American Banker Podcast 'Optimism is a moral duty': Paul Achleitner
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Dec 30, 2025 
In this conversation, Paul Achleitner, former chairman of Deutsche Bank and Goldman Sachs partner, shares insights from his leadership book. He suggests that optimism is crucial for progress and must be coupled with action. Paul emphasizes learning from past crises instead of hypothetical scenarios and the importance of integrity in leadership. He also discusses the delicate balance between visionary and operational leadership, advocating for modest yet genuine corporate values, and the need for companies to build legitimacy in the era of misinformation.
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Year In America Changed His Path
- Paul Achleitner spent a year in Grand Rapids, Michigan as a teen which shifted his outlook toward the American dream.
- That experience motivated him to study in the U.S. and ultimately emigrate there for career opportunities.
Experience Is Personal But Transferable Via Catalysts
- You cannot transfer your personal experience directly to others but you can accelerate theirs with the right catalysts.
- Reflective questioning and presenting observations speed up learning for both mentors and mentees.
Use Real Crises For Better Scenario Learning
- Learn from real crises your organization has experienced instead of only running theoretical war games.
- Use those past, touchy examples to extract practical lessons and improve future responses.