Wisdom From The Top with Guy Raz

Leadership expert Bill George, ex-CEO of Medtronic, discusses his journey from corporate CEO to academic leadership, emphasizing empowerment over exerting power. He shares insights on innovative medical breakthroughs at Medtronic and the importance of navigating crises through financial resilience. The conversation also touches on the changing landscape of workforce expectations, societal challenges, and the impact of authentic leadership.

John Acuff, author and speaker, discusses the surprising solution to overthinking in his book 'Soundtracks'. He explores the impact of setting fun goals, embracing humor in communication, and breaking negative thinking patterns. The conversation touches on leadership development, mastering tasks, and the journey towards success.

David Novak, co-founder of YUM! Brands Inc., shares insights on inclusive leadership, empowering employees, recognizing contributions, and the rise and fall of Crystal Pepsi. He discusses transforming company culture, leadership training, and his philanthropic endeavors.

Former Avon CEO and current CEO of Grameen America, Andrea Jung, discusses the importance of failing forward, taking risks, and learning from challenges. She shares insights on empowering women entrepreneurs, navigating business obstacles, and reinventing leadership strategies for success.

Author Morten Hansen, in an engaging conversation with Guy Raz, discusses how top performers achieve more by working less. They explore the myth of overwork equating to excellence, emphasizing the importance of setting limits and focusing on essential tasks. Hansen's research findings on performance efficiency over long hours are thought-provoking, challenging traditional work norms for success.

Author and consultant Maria Ross discusses how empathy can be a successful business strategy, not just a moral act. She highlights the importance of empathy in leadership, problem-solving, and fostering collaboration. The podcast explores examples of organizations implementing empathy for innovation and profitability, and the significance of transparent communication and understanding customer needs for long-term success.

Explorer Erling Kagge shares insights on the value of failure and silence from extreme exploration. Topics include childhood experiences with jazz musicians, dyslexia, conquering the Three Poles Challenge, and the importance of silence in leadership and self-discovery.

Jeff Jones, seasoned executive, shares insights on crisis management at H&R Block, Uber, and Target. From Target data breach to leading H&R Block during economic downturn and pandemic, Jeff's journey showcases resilience, effective communication, and transparency in navigating crises. Highlights include his transition from ad guy to marketer, Target's transformation, and challenges in the transportation and financial sectors. Jeff emphasizes the importance of leadership qualities and transparency during crisis management.

Target's CEO, Brian Cornell, discusses his journey in transforming the struggling retailer into a lasting brand. Topics include navigating retail challenges, reinventing the company, making effective business decisions, investing in in-store experience, and staying grounded in the evolving retail landscape.

Sarah Robb O'Hagan, known for transforming Gatorade after facing career failures, shares her journey. From getting fired at Virgin to leading successful marketing campaigns at Nike and Gatorade. She reveals the challenges of rebranding Gatorade post-acquisition and the importance of resilience in overcoming business hurdles.