
How Leaders Lead with David Novak
How Leaders Lead gives you a front-row seat to exclusive conversations with the world’s most iconic leaders across business, sports, and entertainment. Hosted by David Novak, Co-founder and former CEO of Yum! Brands, this podcast pulls back the curtain on how top CEOs, founders, and game-changers make things happen. When you tune in, you’ll learn from legends like Tom Brady, Condoleezza Rice, Jamie Dimon, Coach Prime (Deion Sanders), Indra Nooyi, Stanley Druckenmiller, and more.Other guests include:
CEO of Starbucks
CEO of Target
Co-founder of Home Depot
and many others...
David’s unique perspective and thought-provoking questions distill the wisdom of these leaders into actionable insights you can use to elevate your own leadership game. Whether you’re just starting your leadership journey or already leading teams, this show helps you build the confidence you need to lead well.
Latest episodes

May 20, 2024 • 13min
3 More Questions (Rory McIlroy) with David Novak and Koula Callahan
David Novak and Rory McIlroy discuss handling business relationships with friends, learning from Rory's goal-setting approach, and finding balance between conviction and open-mindedness in leadership. They provide insights on collaboration, adaptability, and embracing change in order to grow as leaders.

May 16, 2024 • 52min
#187: Rory McIlroy, Professional golfer – Be open-minded
Professional golfer Rory McIlroy shares insights on goal-setting, PGA-LIV collaboration, juggling's impact on his game. Discusses keeping an open mind as a leader, handling high-pressure moments, and the importance of communication and learning from others. Explores personal growth on the course, philanthropy efforts, and pursuing major championships.

May 13, 2024 • 9min
3 More Questions (Val Ackerman) with David Novak and Koula Callahan
Leadership expert David Novak discusses the importance of involving others in decision-making, empowering employees, and recruiting top talent in this insightful podcast. He also shares valuable insights on assembling a talented team, delegating responsibilities, and empowering team members to achieve success.

May 9, 2024 • 51min
#186: Val Ackerman, Commissioner of the Big East Conference – Respect your team
Val Ackerman, Commissioner of the Big East Conference and former WNBA President, shares insights on teamwork, leading in high-bureaucracy situations, and advice for women leaders. She discusses challenges in college conferences, revenue maximization in college basketball, and the importance of innovation in sports leadership. Ackerman reflects on her journey from childhood setbacks to sports leadership and highlights the unifying power of basketball in diverse communities.

May 6, 2024 • 11min
3 More Questions (Bill Mudd) with David Novak and Koula Callahan
David Novak, former CEO of Yum! Brands, shares insights on leading when others know more, handling the pressures of a massive business, and the importance of innovation and team alignment in a conversation with Bill Mudd.

May 2, 2024 • 48min
#185: Bill Mudd, President & COO at Churchill Downs – Operations are key to customer experience
Bill Mudd, President & COO at Churchill Downs, discusses the importance of operational processes for customer experience. Topics include prioritizing operations, employee training, and the history of the Kentucky Derby. Learn how to structure operational priorities, root out liabilities, and create a memorable experience for customers.

Apr 29, 2024 • 12min
3 More Questions (Hal Rosenbluth) with David Novak and Koula Callahan
Hal Rosenbluth and David Novak discuss implementing cultural values globally, coaching employees for success, and driving innovation in companies. They emphasize the importance of leadership in shaping organizational culture, knowing when to transition team members, and embracing change for growth. The podcast also introduces a leadership devotional app for daily insights.

Apr 25, 2024 • 46min
#184: Hal Rosenbluth, Chairman & CEO of New Ocean Health Solutions — Challenge the status quo
Hal Rosenbluth, CEO of New Ocean Health Solutions, discusses challenging the status quo, fostering innovation in the workplace, and spotting unmet needs. He emphasizes the importance of consistency in work culture and shares insights on building a business around unidentified needs.

Apr 22, 2024 • 11min
3 More Questions (Kevin Hochman) with David Novak and Koula Callahan
Kevin Hochman and David Novak discuss integrating fun into workplace culture, focusing on product strategy, driving innovation, and exploring trends like margarita sales and alternative drink choices.

Apr 18, 2024 • 1h 2min
#183: Kevin Hochman, CEO of Brinker International (Chili’s and Maggiano’s) – Strengthen core functions by making tough cuts
Kevin Hochman, CEO of Brinker International, discusses the importance of making bold decisions and simplifying menus to drive growth. He shares insights on pricing strategy, innovation keys, and tips for young leaders to gain buy-in for initiatives.