Partnering Leadership

In this episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli speaks with Dave Ulrich. Known as the Father of modern-day HR, Dave Ulrich is the Rensis Likert Professor at the Ross School of Business, University of Michigan, and a partner at the RBL Group, a consulting firm focused on helping organizations and leaders deliver value. Dave Ulrich has published over 30 leadership, organization, and human resource books. The discussion with Dave Ulrich touches on measuring a leader's effectiveness, the difference between being a leader and leadership, and how HR has evolved to become more crucial to company success. Next, Dave Ulrich addresses why leaders should focus on certainty while leading through greater uncertainty. Dave Ulrich went on to talk about the importance of positive accountability and emphasized the value of creating leadership brands that cater to customers' expectations. Finally, Dave Ulrich shared why good leadership involves empowering others and building their brands rather than just promoting the leader's brand and how that connects to the concept of value creation for stakeholders. Some Highlights: - Dave Ulrich on the characteristics of good leaders- -The role and importance of HR in creating value for stakeholders - How leaders can focus on creating value in uncertain times- -Why positive accountability is a necessity in outstanding leadership and how to do it well -Dave Ulrich on how to empower others to build their brands - Why the receiver defines value and the importance of that perspective in leadership - The role of human resources in creating value for stakeholders through talent, organization, and leadership. - The necessity of focusing on customer expectations in creating successful leadership models. - Dave Ulrich on the one trait that all great leaders have in common Connect with Dave Ulrich: The RBL Group Website Dave Ulrich on LinkedIn Dave Ulrich at University of Michigan Ross Dave Ulrich books on Amazon Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: Mahan Tavakoli Website Mahan Tavakoli on LinkedIn Partnering Leadership Website

In this thought-provoking episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli engages in a deep and insightful conversation with Jerry Colonna, CEO of Reboot.io and the renowned CEO coach known as the “CEO Whisperer.” Jerry Colonna is also the author of the groundbreaking books Reboot: Leadership and the Art of Growing Up and Reunion: Leadership and the Longing to Belong. With his unique background as a successful venture capitalist turned executive coach, Jerry brings a wealth of experience and wisdom to the discussion, offering invaluable insights into the challenges and opportunities of modern leadership. Throughout the conversation, Jerry shares his personal journey of self-discovery and transformation, highlighting the importance of radical self-inquiry and emotional authenticity in cultivating effective and purposeful leadership. He explores the paradoxical nature of success, discussing how the pursuit of external achievements can often lead to feelings of hollowness and disconnection from one's true self. Drawing upon his extensive work with CEOs and executives, Jerry Colonna offers a fresh perspective on the role of business in society, arguing that purpose-driven leadership has the potential to create meaningful change and contribute to the healing of the world. He challenges listeners to confront the uncomfortable truths of our shared history and to embrace the power of vulnerability and empathy in building more inclusive and compassionate organizations. With his trademark blend of wisdom, humor, and provocative questioning, Jerry invites leaders to embark on a journey of self-reflection and growth, offering practical guidance and transformative insights along the way. Actionable Takeaways: Connect with Jerry Colonna Reboot.io Reunion: Leadership and Longing to Belong Reboot: Leadership and the Art of Growing Up Jerry Colonna LinkedIn Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: Mahan Tavakoli Website Mahan Tavakoli on LinkedIn Partnering Leadership Website

In this episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli sits down with Alden Mills, three-time Navy SEAL Platoon Commander and INC 500 CEO. Alden Mills is also the author of three books, the latest of which is Unstoppable Mindset: How to Use What You Have to Get What You Want. Throughout the conversation, Alden shares his insights on navigating change, fostering ownership, and cultivating a resilient mindset in both personal and professional contexts. Throughout the conversation, Alden draws upon his unique experiences as a Navy SEAL and successful business leader to provide valuable lessons on leadership in the face of uncertainty. He discusses the importance of embracing discomfort, learning from failure, and maintaining faith in oneself and one's team. Alden also shares the concept of the "mindset horizon," explaining how leaders can encourage their teams to venture beyond their comfort zones and take ownership of their roles. He emphasizes the significance of trust and autonomy in building high-performing teams and shares practical strategies for implementing these principles in organizations. Actionable Takeaways: Connect with the Alden Mills Alden Mills Website Be Unstoppable Website Alden Mills on LinkedIn Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: Mahan Tavakoli Website Mahan Tavakoli on LinkedIn Partnering Leadership Website

In this episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli sits down with Jason Gulya, a higher education AI Strategist, to explore the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in education and organizations. As someone who initially resisted the idea of becoming a teacher, Jason's journey is a testament to the power of adaptability and embracing change. Jason shares how his unique upbringing, with three brothers close in age, shaped his understanding of community and individual needs, laying the foundation for his approach to teaching and learning. He candidly discusses his initial skepticism towards ChatGPT, fearing it would enable plagiarism and undermine education. However, his willingness to approach the technology with an open mind led him to recognize its potential for enhancing learning experiences and driving organizational transformation. Drawing from his experiences as the chair of the AI council at his college, Jason offers a fresh perspective on AI's role in education. He emphasizes the need to cultivate foundational skills while leveraging technology as a complementary tool. He advocates for a shift towards a more dynamic and relevant approach to teaching, where AI serves as a cognitive partner, challenging assumptions and fostering critical thinking. Actionable Takeaways: Connect with Jason Gulya Jason Gulya LinkedIn Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: Mahan Tavakoli Website Mahan Tavakoli on LinkedIn Partnering Leadership Website

In this episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli sits down with JJ (Projjal) Ghatak, a seasoned technology executive who has held key roles at companies like Uber and is currently the Co-Founder and CEO of OnLoop, a habit-forming, genAI-powered goals and feedback platform for high functioning teams. Projjal Ghatak shares his unique insights on building mission-driven cultures, fostering collaboration, and leveraging technology to empower managers and drive organizational success. Drawing from his experiences at Uber during its rapid growth phase, Projjal discusses how the company's decentralized structure and fighting spirit contributed to its success. He also delves into the importance of the founder's role in setting the tone for an organization's culture and attracting the right talent. As the co-founder of OnLoop, JJ (Projjal) Ghatak is on a mission to "productize" management, making it simple and effective for every manager to bring out the best in their teams. He breaks down the key responsibilities of a manager and shares how OnLoop is using AI and habit-formation science to drive better management practices. Throughout the conversation, Projjal touches on a range of topics relevant to today's leaders, from the challenges of hybrid work to the importance of self-awareness and continuous learning. Actionable Takeaways: - Discover how Uber's early culture of decentralization and fighting spirit fueled its rapid growth and success - Learn Projjal's framework for the five key responsibilities of a manager and how to excel at each one - Explore the science behind habit formation and how it can be leveraged to drive better management practices - Gain insights on the productivity challenges of hybrid work and strategies for building self-discipline in remote teams - Hear Projjal's unconventional approach to recruiting, which prioritizes raw talent over years of experience - Understand the importance of self-awareness for leaders and how to leverage resources for continuous learning and growth Connect with JJ (Projjal) Ghatak OnLoop Website JJ (Projjal) Ghatak LinkedIn Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: Mahan Tavakoli Website Mahan Tavakoli on LinkedIn Partnering Leadership Website

In this engaging episode of the Partnering Leadership podcast, host Mahan Tavakoli engages in an insightful conversation with Paul Daugherty, the group chief executive of technology and chief technology officer at Accenture. During the episode, Paul Daugherty emphasizes the criticality of adopting a technology-focused mindset and embracing constant reinvention and agility in the face of evolving technologies. He highlights the importance of organizations becoming learning organizations equipped with empathetic listening capabilities to navigate the era of generative AI effectively. The conversation delves into the significance of responsible AI and data ethics within organizations utilizing AI. Paul Daugherty underscores the need for CEOs to prioritize the implementation of responsible AI, emphasizing its role in shaping the future of business and society. Additionally, the episode touches on the transformative impact of the metaverse on business operations, the integral role of data in AI, and the necessity of rescaling individuals displaced by automation. Finally, Paul Daugherty shares his predictions on the future impact of AI on organizations. Accenture Thought Leadership Accenture Foresight App Accenture Technology Vision 2023 When Atoms Meet Bits Connect with Paul Daugherty Paul Daugherty at Accenture Paul Daugherty on LinkedIn Also Referenced: Partnering Leadership Conversation with Ajay Agrawal on Prediction Machines & Power and Prediction Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: Mahan Tavakoli Website Mahan Tavakoli on LinkedIn Partnering Leadership Website

In this episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli speaks with David Rubenstein, co-founder & co-chairman of Carlyle Group & President of the Economic Club of Washington DC. In the conversation David Rubenstein shares his journey from working at the White House to starting one of the largest private equity investment firms globally. He also talks about his leadership lessons, philanthropy, Peer-to-Peer interviewing for the Economic Club of Washington DC and Bloomberg TV, and the legacy he plans to leave behind. Some highlights: - David Rubenstein’s childhood and how he became an avid reader - David’s experience at the White House working for former U.S. President Jimmy Carter - The story behind David Rubenstein helping co-found the Carlyle Group - On becoming Carlyle Group’s fundraiser and how David increased its visibility - David Rubenstein’s leadership practices and values - ‘Patriotic Philanthropy’ and David Rubenstein’s signing of the giving pledge - David Rubenstein on the value of family and the importance of raising successful children - Why David Rubenstein accepted to become the President of The Economic Club of Washington DC and then decided to change the format. - Becoming a Peer-to-Peer interviewer: on self-deprecating humor, being a good listener, and more - Leadership lessons from David Rubenstein’s book, How to Lead - On his passion for capturing the ‘American experiment’ and his opinion on America today - David Rubenstein’s desire for impact as he ‘sprints’ to leave a legacy - Why David Rubenstein reads over 100 books a year and encourages others to read more - On moving forward post-COVID with ongoing transformation and change Connect with David Rubenstein David Rubenstein Website How to Lead by David Rubenstein The Carlyle Group Website The David Rubenstein Show: Peer-to-Peer The Economic Club of Washington D.C. Website Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: Mahan Tavakoli Website Mahan Tavakoli on LinkedIn Partnering Leadership Website

In this captivating episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli sits down with Greg Wooldridge, the only person to have led the Blue Angels, the U.S. Navy's renowned flight demonstration squadron, three times. With his unparalleled experience and unique insights, Greg Wooldridge shares valuable lessons on leadership, team dynamics, and the pursuit of excellence that is applicable not only in the cockpit but also in the boardroom. Throughout the conversation, Greg Wooldridge discusses the core elements that make the Blue Angels a high-performing team despite the built-in turnover of members. He reveals how the squadron's culture, founded on humility, gratitude, and trust, is the bedrock of its success. Wooldridge also emphasizes the importance of effective debriefing, which he considers the "secret sauce" of the Blue Angels' continuous improvement. Greg Wooldridge goes on to share his wisdom on the importance of selecting team members based on character rather than just skill and how to foster a sense of ownership and respect among all team members. Actionable Takeaways: Connect with Greg Wooldridge Greg Wooldridge LinkedIn Greg Wooldridge Website Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: Mahan Tavakoli Website Mahan Tavakoli on LinkedIn Partnering Leadership Website

In this episode of the Partnering Leadership podcast, Mahan Tavakoli interviews Daniel Burrus, a world-renowned futurist, strategist, and author of The Anticipatory Organization: Turn Disruption and Change into Opportunity and Advantage. In the conversation, Daniel Burrus shares his powerful framework for anticipating the future and shaping strategies accordingly, emphasizing the importance of identifying hard and soft trends to gain certainty in an uncertain world. Throughout the conversation, Daniel Burrus dives deep into the principles and mindsets that enable leaders to become anticipatory rather than reactionary. He highlights the transformative power of the "both/and" principle, the "ideal use" principle, and the concept of disrupting yourself and your organization before others do. Daniel's expertise and engaging storytelling make this episode a must-listen for anyone looking to create a better future for themselves and their organization. Key Insights You'll Gain: Connect with Daniel Burrus The Anticipatory Organization: Turn Disruption and Change into Opportunity and Advantage Daniel Burrus Website Daniel Burrus LinkedIn Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: Mahan Tavakoli Website Mahan Tavakoli on LinkedIn Partnering Leadership Website

In this episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli sits down with Brad Zimmerman, a seasoned business consultant and coauthor of The Great Engagement: How CEOs Create Exceptional Cultures. With over thirty years of experience guiding businesses to success, Brad brings a wealth of knowledge and practical insights to the table. Throughout the conversation, Brad and Mahan delve into the critical importance of employee engagement and how leaders can effectively align individual purpose with organizational goals. They explore the shifting attitudes towards work in our society and the implications for leaders seeking to foster cultures of engagement and fulfillment. Brad Zimmerman shares powerful examples and anecdotes from his work with clients, illustrating the transformative impact of a purpose-driven culture on employee motivation, retention, and overall organizational performance. He emphasizes the need for leaders to be intentional, conscious, and self-aware in their approach to engaging and empowering their teams. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the three essential tools of leadership - leading, managing, and coaching - and how mastering these skills can create a supportive and accountable environment where people thrive. Actionable Takeaways: - Discover the three critical elements leaders must focus on to create a culture of engagement and purpose - Learn how to overcome the invisible barriers that prevent employees from offering honest feedback and challenging ideas - Hear powerful examples of organizations that have successfully navigated turbulent times by fostering a deep sense of purpose and pride among their teams - Gain practical strategies for implementing "supportive accountability" and driving results through regular, forward-looking conversations - Understand the importance of creating a coaching culture and how to model openness to feedback as a leader - Explore the shifting attitudes towards work-life balance and how leaders can adapt to engage their teams in this new landscape - Learn the key differences between leading, managing, and coaching and why all three are essential for effective leadership - Discover how to use mission moments to consistently connect your team's work to a greater purpose Connect with Brad Zimmerman Phoenix Performance Partners Webpage with Additional Resources Including Free Download of Engaged Life Inventory The Great Engagement: How CEOs Create Exceptional Cultures Brad Zimmerman on LinkedIn Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: Mahan Tavakoli Website Mahan Tavakoli on LinkedIn Partnering Leadership Website

In this Partnering Leadership conversation, Mahan Tavakoli speaks with Professor Ajay Agrawal, the Geoffrey Taber Chair in Entrepreneurship and Innovation and Professor of Strategic Management at the University of Toronto's Rotman School of Management. Ajay Agrawal is also the founder of the Creative Destruction Lab (CDL), a not-for-profit program for early-stage, science-based companies, and coauthor of two outstanding books on Artificial Intelligence: Prediction Machines: The Simple Economics of Artificial Intelligence and Power and Prediction: The Disruptive Economics of Artificial Intelligence. In the conversation, Professor Agrawal shared the origin of his passion for studying the intersection of technology and economics and the increasing importance of artificial intelligence for organizations as a decision-making tool that brings down the cost of prediction. Ajay Agrawal then explained why this shift would significantly impact individuals, organizations, and industries as machines enable better predictions while humans focus on the judgment required for decision-making. Finally, Ajay Agrawal shared examples of the transformative impact of the reduction in the cost of prediction and how leaders can help guide their organizations through the significant changes ahead. Some highlights: - Three people that helped shape Ajay Agrawal's career path - Why looking at AI from an economic perspective clarifies its potential to transform organizations and industries - Ajay Agrawal on the role of predictions in artificial intelligence - The importance of human judgment in decision making - How AI decision-making will redefine roles in the workplace - The disruptive economics of artificial intelligence - How generative AI such as ChatGPT works and what causes mistakes and misstatements - Ajay Agrawal on the importance of upskilling professionals - How organizations can redesign their structures and processes to take into account the new predictive world - The impact of AI on systems-level change - How organizations can leverage AI for business success - Why we're on the brink of a set of transformations that none of us have seen in our lifetimes - How AI can help create a better future Connect with Professor Ajay Agrawal: Ajay Agrawal website Ajay Agrawal at Rotman School of Management Ajay Agrawal on LinkedIn Prediction Machines: The Simple Economics of Artificial Intelligence on Amazon Power and Prediction: The Disruptive Economics of Artificial Intelligence on Amazon Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: Mahan Tavakoli Website Mahan Tavakoli on LinkedIn Partnering Leadership Website

This episode of Partnering Leadership features Mahan Tavakoli in an interview on the Uncommodified podcast with host Tim Windsor. They explore AI's impact on leadership in an increasingly fast-changing world. Mahan and Tim have an insightful dialogue around evolving leadership approaches for exponential times driven by technological advances like AI. They discuss the pitfalls of certainty and why leaders can no longer rely on having all the answers today to be successful. Instead, they examine why perpetual curiosity, learning, and questioning are becoming competitive advantages to drive innovation. From analyzing biases ingrained by education systems to rediscovering childlike wonder, Tim and Mahan offer wisdom for leaders to "unlearn" outdated notions that will hamper future success. They also explore why confidence must be balanced with humility. Modeling an appetite for life's uncertainties can inspire the same in teams. Actionable Takeaways: Partnering Leadership Conversations Referenced Leading Through The Disruptive Economics of Artificial Intelligence with Professor Ajay Agrawal Connect with Tim Windsor Tim Windsor Website The Uncommodified Podcast Tim Windsor on LinkedIn Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: Mahan Tavakoli Website Mahan Tavakoli on LinkedIn Partnering Leadership Website

As the pace of digital change accelerates, how should leaders guide their organizations to stay ahead of disruption? In this episode of Partnering Leadership, author John Rossman makes the case that betting big on transformation is essential, though risky. Drawing on his experience spearheading Amazon's bold expansions, Rossman argues that the coming era of "hyper-digital" will necessitate even bolder moves than we've seen. In the conversation, John Rossman lays out a playbook for leading change with the same fearless spirit of innovation embodied by pioneers like Bezos, Musk, and Jobs. His new book, Big Bet Leadership: Your Transformation Playbook for Winning in the Hyper-Digital Era, offers tools and frameworks to drive clarity, speed, and calculated risk-taking in your team. Listen as Rossman shares insider tips on writing focused memos, rapidly testing central assumptions, and clearly communicating to carry stakeholders through uncertainty. You'll learn tangible systems to define the problems worth attacking and to design minimal viable tests that reveal which bold solutions show the most significant promise. Rossman also prescribes remedies for the cultural obstacles that often sideline transformative thinking. Get actionable methods to investigate multiple futures, facilitate critical debate, and budget in stages rather than over-committing. In an exponential era where leaders must think big while mitigating existential risk, Rossman delivers the wisdom needed today to build resilient, adaptive organizations ready to lead the future. In the episode, you will learn: - How to frame your boldest ideas as "Big Bets" to spark smarter experiments - Ways to accelerate and test transformational initiatives before overcommitting - How Jeff Bezos's "Day 1" outlook drives fearless innovation - How writing memos instead of slide decks uncovers flaws and misalignments - Why Simon Sinek says leaders repeating messages drives progress - How to balance dream-big thinking with de-risking core assumptions - How to run small tests that reveal which big bets deserve doubling down Connect with John Rossman Big Bet Leadership: Your Transformation Playbook for Winning in the Hyper-Digital Era John Rossman Website John Rossman LinkedIn John Rossman Partnering Leadership episode on The Amazon Way Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: Mahan Tavakoli Website Mahan Tavakoli on LinkedIn Partnering Leadership Website

In this episode of Partnering Leadership, host Mahan Tavakoli interviews philosopher, CEO, and bestselling author Brian Johnson on activating your organization's heroic potential. Having spent over half his career as a founder and business leader, Brian shares powerful insights on perseverance and excellence drawn from ancient wisdom and modern science. In the conversation, Brian offers key lessons from his newest book, "Arete: Activate Your Heroic Potential," for overcoming adversity and leading teams through hardship. You'll discover Brian's fascinating concept of "anti-fragile confidence" and the rituals enabling leaders to cultivate it. Hear how Brian trains his mind and body with world-class dedication - and why peak physical condition enables peak psychological performance when tackling stress. Finally, Brian defines the one "ultimate game" leaders must keep sight of in business and life. In this conversation, you will learn: Connect with Brian Johnson Heroic Brian Johnson Arete: Activate Your Heroic Potential Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: Mahan Tavakoli Website Mahan Tavakoli on LinkedIn Partnering Leadership Website

Diversity, equity, and inclusion are more vital than ever for organizations today. But how can leaders move beyond good intentions to drive real impact? In this engaging episode, inclusion strategist Risha Grant, author of Be Better than Your BS: How Radical Acceptance Empowers Authenticity and Creates a Workplace Culture of Inclusion, offers paradigm-shifting insights for leaders seeking to foster authentic belonging in their teams. Drawing on over two decades of experience guiding executives, Risha dives into the key traps that derail well-meaning leaders. You'll hear surprising takeaways like why your company's implementation matters more than your intent. Risha also shares how a "BS check" can reveal blindspots and how transparency drives trust when handled right. Actionable Takeaways: Recommended Resources Be Better than Your BS: How Radical Acceptance Empowers Authenticity and Creates a Workplace Culture of Inclusion Partnering Leadership Conversation with Howard Ross on Belonging, Bias and Building Inclusive Cultures Connect with Risha Grant Risha Grant Website Risha Grant LinkedIn Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: Mahan Tavakoli Website Mahan Tavakoli on LinkedIn Partnering Leadership Website

What if AI could free up bandwidth, spark creativity, and boost productivity for executives and teams? Jordan Wilson, Founder of Everyday AI and host of the Everyday AI podcast, joins Mahan Tavakoli, sharing pragmatic tips so leaders can harness cutting-edge generative AI. Jordan advises an agile, sprint-based approach to rapidly experiment rather than get stuck in opaque long-term AI projects that often trigger resistance. He recommends executives audit workflows to systematically evaluate where AI could automate tedious tasks - starting with their most time-consuming administrative work before expanding. Rather than reacting as generative AI enters offices, Jordan makes the case that executives can proactively embrace this change, unlocking new creative opportunities. Actionable Takeaways: Connect with Jordan Wilson Everyday AI Jordan Wilson on LinkedIn Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: Mahan Tavakoli Website Mahan Tavakoli on LinkedIn Partnering Leadership Website

In this episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli speaks with H.H. Leonards. H.H. Leonards is the founder and chair of the O Street Museum Foundation, headquartered in Washington, D.C., and the Mansion on O Street, where Mrs. Rosa Parks called her home-away-from-home for the last decade of her life. H.H. Leonards is also the author of the book Rosa Parks Beyond the Bus: Life, Lessons, and Leadership. Rosa Parks was a civil rights activist best known for her pivotal role in the Montgomery bus boycott. In the conversation, H.H. Leonards shares why they connected on a deep level when she met Rosa Parks. H.H. Leonards also shares both historical accounts recounted to her by Rosa Parks as well as her experience during the ten years Rosa Parks lived at the Mansion on O Street. Finally, H.H. Leonards shares what Rosa Parks felt it would take to end racism and her hope for future generations. The episode ends with the beautiful song “Enough” which was made to honor Rosa Parks. The song lyrics are by Oscar-winning songwriter Paul Williams, and the music was written by Mark Bryan (lead guitarist for Hootie & the Blowfish) and Ranky Tanky, both Grammy winners. Some Highlights -Why Rosa Parks came to Washington DC to live at the Mansion on O Street -H.H. Leonards and Rosa Parks bonding over their shared values of family, love, and helping others -Rosa Parks' role in the civil rights movement and the many challenges she faced after the Montgomery Bus Boycott -The many myths surrounding Rosa Parks not giving up her seat on the bus and what really happened that fateful day and why -H.H. Leonards on getting to know Rosa Parks even better, by accompanying her to meetings and through her touch -Rosa Parks’ role in the founding of the National Organization for Women -How Rosa Parks' meeting with Pope John Paul II came about and its significance -Rosa Parks’ view on what it would take to help end racism -The Congressional Gold Medal and the Presidential Medal of Freedom -The three-city funeral for Rosa Parks -A message that Rosa Parks would want to be passed on to future generations Resources: YouTube Video of Enough Rosa Parks Beyond the Bus: Life, Lessons, and Leadership on Amazon Connect with H.H. Leonards The Mansion on O Street H.H. Leonards on LinkedIn Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: Mahan Tavakoli Website Mahan Tavakoli on LinkedIn Partnering Leadership Website

In this episode of Partnering Leadership, host Mahan Tavakoli interviews strategic thinking expert Rich Horwath, author of six books on strategy, including his latest Strategic: The Skill to Set Direction, Create Advantage, and Achieve Executive Excellence. Rich shares his decades of expertise, shining a light on common pitfalls that executives and leadership teams face as they approach strategic planning. He then outlines his practical 3A framework – Acumen, Allocation, Action – that leaders at any level can use to begin thinking and behaving more strategically daily. The conversation explores important concepts around strategic agility, competitive advantage, customer insight, and leading change during times of greater uncertainty. With so many models and approaches promising the "secret formula" to developing winning strategic plans, Rich cuts through the noise with relevant and impactful principles and perspectives. Actionable Takeaways: Partnering Leadership Episodes Referenced Innovative Thinking & Strategy by Tapping Into the Science of Subtraction with University of Virginia Professor Leidy Klotz Winning the Right Game: How to Disrupt, Defend, and Deliver in a Changing World with Ron Adner Leading Through The Disruptive Economics of Artificial Intelligence with Professor Ajay Agrawal How to Lead and Innovate by Learning from The Amazon Way with John Rossman Connect with Rich Horwath Strategy Skills Website Rich Horwath on LinkedIn Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: Mahan Tavakoli Website Mahan Tavakoli on LinkedIn Partnering Leadership Website

In this Partnering Leadership conversation, Michael Thatcher shares insights from his extensive leadership experience spanning the nonprofit and technology sectors. As the CEO of Charity Navigator, the largest charity evaluator in the U.S., he provides an inside look at leading this influential organization through a period of rapid growth and digital transformation. Touching on topics from building trust with boards to measuring nonprofit impact, Michael Thatcher offers thoughtful perspectives on leadership. He discusses the journey of evolving Charity Navigator's rating system to provide more holistic assessments focused on transparency, accountability, and tangible outcomes. With over 200,000 charities now rated, he looks ahead to further enhancing evaluation methods and considering international expansion. Thatcher also explores trends in philanthropy and optimistically envisions greater collaboration between sectors to drive social impact. Actionable Takeaways: Referenced Partnering Leadership Conversations AI Ethics, Leadership & Governance with Renee Cummings, Professor of Practice in Data Science at UVA Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality, The Metaverse & AI's Impact on The Future of Work with Louis Rosenberg, AR/VR Pioneer & CEO Unanimous AI Connect with Michael Thatcher Charity Navigator Website Michael Thatcher on LinkedIn Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: Mahan Tavakoli Website Mahan Tavakoli on LinkedIn Partnering Leadership Website

In this Partnering Leadership episode, host Mahan Tavakoli speaks with clarity expert Steve Woodruff about the importance of clear communication for leaders. As the torrent of digital information competes for our attention, Steve emphasizes how leaders must craft focused messages that cut through the noise. Drawing from decades of consulting experience, Steve shares the core principles from his book "The Point" on transmitting ideas effectively amidst the modern barrage of disruption. He outlines specific techniques like storytelling and analogies that make messages stick in the minds of listeners. With humor and humility, Steve advocates that the starting point begins with self-awareness – leaders first know their own strengths before trying to communicate them. The conversation revolves around neuroscience, explaining why unclear communication fails. Steve offers research on how our brains filter information, only latching onto what seems immediately relevant. This biological filtering system demands that leaders prioritize clarity, first having a clear point themselves. Steve provides thought-provoking ideas on how to sequence messages, using illustrations and examples so others can readily comprehend key concepts. Steve analyzes common communication pitfalls that prevent alignment and action. He shares wisdom on the clarity necessary for personal branding, settling on the right descriptive words and stories that capture individual uniqueness. Actionable Takeaways: Connect with Steve Woodruff Steve Woodruff Website Steve Woodruff LinkedIn The Point: How to Win with Clarity-Fueled Communications Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: Mahan Tavakoli Website Mahan Tavakoli on LinkedIn Partnering Leadership Website