Episodios

  • 538: How to Lead in High-Stakes Environments with Jeffrey Sanow

    538: How to Lead in High-Stakes Environments with Jeffrey Sanow
    Jul 1 2025
    How do you lead under pressure—when the stakes are higher than ever? Join host Nicole Jansen as she welcomes Jeffrey Sanow—a highly decorated former senior CIA intelligence officer and social skills instructor—for a rare, behind-the-scenes exploration of negotiating, leading, and communicating in the world’s most demanding environments. Drawing on decades of experience from covert missions to boardrooms, Jeffrey shares hard-earned lessons in the art of human intelligence (HUMINT), the nuances of managing high achievers, and the subtle balance between respecting authority and staying true to your ethics. In this deeply insightful conversation, Jeffrey unpacks how global adventure shaped his path to the CIA, reveals his philosophy on truly listening as a leader, and discusses the mission-driven culture that makes organizations like the CIA distinct. Along the way, Nicole draws out practical wisdom on empowering teams, navigating mistakes, servant leadership, and recognizing when your people might be working against your goals. Walk away with actionable communication tactics, a fresh appreciation for cultural intelligence, and a peek inside the world of national security leadership. What We Discuss in this Episode What drew Jeffrey Sanow to a career in the CIA, and how did his Peace Corps experiences prepare him?How to check your ego at the door and lead with emotional intelligence.What does “reading the room” really look like in high-stakes negotiations?How do you empower high achievers and foster a culture where it’s safe to fail?Practical tactics for spotting sabotage or disengagement within your teamThe value of servant leadership—at the CIA, in business, and beyondWhy authentic listening is the most underrated leadership skillA candid look at the organizational culture and changes at the CIA in recent yearsLessons for entrepreneurs and executives from the world of intelligence Key Takeaways Adventure and Service: Curiosity and a drive for adventure led Jeffrey from the Peace Corps to a decorated CIA career—serving not just the U.S. government, but the American people.Tailored Communication: Effective leaders customize their approach to each team member, building individual connections for maximum impact.Reading the Room: Body language, active listening, and subtle cues are vital—aware leaders watch for unspoken signals.Empowerment to Fail: Create space for mistakes—this is where innovation and growth happen, even in high-security settings.Servant Leadership: The best leaders focus on serving and empowering their teams, not on their own power or ego.Ethics vs. Authority: Know the boundary between necessary respect for hierarchy and the imperative to do what’s right.Spotting Sabotage: Monitor output, listen to peer feedback, and address disengagement or resistance before it festers.Listening Is a Skill: Listening—truly listening—is learned with practice, and it’s the foundation of all great leadership.Organizational Culture: Despite changes in leadership or politics, the mission-driven culture at organizations like the CIA relies on the dedication of its rank-and-file professionals.Universal Lessons: Lessons from the world of intelligence—adaptability, curiosity, respect, and ethics—are directly applicable to business leaders everywhere. Dive into this eye-opening conversation with Jeffrey Sanow and Nicole Jansen to discover how the principles of human intelligence, adaptability, and service can transform your approach to leadership—no matter what arena you play in. Episode Show Notes: https://leadersoftransformation.com/podcast/leadership/538-how-to-lead-in-high-stakes-environments-with-jeffrey-sanow/ Check out our complete library of episodes and other leadership resources here: https://leadersoftransformation.com ________ 📣 SUBSCRIBE to the Leaders of Transformation Podcast 👇 CONNECT with Nicole Jansen on Social Media ▶︎ YOUTUBE ▶︎ INSTAGRAM ▶︎ FACEBOOK ▶︎ LINKEDIN ▶︎ X
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    47 m
  • 537: Cultivating Servant Leadership in Sales with Max Cates

    537: Cultivating Servant Leadership in Sales with Max Cates
    Jun 17 2025
    What if sales could be transformed from a high-pressure, toxic grind into an uplifting, collaborative, and deeply rewarding experience? In this insightful episode of Leaders of Transformation, host Nicole Jansen welcomes Max Cates—award-winning author, nationally recognized sales leader, and founder of Servant Leaders in Sales—for a powerful conversation on revolutionizing the world of sales through the principles and practices of servant leadership. Drawing from 37 years of proven sales management success, Max reveals how empathy, sacrifice, teamwork, and accountability can supercharge your sales teams and turn conventional wisdom on its head. Dive deep into practical strategies for fostering lateral accountability, building a culture of constructive competition, and leading sales conversations with authenticity and lasting value. Discover how the Four Steps to Supercharged Sales Teams can change not only how you approach sales, but how you lead in every area of your life. Tune in for actionable wisdom—whether you’re a seasoned sales manager, a business owner, or someone eager to transform their relationships and results through service-based leadership. What We Discuss in This Episode What propelled you to combine servant leadership with sales management—and what did you discover along the way?How can sales leaders remove toxicity and build a joyful, team-oriented environment?What are the three core words that define servant leadership in sales?Why is lateral accountability a game-changer, and how do you actually implement it?How do you reward teamwork without sacrificing individual motivation and fairness?What does it look like to apply servant leadership in a real sales conversation with a prospect?How do you reconcile metrics/scoreboards with long-term vision and purpose?Why do humility, empathy, and sacrifice give your team and sales process a decisive edge?What mindset shift can move your organization toward win-win, “worthy competitor” thinking?How do you integrate spiritual principles with everyday business leadership? Podcast Highlights 0:00 – Introduction: Transforming Sales Through Servant Leadership 2:07 – Max’s Journey: From Toxicity to Teamwork in Sales 6:25 – The Heart of Servant Leadership: “Help Others Succeed” 9:40 – Ego vs. Service: The Power of Sacrifice in Leadership 11:52 – Redefining Success: Vision, Purpose, and Metrics Addiction 14:56 – Constructive Competition: Teamwork vs. Lone Wolves 20:10 – Lateral Accountability: A New Standard for Sales Teams 28:45 – Rewarding Teamwork: Assessment, Pay, and Culture Shifts 33:02 – The Servant Leader’s Sales Conversation: The PERC Model 46:00 – Humility, Authenticity, and Service as the True Sales Superpowers 49:50 – Final Thoughts, Closing Prayer, and Action Steps Join us for this transformative conversation with Max Cates and discover how servant leadership can elevate your sales—and your life—to their highest potential. Favorite Quotes “There are three words that describe servant leadership in sales: help others succeed.”“The scoreboard is not your goal. The metrics system is a tool. Your goal is your vision.”“Love and seek the best for others. That’s servant leadership—at work and everywhere else.” Episode Show Notes: https://leadersoftransformation.com/podcast/business/537-cultivating-servant-leadership-in-sales-with-max-cates/ Check out our complete library of episodes and other leadership resources here: https://leadersoftransformation.com ________ 📣 SUBSCRIBE to the Leaders of Transformation Podcast 👇 CONNECT with Nicole Jansen on Social Media ▶︎ YOUTUBE ▶︎ INSTAGRAM ▶︎ FACEBOOK ▶︎ LINKEDIN ▶︎ X
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    44 m
  • 536: Navigating Leadership Shock with Pete Steinberg

    536: Navigating Leadership Shock with Pete Steinberg
    Jun 3 2025
    What if the key to thriving in leadership isn’t doing more—but leading with greater intention and authenticity? In this compelling episode, Nicole Jansen sits down with executive coach and former USA Women’s Rugby head coach Pete Steinberg, author of Leadership Shock: Using Authenticity to Navigate the Hidden Dangers of Career Success. Drawing on decades of elite coaching and executive leadership, Pete introduces the concept of “leadership shock”—those jarring moments when once-successful strategies suddenly fail you. Pete unpacks the turning points he’s witnessed and lived through—revealing why even high achievers get blindsided in new roles, shifting markets, or during organizational upheaval. Through powerful stories and his step-by-step Authentic Leadership Model, he offers a practical guide to moving from reactionary survival mode to resilient, purposeful leadership. Whether you’re running a company, launching a startup, or navigating a career pivot, this episode provides a proven path to reclaim clarity, energy, and focus. What We Discuss in This Episode What is “leadership shock”? Why even top performers struggle when entering new leadership seasons.Moving from autopilot to intention. How to make your leadership conscious, consistent, and effective.The Authentic Leadership Model. A roadmap to reset, realign, and lead with purpose and clarity.When your strengths stop serving you. Why past success can’t always be relied on—and how to adapt.Context is everything. How to reassess your purpose, strengths, beliefs, and current environment. Facing the inner work. Why leaders avoid self-reflection—and how to embrace it for long-term growth. Time as your most limited resource. How to evaluate your calendar with ruthless intentionality.The art of saying “no.” Why turning down good opportunities can unlock great ones. Guarding against “busy culture.” How to protect white space and foster real connection in remote teams.Never stop growing. Why great leaders are grounded in feedback, curiosity, and humility. Podcast Highlights 0:00 - Overcoming Leadership Shock 4:24 - Explicit Leadership Transformation 8:46 - Purpose Fuels Long-Term Success 10:45 - Contextual Leadership: Vision and Expectations 15:03 - Client-Centric Coaching 18:12 - Maximizing Impact: Time Management Strategy 21:15 - Prioritizing Purpose Over Busyness 23:36 - Prioritize Tasks Over Meetings 28:51 - Pursuit of Better Leadership 30:51 - Explore Leadership Innovation Resources 32:30 - Transform Your Life Today Top 10 Key Takeaways Leadership Shock is real—and common. Even high-performers can struggle when their usual approaches fail in new environments.Lead with intention. Most leaders operate unconsciously—clarity comes from making your leadership explicit.Know your authentic model. Define your purpose, strengths, and beliefs, and adapt them to each new context.Evolve your strengths. What once made you successful may become a liability if you don’t grow with your role.Purpose energizes performance. When your work aligns with your deeper why, it fuels resilience and sustainability.Context creates clarity. Reevaluate expectations, organizational culture, and your own vision regularly.Time is sacred. Treat your calendar like an investment portfolio—allocate it wisely.Say no to say yes. Great leadership means declining “good” options to make space for what truly matters.Protect your margin. Leave room to think, reflect, and reconnect with what’s important—don’t fill every gap.Never stop learning. The best leaders seek feedback, reflect often, and remain humble, knowing growth is continuous. This episode delivers a powerful blend of wisdom, real-world examples, and actionable tools. Leadership isn’t about doing more—it’s about showing up with clarity, intention, and authenticity. Favorite Quotes “Behavior isn’t authentic; it’s really grounded in the things that are important to you.” “People experience leadership shock in moments of transition—what’s important is to intentionally reset your approach.” “If you can connect your activities to your purpose, it’s energy-giving, rather than energy-draining.” Episode Resources: https://leadersoftransformation.com/podcast/leadership/536-navigating-leadership-shock-with-pete-steinberg Check out our complete library of episodes and other leadership resources here: https://leadersoftransformation.com ________ 📣 SUBSCRIBE to the Leaders of Transformation Podcast 👇 CONNECT with Nicole Jansen on Social Media ▶︎ YOUTUBE ▶︎ INSTAGRAM ▶︎ FACEBOOK ▶︎ LINKEDIN ▶︎ X
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    29 m
  • 535: Unbreakable Spirit: The Inspiring Journey of Martial Arts Grandmaster Lawrence Stone

    535: Unbreakable Spirit: The Inspiring Journey of Martial Arts Grandmaster Lawrence Stone
    May 20 2025
    What could you achieve if you let go of all excuses and limiting beliefs? In this deeply motivational episode, Nicole Jansen welcomes Lawrence “Stoney” Stone—a remarkable martial arts grandmaster, published author, stunt coordinator, rock band singer, and cancer survivor whose life story is anything but ordinary. Born with congenital hip problem, later with CMT (Charcot-Marie-Tooth Neuropathy) a degenerative nerve disease, Stoney has faced significant physical challenges since birth, yet has refused to let them define or limit him. From building future champions in his dojo to serving as an executive protection consultant, Stoney’s impact ripples across countless lives and disciplines. Join us as Stoney opens up about the powerful lessons learned from his “spanking grandma,” and his real-life journey of overcoming adversity with purpose, faith, and fierce love. He shares how mentorship, tough love, a sense of responsibility, and unwavering honesty have fueled his legacy—prompting us all to step up, stop making excuses, and love with conviction. Whether you’re searching for inspiration, seeking actionable leadership insights, or grappling with challenges of your own, this conversation will leave you empowered and ready to tackle whatever comes next. What We Discuss in This Episode How did Stoney overcome significant physical limitations to become a martial arts grandmaster and mentor to champions?What role did family and “tough love” play in shaping his unstoppable mindset?How do you guide others—especially young people—out of victimhood and toward responsibility and growth?What does it mean to “not own” your challenges or diagnoses?How can leaders and mentors balance empathy with calling others to greatness?Why is authenticity and emotional expression crucial for true leadership?What does it look like to surrender to purpose and let go of micromanaging your life’s plan?How do faith and spirituality underpin resilience and transformation?What lasting advice does Stoney offer for living a meaningful, impactful life? 10 Key Takeaways Lead by Example: Young people and mentees learn most from who you are and what you do—not just what you say or teach.Tough Love Builds Resilience: Support combined with high expectations (“spanking grandma”) pushes us to unprecedented growth.Refuse to “Own” Limitations: Don’t take on negative identities around illness or labels—claim victory and move forward.Surround Yourself with Greatness: Your environment and your circle shape your possibilities and determination.Your Challenges Are Your Strength: Facing adversity builds the grit and wisdom necessary to help others.Balance Compassion and Accountability: True mentors love fiercely AND hold people to a higher standard.Embrace Vulnerability: Emotional honesty and caring openly are strengths, not weaknesses, for leaders.Purpose Over Perfection: Focus on finding and fulfilling your unique design rather than achieving flawlessness.Take Responsibility: We must model and teach personal responsibility; excuses perpetuate victimhood and stagnation.Keep Growing and Giving: Growth is a lifelong journey—keep learning, serving, and evolving no matter your stage or circumstances. Favorite Quotes "I've never really relied on or counted on being different. I've never been afraid to stand in front of people and tell them I care. And that makes a difference." — Lawrence Stone"Because I didn’t know I was different, because I didn’t accept that—I’m just me. I love me. I love what I do. I love who I am, where I am, and why I am." — Lawrence Stone"If I don’t believe in me, how can I expect someone else to believe in me? You have to believe in yourself first, no matter what the world says." — Lawrence Stone This episode is a rich tapestry of wisdom, humor, and heart. Tune in—and rediscover what’s possible when you stop making excuses and start living your purpose. Episode Show Notes: https://leadersoftransformation.com/podcast/mindset/535-unbreakable-spirit-the-inspiring-journey-of-martial-arts-grandmaster-lawrence-stone/ Check out our complete library of episodes and other leadership resources here: https://leadersoftransformation.com ________ 📣 SUBSCRIBE to the Leaders of Transformation Podcast 👇 CONNECT with Nicole Jansen on Social Media ▶︎ YOUTUBE ▶︎ INSTAGRAM ▶︎ FACEBOOK ▶︎ LINKEDIN ▶︎ X
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    50 m
  • 534: Anchored Leadership in a Shifting World with Rusty Rueff

    534: Anchored Leadership in a Shifting World with Rusty Rueff
    May 6 2025
    What if lasting success isn’t about what you achieve—but who you become? In this powerful episode, host Nicole Jansen sits down with Rusty Rueff—renowned tech executive, startup advisor, philanthropist, and co-author of Faith Code—to explore how inner purpose and spiritual identity provide the only truly unshakable foundation for life and leadership. Drawing from two decades of reflection, Rusty shares a compelling metaphor: Are you building your life on a solid platform (faith, values, purpose), or just stacking up flashy but fragile apps (titles, possessions, roles)? In this conversation, Nicole and Rusty unpack why true freedom, resilience, and fulfillment only come when you lead from your source code—a deep connection to something greater than yourself. From navigating profound personal loss and professional upheaval, to cultivating spiritual habits and daily disciplines, this episode offers practical insights and soul-level encouragement for leaders ready to build from the inside out. What You’ll Learn: Why Faith Code was written and why these principles are more relevant than everThe “Platform vs. App” metaphor—and how it redefines successHow to respond when your “apps” crash: job loss, health struggles, identity shiftsHow loss and disruption can become gateways to inner freedomWhy love—God’s love, self-love, and love for others—is the cornerstone of resilienceThe difference between loving as a feeling vs. loving as a verbHow to realign your life through energy, time, and priority auditsThe daily disciplines that strengthen your platformWhat grows stronger as everything else fades—and why that’s your true legacy Podcast Highlights 0:00 – Anchoring in a World of Change: Meet Rusty Rueff 2:01 – The Birth of Faith Code: Why Platform vs. App Matters 6:47 – Building on the Wrong Things: The Hidden Limits of “Apps” 8:19 – Your Source Code: Identity Anchored in Faith 11:18 – When the Apps Crash: Finding Freedom Through Loss 13:46 – God’s Love: The Ultimate Platform 16:34 – Love as a Verb: Daily Choices That Build Resilience 19:38 – Rebuilding Priorities: Applying the Faith Code 23:34 – The Art of Time: Energy, Rhythm, and Alignment 27:28 – The Spirit That Grows Stronger with Time Memorable Quotes “Are you building your life as a platform or just stacking up apps? Your apps can crash. Your platform must endure.” “What’s the one thing God gives that can’t be taken away? His love. More reliable than the sunrise.” “Love isn’t love unless it’s acted on. It’s not a noun—it’s a verb.” “Everything fades… except your spirit. It can become the strongest part of your life—especially in the end.” Episode Show Notes and Resources: https://leadersoftransformation.com/podcast/business/534-anchored-leadership-in-a-shifting-world-with-rusty-rueff/ Check out our complete library of episodes and other leadership resources here: https://leadersoftransformation.com ________ 📣 SUBSCRIBE to the Leaders of Transformation Podcast 👇 CONNECT with Nicole Jansen on Social Media ▶︎ YOUTUBE ▶︎ INSTAGRAM ▶︎ FACEBOOK ▶︎ LINKEDIN ▶︎ X
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    36 m
  • 533: Distributing Hope to Over a Million Children Every Year with Lynn Margherio

    533: Distributing Hope to Over a Million Children Every Year with Lynn Margherio
    Apr 22 2025
    What if unlocking a child’s full potential began with something as simple as a clean, well-fitting set of clothes? In this inspiring episode, host Nicole Jansen sits down with Lynn Margherio, the visionary founder of Cradles to Crayons. Each year, Lynn’s organization provides over a million packages of essentials—clothing, shoes, diapers, school supplies—to children living in poverty or crisis, completely free of charge. But this isn’t just about meeting material needs; it’s about addressing the often-ignored crisis of clothing insecurity, which impacts over 20 million children across the U.S. Join us as Lynn shares her compelling journey from the world of business consulting and public policy to launching a nonprofit that’s become a national movement. She reveals how clothing insecurity affects a child’s ability to learn, grow, and feel confident—and why she chose to step down as CEO after 23 years to ensure the organization thrives beyond her leadership. Whether you’re passionate about social entrepreneurship, building sustainable impact, or simply want to make a difference, this episode is packed with insights and practical ways to get involved. In This Episode, You’ll Discover: What inspired Lynn to pivot from consulting and the White House to social impactThe true definition of clothing insecurity—and why it mattersHow Cradles to Crayons serves over a million kids each year with remarkable efficiencyThe vital role of volunteers and community partners in scaling the missionWhat it takes to transition leadership and build an enduring legacyHow you can support children in need—locally or virtuallyThe educational and emotional toll of lacking basic clothingWhy awareness is just as critical as givingHow Giving Factory Direct empowers anyone to make an impact from anywhereHow to discern if your idea is meant for your neighborhood—or the nation Tune in and be inspired by how one woman’s simple idea, fueled by compassion and community, has transformed millions of young lives—and learn how you can be part of the solution. Episode Timestamps: 0:00 – The Hidden Crisis: Clothing Insecurity in America 1:31 – From Business Consulting to Purpose-Driven Impact: Lynn’s Backstory 4:45 – Turning an Idea into a Scalable Movement 7:01 – Unpacking the Real Need: What Families and Teachers Experience 9:24 – The Ripple Effect: Clothing, Confidence & Classroom Learning 12:40 – How Cradles to Crayons Works: Supply Chain & Distribution 15:39 – Mobilizing 50,000 Volunteers: Systems & Culture 18:02 – Vision for Expansion: From Local to National Impact 20:24 – Leadership Transition: Planning for a Mission Beyond the Founder 24:05 – Navigating the Emotional Journey of Letting Go 28:56 – The Relay Race of Leadership: Timing and Legacy 31:02 – How You Can Help: Local & Virtual Ways to Take Action 33:30 – Lessons in Leadership: Taking That First Step to Make a Difference Dive into this powerful conversation with Lynn Margherio and discover how addressing even the most basic needs can transform individual lives—and an entire nation. Favorite Quotes: “Don’t assume that others have it covered. If you’ve got an idea, explore it and do something about it.”—Lynn Margherio “Proper clothing is a very visible sign that a child’s basic needs are met. It’s about dignity as well as opportunity.” – Lynn Margherio CEO Update since the Recording of this Episode Founder Lynn Margherio announced in late February that Christine Morin, a strategic leader who has spent her career advocating for youth and under-resourced communities, was appointed as the next CEO of Cradles to Crayons®. Lynn says she is incredibly proud to pass the baton to her and couldn’t be more confident in Christine’s ability to lead Cradles to Crayons into its next chapter. Episode Show Notes: https://leadersoftransformation.com/podcast/leadership/533-distributing-hope-to-over-a-million-children-every-year-with-lynn-margherio Check out our complete library of episodes and other leadership resources here: https://leadersoftransformation.com ________ 📣 SUBSCRIBE to the Leaders of Transformation Podcast 👇 CONNECT with Nicole Jansen on Social Media ▶︎ YOUTUBE ▶︎ INSTAGRAM ▶︎ FACEBOOK ▶︎ LINKEDIN ▶︎ X/TWITTER
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    35 m
  • 532: From Invisible To Unstoppable: Shaping the Next Generation of Leaders with Dr. Abraham George

    532: From Invisible To Unstoppable: Shaping the Next Generation of Leaders with Dr. Abraham George
    Apr 8 2025
    What does it take to break the cycle of social discrimination in India? In this inspiring episode, host Nicole Jansen is joined by the visionary philanthropist and social entrepreneur, Dr. Abraham George. As the founder of the Shanti Bhavan School in India, Dr. George has dedicated his life to empowering children of the most marginalized communities by providing opportunities through education. Over the past 27 years, the school has changed the lives of over 15,000 children. 98% of its students are college graduates, with many making it to Ivy League institutes like Stanford, Dartmouth, and Princeton. Discover how Dr. George’s life journey, from the Indian military to a successful business career in the U.S., led him to his true calling: breaking down the systemic barriers of the caste system in India through a holistic educational approach. This bottom-up strategy not only focuses on academics but also nurtures the mindset and self-worth of each student, propelling them to previously unimaginable heights. Dr. Abraham has authored multiple books on social justice, including India Untouched, and is writing another one about Shanti Bhavan that is due for a release soon. What We Discuss in this Episode What inspired Dr. George to dedicate his life to breaking cycles of poverty?How does the caste system in India perpetuate economic inequality?The role of nurturing belief in students from marginalized communities.What are the greatest challenges faced when establishing a school like Shanti Bhavan?How can global citizens contribute to alleviating poverty around the world?The importance of economic justice as a path to social justice.Overcoming obstacles: Dr. George's journey from Wall Street to social impact.The significance of action and how it transforms compassion into tangible change.How can we motivate others to participate in acts of service and philanthropy?The long-lasting impact of transforming young lives and its ripple effect on society. Podcast Highlights 0:21 - Breaking the generational cycle of poverty with education 2:17 - Dr. George's journey from the Indian military to U.S. entrepreneurship 5:51 - Understanding India's caste system and its impact 10:17 - Transforming mindsets: nurturing belief in marginalized kids 15:06 - Challenges faced in establishing Shanti Bhavan School 20:41 - Empowering global citizens to contribute positively 25:22 - The link between economic and social justice 31:03 - The joy of giving and making a lasting impact 34:54 - Action as a catalyst for true transformation. Favorite Quotes Economic Justice: “The path to social justice is through economic justice.” Transformative Action: “Compassion without action is of no use. It doesn't benefit the other person; it only makes you feel good.” Episode Show Notes: https://leadersoftransformation.com/podcast/education/532-from-invisible-to-unstoppable-shaping-the-next-generation-of-leaders-with-dr-abraham-george/ Check out our complete library of episodes and other leadership resources here: https://leadersoftransformation.com ________ 📣 SUBSCRIBE to the Leaders of Transformation Podcast 👇 CONNECT with Nicole Jansen on Social Media ▶︎ YOUTUBE ▶︎ INSTAGRAM ▶︎ FACEBOOK ▶︎ LINKEDIN ▶︎ X/TWITTER
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    36 m
  • 531: Leveraging the 3 Mega Forces in Business Today with John Rossman

    531: Leveraging the 3 Mega Forces in Business Today with John Rossman
    Mar 25 2025
    How Can Leaders Prepare for the Next Era of Business Transformation? In this high-powered episode, host Nicole Jansen dives into the dynamic forces shaping American business with distinguished guest John Rossman. As a former Amazon executive and author of the acclaimed "Amazon Way" series, John Rossman brings a wealth of knowledge on innovation, leadership, and digital transformation. With a focus on his latest book, Big Bet Leadership, John shares valuable insights, drawing on his extensive experience at Amazon to discuss the top three mega forces impacting businesses today. Key takeaways include the critical nature of the “big bet framework” for solving major business challenges and the importance of cultivating a Day One mindset. The episode also explores the role of leadership in adapting to rapid technological advancements and demographic shifts, offering listeners a pragmatic approach to thriving in a hyper-digital era. Join us for an enlightening discussion with John Rossman, where you'll gain a deeper understanding of how to anticipate and navigate transformative business changes adeptly. What We Discuss in this Episode Unveiling the top three mega forces affecting American business.Understanding the pretext for why leaders must excel at transformation.Addressing challenges with the big bet framework and solving wicked problems.The importance of creating clarity and accelerating risk and value.How Amazon’s working backward process informed marketplace success.Day One versus Day Two mindset: Maintaining an innovation-driven culture.Integrating a dedicated leadership team for impactful transformation.Balancing short-term operation with long-term transformation efforts.The art of running successful high-stakes executive meetings.Combining insights from fractional leadership with a stable core team. Podcast Highlights 0:00 - Introduction to John Rossman's expertise and achievements. 1:23 - Mega forces driving transformation and their implications. 3:22 - Dealing with labor shortages and demographic changes. 6:09 - The big bet framework and its significance. 11:53 - Amazon’s marketplace evolution and learning from failure. 18:34 - Day 1 vs. Day 2 mindset: Keeping innovation alive. 25:55 - Building the right transformation team. 29:43 - Thinking big, betting small: Avoiding the big leap fallacy. 32:52 - Effective high-stakes decision-making protocols. 34:39 - Encouragement for leaders to take transformative action. Favorite Quotes Innovative Leadership: “Become the shark at the table by gathering more information upfront, derisking big concepts with small experiments.” Day 1 Mindset: “We are a day one company, reminding our teams and shareholders that it's all about constant reinvention.” Building the Right Team: “A senior leader abandons everything for the mission, inventing the future—a different game of transformational betting.” Episode Resources: https://leadersoftransformation.com/podcast/leadership/531-leveraging-the-3-mega-forces-in-business-today-with-john-rossman Check out our complete library of episodes and other leadership resources here: https://leadersoftransformation.com ________ 📣 SUBSCRIBE to the Leaders of Transformation Podcast 👇 CONNECT with Nicole Jansen on Social Media ▶︎ YOUTUBE ▶︎ INSTAGRAM ▶︎ FACEBOOK ▶︎ LINKEDIN ▶︎ X/TWITTER
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    37 m