HBR On Leadership

Amy Edmondson, a Harvard Business School professor and expert in psychological safety, dives into the tragic Columbia shuttle disaster. She explores the organizational failures at NASA that led to the catastrophe, highlighting the perils of rigid hierarchy and dismissing dissenting voices. Edmondson emphasizes the contrast between the innovative Apollo missions and the complacency of the shuttle program. She also discusses the crucial need for empathy and diverse perspectives within teams to foster a culture of safety and effective leadership.

Nancy Koehn, a Harvard Business School professor and historian, dives into the remarkable leadership of Abraham Lincoln during the Civil War. She illuminates how Lincoln's emotional discipline enabled him to remain focused on the larger mission despite personal struggles, even choosing to withhold a scathing letter to a general. Koehn discusses Lincoln’s resilience, the impact of his depression on empathy, and how pivotal moments, like the Gettysburg Address, redefined equality and freedom in America. A masterclass in leadership emerges, showcasing the enduring power of emotional self-control.

In this insightful discussion, Tony Mayo, a senior lecturer at Harvard Business School and leadership expert, illuminates the remarkable journey of Maggie Lena Walker, the first female bank president in America. She transformed the Independent Order of St. Luke through innovative strategies that addressed community needs. Mayo highlights her resilience in overcoming systemic racism, emphasizing her focus on education and personal networks. Walker's pioneering spirit in entrepreneurship created jobs and opportunities, shaping a legacy of empowerment for women and the Black community.

In this engaging talk, basketball legend Chris Paul shares insights from his illustrious career. As the former president of the National Basketball Players Association, he discusses the critical impact of mentorship and effective communication on leadership. Paul highlights how key figures shaped his journey, emphasizing resilience in the face of challenges. He reflects on leading during turbulent times in the NBA and the importance of advocacy for social justice. With personal anecdotes, he illustrates how athletes can create meaningful change both on and off the court.

Melvin Smith, a Professor at the Weatherhead School of Management and co-author of "Helping People Change," explores the intricacies of coaching underperforming employees. He emphasizes tailoring approaches to individual needs and the significance of clear communication. Smith discusses strategies for addressing conflicts among direct reports and managing performance issues, especially during leadership transitions. He also highlights the importance of emotional intelligence in fostering a positive workplace culture and effectively guiding employees through challenges.

Wendy Smith, a management professor, and Marianne Lewis, the Dean at the University of Cincinnati, co-author the book "Both/And Thinking." They discuss how leaders can embrace ambiguity in decision-making rather than choosing between binary options. By reframing questions, they reveal how to find creative solutions and foster interdependencies. Their insights highlight the significance of balancing compassion with competence in leadership, particularly in navigating complexities during challenging times.

Join Amy Gallo, a workplace conflict expert and author of 'Getting Along,' as she unpacks the often-misunderstood concept of psychological safety. She emphasizes its crucial role in fostering open communication and enhancing team performance. Discover a unique seven-item questionnaire to assess team support and learn effective strategies for navigating workplace conflict. Gallo shares insights on creating a culture where mistakes are embraced, ultimately driving innovation and collaboration within organizations.

In this engaging discussion, Tamara McLemore, an Agile Certified Project Manager with over two decades of experience, shares valuable insights into effective project management. Topics include transitioning into project management and tackling challenges like interpersonal conflict and team responsiveness. Tamara emphasizes the significance of communication, collaboration, and essential tools like work breakdown structures. She also highlights the balance of soft skills and efficiency, showing how emotional intelligence can drive project success.

Rick Ridgeway, an adventurous pioneer and former Patagonia executive, shares captivating insights on leadership through the lens of mountaineering. He discusses the parallels between climbing peaks and managing business risks, highlighting the importance of meticulous planning and strong communication. Ridgeway emphasizes building a resilient team, whether for sustainable initiatives or scaling K2. Personal anecdotes illustrate how tenacity and collaboration drive success in both the wild and the corporate world, urging collective action for a more sustainable future.

Frances Frei, a Harvard Business School professor and co-author of "Move Fast and Fix Things," discusses effective strategies for problem-solving in organizations. She emphasizes identifying the real issues and the importance of building trust and relationships. Frei introduces a five-step approach, including a narrative for solutions, and highlights tools like the 'Five Whys' for uncovering root causes. She also addresses inclusivity and the impact of subtle workplace indignities, promoting a culture of effective communication and collaboration.