personalized and sustainable approach, emphasizing that the act of writing itself, regardless of whether one revisits the content, has numerous benefits. Ed also provides insight into their experience with a course called "Interpersonal Dynamics" at Stanford, also known as "touchy-feely”. He provides a historical context, detailing the course's evolution and its enduring impact on individuals and organizations. [17:09] With the increasing challenges in this world, including social, political, and economic issues, Ed explains that there is a need for coaching, particularly among leaders. In the current environment, leaders may find it challenging to navigate these complexities and may feel compelled to issue statements or commitments that prove difficult to fulfill. With this, the need for leaders to address these challenges in coaching relationships is crucial, because coaching provides a safe space for leaders to acknowledge the pressure they face, discuss the complexity of issues, and explore different perspectives.  [20:11] He discusses the challenges faced by leaders in addressing social and political issues within the current tumultuous and polarized environment. Ed highlights the complexity of these issues and the pressure leaders feel to adopt simplified stances that may not align with the best interests of their businesses. He also emphasized the importance of acknowledging the nuanced needs of various stakeholders, including employees and customers. Ed also diverted into the topic of impacts of virtual work on social connections, suggesting that even in virtual settings, finding ways to create in-person experiences can foster social cohesion, and how to address problems in the workplace. [30:19] Ed Bautista contrasts one-on-one coaching, highlighting its high fidelity and settled mindset, with challenges faced by leaders in group settings, especially in virtual environments. He stresses the importance of camera use, in virtual meetings, and recommends one-on-one inter
more
The Distracted Leader with Jim and Jan
2024/01/17
Jim and Jan discuss modern leadership challenges: information overload and excessive meetings. They stress the need for present, attentive leadership, focusing on situational awareness and problem-solving rather than getting bogged down by irrelevant tasks. Giving proper attention as a leader is key for informed decision-making. They advocate simplicity and problem-solving amid distractions, highlighting the value of experience over education. Practical tips include staying focused, minimizing distractions, and organizing tasks by prioritizing goals. Encouraging creativity, self-reliance, and disciplined time for innovative thinking is crucial. They also note the role of humor in shifting perspectives and the importance of meditation, feedback, and interaction to find solutions as a leader. Key Takeaways: [02:13] Jim and Jan discuss the challenges of excessive stimulation and the ease of tasks like scheduling meetings, which can lead to distractions. There is also a huge impact of technology on information flow, comparing it to friction because of the force of either pulling or pushing. Jim and Jan also mention that it is crucial to stay focused amid distractions, emphasizing the leadership's role in not only directing attention but also providing attention. Leaders should also be good listeners and questioners, highlighting the value of providing focused attention as a display of respect.  [05:36] They identify eight crucial areas for leaders, including emotional intelligence, strategic thinking, and accountability, acknowledging the challenge of balancing work, team development, and personal life, emphasizing the need for prioritization due to time constraints. Jim and Jan suggest adding contextual awareness and using multiple perspectives, referencing the metaphor of looking through different lenses. The importance of understanding various viewpoints and the context in decision-making is also critical in drawing parallels with successful hedge fund managers who interpret information effectively for informed decisions. They also propose to add curiosity to the list of leadership qualities, emphasizing the importance of questioning established practices.  [10:57] Jim and Jan recall a workshop insight about job interviews being about the employer's problem and about an interview that talks about the job instead of speaking about themselves. They stress the importance of staying focused on problem-solving and not getting distracted. Jim and Jan share the need to simplify life and work, instead of making strategic choices complicated and eliminating distractions that don't add value. Most of the time, companies or individuals are more emphasized with how high the education a person has achieved instead of looking deeper into their experiences.  [15:10] They share insights from a skilled craftsman and how observing his precision is fascinating, while talking about the challenge of changing behaviors compared to the tangible results seen in craftsmanship. Jim and Jan present five practical tips for staying focused: eliminate distractions, stop multitasking, practice mindfulness, take short breaks, and organize tasks. There must be a modification to first identify distractions and emphasize self-awareness in managing them with giving the importance of understanding personal distractions, silencing notifications, and recognizing the value of short breaks and organizational strategies. [23:01] Jim and Jan discuss task organization from a leadership perspective, noting their preference for paper systems and recognizing the need for flexibility in how individuals organize their work. They caution against prescribing specific organizational methods for teams, emphasizing the importance of allowing personalization to avoid disempowering team members. They also share insights from an article by Dan Coleman in HBR, highlighting the characteristics of focused leaders who can command their attention, control impulses, and weed out dis
more
TLP391: Bet On Yourself with Lon Stroschein
2024/01/10
Lon Stroschein, a bestselling author, spearheads the "normal 40" movement, guiding individuals to reclaim life control. His journey from the corporate world to a more fulfilling existence addresses challenges of midlife change, focusing on financial security and self-image. Lon advocates introspection before career shifts, emphasizing courage in starting anew rather than quitting. He urges exploration of passions, even those seeming destined to fail, as they might hold true passion. Lon's trajectory, from executive coaching certification to discovering his love for coaching, signifies his transition. He highlights external triggers for life changes, financial concerns, marital agreements, and the importance of communication and guidance. Additionally, his own experience stresses the significance of attending to loved ones amidst corporate demands. Key Takeaways: [03:00] Lon shares the biggest fear a man can have before dying. It is when you have everything materially but do not have fulfillment in life. He stated that he started to discover what road he wanted to take when he realized what life he can have to fulfill his passion. You might have things that you are doing, but are not sure if that's the thing you really want to do for a lifetime. Lon also shares that discovering your path comes from your gut but at some point, it won't be easy to do. By doing what you want, you might also need to leave something behind and become someone else and bet on your new career, defining it as a trade because you don't know what amount you will receive after giving something.   [08:56] He is a successful professional, but he shares that he found himself questioning the meaning of his well-established life. Despite a great job and accomplishments, he felt a lingering emptiness during his daily routine. As he drives to his office in his car, he often wonders if this was all there was to his next 15 years. Lon also discusses that he retreated into self-reflection, wrestling with gratitude for his achievements and the yearning for something more because of his urge to passion. The story unfolds as he navigates this internal journey, seeking meaning beyond the checkboxes of success. [12:55] In sharing his experience, Lon highlights two major hurdles in making the tough decision to leave a stable job. First, there's the financial challenge, where individuals have to consider risking the income they've come to depend on, often feeling a responsibility to their family. The second hurdle revolves around the carefully crafted professional image, encompassing business cards, office titles, and social media presence. He also shares that transitioning from a well-defined role to uncertainty means not just risking financial stability, but also challenging the identity built over the years. Making this leap involves trading the security of income and a familiar image for the uncertainties of the unknown. [19:46] He emphasizes on commencing with clarity and engaging in profound conversations with oneself, family, and friends to understand personal identity and potential. He stated that starting something aligned with your envisioned future before quitting is the optimal strategy, although he acknowledges that his journey involved quitting first. Lon shares the trigger for change often surfaces when the Sunday evening pit in your gut becomes a persistent indicator that there might be a better path forward. He advises slowing down, earnestly exploring potential futures, and identifying endeavors worth investing time in. [27:44] Lon shares that he conducts weekly "ramble" sessions on their website, engaging in one-hour conversations with people who sign up. They ask a set series of questions, particularly focusing on the emotions participants are experiencing. Many express feelings of being on autopilot, frustration, control, uncertainty, stress, annoyance, isolation, and a sense of being stuck. He mentions that participants share their desires and l
more
TLP390: Leadership Lessons from the CIA with Marc Polymeropoulos
2024/01/03
Marc Polymeropoulos served for 26 years in the intelligence community in field and leadership assignments. He is an expert in counterterrorism, covert action, and human intelligence collection. Marc discusses the theme of building connections, and emphasizes the significance of internal, team, and personal relationships. He highlights the key to relationship mastery: empathy, active listening, and a shift from self-focus to team care. Marc shares insights into the art of making friends for a living, especially in recruiting agents, navigating the highs and lows of building trust. He introduces leadership principles such as the "glue guy" and "win an Oscar," emphasizing the value of every team member's contribution. Key Takeaways [03:13] Marc Polymeropoulos, a retired CIA pro with 26 years under his belt, specializing in counterterrorism. Marc digs on his recently devoured book,  highlighting its theme of building connections in the agency, with a focus on internal, team, and personal relationships. Marc spills the beans on the key to relationship mastery: empathy, active listening, and a shift from self-focus to team care. Jim throws in Stephen Covey's "The Speed of Trust," questioning the feasibility of quick trust-building in the spy world. Marc keeps it real, emphasizing the delicate balance between speed and the time needed for trust to truly stick. [06:43] Marc spills the beans on the art of making friends for a living, especially in the tricky world of recruiting agents.He shares the highs and lows of building trust, from family introductions to navigating personal connections in the espionage game. Teamwork is a different vibe here—think more competition than camaraderie. Going from a solo operator to managing a team brings a whole new set of challenges, shifting from a "me" to a "we" mindset. Marc keeps it human, spicing up the spy talk with personal stories. It's like your favorite spy thriller, but with a dose of realness and a dash of humanity. [15:17] Marc reveals a gem from his leadership principles – the "glue guy." It's all about recognizing that everyone on the team matters, from the case officers to the IT and finance folks. Marc shares how, over time, he learned that true success comes from valuing every contribution, not just the visible ones. He recounts a story from the world of baseball, emphasizing the importance of the unsung heroes – the backup catcher who never took the field but caught every bullpen. Marc introduces another leadership principle – "win an Oscar."  [18:29] Marc discusses the challenge of leadership – blending authenticity with the need to inspire. Drawing from CIA experiences, he emphasizes the importance of acknowledging tough situations without succumbing to negativity. He also touches on the evolving concept of truth, referencing a Bible verse at the CIA entrance. Marc reflects on their espionage skills, offering insights into navigating the complexities of discerning truth in today's data-driven world. [23:25] Marc has real advice for business. He stresses the CIA's focus on honesty and integrity, not just in missions but also how colleagues treat each other. He shares personal stories about integrity in action and the importance of speaking truth to power. He touches on high-stakes situations, the need for openness in teamwork, and the grounding principles that shape their work. [26:50] Marc sheds light on a side of high-stakes worlds rarely discussed—the human element. He discusses the importance of wellness and resiliency, drawing parallels between his experiences and those in military expeditions. Marc emphasizes the need for patience in careers, highlighting the struggle with issues like alcoholism and divorce. He introduces the concept of a "combat leadership chassis," urging individuals to focus on what they can control for better mental health. [28:03] Marc shares insights on the transition from hands-on leadership to strategic roles. He highlights the ch
more
TLP389: Worry is a Misuse of Imagination with Harris III
2023/12/27
Harris III, an illusionist and storyteller, spent much of his life traveling the world performing his unique brand of magic and storytelling for more than two million people on five continents. His book, "The Wonder Switch: The Difference Between Limiting Your Life and Living Your Dream," discusses rediscovering wonder and transforming your life. He highlights the concept of "starting with wow" and the intersection of wonder, and storytelling as crucial roles to effective leadership, stressing the need to reconnect with our initial sense of wonder to find purpose and beat burnout. He advocates for curiosity in leadership, emphasizing the difference between "wow people" who focus on vision and "how people" who analyze problems, while this would also increase creativity to people. He promotes a shift in leadership perception, encouraging individuals to take charge of their stories and challenge the status quo, which he termed as WoW (Wonder-oriented Worldview) level leadership. Harris III asserts that worry is a misuse of imagination, and wonder is the antidote to apathy. Key Takeaways: [2:48] Harris III points out that magic often doesn't receive the recognition it deserves as an art form, particularly in the realm of social media. With the limitations imposed by COVID-19, magicians and illusionists had to adapt to continue making a living. Some turned to revealing the behind-the-scenes of magic online, transforming it into humor or pranks. Additionally, Harris III mentions Simon Sinek's book, 'Start with Why,' which emphasizes that effective leaders inspire action in others rather than simply leading them.  [4:42] He discusses the "Start with Wow" book, highlighting its perspective that leadership is intertwined with communication, both with others and oneself. The book emphasizes the significance of revisiting the purpose behind your actions, bringing you back to a grounded state. It underscores that wonder is the pathway to achieving something remarkable. The book suggests that unexpected opportunities may arise when you least anticipate them, and staying vigilant is crucial. In times of losing focus or forgetting your initial motivation, the advice is to return to the mindset of wonder, symbolized by "wow." [10:30] Harris III details how curiosity is essentially a wonder in action, describing it as a genuine physiological state that sparks interest in our surroundings. The connection between wonder and storytelling is highlighted, where wonder inspires belief in the potential of new narratives, and storytelling influences behavior. Emphasizing that effective leadership begins with self-leadership, he stresses the importance of fostering curiosity without facing ridicule. Leaders are encouraged to understand that curiosity doesn't mandate blind belief, and it's acceptable to question things even without personal observation. [18:16] He talks about two kinds of negative people: the "wow" people, who are usually pessimistic, and the "how" people, who try to handle their own fears. In meetings as an example, they tend to divide the two, usually choosing how people. But, to come up with a great end, the two must collide - wow playing the role of vision while how plays the role of mission. Harris III relates it to a Ping pong game, where wow will do the action of wonder and how ill do the action of executing.  [25:51] Harris III shares the significance of collective creativity within a group. Emphasizing that team members utilizing their creative thinking can result in superior outcomes. He also delves into the notion that a leader's most valuable asset is their imagination, aligning it with the concept of storytelling. Although everyone is inherently born with a natural inclination toward wonder, there is a tendency to lean towards a how mindset. Furthermore, creativity is not an exclusive trait but a fundamental quality inherent in all individuals, as imagination is an ever-present and open aspect of our nature. He draws
more
TLP388: FOCUS with Jim and Jan
2023/12/20
Jim and Jan talk about how difficult it is to maintain focus in a world that moves quickly. They state that a lack of time and resources is causing people to feel overburdened, busy, and frustrated. The paradox of choice, which holds that having too many options causes indecision and dissatisfaction with decisions made, as well as the addiction to busyness, and the difficulty of effectively managing time. Burnout and frustration can also result from being overly busy and realizing that you are not making any progress. They also stress how crucial it is to prioritize, simplify, and base decisions on what offers the best value for your time, money, and energy. Limiting the number of meetings per day and establishing boundaries with calendars are two more doable solutions to deal with these problems. Jim and Jan also talk about the importance of understanding the value of crisis leadership, that being in a constant state of crisis is not productive. They address the idea of availability. They share the importance of staying focused and finding fulfillment in one's career, and emphasizing the need for clear values and goals to maintain focus.  https://bit.ly/TLP—388 Key Takeaways:  [1:21] Jim and Jan talk about the reality of today’s working environment, where people are spending their life too much on their tasks until it leads them to frustrations. They also added that a lot of people are workaholics and keep themselves busy to the point of losing focus on their goals. People, especially young professionals, might be losing track as they are trying to be a jack of all trades. They also added that it is calmer to respond rather than reacting to anything, and learning not to say ‘yes’ to everything. [4:59] They share about the nature of multitasking, in which you can’t do more than one task at the same time, but it is more like bouncing from one to another. Jim and Jan also share the pillars of self-reliant leadership: Lead self, Lead others, and Lead the organization. Further, they also discuss the importance of making a decision. They explain that the more choices you have, the more you can’t come up with a very good decision. By having too many options, you will never find your true happiness regardless of what you chose because you will always wonder what would be the scenario if you chose the other option.  [11:32] Jim and Jan share that when aiming the goal of maintaining focus, you have to include discipline. It is imperative to look at your calendar and organize what you need to do- from the least to the most priority. Fully loading your schedule will lead you to frustrations and the missed opportunity of recharging yourself. The advantage of limiting your schedule will also give you time to prepare and follow up the things you have to do.  [15:07] They mention the way people should respond to things and other people. They also share the seven villains of chaos: Con - he is the leader of the chaos that helped you to get where you are but end up not helping you anymore. Jack of all trades - the one who wants to do everything and do multitasking. Gorilla - the strong one but makes a mess in everything. Miss opportunity- is the distraction and gets you far away from what is important. Siphon - he is the pain in the neck. The jumbler- is someone that throws a bunch of crap against a wall and hopes it sticks. And the overload - is someone that masks everything they do with data, but it paralyzes you into a state of analysis paralysis.  [24:30] Jim and Jan talk about being content and fulfilled at the same time. You have to remain focused and set aside the things that do not have value or your least priorities. They also mention that it is hard to maintain focus if you are not aware of what you really want, and you don’t know what you value. It is imperative to know your goals before taking the path.  [29:46] Closing Quote: At the end of the day, you can't control the results; you can only control your eff
more
TLP387: Networking is the beginning. Connecting is the journey. Giving is the goal.
2023/12/13
Larry Kaufman is the author of “The Networking Connecting Giving (NCG) Factor: A Formula for Building Life-Changing Relationships from College to Retirement.” He is a connector, giver, and rainmaker who lives his life to help others succeed. He is also a senior-level Sales & Operations Leader and has been a globally-published speaker and trainer on LinkedIn for more than a decade. Larry shares his insights about the nature of networking, which is to know people rather than purely focusing on business. He highlights the significance of approaching interactions with a genuine curiosity about others and actively seeking ways to offer assistance. Additionally, Larry shares his perspective on networking events, noting their continued relevance as long as there is a clear goal or purpose for attendance. Key Takeaways: [03:40] Larry shares his personal views on what networking should look like. It should be focused more on getting to know more and sharing stories with people. In that way, you are also selling what you are capable of doing and what you have, but not focusing solely on exchanging cards to get the other people’s attention. He emphasizes that networking is more about building relationships and not purely marketing.  [06:51] He shares some tips on how to build rapport with other people such as asking personal questions, just as long as they are comfortable enough to share. You can also ask them things that are not usual to business terms, like what do they value or want, or something related to their outside business world. He also reiterated that by asking them personal questions, you are able to get them out from what they really feel because we don’t have a solid idea on what they are going through. [13:02] Larry advises young professionals on how they should conquer their fears in a networking industry, on what they can give, or how they should do it effectively. Young professionals do not have to do it alone, so they should not be afraid to ask for help, especially at the onset of their career. In regard to asking for help, Larry also added that it should not only be done at the start of their career but should be up until retirement which he also included it in his book. [20:07] He mentions a practical strategy for beginners in networking, which is that talking to one person in a month is not a bad start. He also reiterated that this also works at any level of one’s career. They can do this by checking people that surround them and have to add one person to their network at a time until you manage to increase it little by little. Larry also mentions that for today’s generation, there are a lot of tools that can be used to communicate with other people such as zooms, FaceTime, and any other social media platforms.  [29:29] Larry also shares how to be indispensable and the importance of this to a company. Being indispensable can be by showing other people that you are a shoulder they can lean on. It also means you are there to support them all the way and by getting to know them, you can easily understand their needs and can provide them what you can give.  [39:20] Closing Quote: Remember, “No one has ever become poor by giving”.- Anne Frank  Quotable Quotes: “ If you lead with yourself, you will live with yourself.” “Don't call me to fix your tire, but I can call someone to fix your tire. It may not stay on, but I would respond.” “The more I learn about people personally and professionally, I find ways to be helpful.” “People must not be too quick to talk about themselves, but nothing to do with the other person,” “Giving comes back in many ways, it may be never from that person, but it comes back in other ways.” “You don't have to be a connector and a giver alone, you can ask” “You can be a mentor, you can volunteer your time to a charity, you don’t have to play the world’s perceptions” “Meeting one new person that we could add to our network is already power
more
TLP386: Mergers and Acquisitions For Dummies with Bill Snow
2023/12/06
Bill Snow, Author of “Mergers and Acquisitions for Dummies.” shares the business valuations and the importance of understanding EBITDA. He also talks about the challenges and misconceptions of making acquisitions. Lack of planning, communication, and dishonesty can derail transactions in terms of negotiations and finance. He also counsels entrepreneurs to monitor cash flow statements while managing their companies. Regarding acquisitions, Bill advises meticulous preparation and deciding before placing a bid on a company whether an acquisition is a need or a nice-to-have. Key Takeaways: [3:13] Bill talks about the nature of mergers and acquisitions, the price terms and timing, and the payment structure such as the EBITDA. He also explains its usage and how it doesn’t work with other circumstances. Bill discusses that EBITDA works different from company to another.  [10:47] He shares the three segments of mergers and acquisitions which are the search, negotiate, and finance. As he explains, finance is the easiest among the three, since you can just borrow or get other investors to suffice your needs. The second one is negotiating, which he defines as the most interesting part if only one is familiar with his/ her actions. The last one is search, which enacts you to look for a company that will buy. He added that one thing to differentiate you among other business people is creating a thesis or proposals to discover what’s in it for your business to spark.  [15: 08] Bill shares how to make contact and build relationships. He also speaks about how to use deliberate and intentional approach in establishing peer-to-peer relationships. This explains the expectation one should be thinking of when entering this kind of business, where you will be negotiating with five people, but only one will win the deal.  [18:07] He explains the need for an accountant to discover the preferred structure for the seller to effectively communicate to the buyer and the importance of disclosure of problems to frame discussions to avoid resulting in a much bigger problem. Bill also explains how important it is to be honest with even the smallest problem because it might result in a bigger problem if not solved earlier.  [21:44] Bill shares how important math is when it comes to leadership, the same with how business and math is interconnected as well. He also emphasizes the need to be confident in terms of their businesses because they have learned about it in the first place. In addition, it is also recommended to study other companies with the same company as yours for you to be able to understand and create a better strategy. He also added how important it is to work with a financial advisor instead of going with the flow.  [26:27] He explains the importance and concept of timeliness and due diligence in integrating acquired business. Bill also shares how imperative it is to understand your strength and weakness when doing transactions to determine where you are good at for you to improve what you are lacking and enhance where you are better at doing.  [38:32] Closing Quote: Remember, get your facts first, then you can distort them as you please. -Mark Twain Quotable Quotes: “The way a business is valued from a buyer's perspective is quite different from how people run their businesses.” “Put together your plans, get very granular to make acquisitions.” “Don't ask. Offer something. Try to figure out what you can offer.” “A small issue that may not be a big deal for most people, if hidden, may result in a bigger problem.” “Fix what you can and work with a financial advisor instead of finger up in the air.” “The key thing with investment bankers advisors is their ability to negotiate.” “The most important things are the ability to negotiate and the ability to get a transaction done.” “When you have something in due diligence, get it done in a timely fashion. It will take a couple of years before a company f
more

Podcast reviews

Read The Leadership Podcast podcast reviews


4.9 out of 5
93 reviews
COL DD 2023/05/15
Leadership
Jan and Jim always deliver: great guests, stimulating dialogue and much to absorb!
Niikki Burla 2022/11/30
Subscribe to this podcast!
This show hits the podcast trifecta…great host, great content, and great guests! Do yourself a favor and subscribe today! -Nicole Kalil
Jamon Holmgren 2022/05/10
One of my go-to podcasts
I’ve worked with Jim and enjoy being able to benefit from his insight (and Jan’s) and the great guests they bring on. Great show.
PCJLR 2021/09/13
Solid and approachable
The hosts do a wonderful job of asking smart, insightful questions of their guests. Jim and Jan seem to take great care to keep key points digestible...
more
savvy_entrepreneur 2021/08/31
A must listen
This is a podcast where you think it will be all "business-y", and yes, it is. But so much of what they cover can be applied to your personal life. Th...
more
Ja-walk 2021/07/09
Absolutely Fantastic
Top quality guests that share interesting and relatable stories to deliver incredibly helpful nuggets of wisdom. Could easily walk away from each epi...
more
Irvine Nugent 2021/05/21
A Goldmine Of Wisdom
I have a few podcasts that I considered essential listening and the leadership podcast is at the top. The quality of the guests or top-notch on each e...
more
anttenae 2021/03/25
Great Inspiration
Hi the Leadership Podcast team thank you for continuously providing inspiration and insights to emerging leaders like myself. I am a registered nurse ...
more
JamieMarie77 2021/03/10
Uplifting
Thank you for your applicable content. Very inspiring in a world full of self doubt and daily challenges.
Matt!9 2020/09/16
The best insight!
Both Jim and Jan do a phenomenal job discussing what it truly means to lead from all fronts! Jim, Jan and their guests drive the discussion in directi...
more
check all reviews on aple podcasts

Podcast sponsorship advertising

Start advertising on The Leadership Podcast & sponsor relevant audience podcasts


What do you want to advertise?

Ad Format

Campaign Budget

Business Details