Wisdom From The Top with Guy Raz

Ken Hicks, former CEO of Foot Locker and current head of Academy Sports + Outdoors, shares his journey of revitalizing Foot Locker during the recession. He reveals how storytelling transformed the brand's connection with customers beyond product-centric approaches. Hicks discusses his transition from military leadership to retail, the importance of adapting to consumer behavior, and creating unique in-store experiences. He emphasizes the value of securing exclusive partnerships, like those with Nike, as a strategic edge in an evolving market.

In this engaging discussion, Josh Silverman, a turnaround expert and CEO of Etsy, reveals how he revived the company from the brink of collapse in 2017. He shares invaluable insights on transformative leadership during crises, emphasizing the importance of focusing on key metrics and empowering teams. Josh recounts his strategic decision-making from his past roles at Evite and eBay, highlighting the balance between innovation and sustainability. The conversation also delves into Etsy's core values and the importance of aligning personal beliefs with business goals.

Kim Scott, a management coach and author of 'Radical Candor' and 'Just Work,' shares her transformative insights on leadership. She discusses the need for honesty and emotional support in building effective teams, especially in a post-pandemic work culture. Kim tackles the complexities of performance conversations, emphasizing balance between direct feedback and genuine care. She reflects on her experience at Google, revealing how radical candor fosters empowerment and creativity in workplace dynamics. Get ready for engaging stories and practical advice on inspiring individuals!

David Epstein, author of "The Sports Gene" and "Range," dives into the advantages of being a generalist in a world that often favors specialization. He shares his journey from an aspiring athlete to a bestselling author, highlighting how diverse experiences foster adaptability and success. Epstein discusses the myths surrounding the 10,000-hour rule and the importance of genetics in mastering skills. He also emphasizes the need for parenting that encourages exploration of varied interests, promoting curiosity as a vital component of personal growth.

Peter Cuneo, the former CEO who revitalized Marvel Entertainment from bankruptcy to a lucrative Disney acquisition, shares his journey and insights. He discusses the art of admitting mistakes in leadership and how vulnerability fosters loyalty. Cuneo reveals his 32 leadership principles, emphasizing transparency and emotional maturity. He recounts Marvel's transformation, highlighting innovative strategies that unlocked its potential and changed the landscape of cinematic storytelling. Tune in for lessons in turnaround leadership and the power of a strong corporate culture.

Hubert Joly, former CEO of Best Buy, is a seasoned leader known for his success in business turnarounds. He discusses the challenges Best Buy faced in 2012, including a staggering $1.7 billion loss and fierce competition from online retailers. Joly shares his people-first strategy that prioritizes collaboration over profits and the transformative 'Renew Blue' plan aimed at revitalizing retail. He also emphasizes the importance of empathy in customer service and the evolving dynamics of leadership, including a significant gender shift in corporate roles.

In this engaging discussion, Roger Martin, a renowned management consultant and former Dean of the Rotman School of Management, shares insights on integrative thinking. He challenges the obsession with efficiency, linking it to economic inequality. Martin emphasizes the need for leaders to embrace creativity and holistic decision-making over conventional analysis. He also critiques existing economic systems, advocating for capitalistic strategies that prioritize stakeholder welfare and educational models that foster critical thinking in future leaders.

Arnold Donald, former CEO of Carnival Corporation, is recognized for his adept leadership during a crisis-laden era. He emphasizes the necessity of a diverse leadership team, believing that 'diversity of thinking' fuels innovation. Donald shares transformative lessons from his childhood and career, detailing how resilience shaped his path. He reflects on navigating challenges in the cruise industry and the importance of adapting to crises while fostering an inclusive culture. His journey represents a blend of corporate triumph and personal growth, culminating in impactful philanthropy.

Dan Schulman, President and CEO of PayPal, is a champion of social justice and employee well-being. He discusses halting plans for a new operations center in response to discriminatory legislation, emphasizing that activism boosts, rather than harms, company performance. Schulman shares insights from his career journey and tackles how corporations must evolve from rhetoric to action in addressing social issues. He highlights significant initiatives aimed at fostering equity and supporting minority businesses, demonstrating the intersection of values and business success.

General Stanley McChrystal, a retired four-star general known for leading Allied Forces in Afghanistan, shares powerful insights on leadership forged through personal failure. He discusses the evolution of military leadership post-9/11, emphasizing how self-doubt can enhance decision-making. With anecdotes from his time at West Point and the impact of his controversial resignation, he highlights the importance of adaptability, empathy, and accountability. McChrystal argues that embracing failure is crucial for growth, leading to effective and resilient leadership.