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

In this engaging discussion, Alex Edmans, a Professor of Finance at London Business School and author, critiques the narratives around diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). He highlights how flawed data interpretations and biases skew corporate strategies. Edmans warns against reliance on correlation-based studies, emphasizing issues like reverse causality and omitted variable biases. He advocates for a broader view of diversity that incorporates unique experiences over superficial traits, while also addressing the challenges faced by dissenters in academics and consulting.

Tim Koller, co-author of Valuation and a corporate finance expert, explores vital strategies for capital allocation in today's economic climate. He discusses how share buybacks can reflect disciplined decision-making, not failure. Koller highlights the risks of diversifying without a competitive advantage, drawing on historical missteps in various sectors. He emphasizes the role of CEOs in direct capital allocation and warns against neglecting long-term investments in favor of short-term gains, advocating for transparency and learning from prior project failures.

James Turk, an executive coach and CEO of The Turk Group, dives into the essence of impactful leadership. He shares insights on the shift from 'getting' to 'giving' in leadership, revealing why clarity and second chances are vital. James discusses the challenges of imposter syndrome and perfectionism, offering advice on redefining success. His personal journey, including the motivations behind his book, The Giving Game, underscores the power of empathy in leadership. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone aspiring to lead authentically.

Hernan Tagliani, a multicultural marketing expert and award-winning strategist for Fortune 500 companies, dives into the critical intersection of culture and commerce. He argues that many brands miss long-term growth by neglecting multicultural strategies and misconceptions about Hispanic consumers. Hernan emphasizes the concept of 'transcreation' over mere translation and shares success stories of building trust with communities. He also discusses the evolving role of AI in achieving cultural relevance and the importance of risk-taking in personal and professional growth.

Bill Canady, CEO of OTC Industrial Technologies and Arrowhead Engineered Products, discusses his military discipline and strategic mindset in leading billion-dollar companies. He emphasizes the importance of 80/20 thinking to stabilize businesses and why doing fewer things with intent drives growth. Canady shares insights on organizational success through a leadership triangle and the necessity of saying no to good ideas for greater outcomes. He also highlights how AI can assist leaders in focusing on critical areas while valuing human judgment.

Dean Carignan, co-author of The Insider’s Guide to Innovation at Microsoft, has spent two decades shaping AI strategy at the tech giant. He discusses the importance of a mindset for innovation beyond just processes, emphasizing that creativity thrives in the spaces between disciplines. His insights highlight how AI enhances productivity and transforms work, allowing individuals to focus on meaningful tasks. Carignan also shares the power of storytelling in fostering innovation and reveals why mission-driven work often surpasses financial incentives in attracting talent.

Matthew Dixon, Founding Partner of DCM Insights and bestselling author, dives into his latest research on the changing landscape of professional services. He reveals the 'Activator' profile of business developers who create client value proactively. Traditional trusted advisor roles are becoming obsolete, as personal value and genuine connections take precedence. Dixon discusses how AI and tech can enhance client relationships while emphasizing grassroots efforts in organizational behavior change. Discover the mindset shifts that can redefine your approach to client engagement!

Ken Rusk, a nine-figure entrepreneur and author of *Blue Collar Cash*, shares his journey from ditch digger to successful CEO. He emphasizes the importance of aligning personal dreams with corporate growth, fostering a culture of ownership among employees. Ken discusses how empowering workers as goal-setters has driven company momentum and why relinquishing control transformed his leadership style. He also reflects on finding comfort and peace in work and life, offering insights on loyalty and proactive leadership strategies.

JoAnn Garbin, former Director of Innovation at Microsoft Cloud and founder of Regenerous Labs, discusses how innovation thrives in collaboration rather than through individual brilliance. She emphasizes the need for community and trust in sustainable innovation, sharing insights on navigating workplace politics and building political capital. JoAnn draws from her experiences, including a life-altering cancer diagnosis, to illustrate the importance of adaptability and embracing risk. She also highlights the power of AI in democratizing creativity and making innovation accessible to all.

Hrund Gunnsteinsdóttir, an award-winning sustainability leader and Yale fellow, discusses the power of intuition in leadership. She shares her transformative experience in post-conflict Kosovo, where she confronted burnout and rediscovered her inner clarity. Hrund emphasizes that intuition isn’t the enemy of reason but a vital complement to it. Listeners learn how to distinguish between intuition and ego, utilize attention journaling, and foster workplace cultures that embrace intuitive decision-making. This conversation is a refreshing reminder that listening deeply can lead to powerful insights.