Christopher Lochhead Follow Your Different™

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, Israeli Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Sharren Haskel joins us to discuss the rapidly evolving regional dynamics, the impact of October 7th, and the broader implications for Western democracies facing the challenges posed by radical ideologies and political inaction. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go.   Sharren Haskel on the Rising Extremism and Western Political Paralysis Deputy Minister Haskel’s personal story and her reflections on recent attacks in places like Australia, the UK, and across Europe, reveal a growing concern about the unchecked rise of extremism and anti-Semitism in historically tolerant Western societies. Drawing on her years in Australia and the tragedy at Bondi Beach, Haskel expressed her deep shock and frustration over the persistent inaction by local governments in the face of escalating hate crimes against Jewish communities. According to Haskel, the roots of this problem go far beyond foreign policy. She attributes much of the inaction to internal politics and the pursuit of re-election, wherein politicians seek to appease immigrant communities that often arrive with deeply ingrained cultural prejudices, including anti-Semitism, from the Middle East. She criticized governments in Australia, Canada, and the UK for failing to enforce clear boundaries against hate speech and violent incitement. Instead, she argued, there has been a pattern of rhetorical condemnation without concrete protective measures, resulting in what she described as an environment where radicalization can flourish unchecked and Jewish communities are left vulnerable.   The October 7th Attack and Israel’s Existential Resolve The conversation turned to the profound impact of October 7th, 2025, an event described as the largest and most brutal attack on Jews since the Holocaust. Haskel recounted the collective mourning and soul-searching that swept Israel, as well as a wave of determination to prevent such atrocities from ever happening again. For Haskel and many Israelis, the attack was not only an unspeakable tragedy but also a moment of disappointment in their generation’s promise to uphold the creed of “never again.” Yet, from the aftermath of horror emerged a powerful sense of resolve. Lochhead remarked that Israel appeared stronger after the attack, not weaker. Haskel recounted how, rather than fleeing, tens of thousands of Israelis and Jews from around the world returned to the country to support its defense. She described this as a pivotal moment, a ‘make it or break it’ scenario in which Israel had to repel attacks from multiple fronts—Hamas, Hezbollah, and hostile forces backed by Iran from Syria, Iraq, and Yemen. The attacks were not only aimed at Jews but also targeted Christians, Muslims, and citizens from various nations, further underscoring the broader threat posed by radical groups.   Iran’s Uprising and the Global Stakes for Freedom As the Iranian regime confronted an unprecedented uprising (sparked by years of repression, economic hardship, and the regime’s violent response), international attention intensified. Haskel spoke of thousands of Iranians killed or missing, the regime shutting down the internet, and the desperate situation faced by protesters, many of whom were being shot or abducted in broad daylight. Despite threats from Tehran aimed at both Israel and the United States, the Israeli government has maintained a cautious but attentive stance, recognizing both the risks and opportunities presented by the unrest. For Haskel, the Iranian regime stands as the foremost threat to global freedom, having long exported terror and repression while suppressing its own people. She called for solidarity among all who value democracy, emphasizing that the fall of the regime would be a victory for human rights, women’s rights, and the pursuit of liberty everywhere. Despite the cautious approach taken by Israel and its allies, she noted that the most vital pressure must come from within Iran, recalling the historic example of the Shah, who fled under international but primarily popular pressure. The world now stands on the verge of profound change, as old certainties crumble and new alliances and realities emerge. Haskel’s message for Iran’s protesters was clear: though international support matters, lasting liberation rests on the courage and resilience of the Iranian people themselves. The lesson for the broader international community is that the defense of freedom requires vigilance, unity, and unflinching resolve, both against external enemies and the creeping dangers within democratic societies. As the fate of the Iranian uprising, and indeed the region, hangs in the balance, the stakes extend far beyond the Middle East. The choices made by leaders and citizens alike will shape the future not only of a region in turmoil but of the democratic world as a whole. To hear more from Sharren Haskel and the current state of affairs in the world, download and listen to this episode.    Bio Sharren Haskel is an Israeli politician serving as Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs since 2024. She has been a member of the Knesset since 2015, initially with Likud, later joining New Hope and National Unity. A combat veteran of the IDF’s Border Police during the Second Intifada, she previously worked as a veterinary nurse in Australia. Haskel holds a degree in political science and international relations. Known for her liberal-conservative stance, she champions free markets, civil liberties, and environmental causes. She is a prominent advocate for Israel’s international relations and UNRWA reform.   Links Connect with Sharren Haskel X (formerly Twitter)   We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and subscribe on Apple Podcast / Spotify!

In a captivating conversation, Joe Pine, a legendary business thinker and co-author of The Experience Economy, shares his inspiring journey from a young nerd at IBM to a pioneer in mass customization. He discusses the transition from tech to management, the impact of his MIT experience, and how he positioned himself as an authority in customer intimacy. Joe highlights the significance of writing in building intellectual capital and offers advice for aspiring creator-capitalists to embrace transformation and leverage AI as a co-creator.

In this engaging discussion, Christopher Lochhead, a category design pioneer and author, shares his insights on the demise of traditional knowledge work in the age of AI. He introduces the concept of 'creator capitalists,' emphasizing the need to create new knowledge rather than just applying existing information. The conversation delves into strategies for quick market entry, the importance of bold pricing to declare value, and how podcasts serve as powerful platforms for authentic dialogue. Lochhead's ideas challenge listeners to focus on being different, not just better.

Christopher Lochhead, a pioneering category design expert and founder of Follow Your Different, cautions businesses against the dangerous 'existing market trap.' He argues that simply adding AI features to old products won't ensure success and may lead to mediocrity. Lochhead emphasizes the importance of designing new market categories using AI, proposing that true innovation requires companies to be AI-first rather than relying on superficial enhancements. His bold insights challenge listeners to rethink their approach to AI and the future of business.

Join John Donovan, former AT&T CEO and tech visionary, as he shares insights from his pivotal role in launching the iPhone and shaping modern technology. He discusses the current AI revolution, dubbing it an industrial age, and highlights the balance between timing and technology in leadership. Donovan also compares the infrastructure needs of AI to those during the iPhone’s launch, predicts the rise of technical CEOs, and emphasizes the importance of empathy in teaching complex AI concepts. His optimism about the future underscores the potential for innovation and learning.

Ted Dintersmith, an education innovator and filmmaker, dives into the flaws of America’s education system, critiquing its focus on standardized tests over real-world readiness. He shares insights from his documentary, ‘Multiple Choice,’ advocating for schools to prepare students for life, not just college. Dintersmith discusses the transformative potential of community-driven innovation centers that emphasize hands-on learning, career readiness, and the responsible use of AI, cautioning that without reform, graduates face an uncertain future.

In this discussion, Captain Benaya Cherlow, an Israeli-American reservist and veteran of Gaza and Lebanon, shares his unique perspective on the complexities of conflict and identity. Cherlow reflects on the emotional toll of October 7th and the moral dilemmas faced on the battlefield. He recounts discoveries of hidden Hezbollah armaments in Lebanon and grapples with the challenging tactics of urban warfare in Gaza. Cherlow emphasizes the need for internal reform in Gaza and highlights Israel's technological innovations as key to shaping a more favorable narrative.

In this engaging conversation, Tien Tzuo, founder and former CEO of Zuora and a pioneer in the subscription economy, shares insights on category creation and entrepreneurial grit. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing technological shifts and the need for bold storytelling to shape new markets. Tien also discusses the advantages of the subscription model for businesses and consumers, the significance of a founder’s narrative, and how AI is reshaping problem-solving in the industry. His journey highlights how persistence and communication can overcome skepticism.

When it comes to startup success, few voices are as insightful as Rich Hagberg and Tien Tzuo. On this episode of “Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different,” these two innovators unveiled the complex tapestry of traits, behaviors, and pitfalls that define great founders. With decades of psychological research and hands-on experience in the tech ecosystem, they’ve distilled their findings in their new book, Founders, Keepers: Why Founders Are Built to Fail and What It Takes to Succeed. This lively, honest conversation goes far beyond the usual business platitudes, aiming to equip listeners, whether aspiring entrepreneurs, seasoned founders, or investors, with tools for self-awareness, adaptability, and ultimately, building companies that last. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go.   The Double-Edged Sword of Founders: Why Strengths Can Be Weaknesses One of the core insights that Hagberg and Tzuo bring forward is the “double-edged sword” nature of founder psychology. Successful founders often possess massive vision and creative drive, seeing the future before others do and inspiring teams with almost evangelical zeal. Yet, these very strengths can morph into ticking time bombs as companies grow. Founders are frequently high in vision but far less gifted in execution or relationship building. Hagberg’s decades of data, including 50+ measured personality elements and 46 leadership competencies, reveal consistent patterns: founders often struggle to manage and scale companies beyond their own shadow. As Hagberg observes, those strong on visionary skills can be “allergic to structure,” resisting the very systems and processes that enable growth and stability. Tien Tzuo, drawing on his own journey as a founder, recounts the moment when his company started unraveling as it outgrew his initial hands-on approach. The culture suffered, teams fragmented, and productivity declined. Only by honestly confronting his own leadership shortcomings and seeking help from coaches like Hagberg, was he able to pivot and build an organization beyond himself. The lesson is clear: self-awareness is not optional; it’s the foundation for sustainable success.   The Critical Role of Self-Awareness, Adaptability, and “Recovering Founders” Delving deeper, Lochhead, Hagberg, and Tzuo discuss a trait that repeatedly separates successful founders from those destined to “blow up”: brutal, reflective self-awareness. Hagberg’s research shows that founders who actively seek feedback, reflect on both successes and failures, and are open to learning are dramatically more successful than their peers. It’s not just about innate curiosity; it’s about the willingness to recognize weakness, hire complementary strengths, and genuinely adapt as the organization matures. This journey often requires what the guests jokingly call becoming a “recovering founder,” someone who learns the hard way that vision alone won’t scale an enterprise. The most successful founders are those who create adaptable organizations, listen keenly to advisors and employees, and deliberately build processes for collective decision-making. They reserve their opinions in meetings, choosing instead to solicit diverse viewpoints before weighing in; a counterintuitive move that leads to more honest conversations and smarter strategy. The inability to adapt, on the other hand, is lethal. Data from Hagberg’s cohorts shows that unsuccessful founders are consistently more egotistical and stubborn, craving to be right over being successful and cultivating environments where disagreement is stifled. This leads to what Hagberg terms “sunflower bias”; teams that simply turn to follow the founder, rather than challenging assumptions or uncovering blind spots.   Building Teams, Accountability, and the Myth of the Asshole Genius Rich and Tien are passionate about debunking the myth that great founders succeed by being abrasive, arrogant, or ruthlessly self-serving. Media coverage of figures like Jobs or Musk often focuses on tempestuous behavior, but Hagberg’s research tells a different story: the truly successful founders are team builders, not lone wolves. They recognize that the success of their companies will ultimately ride on their ability to work through others, to coach and empower executives who compensate for their own gaps. This doesn’t mean abdication; delegation must be paired with ongoing accountability and support. Effective founders, they argue, are clear about their standards but also present to lend a hand or coach when their teams hit roadblocks. This blend of challenge and support builds resilient organizations freed from the chaos that can follow a purely top-down leadership style. To hear more from Rich Hagberg and Tien Tzuo about Founders and how one can avoid the pitfalls of Entrepreneurship, download and listen to this episode.   Bio Rich Hagberg Rich Hagberg is the co-author of Founders, Keepers, a compelling exploration of leadership, resilience, and the inner journey of entrepreneurship. With decades of experience guiding executives and innovators, he blends practical wisdom with deep psychological insight to help founders navigate the personal and professional challenges of building lasting companies. As a trusted advisor and coach, Rich has worked with leaders across industries, shaping cultures that foster growth, creativity, and authentic connection. His unique approach integrates business strategy with mindfulness and self-awareness, empowering individuals to lead with clarity and purpose. Through his writing and speaking, Rich inspires entrepreneurs to align vision with values. Founders, Keepers distills these lessons into an engaging narrative, offering guidance for those who seek not only to create successful ventures but to sustain their own well-being and integrity. Tien Tzuo Tien Tzuo, acclaimed co-author of Founders, Keepers, is a visionary entrepreneur and respected thought leader in the subscription economy. Best known as the founder and CEO of Zuora, he has helped redefine how companies build recurring revenue models, drawing on decades of experience at the forefront of technology and innovation. In Founders, Keepers, Tien shares powerful insights on leadership, culture, and the enduring commitment required to build companies that last. His writing blends practical guidance with stories from his own journey scaling global businesses. A sought-after speaker and mentor, Tien inspires founders to stay true to their mission while adapting to change, fostering organizations that thrive for generations.   Links Connect with Rich Hagberg & Tien Tzuo! Rich Hagberg Hagberg Consulting Website | LinkedIn | Medium Tien Tzuo Zuora Website | LinkedIn | Medium Check out Founders, Keepers on Amazon Books!    We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and subscribe on Apple Podcast / Spotify!      

Monroe Jones, a Grammy-winning producer, dives deep into his eclectic journey in the music industry, from DIY studios in Alabama to working with legends like U2 and Stevie Nicks. He shares his philosophy of 'slow dopamine'—a commitment to long-term passion over quick wins. Monroe reflects on the transformative power of obsession and generosity in creativity. With practical advice for aspiring artists, he emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and cultivating one's unique voice to forge a meaningful, enduring career.