Partnering Leadership

In this thought-provoking episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli speaks with Shailendra Pratap Jain and Shalini Sarin Jain, co-authors of the book Managing Brand Transgressions: 8 Principles to Transform Your Brand. With decades of research and leadership experience, the Jains share compelling insights into how organizations can navigate brand crises with integrity and build resilience for the long term.The conversation dives deep into the principles that distinguish brands like Tylenol, Patagonia, and Ben & Jerry’s as models of authenticity and trust. Shailendra and Shalini reveal why managing brand transgressions goes beyond crisis management—it’s about embedding empathy, accountability, and transparency into the very fabric of leadership and culture. Drawing on examples from global brands, they dissect what happens when organizations prioritize profits over principles and offer actionable strategies to strike the right balance.As CEOs and senior executives face an age of hyper-connected digital transparency, this episode offers practical lessons on how to build trust and recover from missteps while strengthening your organization’s brand identity. Whether you're leading a small team or steering a multinational corporation, Shailendra and Shalini's insights will inspire you to rethink your approach to brand management in today’s complex landscape.Actionable Takeaways:Discover why addressing the pain of victims is the most critical first step in brand crisis management—and how few companies actually get it right.  Learn the "gold standard" principles from Tylenol’s crisis response that can guide your organization in times of uncertainty.  Hear how Patagonia and Ben & Jerry’s have successfully aligned their brand values with their business strategies, creating deep loyalty and lasting impact.  Uncover the risks of avoiding transparency in today’s digital age and why attempting to conceal mistakes often results in far greater consequences.  Explore how leadership tone at the top shapes middle management and employee responses during crises, for better or worse.  Find out how empowering employees with transparency and autonomy can turn them into frontline advocates for your brand, even during challenging times.  Understand why balancing principles and profits is not just a moral dilemma but a strategic necessity in building sustainable brands.  Learn how companies like Apple have turned public backlash into a moment to reinforce their brand authenticity and regain trust.  Gain insights into the leadership actions that can prevent your organization from becoming a cautionary tale, even before a crisis hits.  Connect with Shailendra Pratap Jain and Shalini Sarin JainBrand Transgressions Website Shailendra Pratap Jain LinkedIn Shalini Sarin Jain LinkedIn  Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: Mahan Tavakoli Website Mahan Tavakoli on LinkedIn Partnering Leadership Website

In this compelling episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli sits down with Allen Adamson, an influential thought leader in branding and marketing strategy and the author of the book Seeing the How: Transforming What People Do, Not Buy, to Gain Market Advantage. Adamson, whose experience spans working with major brands such as Unilever and Pepsi, brings a fresh perspective on how companies can differentiate themselves through customer experience innovation rather than relying solely on product features. His insights reveal the shift from traditional product-focused branding to creating memorable, seamless customer experiences that drive brand loyalty and relevance in today’s hyper-competitive market.The conversation dives into why product innovations alone are no longer enough to sustain a competitive edge, particularly as competitors replicate features almost instantly. Instead, Adamson stresses the need to understand and adapt to the evolving customer journey, observing how even subtle shifts in consumer expectations can present significant opportunities for organizations willing to lead in experience innovation. He shares stories from his career that illustrate why experience-focused brands consistently outperform those fixated on their products.Adamson also addresses the challenges of driving innovation in risk-averse organizations. He explains why the middle layers of management are often the biggest hurdles to change and offers actionable ideas for leaders to build a culture where innovation is encouraged and embraced. With real-world examples and strategic advice, he unpacks the role of cognitive diversity, customer empathy, and fresh perspectives in helping organizations anticipate market shifts before competitors do.Finally, Adamson explores the balance of human and AI interactions in customer experience, emphasizing that while technology can reduce friction, there is always a place for the human touch. Actionable Takeaways:Hear how experience innovation can sustain a competitive edge even in industries saturated with similar products and services.Learn why your brand’s future depends on understanding the customer journey and why even small changes in consumer expectations can open big opportunities.Discover why “ordinary” is never memorable and why exceptional moments in the customer experience are what will get your brand noticed and shared.Find out how cognitive diversity and fresh perspectives can help leaders spot market shifts that others miss—and why this is essential to staying relevant.Uncover strategies to break through middle management resistance to change, allowing innovation to flow more effectively across all levels of your organization.Understand the role of paranoia in leadership success and why being overly comfortable can be detrimental in today’s fast-paced business environment.Hear Allen’s insights on simplifying complex processes to improve customer satisfaction, transforming obstacles into competitive advantages.See how adopting a “focus on what stays the same” approach can help your organization innovate meaningfully without chasing every shiny new trend.Learn why balance is key when integrating AI into customer interactions, maintaining a human touch to deliver a memorable, personalized experience.Connect witConnect 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:Why leaders should see adversity as a creative "wrestling partner" sent to build skills, like an ancient Greek heroThe moment-by-moment visualizing tactic for closing gaps between your potential and reality How an elite military leader defined the key to emotional resilience (and how to develop more of this quality)Why protocols and checklists matter as much personally for CEOs as they do for pilots and surgeonsThe four timeframes for properly assessing progress while avoiding imposter syndrome  How one trusted advisor coaches building "anti-fragile confidence" to thrive when problems intensifyThe critical question to ask when overwhelmed: "What's your protocol?" (and how to architect one)Why leaders should ask "What now?" rather than "Why me?" when adversity strikes   Connect with Brian JohnsonHeroicBrian Johnson Arete: Activate Your Heroic Potential 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 David Ross, VUCA strategist and author of Confronting the Storm: Regenerating Leadership and Hope in the Age of Uncertainty. David is a renowned expert on VUCA (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, Ambiguous) environments and has spent his career advising organizations on how to thrive amidst complexity and disruption. With a background as an ecologist, David brings a unique perspective to leadership—one that emphasizes the interconnectedness of the issues facing businesses and society today. His deep understanding of wicked problems, those challenges with no straightforward solutions, forms the backbone of this engaging conversation.The discussion centers around how leaders must adapt to the rapidly changing business landscape, where traditional approaches no longer work. David argues that the old leadership models—based on control and linear thinking—are ill-suited for the challenges we face today. Instead, he advocates for a more collaborative, emotionally intelligent, and resilient leadership style, one that embraces uncertainty rather than fighting it. He explains how technology, climate change, and societal shifts are creating a world that’s more BANI (Brittle, Anxious, Nonlinear, and Incomprehensible), and what leaders need to do to stay ahead.Throughout the episode, David draws on his extensive experience advising CEOs and leadership teams, offering practical insights into how organizations can navigate the unpredictability of today’s environment. He also delves into the importance of hope and optimism, even in times of crisis, and how leaders can turn challenges into opportunities for growth and innovation. Actionable Takeaways:You'll learn why traditional leadership models based on control and linear thinking are no longer effective in today's VUCA world—and what you need to replace them with.Hear how embracing uncertainty and fostering resilience can transform how your organization responds to crises and wicked problems.Discover the power of emotional intelligence in leadership and why listening is just as important as speaking in today’s collaborative environments.Find out what David means by a BANI world (Brittle, Anxious, Nonlinear, and Incomprehensible) and how leaders can adapt to thrive in these unpredictable times.Explore the importance of hope and optimism in leadership and how turning crises into opportunities is key to long-term success.Understand why future literacy and foresight are critical tools for leaders looking to anticipate change and guide their organizations through complexity.Learn why David believes that normalcy has left the building and how leaders must evolve to lead effectively in this new reality.Hear David's insights on why collaboration—not isolation—is the future of leadership and how diverse perspectives fuel innovation.Gain insight into why scenario planning is a powerful tool for leaders to prepare for multiple futures and make better strategic decisions.Connect with David RossDavid Ross Website Confronting the Storm: Regenerating Leadership and Hope in the Age of UncertaintyDavid Ross LinkedInConnect with Mahan Tavakoli: Mahan Tavakoli Website Mahan Tavakoli on LinkedIn Partnering Leadership Website

In this episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli is joined by Douglas Squirrel, co-author of *Agile Conversations*, a transformative book that dives deep into the art of having productive conversations in organizations. Douglas Squirrel, a seasoned technology leader and coach, shares his journey from struggling to communicate effectively with non-technical leaders to discovering frameworks that have radically changed how teams collaborate and make decisions. His passion for helping organizations unlock their potential through better conversations is palpable, and the strategies he presents are both practical and actionable.At the core of the conversation is the idea that many leadership and business challenges stem from poor communication, especially when stakes are high. Douglas introduces the concept of "model two" reasoning, a method of shifting from defensive, closed-off thinking to open, curiosity-driven conversations. Throughout the episode, Squirrel outlines how leaders can build trust, foster collaboration, and make better decisions by focusing on the quality of their interactions, not just the content of their discussions.Leaders in fast-paced industries, especially those leading technology or innovation-driven teams, will find Squirrel’s insights particularly relevant. His approach to improving communication is likened to practicing a sport—it requires effort and repetition, but the benefits are immense. From navigating difficult conversations to breaking down silos between departments, Douglas illustrates how leaders can transform the culture of their teams by mastering the art of meaningful conversations.Whether you're a CEO striving to foster better communication within your leadership team or a senior executive looking for ways to enhance cross-functional collaboration, this episode is packed with practical wisdom. Douglas Squirrel's methods have been honed through years of experience in leading technology teams, but his insights apply to anyone seeking to elevate their leadership effectiveness through the power of dialogue. Don’t miss this episode—it could very well change the way you approach conversations in your organization.Actionable Takeaways:Hear how to overcome communication barriers in cross-functional teams by focusing less on technical jargon and more on relationship-building.You'll learn why defensive reasoning is holding your team back and how to shift toward curiosity-driven conversations that foster collaboration.Discover how the right kind of questioning can unlock hidden insights that may be missing from your leadership discussions.Explore why ‘disagree and commit’ can sometimes be dangerous and how true alignment comes from genuine dialogue.Hear how to use 'back-briefing' to ensure accountability while giving your teams the freedom to innovate and solve problems their way.Find out why learning to have better conversations is like practicing a sport and why it’s essential for long-term leadership success.Get practical tips for identifying when a trust conversation is necessary to build stronger, more collaborative teams.Uncover the biggest mistake leaders make when trying to include everyone in decision-making and how to avoid it.Connect with the Douglas SquirrelDouglas Squirrel Website    Douglas Squirrel LinkedInConnect with Mahan Tavakoli: Mahan Tavakoli Website Mahan Tavakoli on LinkedIn Partnering Leadership Website

In this insightful episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli welcomes Emmanuel Daniel, global thought leader, futurist, founder of The Asian Banker, and author of The Great Transition: The Personalization of Finance is Here. Emmanuel brings a wealth of experience from decades of engaging with top financial leaders and institutions worldwide, and his expertise shines through in this engaging conversation. With a deep understanding of how technology is reshaping the financial industry, Emmanuel challenges the status quo and offers a thought-provoking vision for the future of business, finance, and society.The episode centers on Emmanuel’s book, The Great Transition, where he explores how finance is being fundamentally transformed by the rise of personalization and decentralization. Emmanuel provides a compelling argument that technology is empowering individuals like never before, enabling them to bypass traditional financial institutions. But this is just the beginning—he reveals that this transition is not limited to finance but is reshaping the fabric of society itself.Throughout the conversation, Emmanuel goes into the “network effect,” explaining how it is changing the rules of engagement for businesses, institutions, and individuals. As industries face increasing pressure from disruptive technologies, Emmanuel highlights the critical need for leaders to embrace these changes or risk becoming obsolete. His insights are especially relevant for senior executives navigating the complex landscape of digital transformation and leadership in an interconnected world.Listeners will come away from this episode with a renewed understanding of how technology is disrupting not just finance but every facet of society. Emmanuel’s observations about the power of networks, the personalization of industries, and the decentralization of control are crucial for leaders seeking to stay ahead in today’s fast-changing business environment. This episode offers actionable insights and thought leadership that will resonate with CEOs, executives, and anyone interested in the future of leadership and finance.Actionable Takeaways:You'll learn how the "personalization of finance" is putting unprecedented control in the hands of individuals and what that means for the future of traditional financial institutions.Hear how the network effect is disrupting industries by shifting power from large institutions to decentralized communities, changing the rules of business and finance.Discover why blockchain and crypto aren't just financial tools but represent a deeper shift toward decentralization and individual empowerment.Find out why executives need to embrace the network effect in their leadership strategies to stay relevant in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.Explore how the future of work is being redefined by self-employment and the critical role of building your personal network to thrive in a networked economy.Gain insights into why platforms like Facebook are losing their dominance and how new technologies are enabling individuals to create their own platforms and communities.Connect with Emmanuel DanielEmmanuel Daniel Website and Blog The Great Transition: The Personalization of Finance is Here Emmanuel Daniel LinkedIn Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: Mahan Tavakoli Website Mahan Tavakoli on LinkedIn Partnering Leadership Website

In this episode of Partnering Leadership, host Mahan Tavakoli engages in an insightful conversation with Tamsen Webster, a leading expert in strategic messaging, transformational change, and the author of Say What They Can’t Unhear: The Nine Principles of Lasting Change. Known for her innovative thinking and deep understanding of human psychology, Tamsen has spent years helping organizations and leaders communicate more effectively and drive lasting change. With her unique approach, she cuts through the noise, helping leaders make their messages resonate and stick in ways that foster true alignment and transformation.Tamsen’s insights are particularly valuable for CEOs and senior executives who are looking to lead their teams through complex changes, whether it’s navigating organizational transformation, driving innovation, or aligning their teams around new strategic initiatives. She emphasizes that change isn’t just about getting people to say "yes" in the moment—it’s about creating long-term buy-in by connecting change to deep-seated beliefs and identities. In the episode, Tamsen explains the core principles from her book that help leaders unlock this deeper level of connection, ensuring their messages aren’t just heard but acted upon in meaningful ways.Throughout the conversation, Mahan and Tamsen go into the concept of the "ding moment"—that powerful, almost unshakable realization when a message clicks with someone so deeply that they can’t forget it. For leaders, creating these moments is key to inspiring lasting change and commitment from their teams. Tamsen shares compelling examples of how leaders can leverage their team's existing beliefs to drive change that feels both natural and necessary rather than forced or manipulative.Actionable Takeaways:You'll learn why true leadership isn’t just about getting quick agreements but fostering long-term commitment to change by connecting with deep-seated beliefs.Hear how Tamsen’s concept of the "ding moment" can transform the way you communicate, ensuring your messages resonate and stick.Discover why many change initiatives fail because they don’t address the underlying beliefs of the people involved—and how you can avoid this common pitfall.Find out how leaders can reframe change as a reaction rather than an action, helping their teams respond positively and embrace the transformation.Understand the power of aligning new ideas with your team’s existing identity and values to create change that feels authentic and sustainable.Hear Tamsen explain why every decision your team makes is based on an internal story—and how you can leverage that to drive better alignment and execution.Uncover the key principle that change isn't about manipulation, but about guiding people to a new understanding of what’s possible, using what they already know and believe.Gain insights into how to avoid “believers’ remorse” and ensure that the changes you lead are seen as right decisions, even in hindsight.Learn strategies for avoiding resistance to change by focusing on shared principles that resonate across different teams or departments.Connect with Tamsen WebsterTamsen Webster WebsiteSay What They Can’t Unhear: The 9 Principles of Lasting ChangeTamsen Webster LinkedInConnect with Mahan Tavakoli: Mahan Tavakoli Website Mahan Tavakoli on LinkedIn Partnering Leadership Website

In this episode of Partnering Leadership, explore the intersection of leadership development and cutting-edge AI as Mahan Tavakoli’s 4-Step Framework to unleash a team’s full potential comes to life in an unexpected way. Instead of a traditional discussion, Mahan uses Google’s Notebook LM to transform his framework into a dynamic conversation between two AI avatars. This engaging dialogue captures key leadership principles, demonstrating how AI can turn complex ideas into accessible, compelling insights for leaders.Throughout the episode, the AI agents dive into Mahan’s framework, covering topics like how to set a compelling purpose, develop a bold strategy, foster an empowering culture, and ensure effective execution. But what’s most unique is the way the AI avatars dissect these principles—not just summarizing them but questioning, exploring, and unpacking the concepts in an engaging dialogue that mirrors a real conversation.You’ll hear about how leaders can align their teams with a shared vision, build psychological safety to drive innovation and cultivate a culture of growth. Beyond the content itself, the episode is also a showcase of AI's potential to enhance how leaders and their teams engage with knowledge. It's a blend of actionable leadership insights and a firsthand demonstration of how AI can make learning both efficient and impactful.To wrap up, Mahan reflects on how this AI-generated conversation exemplifies the growing role of AI in transforming leadership practices. This episode is not just about learning the framework—it's about understanding how AI tools like Notebook LM are reshaping the way leaders absorb, share, and apply critical information to drive team performance.Actionable TakeawaysExperience How AI Brings Leadership Insights to Life: Listen as two AI avatars engage in a dynamic discussion on the 4-Step Framework for team success, making complex ideas easy to digest.Aligning Teams Around Purpose: Hear how having a clear purpose serves as the foundation for decision-making and unites your team around a shared “why.”Bold Strategies for Today’s Leaders: Gain perspectives on developing a disciplined, talent-driven strategy that stays focused while embracing change and disruption.Building a Culture That Thrives: Learn how to cultivate psychological safety and a growth mindset to create a culture where innovation and performance go hand in hand.From Ideas to Execution: Discover the importance of execution and how to turn big concepts into concrete, actionable steps for your team to achieve results.See AI’s Power in Transforming Knowledge: Listen as Google’s Notebook LM turns Mahan’s leadership framework into a conversational experience, showing how AI makes complex information engaging and ready for practical use.AI as a Learning Tool for Leaders: Understand how AI isn’t just about speed or efficiency—it’s about enhancing how leaders absorb and share knowledge with their teams for better performance.Examples of Real-World Application: Hear the AI avatars discuss practical examples of how to implement the framework, helping you visualize how these principles can transform your team.Elevate Your Leadership Skills Through AI: Mahan’s reflections on AI show how embracing these tools can accelerate your growth, enhance team learning, and drive impactful results.A Glimpse Into the Future of Leadership Development: The conversation doesn’t just deliver insights on leadership; it reveals how AI is evolving to make complConnect with Mahan Tavakoli: Mahan Tavakoli Website Mahan Tavakoli on LinkedIn Partnering Leadership Website

Hal Elrod, the international bestselling author of The Miracle Morning: The Not-So-Obvious Secret Guaranteed to Transform Your Life, which has been translated into 37 languages and has sold over 2.5 million copies, brings his unique perspectives on establishing daily practices that foster personal growth and leadership excellence based on his recently updated and expanded edition of The Miracle Morning.  Drawing on personal experiences overcoming adversity, including life-threatening events, Hal developed the acclaimed Miracle Morning methodology to optimize and actualize his full potential intentionally.   In this inspiring discussion, Hal shares the origins of Miracle Morning's "6 Saver" routine of silence, affirmation, visualization, exercise, reading, and writing. He offers compelling insights on leveraging these personal development pillars for individual growth to elevate teams and build organizational culture. From establishing new habits to sustainability tactics and the neuroscience validating this methodology, Hal provides an often overlooked formula to embody more empowered, activated life and leadership. With insightful examples, Hal translates proven self-optimization techniques into accessible daily actions that yield exponential dividends over time for conscious, purposeful leaders ready to partner at higher levels. Actionable Takeaways: - Hear Hal's incredible story of personal tragedy becoming a transformational purpose- Learn the "5 Minute Rule" for processing adversity and finding freedom  - Understand the power and common pitfalls of correctly practicing affirmations- Apply visualization rehearsals to ensure execution and peak performance - Realize how the Miracle Morning fuels individual and collective actualization- Discover principles and strategies to shift from morning reluctance to ritual advocate- Grasp how to customize and scaffold the 6 Saver practices for beginners to advanced- Utilize emotional optimization meditation for programmed, on-demand mindset activationRecommended ResourcesThe Miracle Morning Website The Miracle Morning (Updated and Expanded Edition): The Not-So-Obvious Secret Guaranteed to Transform Your Life (Before 8AM) (Miracle Morning Book Series)   Connect with Hal Elrod Hal Elrod Website Hal Elrod LinkedIn Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: Mahan Tavakoli Website Mahan Tavakoli on LinkedIn Partnering Leadership Website

In this episode of the Partnering Leadership podcast, host Mahan Tavakoli is joined by Andre Laplume, co-author of Spinout Ventures: Transitioning from Employees to Entrepreneurs. Andre Laplume shares his research and perspectives on the dynamic world of spinouts—those entrepreneurial ventures born out of larger organizations when employees break away to pursue ideas that don’t quite fit within the corporate mold. From his own journey as a management consultant and professor to his experiences in researching the intricacies of spinouts, Andre offers a wealth of knowledge for both aspiring entrepreneurs and corporate leaders.The conversation goes into the critical role spinouts play in innovation and growth. Andre explains the unique advantages these ventures hold, from leveraging corporate resources to creating new opportunities for innovation that might be stifled within larger organizations. Drawing on examples from well-known companies like Apple, Zoom, and Zillow, the episode explores how spinouts emerge, the challenges they face, and the strategies that can lead to their success. Leaders will gain insights into how corporate dynamics often lead to frustration among entrepreneurial employees, sparking the drive to spin off and establish their own ventures.Andre and Mahan explore the mindset shift required for employees to transition into spinout entrepreneurs and why some thrive while others remain within the corporate ecosystem. They also discuss how corporate leaders can better identify, support, and even benefit from entrepreneurial talent within their organizations—transforming potential conflict into opportunities for innovation. With discussions on real-world cases, current trends in employee mobility, and actionable strategies for leaders, this episode offers a deep dive into the complex relationship between established firms and spinout ventures.Actionable Takeaways:Hear how spinouts differ from typical startups** and why they have unique advantages—insights that could transform the way you view talent within your organization.Discover the pivotal moment when employees decide to become entrepreneurs.** Learn how mindset and exposure to a company's broader workings can drive the desire to spin out.Learn why many innovative ideas never thrive within corporate walls** and how strategic disagreements between employees and management often lead to the birth of successful spinouts.Understand the key factors that make spinouts more likely to succeed**—from leveraging corporate resources to differentiating effectively in the market.Hear stories of famous spinouts like Zoom, Apple, and Zillow,** and uncover the lesser-known factors that contributed to their successes and challenges.Explore how corporate policies, such as non-competes and restrictive covenants, are evolving** and what that means for employee mobility and the rise of new ventures.Discover what leaders can do to foster internal innovation** without stifling entrepreneurial spirit—creating an environment where intrapreneurship can thrive or spinouts can be supported.Connect with Andre LaplumeSpinout Ventures Website Andre Laplume LinkedIn Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: Mahan Tavakoli Website Mahan Tavakoli on LinkedIn Partnering Leadership Website

In this episode of the Partnering Leadership podcast, Mahan Tavakoli engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Stephen Wunker, the renowned author of The Innovative Leader: Step-By-Step Lessons from Top Innovators For You and Your Organization. Drawing from his extensive experience in innovation consulting and his collaboration with thought leaders like Clay Christensen, Steve shares practical insights on how organizations can cultivate a culture of innovation, build frameworks that support creative thinking, and navigate the complexities of today’s business environment.Stephen Wuncker challenges the conventional myth of the 'lone genius' and emphasizes that true innovation is not about individual brilliance but about fostering a culture where ideas can thrive collectively. He explains how leaders can encourage this by adopting a systematic approach, asking the right questions, and creating an environment that values curiosity, empathy, and experimentation.Throughout the conversation, Steve highlights powerful examples of innovative leadership from top companies like Microsoft, Princess Cruises, and Procter & Gamble, showing how these organizations have successfully integrated empathy, agile thinking, and strategic experimentation to stay ahead of market changes and disruptions. He also goes into the transformative potential of AI, arguing that businesses must maintain a balance between leveraging cutting-edge technology and preserving their human touch to remain competitive.Actionable Takeaways:Hear how to challenge the myth of the 'lone genius' and instead build a culture where every team member can contribute to innovation.Learn why empathy is the cornerstone of innovation and how leaders like Satya Nadella used it to transform Microsoft.Discover the two powerful questions you should be asking to drive innovation in your organization.Find out how successful companies build an innovative culture brick by brick, starting with practical steps you can take right now.Explore how to balance risk and reward in innovation, using lessons from venture capitalists and top corporate leaders.Uncover the secrets of integrating AI in a way that leverages technology while maintaining the human touch in your organization.Understand the importance of staying connected to your customers beyond just reading market research, with real-life examples from top executives.Learn how to build systems that support continuous innovation, from clear decision rights to effective resource allocation.Hear an inspiring story of crisis management and leadership from Princess Cruises during the COVID-19 pandemic.Find out how to cultivate an innovative mindset by consistently asking 'why' and 'what if,' just like the greatest innovators in history.Connect with Stephen WunkerThe Innovative Leader Stephen Wunker LinkedIn Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: Mahan Tavakoli Website Mahan Tavakoli on LinkedIn Partnering Leadership Website

In this insightful episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli speaks with Anu Gupta, a lawyer, social scientist, and author of the groundbreaking book, Breaking Bias: Where Stereotypes and Prejudices Come From and the Science-Backed Method to Unravel Them. Anu shares his deeply personal journey from growing up in India to navigating bias and discrimination as an immigrant in the U.S., revealing how these experiences shaped his understanding of bias and motivated him to write his book. His journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of turning personal pain into a purpose-driven mission.Anu explores the origins of bias, drawing on both ancient wisdom and modern neuroscience to present a nuanced understanding of how biases are formed and how they can be dismantled. He discusses the importance of mindfulness and self-awareness in recognizing our own biases and offers practical tools, such as his PRISM toolkit, to help individuals and organizations combat bias effectively. This conversation goes into how we can rewire our brains to unlearn biases, emphasizing that while bias is learned, it is not inevitable—it can be unlearned with the right approaches.The discussion also addresses the broader impact of bias in organizational settings, exploring how unconscious prejudices can lead to significant inefficiencies and loss of talent. Anu argues that while AI and algorithms are often seen as solutions, they can perpetuate existing biases unless we actively work to understand and address the biases inherent in the data they use. He challenges leaders to foster environments of true inclusion rather than tokenistic diversity efforts, which can backfire if not handled with genuine intent and empathy.Finally, Anu emphasizes the need for empathy, understanding, and inclusivity at all levels of leadership. He advocates for shifting from a mindset of exclusion to one of inclusion, recognizing that everyone—regardless of background—has experienced bias in some form. Actionable Takeaways:Hear how Anu Gupta’s personal journey shaped his understanding of bias and led to the creation of his book, Breaking Bias.Discover the science and ancient wisdom behind how biases are formed—and how they can be unlearned.Learn about the PRISM toolkit, a set of actionable strategies for leaders to address bias and foster inclusivity in their organizations.Understand why AI, if not carefully managed, can reinforce biases—and what leaders can do to prevent this.Explore the real costs of bias in organizations and why eliminating bias should be a top priority for business leaders.Hear Anu’s thoughts on why many diversity initiatives fail and how to make them more effective and impactful.Discover the emotional and neurological underpinnings of bias, and why it’s not just a rational problem but a deeply emotional one.Learn how to foster a culture of empathy and understanding by shifting from a mindset of exclusion to one of inclusion.Hear practical advice on bringing others along on the journey to breaking bias, from your immediate team to the entire organization.Gain insights into why traditional training methods often fall short and how to approach DEI initiatives in a way that genuinely engages and transforms.Connect with Anu GuptaAnu Gupta Website Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: Mahan Tavakoli Website Mahan Tavakoli on LinkedIn Partnering Leadership Website

In this episode of Partnering Leadership, host Mahan Tavakoli engages in a dynamic conversation with Jan Rutherford, a seasoned leadership expert and author of Becoming a Self-Reliant Leader: How Grit and Disciplined Duty Forge Indomitable Teams. With a rich background that includes serving as a Green Beret, leading Crucible expeditions, and coaching executives, Jan brings a unique perspective on leadership that combines military rigor with a deep understanding of human behavior.Jan shares compelling stories from his own journey, from his humble beginnings and his time with the Green Berets to the profound lessons he learned about leadership in the wilderness and the boardroom. Throughout the discussion, Jan emphasizes the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and authenticity in leading teams, drawing on real-world experiences and thoughtful reflections. He offers a fresh take on what it means to lead in today’s fast-paced, ever-evolving world.Listeners will gain insight into Jan's philosophy on leadership, which challenges conventional wisdom and encourages leaders to rethink their approach. He explores critical questions like: What truly makes a leader? How can you build a team that is not only high-performing but also resilient and adaptable? And, why is it more important to select the right people over the best people?Jan’s practical advice and unique approach, rooted in his own experiences and supported by his book, provide actionable strategies for CEOs and senior executives. Actionable Takeaways:Discover the Real Difference Between Rank and Influence: Hear Jan's take on why true leadership is not about titles but about how effectively you can inspire and mobilize others.Learn the Power of Perseverance in Leadership: Jan shares a compelling story about how persistence and not quitting in the face of adversity can define your success.Understand the Concept of ‘Slowing Down to Speed Up: Find out why Jan believes that leaders must take time to reflect and prioritize to create sustainable success in a fast-moving world.Explore How to Involve Your Team for Maximum Commitment: Jan discusses how giving up control and allowing your team to participate in decision-making can foster loyalty and engagement.Find Out Why Selecting the Right People is More Important than the Best People: Get insights into how aligning team members with your organization’s values can drive transformation and growth.Hear How to Define Your Organization’s Values Through Observable Behaviors: Jan explains the practical steps for making your core values meaningful and actionable within your team.Learn Why Personalized Leadership is Critical Today: Jan dives into the importance of tailoring leadership approaches to individual team members while maintaining fairness and consistency.Gain Insight into Building a Culture of Trust and Authenticity: Discover how creating an environment where people feel safe to be vulnerable can lead to stronger team dynamics and performance.Connect with Jan RutherfordJan Rutherford Website Jan Rutherford LinkedIn Becoming a Self-Reliant Leader: How GritConnect with Mahan Tavakoli: Mahan Tavakoli Website Mahan Tavakoli on LinkedIn Partnering Leadership Website

In this episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli speaks with Carmine Gallo. Carmine Gallo is a three-time Wall Street Journal bestselling author. His books include Talk Like TED, The Presentation Secrets of Steve Jobs, The Storyteller's Secret, Five Stars, and his latest, The Bezos Blueprint: Communication Secrets of the World's Greatest Salesman. In the conversation, Carmine Gallo shared why many leaders struggle with telling their stories and why his latest research involved looking into how Jeff Bezos became such a powerful communicator and the lessons all leaders can learn from his communication practices. Carmine also shared how Jeff Bezos and Steve Jobs became better communicators, why storytelling is not a soft skill, and how to become a better storyteller. Finally, Carmine shared communications practices that can help all leaders communicate more effectively and have a more significant impact. Some Highlights:- The importance of communication skills in leadership- The power of storytelling and why the human brain seeks narrative - Carmine Gallo on why executives struggle with storytelling and how to do it well- How Jeff Bezos communicated and reinforced his vision for Amazon- The Bezos shareholder letters and the power of simplicity- Carmine Gallo on the CEO and leader as a repeater in chief- How metaphors and symbols can play a role in supporting strategy- Why Amazon became a writing culture rather than one reliant on Powerpoint presentationsMentioned:Partnering Leadership conversation with David Rubenstein, Founder of the Carlyle Group David Rubenstein  Partnering Leadership conversation with John Rossman, author of The Amazon WayPartnering Leadership conversation with Ann Hiatt, author of Bet on YourselfPartnering Leadership conversation with Park Howell, author of Brand Bewitchery & The Narrative Gym for Business Connect with Carmine GalloCarmine Gallo Website  Carmine Gallo LinkedIn The Bezos Blueprint: Communication Secrets of the World's Greatest Salesman on Amazon Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: Mahan Tavakoli Website Mahan Tavakoli on LinkedIn Partnering Leadership Website

In this insightful episode of the Partnering Leadership podcast, Mahan Tavakoli engages in a deep and inspiring conversation with Simon T. Bailey, a renowned speaker, leadership expert, and author of Resilience@Work: How to Coach Yourself Into a Thriving Future. Simon is best known for his work on personal and professional brilliance, with a focus on resilience—key themes that he passionately explores in his latest book. Throughout the discussion, Simon shares profound lessons from his experiences, including his time at Disney Institute, where he honed his leadership philosophy. He dives into the essence of what it means to be a leader who inspires others to discover their own potential while maintaining humility and an unwavering commitment to continuous learning.Simon emphasizes the importance of leaders modeling the behaviors they wish to see in their teams, drawing from his Disney experience where leaders were expected to "pick up the trash" as a metaphor for taking responsibility beyond their titles. He also discusses the critical role of coaching in leadership, explaining why many managers fail to do it effectively and offering practical advice on how to make coaching a regular and impactful part of leadership practice. Simon’s approach to leadership is refreshingly candid, focusing on the need for intellectual humility and the ability to connect deeply with team members.Listeners will also gain valuable insights into the evolving nature of work, particularly in the context of hybrid environments and the rise of AI. Simon highlights the challenges and opportunities these changes present for leaders, urging them to foster a culture of learning and adaptability. His emphasis on resilience and brilliance as twin pillars of success in today’s fast-paced world offers a powerful framework for executives aiming to lead their organizations through uncertainty and change.Actionable Takeaways:Discover Simon’s key leadership principles drawn from his Disney Institute experience that emphasize the importance of modeling the right behaviors in any leadership role.Learn why intellectual humility is crucial for leaders who want to truly engage and empower their teams, and how this mindset can transform organizational culture.Hear how coaching can be a game-changer for managers, and why a regular cadence of one-on-one meetings is essential for building trust and ensuring alignment.Understand the concept of “catch and release in leadership—how training your team members to outgrow their roles can actually strengthen your organization.Explore the twin pillars of resilience and brilliance and why combining problem-solving with creativity is essential for unlocking your team’s potential.Gain insights into managing hybrid teams effectively, including strategies for maintaining connection and engagement in a remote or partially remote environment.Learn how to balance the demand for results with the need for resilience and flexibility, ensuring your team stays motivated and focused on long-term success.Discover the importance of continuous learning, and how scheduling your personal development like a vacation can lead to sustained growth in both your career and leadership capabilities.Connect with Simon T BaileySimon T Bailey Website      Simon T Bailey 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 Park Howell, host of Business of Story Podcast, author of Brand Bewitchery, and co-author of The Narrative Gym for Business. Park Howell teaches one of the most powerful tools in storytelling: the And, But, and Therefore (ABT), going through the science behind it and how you can start crafting great stories and communicate more powerfully through the use of this framework. He also shares examples of ABT in history and pop culture and how they shaped and are continuing to shape our world as we know it.  Some highlights:-How growing up in a large family impacted Park Howell-What led Park Howell to the world of marketing and, eventually, the business of storytelling-On learning how to tell great stories and “studying” alongside his son in film school-And, But and Therefore: The DNA of impactful stories-Park Howell gives a Crash Course on ABT-Learning to spot ABTs, from Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg address to Carly Rae Jepsen’s Call Me Maybe-Park Howell’s ‘horror story’ exerciseMentioned:-Robert Bies, professor and founder of the Executive Masters in Leadership program at Georgetown's McDonough School of Business (Listen to Robert Bies's Partnering Leadership podcast episode here)-Randy Olson, scientist, filmmaker and co-author of The Narrative Gym for Business-Red Ogan, founder of Wenatchee Petroleum -Joseph Campbell, author of The Hero's Journey-Yuval Noah Harari, historian and author of Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind-Christopher Lochhead, category designer and author-Robert McKee, author, lecturer and story consultant-Abraham Lincoln, 16th U.S. President-Edward Everett, former United States Secretary of State-Ernest Hemingway, novelist, short-story writer and journalist-The Writer's Journey by Christopher Vogler-Bill D. Moyers’ PBS Special with Joseph Campbell-Power of Myth, conversations between Bill Moyers and Joseph Campbell-Houston, We Have a Narrative by Dr. Randy OlsonConnect with Park Howell:Brand Bewitchery on AmazonThe Narrative Gym for Business on AmazonPark Howell on LinkedInPark Howell on TwitterPark Howell on FacebookBusiness of Story WebsiteBusiness of Story CoursesConnect with Mahan Tavakoli: Mahan Tavakoli Website Mahan Tavakoli on LinkedIn Partnering Leadership Website

In this Partnering Leadership conversation, Mahan Tavakoli speaks with Eduardo Briceño, author of The Performance Paradox: Turning the Power of Mindset into Action. In the discussion, Eduardo dives into the transformative power of a growth mindset and how we can apply it to unlock our potential. He shares how a crippling physical injury early in his career led him to Carol Dweck's pioneering work on a growth mindset. This proved life-changing for Eduardo, setting him on a path to teaching individuals, teams, and organizations how to break free of chronic stagnation. In the conversation, Eduardo Briceno explains the performance paradox, where focusing solely on performing without learning leads to poor results. He offers strategies for leaders to get their teams to embrace a growth mindset.  Some of the Growth Mindset Takeaways That Will Get You Thinking: Why integrating micro-learning into daily work trumps sporadic learning sessions. Learn how to distinguish positive stretch mistakes from dangerous high-stakes ones.  How leaders can model a growth mindset openly to influence their teams. The role a culture alignment and tweaking existing systems plays in helping teams adopt a growth mindset.The type of accountability that matters for both learning and performing. Connect with Eduardo Briceño Eduardo Briceno Website Eduardo Briceno LinkedIn The Performance Paradox: Turning the Power of Mindset into Action on Amazon Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: Mahan Tavakoli Website Mahan Tavakoli on LinkedIn Partnering Leadership Website

Middle managers often get a bad rap, seen as roadblocks to change and innovation. But Emily Field flips this narrative on its head. As a McKinsey partner, Emily saw firsthand how empowering middle managers unlocks an organization’s potential. In this insightful interview, Emily Field, McKinsey & Company partner and coauthor of Power to the Middle: Why Managers Hold the Keys to the Future of Work, debunks the middle manager myth. Hear why managers, not senior execs, hold the keys to the future of work. Emily shares research on the untapped power of middle managers to drive strategy, culture, and innovation. With compelling stories and data, Emily reveals how organizations can rethink the manager role for the future. You’ll learn how to remove bureaucracy, rebundle work, and achieve the “yin and yang” of performance and people. By listening to this conversation, you willDiscover how managers, not senior execs, execute strategy day-to-day through their teams. Learn why managers are burning out from misaligned priorities and administrative burdens. Find out how to measure and incentivize both performance and people leadership. Hear how managers can “rebundle” roles to navigate automation and AI. Get Emily Field’s framework to eliminate bureaucracy. Recommended ResourcesMcKinsey & Company Power to the Middle Power to the Middle: Why Managers Hold the Keys to the Future of Work on Amazon Connect with Emily FieldEmily Field McKinsey & Company Emily Field LinkedIn Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: Mahan Tavakoli Website Mahan Tavakoli on LinkedIn Partnering Leadership Website

Get ready to climb the mountain of vulnerability in leadership. In this engaging discussion with Jacob Morgan, author of Leading with Vulnerability: Unlock Your Greatest Superpower to Transform Yourself, Your Team, and Your Organization, you’ll learn why vulnerability plus leadership can transform organizations. In the conversation, Jacob Morgan shares his personal journey of grappling with vulnerability, from a childhood with a “tough guy” father to panic attacks while writing this transformative book. His research includes interviews with 100 CEOs and a survey of 14,000 employees worldwide. Hear Jacob Morgan’s insights on the ROI of leading with vulnerability, how to “level the playing field” between leaders and employees, and practical ways to get started on your vulnerability journey. You’ll be convinced that, with intention and when done well, vulnerability in leadership is a superpower.   Some Actionable Takeaways:Learn the key distinction between vulnerability and leading with vulnerability.Hear why self-awareness is crucial for leading with vulnerability and how to become a more self-aware leader.Find out how leading with vulnerability can help you overcome imposter syndrome. Understand Jacob Morgan's metaphor of the "vulnerability mountain" and how to start small and build up to transform yourself and your organization.Learn why leading with vulnerability can "level the playing field" between leaders and employees. Understand the "Pratfall Effect" and its role in vulnerability in leadership.Connect with Jacob MorganJacob Morgan Website Jacob Morgan LinkedIn Leading with Vulnerability: Unlock Your Greatest Superpower to Transform Yourself, Your Team, and Your Organization on Amazon Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: Mahan Tavakoli Website Mahan Tavakoli on LinkedIn Partnering Leadership Website

In this episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli speaks with Garry Ridge, former CEO and Chairman of WD-40.   In the conversation, Garry Ridge shared his origin story and how a quote from the Dalai Lama helped him focus on organizational purpose. Next, Garry explained his why and the how behind making WD-40 an organization where people can contribute, learn something new, and ultimately go home happy. Then, Garry Ridge shared the leadership wisdom he has gained from Ken Blanchard and Marshall Goldsmith and his focus on creating a ripple effect of happiness. Garry Ridge also laid out the leadership practices and approaches that led employee engagement at WD-40 to reach 93.5%, with 98% of the people working at the company loving to tell people they work there and 97% trusting or respecting their boss.   Finally, Garry Ridge talked about the importance of strategy and the most critical element in leading an organization to achieve its strategy and succeed.Some highlights:- How Garry Ridge ended up as CEO of WD-40 - The importance of authentic purpose in building a global brand- Creating a culture of engagement and accountability at WD-40- The role of coaching in the organization- Garry Ridge on leading WD-40 from a market cap of $300 million to over $2.5 billion.Timestamps- Hierarchy of values and how best to use them in decision making- How to embed organizational values- Garry Ridge on his approach to succession planning at WD-40- Building a culture that outlasts you- The difference made by leadershipMentioned:Partnering Leadership conversation with Dr. Ken Blanchard on Simple Truths of Leadership Connect with Garry RidgeGarry Ridge Website Garry Ridge on LinkedIn Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: Mahan Tavakoli Website Mahan Tavakoli on LinkedIn Partnering Leadership Website