How Leaders Lead with David Novak
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.
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.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Feb 13, 2025 • 55min
#226: Allan Thygesen, CEO of Docusign – Everyone’s a salesperson
Allan Thygesen, CEO of DocuSign and former leader at Google’s $100 billion ad business, shares his insights on leadership and innovation. He emphasizes that everyone plays a salesperson's role, a crucial aspect for effective leadership. Thygesen offers practical advice on integrating AI into businesses while highlighting the balance between customer experience and product expectations. He also discusses the importance of clear communication with investors and nurturing talent over control, drawing from his rich experiences in Silicon Valley.
Feb 10, 2025 • 9min
3 More Questions (Harris Barton) with David Novak and Koula Callahan
Explore the world of sports leadership with a three-time Super Bowl champion discussing the emotional stakes of critical moments. Discover practical advice on dealing with public mistakes and the mindset needed to bounce back. Delve into the power of accountability in leadership, where recognizing errors can spark growth and deeper relationships. Finally, learn about the challenges of rapid business growth and the importance of self-awareness in navigating these transitions.
14 snips
Feb 6, 2025 • 53min
#225: Harris Barton, 3-time Super Bowl Champion & Founder and managing director of H. Barton Asset Management – To learn from others, you’ve got to listen
In this conversation, Harris Barton—a three-time Super Bowl champion and founder of H. Barton Asset Management—shares invaluable leadership insights drawn from both his football career and business endeavors. He discusses the importance of listening and learning from others, as well as strategies for bouncing back from failure. Harris highlights the emotional impact of winning championships, the significance of mentorship, and how resilience plays a crucial role in navigating post-career challenges. Personal anecdotes enrich his narrative, bridging sports and business success.
12 snips
Feb 3, 2025 • 15min
3 More Questions (Jamie Dimon) with David Novak and Koula Callahan
Delve into insightful reflections on the evolution of leadership from command to coaching. Explore how transparency and open conversations about compensation can enhance workplace culture. Discover the transformative power of forgiveness through Jamie Dimon's poignant interaction with Sandy Weill. The importance of communication and self-awareness in resolving interpersonal conflicts is also emphasized, reminding leaders of the emotional weight of unresolved issues.
171 snips
Jan 30, 2025 • 1h 32min
#224: Jamie Dimon, Chairman and CEO of JPMorgan Chase – Get to work
Jamie Dimon, Chairman and CEO of JPMorgan Chase, shares his insights on effective leadership and execution. He emphasizes that real leaders prioritize action over talk, offering valuable lessons from his experiences during the 2008 financial crisis. Dimon discusses the importance of curiosity, teamwork, and adaptability in business evolution. He also reflects on the impact of personal values shaped by family, and the necessity of managing crises with collective focus, offering heartfelt anecdotes that reveal the human side of leadership.
Jan 27, 2025 • 15min
3 More Questions (Bobbi Brown) with David Novak and Koula Callahan
Dive into the entrepreneurial journey of Bobbi Brown and her impactful beauty brand, Jones Road Beauty. Discover the importance of simplified communication for leaders and how it enhances decision-making. Hear insights on staying grounded during business growth and the dangers of complacency. Explore the key traits of effective leaders and the blend of passion and structure required to navigate challenges. Personal anecdotes and advice make this discussion both relatable and inspiring for aspiring leaders.
18 snips
Jan 23, 2025 • 53min
#223: Bobbi Brown, Founder of Jones Road Beauty – The best solutions are often the simplest
Bobbi Brown, a cosmetics titan and founder of Jones Road Beauty, shares her journey of simplicity in the beauty industry. She discusses her innovative approach to clean makeup and the significance of customer feedback. Bobbi emphasizes how simplifying complex challenges can save time and enhance creativity. Listeners will also learn strategies for connecting on social media, the value of unconventional career paths, and surprising traits of great salespeople. Her insights showcase why authenticity and clarity are key in leadership.
4 snips
Jan 20, 2025 • 10min
3 More Questions (Louise Brady) with David Novak and Koula Callahan
Discover the telltale red flags that signal a less-than-great partnership and learn when it's time to cut your losses. Dive into the art of transforming a negative mindset through effective coaching techniques that encourage reflection and personal growth. Explore how asking the right questions can foster accountability and enhance leadership skills. Embrace the principles of positive leadership to create a motivating atmosphere that drives workplace success.
29 snips
Jan 16, 2025 • 47min
#222: Louise Brady, Co-Founder of Piedmont Capital Partners – Go above and beyond for others
Louise Brady, co-founder and managing partner at Piedmont Capital Partners, is a visionary in venture capital focused on improving the world through people and technology. In this conversation, she reveals the power of prioritizing relationships and generosity in leadership. Brady discusses innovative strategies for giving tough feedback, the impact of positivity on team culture, and exciting advancements in cancer and Alzheimer’s treatments. She also shares personal anecdotes that illuminate her journey in fostering strong business relationships and navigating the challenges of women in leadership.
Jan 13, 2025 • 11min
3 More Questions (Pat Kelsey) with David Novak and Koula Callahan
Discover how leaders can treat their current roles like stepping stones to future success. Explore the importance of being present and fostering accountability to build a culture of excellence. Uncover the power of personal storytelling in team dynamics, enhancing connections across various backgrounds. Hear about the emotional impact of sharing personal heroes and how these narratives can influence team culture.
