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
204 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.
24 snips
Jan 9, 2025 • 58min
#221: Pat Kelsey, Head Men’s Basketball Coach at the University of Louisville – Crush it where you’re at
In this episode, Pat Kelsey, the Head Men’s Basketball Coach at the University of Louisville, shares his passion for cultivating a strong team culture. He emphasizes the significance of excelling in your current role before chasing future opportunities. Kelsey dives into his journey from player to coach, sharing how early life lessons shaped his leadership style. He discusses instilling confidence in athletes and the pivotal balance between winning and building lasting relationships. Tune in for insightful takeaways on leadership, teamwork, and resilience!
Jan 6, 2025 • 15min
3 More Questions (Drew Holcomb) with David Novak and Koula Callahan
Dive into the artistic world of songwriting, where personal experiences spark creativity and inspiration. Discover the power of emotional leadership in business, enhancing team productivity by connecting on a personal level. Learn how understanding your core audience can elevate brand authenticity. And don’t miss the unique fan engagement through an intimate bourbon tasting on a musician's tour bus, blending creativity with personal connections. It's a captivating journey through art, leadership, and relationships!
30 snips
Jan 2, 2025 • 1h 11min
#220: Drew Holcomb, Musician – “Super serve” your core audience
Drew Holcomb, frontman of the Americana band Drew Holcomb and the Neighbors, shares insights into music and leadership. He emphasizes the power of 'super-serving' your core audience for growth, avoiding time-wasting pursuits. Holcomb humorously recounts personal anecdotes about travel and golf while discussing the emotional leadership power of music. He explores authenticity in creativity, balancing career ambitions with personal life, and the importance of gratitude and listening in successful relationships.
12 snips
Dec 26, 2024 • 43min
#219: The Best Of Q4
Dive into leadership wisdom from top industry leaders as they share powerful insights. Discover how to cultivate a winning culture in sports and beyond, emphasizing grit and emotional consistency. Learn about the viral marketing success of Applebee's and its innovative NFL partnership. Explore the importance of a strong team culture and how legacy shapes entrepreneurship. Additionally, hear fresh talent management strategies and competitive dynamics in the ice cream industry, highlighting humility and sustainable branding.
