The Learning Leader Show With Ryan Hawk

Vanessa Van Edwards, a behavioral investigator and author, shares insights on human behavior and communication. She reveals how vulnerability can actually enhance our charm. Listeners learn the importance of decoding social signals and the traits of high warmth and competence that make charismatic leaders. For introverts, she provides networking tips, suggesting meaningful one-on-one conversations. Vanessa also emphasizes the power of asking the right questions to spark positive interactions and create authentic connections.

Join Noah Kagan, a savvy entrepreneur and chief at Sumo.com, for a lively conversation filled with insights on starting a business. Kagan shares his journey from being an early Facebook employee to founding success-driven startups. He discusses how to effectively validate business ideas quickly, the importance of hiring the right people, and building a customer-focused narrative. With practical strategies like prioritizing singular goals and engaging in candid self-reflection, he inspires listeners to take charge of their entrepreneurial journey.

Jason Redman, a former U.S. Navy SEAL and author, shares profound insights on humility and leadership learned through battle and personal hardship. He emphasizes how arrogance can hinder leaders, recounting a pivotal moment where a mistake endangered lives. The power of training, mental resilience, and the unwavering support of his wife during recovery shaped his journey. Redman also highlights the significance of learning from failures and the importance of leading with example, inspired by the greatest leader he ever encountered.

David Novak, co-founder and former CEO of Yum! Brands, shares insights from his impressive career managing global giants like Pizza Hut and KFC. He discusses the importance of passion and continual learning in achieving sustained excellence. Novak highlights the significance of self-reflection and leading proactively, regardless of title. He emphasizes recognition as a key leadership tool to boost morale and performance. With anecdotes from his humble beginnings and his unique 'two up, two down' strategy, he inspires listeners to maximize their impact.

In this discussion, Liz Wiseman, a leadership researcher and author of Multipliers, shares her insights on effective leadership. She emphasizes the importance of fostering a culture of trust and curiosity over confrontation, revealing strategies to counteract 'diminishers' in teams. Liz also highlights the crucial role of selflessness in leadership, illustrated by her son’s football team. Additionally, she discusses how leaders today must shift from being the chief thinkers to empowering others, creating a multiplier effect throughout their organizations.

Sam Walker, an award-winning writer and deputy editor at the Wall Street Journal, explores the hidden traits of elite team captains. He highlights the seven key qualities that distinguish great leaders, from relentless focus and emotional control to the ability to communicate without words. Walker discusses the unique leadership model of LeBron James and illustrates lessons from legends like Tim Duncan and Bill Russell. Discover how captains create winning cultures in sports and business by being principled connectors who inspire through action.

David Heinemeier Hansson, known as DHH, is the creator of Ruby on Rails and CTO of Basecamp. He passionately discusses falling in love with daily work as key to sustaining excellence. DHH debunks the myth that innovation relies on in-person collaboration, advocating for remote work's benefits such as reduced commutes and improved focus. He shares that financial success doesn't eliminate life's problems, emphasizing the importance of finding joy in what you do. His candid advice urges listeners to carefully consider their career choices, especially regarding management roles.

Join Dr. Tasha Eurich, an organizational psychologist and author, as she uncovers the surprising truth about self-awareness. Despite 95% of people believing they're self-aware, only 10-15% actually are. Tasha shares practical strategies for leaders to foster a culture of honesty and vulnerability. She also discusses how social media fuels narcissism and emphasizes the importance of mindfulness and feedback in enhancing self-awareness. With her unique insights and real-life anecdotes, Tasha inspires listeners to embark on a daily journey of self-discovery.

Todd Rovak, managing partner and CEO at Fahrenheit 212 and head of Capgemini Consulting North America, shares insights on leadership and emotional intelligence. He discusses the importance of knowing your 'why' and aligning personal goals with company strategies for success. Rovak emphasizes the need for trust within teams and effective time management, advocating for short meetings and protected thinking time. He also highlights the significance of clear communication and giving constructive feedback to enhance team performance.

In this conversation, Jenny Blake, a bestselling author and career strategist, shares her insights on navigating career pivots. She highlights the importance of great listening and fostering environments where dissenting opinions can flourish. Jenny recounts her own journey from Google to entrepreneurship and introduces her four-stage Pivot Method. She emphasizes the value of taking measured risks, building multiple income streams, and cultivating mentor relationships. Also, she offers practical tips on meditation and delegating tasks to manage imposter syndrome.