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David Novak
How Leaders Lead gives you a front-row seat to exclusive conversations with the world’s most iconic leaders across business, sports, and entertainment. Hosted by David Novak, Co-founder and former CEO of Yum! Brands, this podcast pulls back the curtain on how top CEOs, founders, and game-changers make things happen. When you tune in, you’ll learn from legends like Tom Brady, Condoleezza Rice, Jamie Dimon, Coach Prime (Deion Sanders), Indra Nooyi, Stanley Druckenmiller, and more.
Other guests include:
CEO of Starbucks
CEO of Target
Co-founder of Home Depot
and many others...
David’s unique perspective and thought-provoking questions distill the wisdom of these leaders into actionable insights you can use to elevate your own leadership game. Whether you’re just starting your leadership journey or already leading teams, this show helps you build the confidence you need to lead well.
#137: David Solomon, CEO of Goldman Sachs – Take the long view
Every leader feels a pressure to deliver. People want results, and they want them now.
Because of that, it’s easy to get short-sighted. Sometimes, we don’t really give ourselves permission to think too far ahead.
But if you want success that’s sustainable, you’ve got to learn how to take a longer view of things.
That’s exactly what you’ll learn from today’s guest, David Solomon. He’s the CEO of Goldman Sachs, one of the most renowned companies in the financial industry.
David faces a lot of short-term pressures. But those don’t keep him from looking down the road and taking a long-term approach.
In this conversation, you’re gonna learn how it’s done – and why it’s crucial for any leader who wants to build trust and be a part of something that lasts.
You’ll also learn:
An economic outlook and summary that every leader needs to hear right now
3 questions to evaluate your career path
An important mindset shift you need to make if your company operates in multiple divisions
Why it’s important to make time for your hobbies (you won’t believe David’s side hustle!)
Two keys to success for any small business leader
58:5901/06/2023
3 More Questions (Nat Turner) with David Novak and Koula Callahan
On this episode of 3 More Questions, you'll hear David Novak's answers to:
Do you have any advice for leaders about how to select a business partner?
How can leaders overcome the fear of getting started and just do it?
Is there a time in your career where you’ve had "strong opinions loosely held" ... or maybe where you've done that poorly? (SPOILER ALERT: he's done it poorly at times and shares those incredible stories)
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BONUS RESOURCE: To gain confidence as a leader, you need a plan for tackling common leadership challenges. My new online course "Taking People With You" will give you practical ways you can resolve issues and keep your team moving forward toward your biggest goals. Get free access here — https://howleaderslead.com/courses/
13:3329/05/2023
#136: Nat Turner, CEO of Collectors – Just get started
Today’s episode starts with 20 snakes getting loose in the Houston airport and it only gets better from there!
See what we mean when you listen to today’s episode with Nat Turner. He’s the CEO of Collectors, which helps collectors buy, sell, trade, and even authenticate their collections.
Nat is one of those people who has entrepreneurship running through his veins. He has been building businesses since he was 12 years old.
And at every point, he has this fearless ability to jump in the deep end and get started with the work, instead of waiting around for perfect timing or the perfect idea.
It’s the kind of courage and hard work we can ALL learn a lot from and get inspired by. Listen and see what kind of incredible things can happen in your life when you just get started.
You’ll also learn:
The #1 quality to look for in new hires if you want to boost execution
The power of an outside perspective when it comes to innovation
A practical (and old school!) way to be more observant during the day
One question to ask at the end of every meeting when you’re in the discovery process
The most dangerous thing once you’ve become successful – and how to avoid it
57:3925/05/2023
3 More Questions (Justin Thomas) with David Novak and Koula Callahan
On 3MQ, we continue the conversation that we started last week with our featured guest. On this episode, we're talking about our interview with Justin Thomas, pro golfer and defending PGA Championship winner, to learn even more about how great leaders manage their mindset.
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BONUS RESOURCE: To gain confidence as a leader, you need a plan for tackling common leadership challenges. My new online course "Taking People With You" will give you practical ways you can resolve issues and keep your team moving forward toward your biggest goals. Get free access here — https://howleaderslead.com/courses/
11:1822/05/2023
#135: Justin Thomas, pro golfer and defending PGA Championship winner – Manage your mindset
The PGA Championship tees off today at Oak Hill East in Rochester!
And if you were watching this event last year, then you got to see today’s guest, Justin Thomas, make an absolutely epic comeback. He came from seven strokes back to win in a playoff and notch his second win at a Major.
He’s an extraordinary player who knows the importance of managing his own mindset out on the course.
That’s true for great golfers … and it’s just as true for great leaders.
You’ve got to understand how much your mentality affects your performance and your team. If you’re not intentional about what’s going on inside your own head, it can cost you.
Whether you’re a golf fan or not, Justin has so many great insights that will help you manage your own mindset better.
You’ll also learn:
How to stay positive and yet learn from failures
The mentality you need to play from behind – whether on the golf course or at work
How to manage your nerves in pressure-packed situations
Why a results-oriented approach to goal-setting can actually help you achieve more
The powerful advice Justin got from Tom Brady that helped him snap out of a funk
A funny story that shows what it’s like to be Tiger Woods’ partner on the golf course
52:2718/05/2023
3 More Questions (Bonnie Hill) with David Novak and Koula Callahan
On 3MQ, we continue the conversation that we started last week with our featured guest. On this episode, we're talking about our interview with Bonnie Hill, the co-founder of Icon Blue who's also served on over a dozen Fortune 500 boards, to learn even more about how great leaders set a tone of respect.
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BONUS RESOURCE: To gain confidence as a leader, you need a plan for tackling common leadership challenges. My new online course "Taking People With You" will give you practical ways you can resolve issues and keep your team moving forward toward your biggest goals. Get free access here — https://howleaderslead.com/courses/
14:1015/05/2023
#134: Bonnie Hill, Co-founder of Icon Blue – Set a tone of respect
Today’s guest is Bonnie Hill, Cofounder of Icon Blue, a brand marketing company based in L.A.
Bonnie has had an incredibly varied and successful career, leading in practically every area – business, government, education, and philanthropy.
She’s also served on over a dozen corporate boards – including Yum’s, where she and David got to work together.
She’s accomplished so much in her career – and she has gleaned so much about what great leaders and great organizations have in common.
In this conversation, you’ll hear an absolute goldmine of wisdom and big insights.
You’ll also hear how Bonnie puts a high priority on respect.
When respect is your guiding principle, it’s a game changer. You listen more closely. Your awareness and understanding go to another level. You can navigate conflicts and tough situations.
And ultimately, you earn the respect of everyone around you, too, just like Bonnie has.
You’ll also learn:
How to excel in a role that seems outside of your comfort zone
The most important thing to do when you start a new leadership position
One common trap that causes leaders to get off track – and how to avoid it
Three practical ways to lead calmly in tense or charged situations
Unmissable wisdom for women and minority leaders
47:1111/05/2023
3 More Questions (Bill Farish) with David Novak and Koula Callahan
On 3MQ, we continue the conversation that we started last week with our featured guest. On this episode, we're talking about our interview with Bill Farish, Founder of Woodford Racing and GM of Lane’s End Farm, to learn even more about how great leaders invest in their industry.
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BONUS RESOURCE: To gain confidence as a leader, you need a plan for tackling common leadership challenges. My new online course "Taking People With You" will give you practical ways you can resolve issues and keep your team moving forward toward your biggest goals. Get free access here — https://howleaderslead.com/courses/
12:4008/05/2023
#133: Bill Farish, Founder of Woodford Racing and GM of Lane’s End Farm – Invest in your industry
Just in time for this Saturday’s Kentucky Derby, today’s guest is Bill Farish. He’s the founder of Woodford Racing and the general manager of Lane’s End Farm, one of the world’s premier thoroughbred breeding farms.
Their horse Charismatic actually won the Derby in 1999. And just last year, their horse Flightline won the 2022 Breeders’ Cup by a record distance.
This conversation will give you a rare, close-up look into the world of horse racing.
But it will also give you a close-up look at a REALLY special leader.
For all his success and world-class reputation, Bill is an incredibly humble guy with the heart of a genuine caretaker.
He loves his work. He loves his horses – his athletes, as he rightfully calls them. He loves to see the people he hires succeed. And he’s trying to leave his industry better than he found it.
It’s the kind of quietly outstanding leadership that we don’t always see elevated or showcased, but it teaches us SO much about what it really looks like to lead well.
Plus, he gives us HIS pick for the horse he’s backing this weekend, and you do NOT want to miss that!
You’ll also learn:
Everything you’ve ever wanted to know about horse racing, ownership, and breeding
The #1 thing you need to do as a leader to create alignment and ownership
One hiring practice that can help you attract great talent (but it has a downside, too)
Practical advice for working in a family business
What it was like to host the Queen of England at his farm
39:0904/05/2023
3 More Questions (Michael Walrath) with David Novak and Koula Callahan
Welcome back to 3 More Questions, an episode series where we continue the conversation that we started last week with our featured guest. On this episode, we're talking about our interview with Michael Walrath, Chairman and CEO of Yext, to learn even more about how great leaders build what's missing.
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BONUS RESOURCE: To gain confidence as a leader, you need a plan for tackling common leadership challenges. My new online course "Taking People With You" will give you practical ways you can resolve issues and keep your team moving forward toward your biggest goals. Get free access here — https://howleaderslead.com/courses/
13:3301/05/2023
#132: Michael Walrath, CEO of Yext – Build what’s missing
Today’s guest is Michael Walrath, Chairman and CEO of Yext, and a remarkable entrepreneur.
In three years, he built a $35 million company called Right Media – and then sold it to Yahoo for almost $800 million.
No doubt about it – those are some impressive numbers.
But when you dig a little deeper, what makes Michael truly impressive is how he’s found lessons and growth and opportunities along the way.
He is always looking for what’s missing and how he can build it.
If you can see what problems haven’t been solved yet – for your industry, your customers, or even your team – and then build something to solve it, you’re going to find success.
It’s a vital skill for entrepreneurs and every other kind of leader. Listen to this conversation with Michael and see how it’s done.
You’ll also learn:
Why organizations in turmoil can be fantastic learning opportunities
A process you can use to navigate change
The #1 piece of advice for entrepreneurs when building a product
The surprising advantage you have if your career path hasn’t been a straight line
Why your point of view on humanity impacts your success as a leader
49:2327/04/2023
3 More Questions (Annie Young-Scrivner) with David Novak and Koula Callahan
Welcome back to 3 More Questions, an episode series where we continue the conversation that we started last week with our featured guest. On this episode, we're talking about our interview with Annie Young-Scrivner, CEO of Wella, to learn even more about why you should surround yourself with different perspectives.
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BONUS RESOURCE: To gain confidence as a leader, you need a plan for tackling common leadership challenges. My new online course "Taking People With You" will give you practical ways you can resolve issues and keep your team moving forward toward your biggest goals. Get free access here — https://howleaderslead.com/courses/
11:1424/04/2023
#131: Annie Young-Scrivner, CEO of Wella – Surround yourself with different perspectives
Today’s guest is Annie Young-Scrivner, CEO of Wella, one of the world’s top beauty companies.
Annie is a seasoned leader with a phenomenal track record of growth in her prior roles at Godiva, Starbucks, and PepsiCo.
You don’t get that kind of consistency without being a strong leader. And one thing that makes Annie a strong leader is that she intentionally surrounds herself with diverse perspectives. Even more importantly, she really listens and learns from them.
It’s a must-have skill for leaders.
You’ve got to seek out people who see things differently than you if you want to make better decisions, build stronger teams, and really push yourself and your organization to grow.
Listen to this conversation to see how it’s done.
You’ll also learn:
Three practical tips to manage people who are older than you
Specific questions to ask in order to understand and grow a business
Priceless advice for perfectionists who feel like they need to have all the answers
Why every leader needs an external network – and how to develop it
One idea to use next time you present over Zoom to ensure you connect with your team
47:2820/04/2023
3 More Questions (Chris Gheysens) with David Novak and Koula Callahan
Welcome back to 3 More Questions, an episode series where we continue the conversation that we started last week with our featured guest. On this episode, we're talking about our interview with Chris Gheysens, the President and CEO of Wawa, to dive even deeper into the idea of why when you do the right thing, the right things happen.
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BONUS RESOURCE: To gain confidence as a leader, you need a plan for tackling common leadership challenges. My new online course "Taking People With You" will give you practical ways you can resolve issues and keep your team moving forward toward your biggest goals. Get free access here — https://howleaderslead.com/courses/
13:2817/04/2023
#130: Chris Gheysens, President & CEO of Wawa – Do the right thing and the right things happen
Today’s guest is Chris Gheysens, the President and CEO of Wawa.
If you’ve spent time in the Philadelphia area, you know: Wawa is one of the most beloved convenience store chains in America.
Chris has been with Wawa for more than 25 years, and he has played a huge role in growing Wawa to what it is today.
He believes that putting customers and employees first – truly taking care of people – is the key to scaling a successful business.
In other words, when you do the right thing, the right things happen.
If you want to learn how to operationalize that big idea…
If you want to build a people-first culture…
If you’re trying to scale something without losing that human element…
Then this is the episode for you!
You’ll also learn:
What to prioritize when you’re scaling a people-first culture
The importance of storytelling to growing an organization
Two key advantages of an employee-owned company
When to honor tradition versus when to innovate
Why knowing your authentic self is key to long-term career satisfaction
01:00:2213/04/2023
3 More Questions (Uri Levine) with David Novak and Koula Callahan
Welcome back to 3 More Questions, an episode series where we continue the conversation that we started last week with our featured guest. On this episode, we're talking about our interview with Uri Levine, co-founder of Waze, to learn even more about why you shouldn't be afraid to fail.
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BONUS RESOURCE: To gain confidence as a leader, you need a plan for tackling common leadership challenges. My new online course "Taking People With You" will give you practical ways you can resolve issues and keep your team moving forward toward your biggest goals. Get free access here — https://howleaderslead.com/courses/
14:0710/04/2023
#129: Uri Levine, Co-founder of Waze – Don't be afraid to fail
Today’s guest is Uri Levine, the co-founder of the navigation app Waze. Get this: Uri has built not ONE but TWO companies that have reached a valuation of one billion dollars without going public. That is some rarified air among entrepreneurs!
He’s passionate about using technology to solve real-world problems that actually make people’s lives better. And he knows exactly what it takes to do it!
But – as you’ll hear in this conversation – for all his success, Uri is not afraid to fail.
Because let's face it, in business, things don't always go according to plan. But if we can learn to see failure as a valuable experience and use it to our advantage, we can achieve amazing things.
You’ll also learn:
• A practical idea to help you build a better culture
• The #1 reason entrepreneurs say their startup failed – and how to avoid it
• The question you need to ask yourself 30 days after each new hire
• Game-changing insights to help you find your product market fit
• Three tips to manage your boss (or your board)
46:3806/04/2023
#128: The Best of Q1
In this episode, we take all the great wisdom from the last three months and highlight the most impactful takeaways for you.
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BONUS RESOURCE: To gain confidence as a leader, you need a plan for tackling common leadership challenges. My new online course "Taking People With You" will give you practical ways you can resolve issues and keep your team moving forward toward your biggest goals. Get free access here — https://howleaderslead.com/courses/
38:1530/03/2023
3 More Questions (Dawn Hudson) with David Novak and Koula Callahan
Welcome back to 3 More Questions, an episode series where we continue the conversation that we started last week with our featured guest. On this episode, we're talking about our interview with Dawn Hudson, the former President and CEO of Pepsi-Cola North America and former CMO of the NFL, to learn even more about why you should evolve your culture.
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BONUS RESOURCE: To gain confidence as a leader, you need a plan for tackling common leadership challenges. My new online course "Taking People With You" will give you practical ways you can resolve issues and keep your team moving forward toward your biggest goals. Get free access here — https://howleaderslead.com/courses/
13:0927/03/2023
#127: Dawn Hudson, Former CEO of Pepsi-Cola North America – Evolve your culture
Today’s guest is Dawn Hudson, the former President and CEO of Pepsi-Cola North America and former CMO of the NFL.
Now, you don’t work for Pepsi unless you love competition. And Dawn absolutely has that competitive drive to keep pushing for better ideas and bigger impact.
But she’s also passionate about helping leaders build cultures that allow EVERYONE to win.
We may not even realize the ways we’ve allowed assumptions and biases to shape our team’s culture. But they’re real. If we aren’t intentional about eliminating them, they can hamper the growth of our people – and the growth of our organizations, too.
Like every great leader, Dawn understands the power of a strong, diverse culture where everyone can win – and this conversation is full of practical ways YOU can build one.
You’ll also learn:
• Small ways our language can create gender bias in the workplace
• Why you have to pay closer attention to your work culture, especially right now
• What “office housework” is and what every leader needs to know about it
• Key insights into generational shifts in consumers
• What every woman needs to hear before her next performance review
58:2423/03/2023
3 More Questions (Jay Bilas) with David Novak and Koula Callahan
Welcome back to 3 More Questions, an episode series where we continue the conversation that we started last week with our featured guest. On this episode, we're talking about our interview with Jay Bilas, an outstanding basketball analyst for ESPN, to learn even more about why you should put substance before style.
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BONUS RESOURCE: To gain confidence as a leader, you need a plan for tackling common leadership challenges. My new online course "Taking People With You" will give you practical ways you can resolve issues and keep your team moving forward toward your biggest goals. Get free access here — https://howleaderslead.com/courses/
12:4620/03/2023
#126: Jay Bilas, ESPN basketball analyst – Put substance before style
As the NCAA March Madness tournament kicks off this week, David talks with ESPN basketball analyst Jay Bilas.
Jay knows the game inside and out. And he has a way with words that really draws you into the game. He’s a master of his craft because he truly honors the work he does – and the work of those around him.
As you’ll hear in this episode, he is thoughtful with his opinions. He is deliberate about his work. And in his words, he has stuck to the substance of the job rather than the flash of it.
In this episode, you’ll hear how to put substance before style – and so much more – including some great stories about Coach K and Michael Jordan from Jay’s years playing at Duke.
You’ll also learn:
• Three questions you can ask yourself whenever someone gives you criticism
• The tactics he learned to motivate and instruct others while playing for Coach K
• A powerful analogy that can help any team work better together
• What kind of upsets we can expect in this year’s March Madness tournament
59:5416/03/2023
3 More Questions (Ray Scott) with David Novak and Koula Callahan
Welcome back to 3 More Questions, an episode series where we continue the conversation that we started last week with our featured guest. On this episode, we're talking about our interview with Ray Scott, President & CEO of the Lear Corporation, to learn even more about why you should never lose sight of what’s next.
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BONUS RESOURCE: To gain confidence as a leader, you need a plan for tackling common leadership challenges. My new online course "Taking People With You" will give you practical ways you can resolve issues and keep your team moving forward toward your biggest goals. Get free access here — https://howleaderslead.com/courses/
12:4413/03/2023
#125: Ray Scott, CEO of Lear Corporation – Never lose sight of what’s next
Today’s guest is Ray Scott, President & CEO of the Lear Corporation.
If you’re thinking of jets, think again. This Lear Corporation works in the automotive industry, providing seating and electronic systems to major companies like GM, Ford, BMW and Mercedes. They were also just named one of Fortune’s most admired companies.
Since he took over in 2018, Ray has led through COVID, supply chain issues, inflation, and rising fuel prices. It’s really been one challenge after another – maybe you can relate!
But Ray hasn’t let those short-term pressures keep him from focusing on long-term strategy. He knows how critical is it to keep innovating and planning so they can be successful when they *do* get out of those tough short-term situations.
He’s got some really practical advice for you, too, so hit play on this episode and see the kind of successful culture you can build when you never lose sight of what’s next.
You’ll also learn:
• The kind of opportunities to look for if you’re ready to grow as a leader
• A practical way to structure teams so you balance short-term and long-term thinking
• The kind of answer you need to watch out for (and confront) in your next meeting
• Why you need to STOP hiring people who think like you
• The jaw-dropping innovations coming soon to the seats in your car
43:5209/03/2023
3 More Questions (Dr. John Noseworthy) with David Novak and Koula Callahan
Welcome back to 3 More Questions, an episode series where we continue the conversation that we started last week with our featured guest. On this episode, we're talking about our interview with Dr. John Noseworthy, CEO Emeritus of Mayo Clinic to learn even more about improving what’s already working.
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BONUS RESOURCE: To gain confidence as a leader, you need a plan for tackling common leadership challenges. My new online course "Taking People With You" will give you practical ways you can resolve issues and keep your team moving forward toward your biggest goals. Get free access here — https://howleaderslead.com/courses/
12:0306/03/2023
#124: Dr. John Noseworthy, CEO Emeritus of Mayo Clinic – Improve what’s already working
Today’s guest is Dr. John Noseworthy, CEO Emeritus of Mayo Clinic.
People come from all over the world to get treatment at the Mayo Clinic. It’s always ranked at or near the top of the best hospitals in the country.
And it takes a special leader to step into an established organization with a sterling reputation – and make it even better.
And Dr. Noseworthy is a special leader!
He knew it was critical not only to keep that level of excellence but also to build on it. In his ten years at the helm, he relentlessly drove out inefficiency and waste. That freed up resources they could reinvest in even more of the research and care they’re known for.
Now, it wasn’t easy. Change never is! And that’s especially true in an organization like Mayo where people already feel like things are working well.
But a great leader drives change even in high performing organizations. Listen to learn how John does it, and how you can do it, too.
You’ll also learn:
How to spot and eliminate inefficiency, even in a high-performing culture
Advice for young people who want to find a satisfying career
Practical tips for helping subject-matter experts understand business principles
What he would do about the US healthcare system if he had a magic wand
51:0002/03/2023
3 More Questions (Junior Bridgeman) with David Novak and Koula Callahan
Welcome back to 3 More Questions, an episode series where we continue the conversation that we started last week with our featured guest. On this episode, we're talking about our interview with Junior Bridgeman, former NBA player and leading entrepreneur to learn even more about how to go farther together.
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BONUS RESOURCE: To gain confidence as a leader, you need a plan for tackling common leadership challenges. My new online course "Taking People With You" will give you practical ways you can resolve issues and keep your team moving forward toward your biggest goals. Get free access here — https://howleaderslead.com/courses/
12:5727/02/2023
#123: Junior Bridgeman, former NBA player and leading entrepreneur – Go farther together
Today’s guest is Junior Bridgeman, a former NBA player who’s now one of the greatest entrepreneurs in our country.
When he retired from the NBA after twelve years, he jumped headfirst into the restaurant business. He eventually owned 450 Wendy’s locations all over the country. And now he's doing it all again, becoming one of the leading Coke bottlers in the U.S. and all of Canada.
And if all that weren’t enough, in 2020, he surprised a lot of people when he bought Jet and Ebony after they went into bankruptcy. But as you’ll hear him talk about, Junior sees the opportunity to preserve and amplify the stories those magazines have told over the years – something that’s so important year round but is especially top of mind right now during Black History Month.
In fact, Junior was recently honored with Louisville’s prestigious Keepers of the Dream Freedom Award for all the ways he exemplifies the ideals of Martin Luther King, Jr.
So, it’s easy to see why Junior Bridgeman is the real deal!
And at every step along the way – from playing basketball, to serving his community, to building these incredibly successful businesses – he is ALL about the power of teamwork.
As leaders, we use the word “team” a lot, but when you listen to Junior, you realize that true teamwork doesn’t just happen because you’ve assembled a group of people together. It has to be nurtured and led.
You’ll hear exactly what Junior does to create that kind of teamwork-driven culture where people feel cared for, and where they’re motivated to go farther, together, than they ever could have by themselves.
You’ll also learn:
The practical strategy he used to turn around low-performing stores
Advice for leaders who are naturally quiet or introverted
How to build a culture where people are truly cared for
The key mindset shift every entrepreneur needs to be successful
Behind-the-scenes stories of playing with some NBA legends of the 70s and 80s
01:02:1523/02/2023
3 More Questions (Bill Rhodes) with David Novak and Koula Callahan
Welcome back to 3 More Questions, an episode series where we continue the conversation that we started last week with our featured guest. On this episode, we're talking about our interview with Bill Rhodes, the CEO of AutoZone, to learn even more about how to value those you lead.
If you want a simple plan to improve as a leader, sign up here and I'll send a weekly email right to your inbox. By reading these emails each and every week and applying the simple lessons, you'll build the confidence you need to lead well! https://howleaderslead.com/plan
14:2020/02/2023
#122: Bill Rhodes, CEO of AutoZone – Value those you lead
Today’s guest is Bill Rhodes, the CEO and Executive Chairman of AutoZone.
Get this: AutoZone is one of the only companies around who has grown both their earnings per share AND their revenue EVERY year for the past TWENTY years.
That kind of consistency is just remarkable.
But you won’t hear Bill take the credit for it. For him, it is all about his team and what they can do together.
He’s got this deep and genuine admiration for his people, whom he calls AutoZoners. That respect drives how he makes decisions, implements, finds and trains talent, and more.
When we truly respect those we lead, we see leadership for the privilege it really is. It’s the secret to getting big things done – and to getting the kind of growth we all want to have.
You’ll also learn:
The surprising benefit of a company culture that’s not for everybody
How to grow both a retail and wholesale business
A practical idea to help you find great team members (even in a tough labor market)
What “executive courage” means and how it can change your approach to decisions
How golf helped Bill get his foot in the door at a top accounting firm
01:01:5616/02/2023
3 More Questions (Condoleezza Rice) with David Novak and Koula Callahan
Welcome back to 3 More Questions, an episode series where we continue the conversation that we started last week with our featured guest. On this episode, we're talking about our interview with Dr. Condoleezza Rice, former Secretary of State and National Security Advisor, to learn even more about how to play to your strengths.
If you want a simple plan to improve as a leader, you can get one here for free — https://howleaderslead.com/plan
17:3113/02/2023
#121: Condoleezza Rice, former U.S. Secretary of State – Play to your strengths
Today’s guest is Dr. Condoleezza Rice, the former U.S. Secretary of State and National Security Advisor. She’s undoubtedly one of our nation’s most admired and successful leaders.
These days, she’s the Director of the Hoover Institution at Stanford and recently became a part owner in the Denver Broncos, where she led the hiring effort for their new head coach.
It’s not every day that you get to learn from a leader who’s negotiated with Vladimir Putin and performed a piano concert for the Queen of England!
There is so much we can learn from Condi’s remarkable leadership skills. And while she is incredibly humble, she also knows how to play to her strengths.
She understands her unique skills and contributions.
And she steps into any situation with a firm grasp on how she can apply those strengths and get the right outcome.
Now, that’s something that all great leaders need to understand.
You’ll also learn:
Practical advice for making tough decisions
One key aspect of smart diplomacy every leader can put to use
The three qualities you should look for in a mentor
The mindset you need when you’re the one who’s “different” from everyone else
The leadership traits she looked for in the new coach for the Denver Broncos
42:0109/02/2023
3 More Questions (Dr. Holly Andersen) with David Novak and Koula Callahan
Welcome back to 3 More Questions, an episode series where we continue the conversation that we started last week with our featured guest. On this episode, we're talking about our interview with Dr. Holly Andersen, the renowned cardiologist and founder of the Hands Only CPR movement, to learn even more about how to use passion to drive change.
If you want a simple plan to improve as a leader, you can get one here for free — https://howleaderslead.com/plan
11:5906/02/2023
#120: Dr. Holly Andersen, World Renowned Cardiologist – Use passion to drive change
Today’s guest is Dr. Holly Andersen. She’s a renowned cardiologist at New York Presbyterian Hospital and the founder of the Hands Only CPR movement.
She is on a mission to make sure everybody knows how to help someone in cardiac arrest. Because, as you’ll hear today, we can save a lot of lives if ordinary people like you and me know what to do when that happens.
Unfortunately, most people don’t … and it’s not easy to create the kind of awareness you need to change that. But Holly is an extraordinary leader. She is passionate about this mission. And she knows how to leverage that passion in order to drive change and action.
Now that’s a skill every great leader needs to master – and this episode will help you do it!
You’ll also learn:
One practical way you can naturally teach your team more in your day to day work
What to do when you have to deliver bad news
Tips for motivating stubborn people
How to bring awareness to your big goals
>>> LEARN HANDS ONLY CPR [30 seconds]: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WsH7l5jkanY
01:00:3502/02/2023
3 More Questions (Bernie Marcus) with David Novak and Koula Callahan
Welcome back to 3 More Questions, an episode series where we continue the conversation that we started last week with our featured guest. On this episode, we're talking about our interview with Bernie Marcus, Co-founder of The Home Depot, to learn even more about how to do what's GREAT for customers.
If you want a simple plan to improve as a leader, you can get one here for free — https://howleaderslead.com/plan
18:4530/01/2023
#119: Bernie Marcus, Cofounder of The Home Depot – Do what’s great for customers
Today I’m joined by Bernie Marcus, the cofounder of The Home Depot. At 93 years young, Bernie is an absolute icon. The Home Depot broke the mold for retail and is continuing to succeed where lots of other retailers are struggling. And you can really understand why when you spend time with Bernie. From the very beginning, he made decisions based on what’s great for the customer.
Because for Bernie, customer service isn’t just a transaction. It’s a relationship. If you want to succeed in your work, you’ve got to take care of your customers and do right by them. And this conversation is gonna get your wheels turning with ideas to do just that. And it’s gonna have you laughing, because, I gotta tell ya, Bernie has got some incredible stories!
So here is my conversation with my good friend – and soon to be yours – the one and only Bernie Marcus.
01:15:5026/01/2023
3 More Questions (Carol Tomé) with David Novak and Koula Callahan
Welcome back to 3 More Questions, an episode series where we continue the conversation that we started last week with our featured guest. On this episode, we're talking about our interview with Carol Tomé, the CEO of UPS, to learn even more about how to see people as an investment, not an expense.
If you want a simple plan to improve as a leader, you can get one here for free — https://howleaderslead.com/plan
12:4023/01/2023
#118: Carol Tomé, CEO of UPS – See people as an investment
My guest today is Carol Tomé, the CEO of UPS. And let me tell you, there aren’t a lot of leaders out there who have the smarts and empathy and energy that Carol has.
She actually retired in 2019 after nearly two decades as the CFO of The Home Depot. She was already a legend. But then, the opportunity to take the helm at UPS came along. It got her out of retirement and back doing what she loves – which is helping people develop. And boy, does that passion for people come through in this conversation. But that’s not the only thing. You can also hear just how committed Carol is to being financially successful.
If you’ve ever felt like you had to choose between focusing on your people or making money, then keep listening. Carol is proof positive that you can do both. Everything changes when you see your people as an investment – not an expense. It’s such a powerful mindset, and it’s one YOU can learn from Carol right now.
So here is my conversation with my good friend – and soon to be yours – Carol Tomé.
59:3819/01/2023
3 More Questions (Chris Kempczinski) with David Novak and Koula Callahan
Welcome back to 3 More Questions, an episode series where we continue the conversation that we started last week with our featured guest. On this episode, we're talking about our interview with Chris Kempczinski, the President and CEO of McDonald's to learn even more about how to make your key strategies more memorable.
If you want a simple plan to improve as a leader, you can get one here for free — https://howleaderslead.com/plan
16:0616/01/2023
#117: Chris Kempczinski, McDonald's President and CEO – Make key strategies memorable
I gotta make a little confession. Back when I was the CEO of Yum! Brands, my team and I would do what we called McDonald’s Immersion Days. We just went into McDonald’s restaurants for the whole day and observed all the smart things they were doing. Then we’d figure out how we could make those smart ideas work at KFC, Taco Bell, or Pizza Hut. That’s just how much we admired McDonald’s.
These days, McDonald’s is still at the top of their game – and I’m honored to have McDonald’s President and CEO, Chris Kempczinski, joining me today. As you’ll hear in this conversation, Chris leads in the real world. He’s not the kind of guy who’s just locked away in an office lost in data and paperwork and big-picture strategies. In fact, he believes that your strategies really don’t count for much unless they’re actually showing up in the day-to-day operation of your business. And when you listen to this conversation, you will learn a LOT about how to take a smart strategy and then actually make it memorable and easy for everyone to implement.
So here is my conversation with my good friend – and soon to be yours – Chris Kempczinski.
57:5412/01/2023
3 More Questions (Dude Perfect) with David Novak and Koula Callahan
Welcome back to 3 More Questions, an episode series where we continue the conversation that we started last week with our featured guest. On this episode, we're talking about our interview with Tyler Toney and Coby Cotton, two of the Co-founders of Dude Perfect, in order to learn even more about how to prioritize quality over quantity.
If you want a simple plan to improve as a leader, you can get one here for free — https://howleaderslead.com/plan
10:1109/01/2023
#116: Dude Perfect Cofounders Ty and Coby – Quality over quantity
Today I’m talking with Tyler Toney and Coby Cotton, two of the five “dudes” who created Dude Perfect. They have racked up over 15 billion views on YouTube – yup, that’s billions, with a b – and have built an incredible business with live shows, merchandise, and more. And I gotta tell ya, my wife Wendy and I have been watching a ton of their videos to prep for this interview and I don’t think we’ve ever laughed so hard!
But behind all the trick shots and stereotype videos, Dude Perfect is a serious brand and a fast-growing company. These five friends have been partners for thirteen years – and in a space where attention tends to be pretty fleeting, that’s some serious longevity.
What I love is how they prioritize quality above quantity. They’re really selective whenever they vet content ideas and sponsorship opportunities. And that’s helped them build a brand that people truly trust and keep coming back to. If you want to build something that lasts, then keep listening, because boy, you are going to learn a ton.
So here is my conversation with my good friends – and soon to be yours – Ty and Coby from Dude Perfect!
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53:0705/01/2023
#115: The Best of 2022
With this being the last episode of 2022, we’re going to have some fun listening to and reflecting on some of the best insights from the podcast this year.
And I’ve gotta tell you, picking clips was as difficult for me as trying to pick my favorite day of the week to play golf! These episodes are all like my children — I love every one of them and they’ve all got great insights on business and leadership. But we had to choose, so let’s dig into some of the best insights of the year.
57:0129/12/2022
3 More Questions (Eric Wood) with David Novak and Koula Callahan
Welcome back to 3 More Questions, an episode series where we continue the conversation that we started last week with our featured guest. On this episode, we're talking about our interview with Eric Wood, the former NFL center for the Buffalo Bills and author of the great new book, Tackle What's Next, to learn even more about how to develop positive habits.
If you want a simple plan to improve as a leader, you can get one here for free — https://howleaderslead.com/plan
11:0226/12/2022
#114: Eric Wood, Former NFL center, Buffalo Bills – Develop Positive Habits
Well, my guest today is Eric Wood, who is a former NFL center for the Buffalo Bills. Eric was in the prime of his career in 2017 when he was forced to retire due to a neck injury.
Now, for a lot of people, that would have been an absolutely crushing blow. But as you’ll hear today, Eric has navigated this big life and career transition with an incredible positive mindset.
Now, let’s be honest, sometimes you talk to optimistic people and it’s all just puppies and rainbows. But Eric doesn’t ignore the tough stuff. He just has a different perspective on it. For him, things don’t happen to us, they happen for us. We can develop that mindset, too – by creating positive habits of gratitude, learning, and generosity.
You’re gonna be so encouraged by this conversation, especially if you’re going through any kind of transition right now. So here is my conversation with my good friend – and soon to be yours – Eric Wood.
57:3822/12/2022
3 More Questions (Lindsay Tjepkema) with David Novak and Koula Callahan
Welcome back to 3 More Questions, an episode series where we continue the conversation that we started last week with our featured guest. On this episode, we're talking about our interview with Lindsay Tjepkema, the Co-founder and CEO of Casted, to learn even more about how to focus on making a human connection in a data-driven world.
If you want a simple plan to improve as a leader, you can get one here for free — https://howleaderslead.com/plan
09:5719/12/2022
#113: Lindsay Tjepkema, Co-founder and CEO of Casted – Focus on connection
Well, my guest today is Lindsay Tjepkema, and she is the CEO and Co-founder of a company called Casted. Their whole mission is to help businesses understand the return they’re getting from podcasts and other amplified marketing channels.
Now, clearly you and I both love podcasts. And so does Lindsay. For her, they forge a connection like nothing else can. Every marketer needs to find ways to connect with customers on that human level.
And so does every leader.
When you focus on connection – both in your marketing and in your leadership – you’re gonna unlock a whole new level of trust and growth in your business. Lindsay is proof positive that it works. Plus, she’s got a ton of practical advice if you want to up your podcasting game!
So without further ado, here is my conversation with my good friend – and soon to be yours – Lindsay Tjepkema.
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If you want a simple plan to improve as a leader, you can get one here for free — https://howleaderslead.com/plan
40:1915/12/2022
3 More Questions (Steve Holmes) with David Novak and Koula Callahan
Welcome back to 3 More Questions, an episode series where we continue the conversation that we started last week with our featured guest. On this episode, we're talking about our interview with Steve Holmes, the Non-Executive Chairman of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts and Travel + Leisure Co., to learn even more about how to create consistency through your core values.
If you want a simple plan to improve as a leader, you can get one here for free — https://howleaderslead.com/plan
11:2112/12/2022
#112: Steve Holmes, Non-Executive Chairman of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts and Travel + Leisure Co. – Be consistent with core values
Today’s guest is Steve Holmes, the Non-Executive Chairman of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts and Travel + Leisure Co. When I think about Steve’s career, the word that comes to mind for me is consistency.
With Steve, you know what you’re going to get. He has a set of core values that he brings to any role. He has lived by them in every company he’s ever worked at, whether he’s crunching numbers in finance as the CFO or growing Wyndham as its Chief Executive Officer.
Steve reminds me that the truly great leaders I know aren’t just great for a while, or in one place, or only in good times. They consistently deliver excellence no matter what circumstances they’re in, and they do so in a way that’s consistent with the values they have. If you want to bring that same stability to your leadership, keep listening. Steve will show you how to be more consistent by defining your core values and then living them out.
So here is my conversation with my good friend – and soon to be yours – Steve Holmes.
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If you want a simple plan to improve as a leader, you can get one here for free — https://howleaderslead.com/plan
44:1408/12/2022
3 More Questions (David Gibbs) with David Novak and Koula Callahan
Welcome back to 3 More Questions, an episode series where we continue the conversation that we started last week with our featured guest. On this episode, we're talking about our interview with David Gibbs, the CEO of Yum! Brands, to learn even more about how to flip the script and move forward in tough situations.
If you want a simple plan to improve as a leader, you can get one here for free — https://howleaderslead.com/plan
15:2805/12/2022