The Learning Leader Show With Ryan Hawk

Adam Grant, Wharton's top-rated professor and bestselling author, dives into the essence of creativity and originality. He shares insights on how leaders can foster innovative environments and combat groupthink. The conversation highlights the importance of curiosity in successful individuals and the need for inclusivity in idea generation. Grant also discusses the delicate balance of risk in entrepreneurship, personal anecdotes with givers and takers, and the art of crafting a memorable TED talk while emphasizing emotional connection and mentorship.

Jayson Gaignard, the mastermind behind Mastermind Talks, is a talent scout dedicated to fostering meaningful relationships among entrepreneurs. He discusses his exclusive event, which has a lower acceptance rate than Harvard, emphasizing the importance of community over profit. Jayson shares insights on curating connections, the impact of surprise elements in events, and a memorable encounter with a skateboarding legend. His passion for creating unforgettable experiences shines through, making personal growth and connection central themes.

Garry Ridge, President and CEO of WD-40 Company and co-author of "Helping People Win at Work," shares insights on building a thriving organizational culture. He emphasizes the importance of empathy and active listening in leadership. Garry discusses how he transformed WD-40 from $250 million to $1.6 billion by prioritizing employee engagement and avoiding layoffs. He highlights the significance of clear goals and rigorous hiring processes that align with core values, showcasing how a supportive culture can drive both employee satisfaction and financial success.

In this engaging discussion, Don Wettrick, an Innovation Specialist at Noblesville High School and author of 'Pure Genius', shares his passion for transforming education. He highlights the importance of personalized learning and leadership traits that embrace failure as growth. Don explores empowering student-led initiatives and fostering creativity through authenticity, citing artists like Prince. He also dives into how allowing students to own their inventions shifts the educational landscape, encouraging innovation and collaboration.

David Allen, a renowned management consultant and author of 'Getting Things Done', shares insights into his transformative productivity methodology. He discusses the importance of clarity and focus in reducing overwhelm. The two-minute rule for time management becomes a game-changer, helping listeners tackle small tasks immediately. Allen emphasizes authentic leadership, prioritizing value over titles and highlights how personal experiences shape productivity. His journey underscores the profound impact of GTD on professionals, enabling them to master their work-life balance.

Sarah Robb O’Hagan, an influential executive and founder of EXTREMEYOU, shares her journey from New Zealand to becoming a leader in sports marketing. She emphasizes the power of curiosity and humility in achieving sustained excellence. Sarah discusses embracing discomfort for growth, her transition to Extreme U, and the importance of personal ownership. The conversation highlights how resilience and calculated risk-taking can unlock potential, making a compelling case for continuous learning and the unique mindset of world-class performers.

In this engaging conversation, Ryan Michler, creator of 'The Order of Man' and 'The Iron Council,' dives deep into building a loyal tribe of fans. He reflects on his own personal growth, shaped by his experience growing up without a father. Ryan also shares insights from his military service in Ramadi, Iraq, emphasizing resilience and leadership. He discusses the importance of strong male support and the creation of community spaces for meaningful discussions, while outlining the core responsibilities of masculinity and service to others.

Andrew Brandt, an ESPN Business Analyst and former Vice President of Player Finance for the Green Bay Packers, shares insights from his remarkable career in sports management and negotiation. He discusses the importance of self-discipline and internal motivation for sustained excellence. Listeners will love stories from the NFL draft room and his work with iconic figures like David Falk. Brandt offers practical negotiation tips focused on emotional control and relationship-building. He emphasizes never settling and continuing personal growth, regardless of past achievements.

In this conversation, Jane Atkinson, a seasoned speaker coach with over 20 years of experience, shares her expertise in launching a successful speaking career. She discusses the importance of niche specialization for recognition and how to craft engaging presentations. Jane dives into audience engagement techniques, the balance of glamour and challenges in speaking, and the value of continuous learning. She emphasizes the need for a clear message and the power of masterminds to foster personal growth, making this a must-listen for aspiring speakers.

Greg McKeown, best-selling author of "Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less," and CEO of THIS Inc, shares powerful insights into the art of saying no. He argues that this skill is essential for achieving sustained excellence and maintaining focus in both personal and professional lives. McKeown explores how success can lead to overwhelming choices, distracting us from what truly matters. With practical strategies, he advocates for prioritizing the vital few tasks and mastering the art of essentialism in a hyperconnected world.