The Innovation Show

Sally Susman - Breaking Through

Jul 12, 2024

Author Sally Susman discusses the power of communication, sharing insights from her career at top companies like Pfizer and Estee Lauder. Topics include the misconception of communication as a soft skill, the importance of gratitude, challenges in the pharmaceutical industry, and innovative leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic.

01:00:48

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Episode guests

Sally Susman

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

Effective communication is a key competency for leadership success, not just a soft skill.

Authentic outreach and personal connection are vital in communication strategies for building relationships.

Expressing gratitude through personal gestures fosters connections and goodwill in professional interactions.

Deep dives

Importance of Communication as a Hard Competency

Communication is no longer considered a soft skill but a rock-hard competency essential for leadership. Sally Sussman emphasizes the significance of communication skills by drawing on her extensive experience supporting CEOs and working with elected leaders. Through her book, she shares insights on how effective communication can shift paradigms and drive success in various fields.

Intro

3min

Empathy and Gratitude in Communication

13min

Analyzing Effective Pitching and Psychological Safety in Innovation and Politics

4min

Exploring the Significance of Psychological Safety and Pitching in Organizations

3min

Navigating Humor in the Workplace

6min

Innovation, Risk-Taking, and Inspiring Change in the Pharmaceutical Industry

32min

The Power of Communication: Insights from Sally Susman, Author of 'Breaking Through'

In this episode, Aiden welcomes Sally Susman, author of 'Breaking Through: Communicating to Open Minds, Move Hearts, and Change the World' to discuss the vital role of communication in professional and personal settings. Sally shares insights from her extensive career, including her experiences working with top leaders at Pfizer, Estee Lauder, and American Express. The discussion explores the misconception of communication as a soft skill, the importance of authentic outreach, the power of gratitude, and Susman's innovative approaches during the COVID-19 pandemic. Sally also emphasises curiosity, creativity, and intentionality as key components for effective communication. Throughout the episode, real-life anecdotes and practical advice offer listeners valuable lessons on leadership and connection.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:39 The Importance of Communication

03:24 Lessons from Estee Lauder

06:09 Personal Background and Family Influence

08:51 The Power of Gratitude

13:15 Perfecting Your Pitch

23:02 Humour in the Workplace

29:36 Challenges at Pfizer

32:03 Facing the Biopharma Reputation Challenge

33:37 The Pandemic's Impact and New Leadership

35:02 Albert Bourla's Bold Vision

36:30 Revolutionising Vaccine Development

37:25 The Media's Role in the Journey

38:55 Pfizer's Transformation and Recognition

40:46 Innovative Leadership and Personal Growth

49:30 Curiosity and Creativity in Action

56:47 The Power of Intentionality

58:46 Concluding Thoughts and Inspirations

Find Sally here: https://www.sallysusman.com/media/

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The Innovation Show

Sally Susman - Breaking Through

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

Deep dives

Importance of Communication as a Hard Competency

Authenticity in Communication and Influencer Voices

The Power of Gratitude and Thank You Notes

Embracing Innovation through Curiosity and Creativity

Inspiring Intentionality and Curiosity

Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts