In today’s leadership spark, I chat with Jacques van den Broek, the former CEO of Randstad, about fostering a work culture that encourages innovation and risk-taking. Jacques notes that employees often hold back due to unfounded fears. But he emphasizes the need for leaders to encourage employees to speak up and take initiative, even if it goes against the grain. 

Jacques believes that employer-earned loyalty is vital, especially with the rise of remote work. Jacques also advises employees to think about their long-term career goals, stating that if your employer is not supportive of your growth and openness, perhaps you're working for the wrong company. He urges employees to take responsibility for remaining attractive in the job market and not to stay stuck in unfulfilling roles.

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In today’s leadership spark, Jacques van den Broek, former CEO of Randstad, and I delve into the pillars of modern leadership: optimism, vulnerability, authenticity, and risk-taking. Jacques highlights the transformative power of optimistic thinking, especially during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic. He also emphasizes the significance of vulnerability in fostering open, honest work environments.

Jacques candidly discusses his mistakes, including a failed $150 million business venture, to underscore the importance of resilience and learning from setbacks. He advises leaders to embrace transparency in both their successes and failures and encourages a culture of courage where teams feel empowered to innovate without waiting for permission. This impactful conversation offers you the mindset and strategies needed to be an effective, relatable leader in today's rapidly evolving workforce.

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In today’s leadership spark, I chat with Jacques van den Broek, former CEO of Randstad, about the various facets of modern leadership and workforce trends. Jacques outlines his rise from trainee to CEO and shares his hands-on, data-focused leadership style. We also discussed the shift from a client-centered to talent-centered job market and Jacques introduced "tech and touch," a strategy for long-term talent engagement. 

Jacques highlights the importance of individual career responsibility, contrasting it with a survey revealing that only 25% feel responsible for their own career growth. Moreover, our conversation touched on the "great resignation," which Jacques had anticipated, and explored automation's impact, particularly on white-collar jobs. Jacques advises leaders to communicate openly about job security to benefit both employees and the company.

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In today's episode, I speak with David Rogier, the mastermind behind MasterClass. Drawing inspiration from his grandmother's resilient journey as a Jewish refugee in NYC, David embarked on a mission: democratizing access to world-class experts. From securing heavyweights like Serena Williams to James Patterson, he shares the nuanced strategy and the importance of selective mentorship. We also touch upon the meticulous approach to prototyping at MasterClass, ensuring each course resonates with learners. Beyond the mechanics, David emphasizes the role of empathy in shaping the platform, striving for genuine connections in a digital age.

Join us for an insightful exploration into the ethos and evolution of MasterClass.

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In today’s leadership spark, I spoke with bestselling author and Stanford Graduate School of Business professor, Chip Heath, about the power of numbers in instigating change. The conversation revolves around the importance of providing comparative context to data for clearer understanding, rather than presenting standalone figures. 

Chip emphasizes the pivotal role emotion plays in data interpretation. For immediate practical application, Chip suggests starting with the simplification and contextualization of a single data point in presentations. He illustrates this with the striking revenue comparison between the video game industry and Hollywood. The core takeaway is the ability of relatable and emotionally resonant numbers to drive change and inspire action.

Chip Heath is one of the 100+ CEOs I interviewed for my new book, Leading With Vulnerability which is coming out in October: https://www.amazon.com/Leading-Vulnerability-Superpower-Transform-Organization/dp/1119895243/ 

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In today’s leadership spark, I chat with bestselling author and Stanford Graduate School of Business professor, Chip Heath, about the challenges and nuances of communicating with numbers and data. Chip underscores the difficulty people often face with fractions and percentages, as seen with A&W's marketing misstep against McDonald's. 

Chip also mentions the "curse of knowledge", where expertise can cloud one's understanding of a novice's perspective. Throughout our conversation, we delved into the significance of making data relatable and meaningful. By converting abstract numbers into tangible concepts, like likening the number of preventable sepsis deaths to annual cancer diagnoses, data becomes not only more understandable but also emotionally resonant, effectively engaging and motivating audiences

Chip Heath is one of the 100+ CEOs I interviewed for my new book, Leading With Vulnerability which is coming out in October: https://www.amazon.com/Leading-Vulnerability-Superpower-Transform-Organization/dp/1119895243/ 

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In today’s leadership spark, I speak with Chip Heath, Professor at Stanford University and New York Times Best Selling Author. Chip discusses his motivations behind his latest book, "Making Numbers Count: The Art and Science of Communicating Numbers." 

He emphasizes the challenge most people face in understanding and communicating numbers effectively, as our brains naturally struggle with large numbers. By comparing unfamiliar figures to relatable concepts, people can better grasp and remember data. This skill of translating numbers into digestible information is crucial for both personal and professional decision-making and change initiatives.

Chip Heath is one of the 100+ CEOs I interviewed for my new book, Leading With Vulnerability which is coming out in October: https://www.amazon.com/Leading-Vulnerability-Superpower-Transform-Organization/dp/1119895243/ 

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In today's episode, Nick Goldberg, Founder and CEO of EZRAx, shares unconventional leadership wisdom for uncertain times. We discuss the critical skill of resilience, regulating emotions, and practicing self-awareness. Goldberg provides insights on adapting to constant change, learning from failures, and prioritizing a thriving culture.

Tune in to this episode to unlock the unconventional leadership insights that will empower you to lead effectively in uncertain times.

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This episode of Great Leadership is sponsored by EZRAx, the digital-age executive coaching platform. As an HR leader, elevate your executives with EZRAx’s science-backed coaching, provided by experienced and accredited coaches. Enhance your leadership with real-time, impactful support from EZRAx, available anytime, anywhere. Discover the potential at helloezra.com.

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In today's episode, I speak with Lara Abrash, Chair of the Board at Deloitte US. Lara, who's at the helm of this powerhouse, doesn't just focus on the nuts and bolts of the business; she's deeply involved in shaping its culture, innovation, and growth. She opens up about the unexpected strength she finds in vulnerability, suggesting that it's not just a personal trait but a game-changer in the world of leadership. For Lara, the trifecta of effective leadership boils down to vulnerability, empathy, and compassion. These aren't just buzzwords for her; they're values she lives by.

As we chat further, Lara gives us a peek into the trends that have her excited and the shifts she's noticing in the business landscape. The conversation takes a personal turn as she reflects on the rollercoaster that was the COVID-19 pandemic, sharing the lessons it taught her and how it reshaped her perspective as a leader. And if there's one topic that truly ignites Lara's passion, it's diversity and inclusion. For her, it's more than just a corporate buzz phrase; it's a deeply personal mission. She emphasizes its significance, not just in boardrooms but in everyday interactions, painting a picture of the kind of inclusive world she's striving to create.

Lara Abrash is one of the 100+ CEOs I interviewed for my new book, Leading With Vulnerability, which is coming out in October. ⁠⁠⁠Check it out here and pre-order your copy now⁠: https://www.amazon.com/Leading-Vulnerability-Superpower-Transform-Organization/dp/1119895243/⁠

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In today’s leadership spark, Glenn Fogel, President and CEO of Booking Holdings, and I delve into topics ranging from personal and professional mistakes to the importance of gaining global perspectives. Recounting past errors like sending confidential emails to the wrong person and IT mishaps, Glenn emphasizes transparency, urging individuals to accept and rectify mistakes rather than hide them.

Glenn advocates for understanding global cultures, especially in leadership positions, and stresses that ensuring a broad perspective is crucial. Moreover, Glenn believes in the blend of hard work and luck for success and stresses being ready for opportunities. On personal fears, Glenn's major concerns center on health and family well-being. As our conversation concludes, we reflect on the need to maintain perspective, considering the challenges faced by previous generations.

Glenn Fogel is one of the 100+ CEOs I interviewed for my new book, Leading With Vulnerability which is coming out in October: https://www.amazon.com/Leading-Vulnerability-Superpower-Transform-Organization/dp/1119895243/

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In today’s leadership spark, Glenn Fogel, President and CEO of Booking Holdings, reflects on the inevitability of facing challenges in life and the importance of maintaining discipline and hard work to overcome them. Drawing from personal experiences, including his early years at university, he emphasizes the value of time management, particularly reducing unnecessary social media use. 

Despite not considering himself as the smartest, he credits his success to his endurance and disciplined work ethic, which have been his pillars of strength throughout his career. Glenn illustrates his daily routine, highlighting a strict regimen that includes early morning workouts and a balanced time allocation for work and family.

Glenn Fogel is one of the 100+ CEOs I interviewed for my new book, Leading With Vulnerability which is coming out in October: https://www.amazon.com/Leading-Vulnerability-Superpower-Transform-Organization/dp/1119895243/ 

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In today’s leadership spark, I chat with Glenn Fogel, President and CEO of Booking Holdings. He shares his journey from IT to leading a company that includes brands like Kayak and Priceline. Discussing the challenges posed by the pandemic, he also talks about the emotional toll of laying off a significant part of their workforce and how crucial it is to handle such decisions with empathy. 

Glenn further highlights the change in layoff processes over the years and stresses the importance of adaptable leadership, learning from both positive and negative experiences. He also dives into the challenges of risk management for companies, highlighting that while companies can anticipate many adverse scenarios, it's not always feasible to prepare for every possible negative outcome. Leadership involves making tough decisions by weighing risks against benefits.

Glenn Fogel is one of the 100+ CEOs I interviewed for my new book, Leading With Vulnerability which is coming out in October: https://www.amazon.com/Leading-Vulnerability-Superpower-Transform-Organization/dp/1119895243/ 

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In today's episode, we speak with David Gelles, a business journalist and author of the new book "The Man Who Broke Capitalism." Gelles examines how former GE CEO Jack Welch fundamentally altered capitalism with his ruthless focus on short-term profits over people. We discuss the lasting influence Welch had on business education and management philosophies. Gelles shares examples of alternative leadership models that balance profit and purpose, caring for employees and communities. He advises listeners to question assumptions and lead with more empathy. Though brilliantly effective, Welch's "shareholders over stakeholders" approach set a destructive precedent that still permeates business. Gelles hopes to inspire more conscious capitalism that serves society.

This thought-provoking episode examines the complicated legacy of Jack Welch and the profit-first approach that has permeated leadership.

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Today's episode is with Mark Hoplamazian, the CEO of Hyatt Hotels Corporation. Today's conversation revolved around the impact of the pandemic on the hospitality industry, the strategies adopted by Hyatt to navigate through these challenging times, and the future of the industry. Mark emphasized the importance of adaptability and resilience, highlighting how Hyatt has leveraged technology to enhance customer experience and ensure safety. He also touched upon the company's commitment to diversity and inclusion, and how it has been instrumental in fostering a positive work culture.

We also discuss the role of sustainability in the hospitality sector. Mark shared his vision of a more sustainable and responsible industry, underlining Hyatt's initiatives towards reducing carbon footprint and promoting sustainable practices. Mark also touches on the importance of mental health and well-being, both for employees and guests. Today's conversation with Mark gives insight into the workings of the hospitality industry, the challenges it faces, and the opportunities that lie ahead. It's a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of the industry and learning from the experiences of a seasoned leader.

Mark Hoplamazian is one of the 100+ CEOs I interviewed for my new book, Leading With Vulnerability, which is coming out in October. ⁠⁠⁠Check it out here and pre-order your copy now⁠.⁠

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In today’s leadership spark, Professor Sydney Finkelstein of Tuck School at Dartmouth, delves deep into the intricacies of modern leadership. Sydney highlights the need for innovation in talent management, pointing out HR's slower evolution compared to other business functions. He describes 'Super Bosses' as leaders who actively engage with their teams, foster both collaboration and competition, and recognize the value of employee growth beyond just retention. 

The conversation pivots to actionable advice, suggesting questions potential hires might ask to identify super bosses, such as inquiring about their vision, delegation habits, and relationships with former employees. Finkelstein also discusses millennials' unique workplace needs, suggesting that the super boss approach can enhance engagement by making work more meaningful for all. The goal is a workplace where employees are more fulfilled and leaders inspire greater achievements.

Sydney Finkelstein is one of the 100+ CEOs I interviewed for my new book, Leading With Vulnerability, which is coming out in October. ⁠Check it out here and pre-order your copy now⁠.

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In today’s leadership spark, I chat with Professor Sydney Finkelstein of Tuck School at Dartmouth. We discuss the "super bosses," leaders who deeply mentor their team and value direct communication. These leaders might be tough, but they genuinely care about the professional growth of their team.

Moreover, the concept of being a super boss isn't confined to large corporations but can be seen in small startups, freelancers, and even in educational settings. Sydney notes that anyone can be a super boss. Blending good management with real care for the team's growth are key. These leadership qualities are teachable and aren't tied to age or rank.

Sydney Finkelstein is one of the 100+ CEOs I interviewed for my new book, Leading With Vulnerability, which is coming out in October. ⁠Check it out here and pre-order your copy now⁠.

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In today’s leadership spark, I chat with Professor Sydney Finkelstein of Tuck School at Dartmouth, and he delves into the characteristics and types of "super bosses" that he studied for his book. Sydney identifies 18 notable super bosses, and‌ not all super bosses are easy to work with. Some can be quite challenging.

Finkelstein categorizes the super bosses into three types: "glorious bastards" driven by winning, "nurturers" focused on mentoring, and "iconoclasts" who are inherently creative. While different in their motivations, they all have the same endgame: nurturing others to greatness. Sydney clarifies that not every successful executive is a super boss; his research focused on those who not only achieved success but also elevated those around them.

Sydney Finkelstein is one of the 100+ CEOs I interviewed for my new book, Leading With Vulnerability, which is coming out in October. ⁠Check it out here and pre-order your copy now⁠.

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In today's episode, I spoke with Charles Conn, CEO of Monograph Capital and board chair of Patagonia, about his new book "The Imperfectionist: Strategic Mindsets for Uncertain Times." Conn discusses how the traditional approaches to long-term corporate strategy no longer work in today's rapidly changing world. He advocates for more dynamic, experimental problem-solving focused on learning and reversibility.

Charles outlines 6 key mindsets leaders need to embrace: curiosity, dragonfly perspective, seeking current behaviors vs just data, collective wisdom, imperfectionism, and “show and tell” storytelling.

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