The Learning Leader Show With Ryan Hawk

Jeb Blount, a renowned sales expert and bestselling author of Fanatical Prospecting, shares valuable insights on maintaining a full sales pipeline. He emphasizes the significance of high Emotional and Sales Intelligence in top performers. Jeb contrasts the traditional linear sales cycle with a strategic approach that shapes the buying process. He discusses the essential traits to look for when hiring, including technology and emotional intelligence. Additionally, he provides tips on effective prospecting techniques and the importance of cultivating a supportive team culture.

Jason Van Camp, Green Beret and Founder/Chairman of Mission 6 Zero, talks about decision-making in combat missions, starting a business, and getting comfortable with discomfort. He also shares his transition after deployment and pursuit of an MBA. The chapter highlights the importance of simplicity and authenticity in sustained excellence and introduces online resources for veterans starting their own business.

Haben Girma, a groundbreaking disability rights lawyer and the first deafblind Harvard Law graduate, shares her inspiring journey. She discusses the importance of accessible information and how it drives innovation, emphasizing that disability should be viewed as an asset. Haben recounts experiences like her emotional meeting with President Obama and the challenges of navigating inaccessible environments. She advocates for changing harmful narratives around disability and encourages aspiring advocates to start by addressing their own needs.

Scott Harrison, Founder and CEO of charity: water, shares his journey from party planner to nonprofit leader. He emphasizes radical transparency, revealing how every public donation funds water projects directly, utilizing GPS tracking. Scott discusses innovative fundraising techniques, including a VR gala that raised millions by connecting donors with villagers. He highlights the power of storytelling, like that of Leta Kyrus, to inspire generosity. His mission? To bring clean water to 100 million people, driven by core values and creative solutions.

Barry Schwartz, a psychologist and bestselling author, dives into the surprising downsides of abundant choice. He argues that more options can lead to paralysis and dissatisfaction, challenging the belief that choice equates to freedom. Schwartz shares insights on how expected perfection often leads to disappointment and how technology affects our communication. He emphasizes the importance of meaningful work and community, suggesting that constraints can enhance happiness and commitment in relationships.

Vinh Giang, a motivational keynote speaker and magician, discusses sustaining excellence, facing fears, building an online magic school, the power of video, perspective and gratitude, goal setting, self-care, voice training, and enthusiasm for collaboration.

Srini Rao, host of The Unmistakable Creative podcast and bestselling author, dives into the essence of creativity and resilience. He reveals how being fired multiple times led to profound growth and opportunities. Srini shares insights on the non-linear nature of careers and the importance of voracious reading. He discusses building diverse revenue streams from his podcast and the importance of daily writing habits. Additionally, he emphasizes how surfing fuels his creativity and adaptability, shaped by a nomadic childhood.

Michael Watkins, author of the bestselling 'The First 90 Days,' specializes in helping leaders navigate new roles. He shares insights on sustaining leadership excellence through learning agility and balancing humility and ego. Watkins discusses the challenges of transitioning from individual contributor to leadership roles, emphasizing the need for curiosity and effective networking. He highlights the importance of preparing for high-level interviews and adapting personal leadership beliefs to thrive in complex environments. His experiences shape a roadmap for successful transitions.

This discussion features Kat Cole, a business leader renowned for her success in multi-unit operations; Adam Grant, an organizational psychologist known for his insights on workplace dynamics; and Seth Godin, a marketing thought leader. They explore essential traits for sustaining excellence. Cole emphasizes balancing courage with humility, while Grant highlights the importance of curiosity and ongoing learning. Godin asserts that true leadership is a conscious decision to make a difference. Together, they reveal the foundational elements that fuel enduring success.

Sol Orwell, co-founder of Examine.com and a recognized entrepreneur, shares insights on embracing creativity and downtime for sustained excellence. He describes his unique daily routine, including cold showers and focused work blocks. Sol emphasizes the importance of delegation, noting how he empowered his #2 to run Examine.com while he embraced a digital nomad lifestyle. He also discusses the role of vulnerability in leadership, the necessity of developing a personal brand, and how travel enriches entrepreneurial perspectives and creativity.