The World Class Leaders Show: The CEO leadership podcast for leaders who solve big problems and build better futures. 221 - How Great CEOs Are Leading the AI Tsunami with Nancy Duarte
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In this episode of The World Class Leaders Show, host Andrea Petrone is joined by Nancy Duarte, CEO & Principal at Duarte, Inc. and author of six bestselling books. Known for transforming how leaders communicate, Nancy shares how CEOs can lead in the era of AI by becoming strategic, authentic communicators. She explains how to use AI to drive both efficiency and creativity, why clear messaging is essential during change, and how to build a strong leadership presence that inspires trust. Nancy also reflects on her own leadership journey and the importance of empathy and values in shaping a high-performing culture.
Nancy shares how CEOs can lead with confidence in a fast-changing world shaped by AI and rising complexity. She explains why leaders must understand AI at a deep level and use it across the whole business, not just for small tasks. Nancy highlights the growing need for strong communication, showing how leaders can build trust through clear, authentic messages. She also talks about the importance of storytelling, emotional connection, and adapting communication to different teams. Throughout the conversation, she offers real insights and practical tools leaders can use to guide change, reduce resistance, and grow with purpose.
- Why CEOs must lead AI efforts instead of leaving them to others
- How to use AI to improve both productivity and creativity at work.
- The role of authentic communication in building trust and clarity.
- Ways to prepare for resistance and guide teams through change.
- How strong values and culture can support performance and growth.
👉 Check out her Books: https://www.duarte.com/resources/books/
👉 Check out her Newsletter: https://www.duarte.com/help-contact/newsletter/
[00:00] - Teaser and Introduction of Nancy Duarte
[02:21] - Why AI is a tsunami that CEOs must lead through
[04:06] - Using AI for both productivity and creative value
[06:38] - How CEOs can build a strong AI-driven business
[14:28] - What separates world-class leaders from the rest
[16:49] - Preparing for resistance and gaining buy-in through story
[21:19] - How to cascade communication across the company
[26:42] - Nancy’s shift from founder to visionary CEO
[34:45] - Balancing values and performance for long-term success
[37:08] - Final advice for CEOs to lead with empathy and clarity
Follow Our Guest Nancy Duarte:
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancyduarte/
- Twitter (X): https://x.com/nancyduarte
- Duarte, Inc.: https://www.linkedin.com/company/duarte-design/
Follow our Host Andrea Petrone on:
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreapetrone
- Website: https://www.andreapetrone.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andreapetrone_x/
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⭐If you're leading a team or driving change, this talk with Nancy Duarte offers powerful lessons on using AI wisely, communicating with impact, and leading with empathy in today’s fast-moving business world.