The Strategy Skills Podcast: Strategy | Leadership | Critical Thinking | Problem-Solving

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Tiffany Moon, a board-certified anesthesiologist, entrepreneur, and former reality TV star, shares insights on balancing ambition, motherhood, and public scrutiny. She discusses overcoming perfectionism and the emotional challenges high-achieving women face. Tiffany emphasizes the importance of asking for help as a strength and choosing presence over perfection in her parenting and career. She also reflects on how her reality TV experience shaped her identity and advocates for authenticity and self-care in today’s demanding world.

Mark Matson, founder of Matson Money and an innovator in evidence-based investing, discusses the pitfalls of traditional financial advice. He reveals how many investors are misled by Wall Street and the psychology that drives poor decisions. Mark emphasizes the transformative power of storytelling and the value in 'doing nothing' during market volatility. He also reflects on a life-changing medical experience that reshaped his views on purpose, relationships, and ethical investing, urging a shift towards aligning financial strategies with personal values.

Bernard Harris, the first African American astronaut to walk in space, shares his inspiring journey from dreamer to pioneering astronaut. He recounts the exhilaration of space shuttle launches and the peculiar challenges of microgravity. Harris emphasizes the significance of resilience and embracing one's inner strength. His reflections on viewing Earth from space highlight our shared humanity and the transformative power of self-discovery. Through his book, he encourages listeners to conquer fear and unlock their highest potential.

Welcome to Strategy Skills episode 546, an interview with the authors of Radical Listening: The Art of True Connection, Prof. Christian van Nieuwerburgh and Dr. Robert Biswas-Diener.   Most conversations barely scratch the surface, because true connection isn’t just about hearing words, it’s about listening with purpose and presence.   In this episode, Prof. Christian van Nieuwerburgh and Dr. Robert Biswas-Diener introduce the concept of Radical Listening: an intentional, culturally aware approach to making others feel seen, heard, and valued. Drawing from their research and coaching experiences, they explain why our intentions behind listening matter just as much as the act itself and how distractions, politeness, and even the need to be right can undermine true connection. They share practical strategies leaders can use to build stronger teams, navigate conflict, and create space for deeper conversations, even across cultural differences.   Prof. Christian van Nieuwerburgh (PhD) is a leading academic and executive coach with an international reputation. He is Professor of Coaching and Positive Psychology at RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences (Ireland) and Principal Fellow at the Centre for Wellbeing Science at the University of Melbourne (Australia). Christian delivers consultancy, training, and executive coaching globally, regularly presenting in the United States, the United Kingdom, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and the Middle East. He is passionate about motorcycling, writing, and coaching.   Dr. Robert Biswas-Diener is a researcher, author, and consultant with 75 peer-reviewed academic articles and over 27,000 citations. His previous books include The Upside of Your Dark Side (New York Times bestseller, 2014) and the 2007 PROSE Award winner, Happiness. He has presented keynotes to Lululemon, Deloitte, Humana, AARP, the World Bank, and others. In 2024, Thinkers50 named Robert one of the “50 most influential executive coaches in the world.” He lives in Portland, Oregon, and enjoys drawing and rock climbing.   Get Radical Listening here: https://rb.gy/z5x7wt   Here are some free gifts for you: Overall Approach Used in Well-Managed Strategy Studies free download: www.firmsconsulting.com/OverallApproach   McKinsey & BCG winning resume free download: www.firmsconsulting.com/resumepdf   Enjoying this episode? Get access to sample advanced training episodes here: www.firmsconsulting.com/promo  

In this discussion, Eric Cole, a cybersecurity expert and former CIA hacker, shares his unique journey into tech entrepreneurship. He emphasizes the necessity of understanding patterns in both cybersecurity and business strategy. Cole discusses the vital importance of intellectual property protection for businesses and the crucial role of human judgment in cybersecurity, especially with AI's rise. He also highlights the significance of data-driven decision-making while maintaining ethical practices, and the impact of personal health on professional success.

What can a $2B concert tour teach us about business strategy? Quite a lot. We often speak about innovation and reinvention in the corporate world. Yet, few embody it as consistently and successfully as the artist and strategist Taylor Swift. In this episode, I spoke with Kevin Evers, Senior Editor at Harvard Business Review and author of There’s Nothing Like This: The Strategic Genius of Taylor Swift. Kevin brings a rare perspective, someone who has quietly shaped the voices of influential business thinkers over nearly two decades, now stepping into authorship himself. Kevin shares insights from his new book on Taylor Swift, noting her strategic decision-making and marketing tactics that led her to where she is today. He stresses the value of trust and consistency in building a brand, citing Taylor Swift's $2 billion Eras Tour and her 2% market share in 2024. Kevin also underscores how Taylor treats her fans, leveraging fan engagement for marketing success, and how we can adopt it in the business world.   Get Kevin’s book here: https://rb.gy/il50j1 There's Nothing Like This: The Strategic Genius of Taylor Swift   Here are some free gifts for you: Overall Approach Used in Well-Managed Strategy Studies free download: www.firmsconsulting.com/OverallApproach   McKinsey & BCG winning resume free download: www.firmsconsulting.com/resumepdf   Enjoying this episode? Get access to sample advanced training episodes here: www.firmsconsulting.com/promo

Elizabeth Husserl, co-founder of Peak 360 Wealth Management and author of The Power of Enough, discusses how true wealth extends beyond financial success. She challenges the conventional view of money as the ultimate goal, emphasizing fulfillment and meaningful relationships instead. Elizabeth introduces the concept of 'financial DNA' and the emotional triggers that influence our money decisions. She provides practical tools for transforming your relationship with money through mindfulness and reflection, aiming for a richer life experience.

In this engaging discussion, Sébastien Page, Chief Investment Officer at T. Rowe Price and author of The Psychology of Leadership, shares insights from his two decades of leadership experience. He unpacks the PERMA model, illustrating how positive psychology can enhance organizational success. Sébastien delves into the motivations of billionaires, revealing that true success goes beyond wealth. He emphasizes the importance of active listening and patience in effective leadership, along with daily habits that foster well-being.

Faisal Hoque, an award-winning entrepreneur and bestselling author, discusses his journey from software development to impactful leadership. He shares how Eastern philosophy, particularly Buddhism, influences his approach to business. Faisal also opens up about a transformative family experience that reshaped his views on priority and purpose. The conversation highlights the complex relationship between AI and humanity, emphasizing the need for ethical tech use and personal growth. Practical tips for incorporating mindfulness and discipline into daily life round out this insightful dialogue.

Wes Adams, Founder and CEO of SV Consulting Group, and Tamara Myles, a consultant and author, delve into the essence of meaningful work. They share insights on creating a purpose-driven workplace, emphasizing community and engagement. The duo discusses the application of positive psychology, exploring strategies like gratitude and growth mindset. They also touch on the role of AI in enhancing job satisfaction and the importance of understanding generational differences, particularly focusing on the unique perspectives of Gen Z in the workplace.