Great Leadership With Jacob Morgan

In today’s leadership spark, I chat with Cameron Herald, Founder of the COO Alliance. He is known as the CEO Whisperer. In our conversation, we delved into the paramount importance of self-awareness and introspection in both our personal and professional lives. We tackled the role of innovative companies like Kindle in shaping the future of work and emphasized the value of tools like "mind maps" for planning and visualization.

For individuals, allocating time for self-reflection is crucial, with even small changes, like watching less TV, making a significant difference. According to Cameron, effective leadership is characterized by a commitment to nurturing team skills and confidence, while avoiding pitfalls like silos and politics. The best leaders prioritize the broader organizational goals over departmental interests. They understand that true professional fulfillment and effective leadership arise from aligning personal values with the right work environment and emphasizing collective achievements over individual ambitions.

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In today's episode, I chat with Panera Bread's founder, Ron Shaich, about his 36-year leadership journey. From starting as a small cookie store in Boston to becoming a top fast-casual chain with over 120,000 employees, Shaich delves into how he approached those tough choices along the way. Prioritizing core values over just data, our discussion uncovers the importance of resilience and perseverance in leadership.

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In today's episode, I spoke with Jerry Norcia, Chairman and CEO of DTE Energy, a company with over 10,000 employees.

We had an in-depth discussion of times he felt vulnerable, how he approaches vulnerability with his team, and the impact vulnerability has had on his leadership journey. Norcia believes vulnerability involves authenticity, openness and building trust and respect. He aims to treat everyone equally and share more personal stories over time and he stressed the importance of accountability, integrity, empathy and confidence in leadership. Norcia also discussed the value of admitting when you don't have the answers and listening more as a leader.

Overall, Norcia shared thoughtful perspectives on utilizing vulnerability to create inclusive decision-making, energize teams and build loyalty.

In today’s leadership spark, I chat with Colin Bryar, Co-founder of Working Backwards. We talked about the impact of focused leadership and team management, particularly in the realm of product development and problem-solving within a company. Colin highlights Amazon's "single-threaded leaders/teams" concept, which prioritizes undivided attention to a single project or problem by a leader or team, enhancing the quality and innovation of solutions developed. 

Colin also details the "bar raiser process" in hiring, ensuring candidates align with Amazon’s leadership principles through a thorough, unbiased review by a panel of interviewers. While high performers at Amazon are strategically placed on significant opportunities and may experience expedited promotions, the company maintains a balanced approach to traditional practices like annual reviews, willing to innovate while retaining effective, established methods.

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In today's episode, Michael Bungay Stanier, best-selling author of the Coaching Habit, reveals the 5 must-ask questions for having successful keystone conversations and building great relationships. This will allow you to unlock hidden potential in yourself and those around you.

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Today's episode is with George Oliver, Chairman and CEO of Johnson Controls, as he unravels the essence of vulnerability in leadership. Oliver emphasizes that vulnerability isn't a sign of weakness, but rather a powerful tool for connection and growth. By being open about challenges and uncertainties, leaders can foster trust and inspire teams...

In today’s leadership spark, I chat with Kevin Murphy, CEO of Ferguson Enterprises. Kevin emphasizes a leadership style rooted in empathy, collective effort, and a commitment to developing others within the organization. He values transparent communication, sharing company data with all team members, and believes in earning loyalty daily while also addressing underperformance. 

Kevin also highlights the importance of challenging the status quo, even in successful organizations. He shares insights from his journey of transitioning from a family business to leading a major company, underscoring the significance of mentorship and continuous learning in leadership development.

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In today's episode, I sit down with the esteemed psychotherapist and writer, Amy Morin, to discuss the motivation behind her acclaimed book, "13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do". As we explore these 13 points, Amy sheds light on a leader's role in accessing their mental strength and the symbiotic connection of emotional balance in the workplace. Together, we unpack pivotal insights from her work, underscoring that true mental strength stems from genuine self-awareness and growth, not merely toughness.

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Join us for an insightful episode featuring John Williams, the CEO and President of Domtar, a $3.8 billion pulp and paper giant with 6,500 employees. John shares his leadership journey and the transformative power of vulnerability at the workplace.

Discover how authenticity, self-awareness, empathy, and openness shape John's leadership style. He highlights the significance of trusted advisors, tailored communication, and professional boundaries. John also emphasizes the role of competence in building confidence and the need for a culture where every employee feels valued.

With over 40 years of leadership experience, John's stories and insights offer a unique perspective on leading with vulnerability. Tune in to gain valuable wisdom from a seasoned CEO who understands the importance of authenticity and openness in corporate leadership.

In today’s leadership spark, I chat with Alan Murray, CEO of Fortune Media. Alan and I delve into the evolution of business and leadership. According to him, nowadays, businesses value ideas and people more than just physical stuff, like buildings and machines. He noticed that some people seem not to want to work as much, but he believes many are still hardworking and dedicated. 

Alan thinks being a good leader today means inspiring and motivating people and showing realness and understanding, pointing out how the late Arne Sorenson of Marriott led by example during tough times. Throughout our conversation, we’ve highlighted the significant generational shifts and the increasing importance of adaptability and a people-centric approach in leadership.

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In today's episode, I spoke with Matt Abrahams, a lecturer at Stanford's Graduate School of Business and author of the new book Think Fast, Talk Smart: Communication Techniques. We discussed strategies and mindsets for improving spontaneous speaking and becoming a better communicator. Matt shared insights from his extensive research and experience coaching business leaders on critical skills like managing anxiety, listening intently, structuring responses, and focusing your message.

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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.

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

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.

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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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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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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In today’s leadership spark, Navi Radjou, Best-Selling Author and Inspirational Keynote Speaker, talks about leadership principles from his book. We delve into the importance of acting authentically and the struggle leaders often face in balancing their work and personal personas. We also explore the integration of emotions, logic, and intuition in decision-making and the need for emotional connection alongside rationality. 

Moreover, we also tackle the principle of leading from any position, highlighting the shift from traditional hierarchical leadership models to more adaptable and inclusive approaches. Navi explains the concept of flexible fortitude, knowing when to persist and when to adapt, and the value of enlightened self-interest. These principles collectively shape the evolving role of effective leadership.

In today’s leadership spark, Navi Radjou, Best-Selling Author and Inspirational Keynote Speaker, delves into the concept of flexible leadership and its relevance in today's dynamic world. Navi discusses the principles of innovation and how they can be applied to leadership. 

He emphasizes the importance of thinking and acting flexibly, particularly in the face of challenges. The conversation also covers the significance of simplicity in product design, the need to include marginalized communities in business strategies, and the role of intuition in decision-making.

In today’s leadership spark, I chat with Navi Radjou, Best-Selling Author and Inspirational Keynote Speaker. We talk about the value of innovation, and being resourceful and creative in business. He points out that young folks are keen to work for companies that care about the planet and society.

Navi also introduces the idea of "Jugaad Innovation", which is all about making the most of what you have. But he says there's a balance: challenge your team, but don't overload them. Navi also explains how balanced constraints can drive innovation.

Today’s episode is with Thibaut Meurisse. Known for his best-selling book "Master Your Emotions: A Practical Guide to Overcome Negativity and Better Manage Your Feelings," Meurisse has made a significant impact on many lives. With nearly 10,000 reviews on Amazon, his book has resonated with a vast audience, demonstrating the universal need for emotional intelligence and management.

In our discussion, we discuss the realm of emotions and their impact on our daily lives. We explore Thibaut's journey as a writer and entrepreneur, his struggles with managing emotions, and his strategies for maintaining positivity and optimism.

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In today’s leadership spark, John Bacon, bestselling author of "Let Them Lead," discusses leadership principles and insights from John's book "Let Them Lead." Recounting his experience as a coach for the River Rats, John emphasizes the importance of finding the right roles for team members based on their behaviors and strengths. He highlights how crucial setting meaningful goals collaboratively with the team is, allowing them to take ownership. 

John also emphasizes the importance of genuine human connection as a leader, stating that caring about team members is the key, rather than using fear or faking connection. He shares examples from his coaching experience and stresses that leaders should care enough to guide their team members toward achieving their goals while maintaining high standards.

In this leadership spark, John Bacon, bestselling author of "Let Them Lead," shares his coaching experience with the struggling high school hockey team called the River Rats. He talks about the team's challenges like low morale and commitment issues due to constant losses and lack of training. John stresses the importance of maintaining high standards and the tough love approach to leadership, encouraging positive attitudes and strong work ethics among the players.

While acknowledging the diversity in individual performance levels, John believes that uniform behavioral expectations must be upheld for everyone. He also highlights building trust and fostering leadership within the team. He mentions how individuals can shine in different roles. The interview wraps up by noting that like coaches, leaders should be open, growing, and guiding their teams toward success.

In today’s leadership spark, I chat with John Bacon, bestselling author of "Let Them Lead". John shares his experience coaching America's worst high school hockey team, the River Rats and how he turned around the team's fortunes through a tough love approach, emphasizing a strong mission and raising the bar for performance. 

John reflects on the significance of making the mission challenging to make it special, drawing comparisons to the Navy SEALs and Peace Corps, where challenging missions attract the right people. The conversation touches on the importance of not compromising the mission by lowering expectations and the surprising positive results he achieved with the team's transformation.

Today's episode is with Scott Jeffrey Miller, an accomplished executive with Franklin Covey, a seven-time bestselling author, and the host of the 'On Leadership' podcast. We discuss the world of mentorship, and the 13 roles a mentor can play as outlined in Scott's recent book, "The Ultimate Guide to Great Mentorship."

Scott shares his insights on the differences between leadership and mentorship, emphasizing that not all great leaders make great mentors.

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Today's episode is with Paul Markovich, the president and CEO of Blue Shield of California. We explored the theme of vulnerability in leadership, discussing its importance and challenges. Paul shared his personal experiences, including the intense workload during the pandemic, which led to burnout and emotional stress. He opened up about the difficulty of maintaining a balance between personal life and professional responsibilities, and how that affected his interactions with his team.

We also discuss the loneliness of leadership, particularly when faced with the painful task of letting go of a friend within the organization. Paul emphasized the importance of vulnerability in building deep connections, making leaders more relatable, and fostering trust within the team. He also highlighted the balance that must be struck, as sharing too much or too little can have negative impacts.

Today's conversation underscored the human aspect of leadership and the complex dynamics that come with being at the helm of an organization.

In today’s leadership spark, Liz Wiseman, Bestselling Author of "Multipliers: How the Best Leaders Make Everyone Smarter”, and I explore the shifting landscape of leadership challenges over the past decade. We discuss about how the role of a leader has transformed from leading to a predetermined better place to leading through uncertainty.

We also delve into the crucial skills of thinking like a futurist and being open to various scenarios and possibilities. Liz emphasizes that anyone, not just those in positions of authority, can embrace the multiplier mindset. She offers practical insights for remote team leadership, such as providing clarity through the "three what's" – what good looks like, what done looks like, and what's in scope.

In today’s leadership spark, Liz Wiseman, Bestselling Author of "Multipliers: How the Best Leaders Make Everyone Smarter”, and I dive deeper into a leadership discussion. Liz introduces her book on leadership and explores the characteristics and differences between "diminishers" and "multipliers" – two types of leaders. Diminishers unintentionally stifle creativity and productivity, while multipliers amplify the capabilities of their team members.

Moreover, Liz discusses how accidental diminisher tendencies can arise and she provides strategies to avoid them. Multipliers focus on leveraging others' talents, giving space for independent thinking, asking questions instead of telling, and involving junior team members in decision-making.

In today’s leadership spark, I chat with Liz Wiseman, Bestselling Author of "Multipliers: How the Best Leaders Make Everyone Smarter”. Our conversation touches on the themes of leadership and optimism, and the two types of leaders, which are "diminishers" and "multipliers." 

Moreover, we explore the concept of the multiplier effect, where leaders unlock the full potential of their team's intelligence, resulting in a culture of growth and high performance. In order to identify whether an employee is under a diminishing leader or a multiplier, Liz also mentions the research methodology she used, where professionals were asked to describe situations where they thrived under a leader and situations where they held back.