How Leaders Lead with David Novak

Want to build the working relationships that open doors—and keep them open? In this episode of How Leaders Lead, David talks with Frank Edwards, Managing Partner of Aqueduct Capital Group. You’ll see how Frank has built a stellar reputation—not through flashy networking, but by showing up consistently, giving credit freely, and treating every relationship with long-term respect. It’s a masterclass in building trust that lasts! You’ll also learn: What your top priority should be as you’re scaling One key element of a strong sales culture How to follow up after someone opens a door for you Why you need a support system Take your learning further. Get proven leadership advice from these (free!) resources: ⁠The How Leaders Lead App⁠: A vast library of 90-second leadership lessons to stay sharp on the go  ⁠Daily Insight Emails⁠: One small (but powerful!) leadership principle to focus on each day Whichever you choose, you can be sure you’ll get the trusted leadership advice you need to advance your career, develop your team, and grow your business.

On this episode of 3 More Questions, you'll hear David Novak's answers to: What would you say to leaders who are trying to fight for eyeballs?   In your experience, what should a leader do to drive a results driven culture? As a leader, how do you handle a situation where you didn’t have anything to do with a mistake? ———GO DEEPER Scale up your leadership skills in 2 minutes a day with the How Leaders Lead app — Download today in the App Store Get coaching from David by signing up to receive his Weekly Leadership Plan. It builds on each podcast episode by offering actionable steps you can take each week to incorporate the learnings from the episode into your leadership style. It only takes about 5 minutes and is a great way to start off your week! Subscribe to the How Leaders Lead podcast to ensure you never miss an episode!

Mark Shapiro, President and COO of TKO Group Holdings and former leader at ESPN, shares insights from his rich career in media and entertainment. He emphasizes the power of clear expectations in driving team performance and the importance of regular feedback. Mark discusses impactful strategies to win over skeptics, the value of adaptability in leadership, and how personal experiences shape leadership styles. With engaging anecdotes, he provides actionable advice for setting standards and fostering collaboration in today's dynamic work environment.

Career advancement strategies take center stage as leaders discuss tackling multiple roles to climb the corporate ladder. The importance of evaluating leaders on a dual-axis is examined, emphasizing a balanced perspective. Engaging with teams for informed decision-making is highlighted as a key to avoiding isolation in leadership. Open communication and vulnerability are underscored as essential for fostering trust and feedback within teams, bridging personal ambitions with organizational goals.

Dave McKay, President and CEO of RBC, brings over 30 years of banking experience and shares his insights on breaking career ceilings through bold goal-setting. He believes that publicly declaring ambitious goals can rally teams and attract talent. McKay discusses the synergy between business and creativity, exemplified by RBC's partnership with Taylor Swift during her tour. He emphasizes the importance of integrity and continuous learning, highlighting how an ambition-driven culture fosters innovation while maintaining ethical practices in leadership.

Discover how to blend youthful talent with seasoned professionals for greater organizational success. Learn strategies to foster a supportive culture that encourages adaptability and prevents burnout. Leaders are urged to communicate a clear vision, balancing immediate execution with long-term goals. Explore the concept of ambidextrous leadership, emphasizing the importance of directing current operations while planning for the future. Gain insight into effective leadership practices that motivate teams and pave the way for a purposeful work environment.

Mary Barra, Chair and CEO of General Motors, shares her insights from a tenure that spans decades. She emphasizes the importance of truth-seeking in leadership, highlighting how transparency leads to better decisions and team trust. Barra discusses the challenges of leading during crises, notably a major product recall, and reflects on balancing traditional and electric vehicle strategies. She introduces 'ambidextrous leadership,' stressing the need to manage present demands while planning for future innovations. Her journey inspires the next generation of female leaders in STEM.

This conversation dives deep into how to effectively handle failure, showcasing resilience as a crucial trait for leaders and athletes alike. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive mindset through personal reflection and specific coping strategies. The fascinating idea that 'pressure is a privilege' challenges listeners to view challenges as opportunities for growth, reinforcing accountability and leadership development. Prepare to be inspired to embrace difficulties as stepping stones to success!

Danny Willett, a professional golfer and the 2016 Masters Champion, shares his insightful journey through the highs and lows of his career. He discusses the transformative power of keeping a diary to track progress and learn from experiences. Willett opens up about building confidence amidst pressure, reframing challenges, and overcoming imposter syndrome. He also reflects on the emotional ride of winning the Masters and the importance of family support. Plus, he explores his ventures into health-conscious businesses, emphasizing a commitment to wellness.

Discover how to prepare for pushback when pioneering new initiatives as a leader. Learn what to consider for integrating and retaining employees post-acquisition. Dive into the most common reasons teams and businesses fail, emphasizing the importance of clear communication and community ties. Explore the transition challenges faced by Yum! Brands and the vital role of effective leadership in fostering confidence and talent retention in organizations.