

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

Apr 14, 2025 • 9min
3 More Questions (Mary Barra) with David Novak and Koula Callahan
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.

10 snips
Apr 10, 2025 • 51min
#234: Mary Barra, Chair and CEO of General Motors – Seek the truth
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.

Apr 7, 2025 • 10min
3 More Questions (Danny Willett) with David Novak and Koula Callahan
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!

16 snips
Apr 3, 2025 • 51min
#233: Danny Willett, Professional Golfer and 2016 Masters Champion – Take notes, then reflect
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.

Mar 31, 2025 • 10min
3 More Questions (Pat Battle) with David Novak and Koula Callahan
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.

24 snips
Mar 27, 2025 • 59min
#232: Pat Battle, Executive Chairman of Diamond Baseball Holdings – Optimism is a competitive advantage
Pat Battle, Executive Chairman of Diamond Baseball Holdings, champions optimism as a crucial asset in business. He discusses how a positive mindset can transform minor league baseball through community engagement and innovation. Listeners will learn about revitalizing customer experiences, effective negotiation tips, and the importance of trust in teamwork. Battle also shares insights on strategic growth in the baseball industry, emphasizing collaboration with local leaders and the value of underutilized assets. It's a blend of sports passion and practical leadership wisdom!

Mar 24, 2025 • 10min
3 More Questions (Chrissy Taylor) with David Novak and Koula Callahan
Discover insights on successful franchising and the importance of treating franchisees as partners. Learn how stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to significant career growth. Explore the unique leadership journey of a third-generation CEO navigating her family business. Understand the power of a people-first culture in fostering team commitment and customer satisfaction. The hosts share personal anecdotes that bring these leadership lessons to life, making the conversation both relatable and engaging.

Mar 20, 2025 • 58min
#231: Chrissy Taylor, President and CEO of Enterprise Mobility – Your people are your secret sauce
What if I told you your biggest competitive advantage is something you’ve already got?For Chrissy Taylor, the President and CEO of Enterprise Mobility, the 90,000 people who work at her company are what she calls “her secret sauce.”And in today’s episode, you’ll learn how to support your team and build a culture that drives growth, delights customers, and finds new ideas. Plus, Chrissy’s positive energy is guaranteed to (sorry for the pun, but) pick you up! You’ll also learn:
What many companies overlook when they reposition their brand
One tip for being a better communicator (and anyone can do it)
An idea to build mentorship into your culture
What Chrissy learned in the 17 Enterprise jobs she had before becoming CEO
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 dayWhichever 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.Connect with David:Keep Up with David on LinkedInFollow David on TwitterThe How Leaders Lead InstagramView insightful clips on TikTokWatch full interviews on YouTubeGet the USA Today Bestselling Book "How Leaders Learn"

Mar 17, 2025 • 10min
3 More Questions (Hayes Barnard) with David Novak and Koula Callahan
On this episode of 3 More Questions, you'll hear David Novak's answers to:
What do you think about Hayes' belief that adversity is his advantage?
What’s a story from your career where you had to lean on the company’s purpose to get the business back on track?
What is it that you love so much about being from the Midwest?
———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!

17 snips
Mar 13, 2025 • 53min
#230: Hayes Barnard, Founder & CEO of GoodLeap – Purpose creates connection
If you think “purpose” is just a bland little word for your mission statement, don’t miss this episode with Hayes Barnard, the founder, Chairman, and CEO of GoodLeap, which helps homeowners finance upgrades that make their homes more sustainable.Listen and see how purpose is a powerful force that helps you make connections, build teams, and drive more innovation.You’ll also learn:
What he learned about marketing from Elon Musk
Why feeling like an underdog might be your biggest advantage
The mindset you need to keep pushing, even after success
The AI lifehack that’s like having “a genius in your pocket”
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 dayWhichever 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.Connect with David:Keep Up with David on LinkedInFollow David on TwitterThe How Leaders Lead InstagramView insightful clips on TikTokWatch full interviews on YouTubeGet the USA Today Bestselling Book "How Leaders Learn"