Explore every episode of the podcast Partnering Leadership
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 419 Riding the Tsunami of Change: How Leaders Can Thrive in an Exponential World with Dr. Mark van Rijmenam | 11 Nov 2025 | 00:41:23 | |
In this thought-provoking episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli sits down with futurist and strategist Dr. Mark van Rijmenam to explore how leaders can thrive in an era defined by exponential change. Known for his sharp insights into emerging technologies and their impact on society, van Rijmenam shares a grounded yet urgent view of the transformation reshaping every aspect of our world—from business and education to governance and human interaction. Van Rijmenam argues that the shifts underway are not just technological but also ecological and geopolitical, converging into what he calls a “tsunami of change.” Unlike past revolutions that unfolded over centuries, today’s convergence of AI, robotics, blockchain, quantum computing, and biotechnology is remaking industries and organizations in mere years. He urges leaders to recognize the pace and scale of disruption and to evolve their thinking beyond the limits of linear strategy. Throughout the conversation, van Rijmenam challenges executives to rethink traditional leadership models. Short-term metrics and hierarchical control, he warns, are relics of a slower age. To lead effectively in exponential times, leaders must decentralize decision-making, empower teams to act with trust, and adopt a long-term mindset that includes future generations in their calculus of success. The future will belong to those who can combine adaptability with ethical awareness—who understand not only what technology can do but what it should do. This discussion also dives into the human dimensions of the digital revolution. From reimagining education and lifelong learning to confronting the erosion of trust in a world of deepfakes and misinformation, van Rijmenam calls for a new kind of leadership—one that cultivates critical thinking and moral courage as much as technical fluency. His perspective is both sobering and optimistic: chaos is inevitable, but it can also be a catalyst for renewal if leaders are willing to reimagine how organizations and societies operate. Whether you’re leading a global enterprise or a mission-driven organization, this episode will expand your view of what it means to lead in exponential times—and why the leaders of tomorrow must become what van Rijmenam calls “architects of the future,” building systems that serve humanity as much as innovation.
Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: | |||
| 418 Thursday Refresh: Lior Arussy on Reauthoring Leadership: Take Charge of Your Story, Navigate Change, and Empower Transformation | 06 Nov 2025 | 00:52:28 | |
In this episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli engages in a powerful conversation with Lior Arussy, renowned author, speaker, and expert in organizational transformation and customer experience. Lior is the author of the thought-provoking book Dare to Author: Take Charge of the Narrative of Your Life. In this episode, he brings his compelling insights to life, challenging leaders to rethink how they approach storytelling, organizational change, and leadership in an era of rapid disruption. Lior shares his journey of discovering the power of stories—not just in shaping customer experiences but in transforming individual and organizational mindsets. Drawing on decades of working with global companies, he unpacks why so many people resist change, how leaders can overcome that resistance, and why the ability to craft and evolve personal and organizational narratives is critical for thriving in uncertainty. Listeners will be inspired by Lior's insights on how leaders can empower their teams to embrace change without feeling judged, how to separate purpose from tools to drive transformation, and why storytelling is no longer a nice-to-have skill but a necessity for effective leadership. His approach combines practical frameworks with deeply human insights, making it a must-listen for anyone seeking to unlock their team’s potential and elevate their leadership impact. From redefining leadership as navigating the unknown to exploring how gratitude fuels resilience and innovation, this conversation is rich with actionable ideas.
Actionable Takeaways:
Connect with the Lior Arussy Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: | |||
| 409 From Turn the Ship Around to Rethinking Decisions: David Marquet on Leading with Distance, Not Ego | 16 Sep 2025 | 00:44:37 | |
In this thought-provoking conversation, former nuclear submarine commander and bestselling author David Marquet returns to the Partnering Leadership podcast to discuss the core ideas behind his new book: Distancing: How Great Leaders Reframe to Make Better Decisions. Known globally for Turn the Ship Around, Marquet once again challenges traditional leadership assumptions—this time taking aim at a problem many leaders don’t realize they have: they’re too close to their decisions. Drawing from cognitive psychology, real-world leadership failures, and hard-earned lessons from the military to the boardroom, Marquet introduces a powerful framework he calls “distancing.” At its core: the idea that our best decisions often require us to stop thinking like ourselves. Whether it's asking, “What would my replacement do?” or considering how a future version of yourself might evaluate today’s choice, Marquet offers tactical ways leaders can gain clarity, reduce bias, and improve judgment under pressure. Host Mahan Tavakoli guides the conversation toward the real-world application of these ideas, especially for senior executives navigating complexity, volatility, and the weight of past decisions. Marquet’s insights are sharp, often counterintuitive, and supported by both research and field-tested leadership practices. Rather than offering platitudes or yet another leadership model, this conversation digs into the cognitive traps leaders fall into—and how to build the mental discipline to lead with more perspective and fewer blind spots. If you’re responsible for high-stakes decisions, leading through uncertainty, or shaping organizational strategy, this episode delivers the kind of clarity that shifts how you think about thinking.
Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: | |||
| 319 Becoming Unstoppable: Leadership Lessons from a Navy SEAL Turned CEO with Alden Mills | Partnering Leadership Global Thought Leader | 23 Apr 2024 | 00:49:06 | |
In this episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli sits down with Alden Mills, three-time Navy SEAL Platoon Commander and INC 500 CEO. Alden Mills is also the author of three books, the latest of which is Unstoppable Mindset: How to Use What You Have to Get What You Want. Throughout the conversation, Alden shares his insights on navigating change, fostering ownership, and cultivating a resilient mindset in both personal and professional contexts. Throughout the conversation, Alden draws upon his unique experiences as a Navy SEAL and successful business leader to provide valuable lessons on leadership in the face of uncertainty. He discusses the importance of embracing discomfort, learning from failure, and maintaining faith in oneself and one's team. Alden also shares the concept of the "mindset horizon," explaining how leaders can encourage their teams to venture beyond their comfort zones and take ownership of their roles. He emphasizes the significance of trust and autonomy in building high-performing teams and shares practical strategies for implementing these principles in organizations. Actionable Takeaways:
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| 318 Bracing for Impact: How Generative AI Will Disrupt Education and Learning – and How to Ride the Wave with Jason Gulya | Partnering Leadership Global Thought Leader | 16 Apr 2024 | 01:01:32 | |
In this episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli sits down with Jason Gulya, a higher education AI Strategist, to explore the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in education and organizations. As someone who initially resisted the idea of becoming a teacher, Jason's journey is a testament to the power of adaptability and embracing change. Jason shares how his unique upbringing, with three brothers close in age, shaped his understanding of community and individual needs, laying the foundation for his approach to teaching and learning. He candidly discusses his initial skepticism towards ChatGPT, fearing it would enable plagiarism and undermine education. However, his willingness to approach the technology with an open mind led him to recognize its potential for enhancing learning experiences and driving organizational transformation. Drawing from his experiences as the chair of the AI council at his college, Jason offers a fresh perspective on AI's role in education. He emphasizes the need to cultivate foundational skills while leveraging technology as a complementary tool. He advocates for a shift towards a more dynamic and relevant approach to teaching, where AI serves as a cognitive partner, challenging assumptions and fostering critical thinking. Actionable Takeaways:
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| 317 The Future of Empowered Management: Insights on Systems, Mindsets, and Democratizing Performance from OnLoop's CEO &Co-Founder JJ (Projjal) Ghatak | Partnering Leadership Global Thought Leader | 09 Apr 2024 | 00:48:09 | |
In this episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli sits down with JJ (Projjal) Ghatak, a seasoned technology executive who has held key roles at companies like Uber and is currently the Co-Founder and CEO of OnLoop, a habit-forming, genAI-powered goals and feedback platform for high functioning teams. Projjal Ghatak shares his unique insights on building mission-driven cultures, fostering collaboration, and leveraging technology to empower managers and drive organizational success. Drawing from his experiences at Uber during its rapid growth phase, Projjal discusses how the company's decentralized structure and fighting spirit contributed to its success. He also delves into the importance of the founder's role in setting the tone for an organization's culture and attracting the right talent. As the co-founder of OnLoop, JJ (Projjal) Ghatak is on a mission to "productize" management, making it simple and effective for every manager to bring out the best in their teams. He breaks down the key responsibilities of a manager and shares how OnLoop is using AI and habit-formation science to drive better management practices. Throughout the conversation, Projjal touches on a range of topics relevant to today's leaders, from the challenges of hybrid work to the importance of self-awareness and continuous learning. Actionable Takeaways: - Discover how Uber's early culture of decentralization and fighting spirit fueled its rapid growth and success - Learn Projjal's framework for the five key responsibilities of a manager and how to excel at each one - Explore the science behind habit formation and how it can be leveraged to drive better management practices - Gain insights on the productivity challenges of hybrid work and strategies for building self-discipline in remote teams - Hear Projjal's unconventional approach to recruiting, which prioritizes raw talent over years of experience - Understand the importance of self-awareness for leaders and how to leverage resources for continuous learning and growth Connect with JJ (Projjal) Ghatak Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: | |||
| 316 Thursday Refresh Paul Daugherty, CTO Accenture on Human + Machine, Radically Human How New Technology Is Transforming Business and Shaping Our Future | Partnering Leadership Global Thought Leader | 04 Apr 2024 | 00:36:00 | |
In this engaging episode of the Partnering Leadership podcast, host Mahan Tavakoli engages in an insightful conversation with Paul Daugherty, the group chief executive of technology and chief technology officer at Accenture. During the episode, Paul Daugherty emphasizes the criticality of adopting a technology-focused mindset and embracing constant reinvention and agility in the face of evolving technologies. He highlights the importance of organizations becoming learning organizations equipped with empathetic listening capabilities to navigate the era of generative AI effectively. The conversation delves into the significance of responsible AI and data ethics within organizations utilizing AI. Paul Daugherty underscores the need for CEOs to prioritize the implementation of responsible AI, emphasizing its role in shaping the future of business and society. Additionally, the episode touches on the transformative impact of the metaverse on business operations, the integral role of data in AI, and the necessity of rescaling individuals displaced by automation. Finally, Paul Daugherty shares his predictions on the future impact of AI on organizations.
Accenture Thought Leadership Accenture Technology Vision 2023 When Atoms Meet Bits
Connect with Paul Daugherty
Also Referenced: Partnering Leadership Conversation with Ajay Agrawal on Prediction Machines & Power and Prediction Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: | |||
| 315 [Best of] Leadership lessons from billionaire philanthropist David Rubenstein, Carlyle Group Co-Founder and Co-Chairman | 02 Apr 2024 | 00:35:21 | |
In this episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli speaks with David Rubenstein, co-founder & co-chairman of Carlyle Group & President of the Economic Club of Washington DC. In the conversation David Rubenstein shares his journey from working at the White House to starting one of the largest private equity investment firms globally. He also talks about his leadership lessons, philanthropy, Peer-to-Peer interviewing for the Economic Club of Washington DC and Bloomberg TV, and the legacy he plans to leave behind. Some highlights: - David Rubenstein’s childhood and how he became an avid reader - David’s experience at the White House working for former U.S. President Jimmy Carter - The story behind David Rubenstein helping co-found the Carlyle Group - On becoming Carlyle Group’s fundraiser and how David increased its visibility - David Rubenstein’s leadership practices and values - ‘Patriotic Philanthropy’ and David Rubenstein’s signing of the giving pledge - David Rubenstein on the value of family and the importance of raising successful children - Why David Rubenstein accepted to become the President of The Economic Club of Washington DC and then decided to change the format. - Becoming a Peer-to-Peer interviewer: on self-deprecating humor, being a good listener, and more - Leadership lessons from David Rubenstein’s book, How to Lead - On his passion for capturing the ‘American experiment’ and his opinion on America today - David Rubenstein’s desire for impact as he ‘sprints’ to leave a legacy - Why David Rubenstein reads over 100 books a year and encourages others to read more - On moving forward post-COVID with ongoing transformation and change Connect with David Rubenstein David Rubenstein Website The David Rubenstein Show: Peer-to-Peer The Economic Club of Washington D.C. Website Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: | |||
| 314 Leading Excellence: Greg Wooldridge's Leadership Secrets as the Blue Angels' Only 3-Time Commanding Officer | Partnering Leadership Global Thought Leader | 26 Mar 2024 | 00:44:52 | |
In this captivating episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli sits down with Greg Wooldridge, the only person to have led the Blue Angels, the U.S. Navy's renowned flight demonstration squadron, three times. With his unparalleled experience and unique insights, Greg Wooldridge shares valuable lessons on leadership, team dynamics, and the pursuit of excellence that is applicable not only in the cockpit but also in the boardroom. Throughout the conversation, Greg Wooldridge discusses the core elements that make the Blue Angels a high-performing team despite the built-in turnover of members. He reveals how the squadron's culture, founded on humility, gratitude, and trust, is the bedrock of its success. Wooldridge also emphasizes the importance of effective debriefing, which he considers the "secret sauce" of the Blue Angels' continuous improvement. Greg Wooldridge goes on to share his wisdom on the importance of selecting team members based on character rather than just skill and how to foster a sense of ownership and respect among all team members. Actionable Takeaways:
Connect with Greg Wooldridge Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: | |||
| 313 Strategies to Help You and Your Organization Thrive in a Fast-Changing World by Anticipating What's Next with Futurist Daniel Burrus | Partnering Leadership Global Thought Leader | 19 Mar 2024 | 00:48:55 | |
In this episode of the Partnering Leadership podcast, Mahan Tavakoli interviews Daniel Burrus, a world-renowned futurist, strategist, and author of The Anticipatory Organization: Turn Disruption and Change into Opportunity and Advantage.
Throughout the conversation, Daniel Burrus dives deep into the principles and mindsets that enable leaders to become anticipatory rather than reactionary. He highlights the transformative power of the "both/and" principle, the "ideal use" principle, and the concept of disrupting yourself and your organization before others do. Daniel's expertise and engaging storytelling make this episode a must-listen for anyone looking to create a better future for themselves and their organization. Key Insights You'll Gain:
Connect with Daniel Burrus The Anticipatory Organization: Turn Disruption and Change into Opportunity and Advantage Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: | |||
| 312 The Great Engagement: How Leaders Inspire Exceptional Organizational Cultures by Unlocking Team Potential with Brad Zimmerman | Partnering Leadership Global Thought Leader | 12 Mar 2024 | 00:49:51 | |
In this episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli sits down with Brad Zimmerman, a seasoned business consultant and coauthor of The Great Engagement: How CEOs Create Exceptional Cultures. With over thirty years of experience guiding businesses to success, Brad brings a wealth of knowledge and practical insights to the table. Throughout the conversation, Brad and Mahan delve into the critical importance of employee engagement and how leaders can effectively align individual purpose with organizational goals. They explore the shifting attitudes towards work in our society and the implications for leaders seeking to foster cultures of engagement and fulfillment. Brad Zimmerman shares powerful examples and anecdotes from his work with clients, illustrating the transformative impact of a purpose-driven culture on employee motivation, retention, and overall organizational performance. He emphasizes the need for leaders to be intentional, conscious, and self-aware in their approach to engaging and empowering their teams. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the three essential tools of leadership - leading, managing, and coaching - and how mastering these skills can create a supportive and accountable environment where people thrive. Actionable Takeaways: - Discover the three critical elements leaders must focus on to create a culture of engagement and purpose - Learn how to overcome the invisible barriers that prevent employees from offering honest feedback and challenging ideas - Hear powerful examples of organizations that have successfully navigated turbulent times by fostering a deep sense of purpose and pride among their teams - Gain practical strategies for implementing "supportive accountability" and driving results through regular, forward-looking conversations - Understand the importance of creating a coaching culture and how to model openness to feedback as a leader - Explore the shifting attitudes towards work-life balance and how leaders can adapt to engage their teams in this new landscape - Learn the key differences between leading, managing, and coaching and why all three are essential for effective leadership - Discover how to use mission moments to consistently connect your team's work to a greater purpose Connect with Brad Zimmerman The Great Engagement: How CEOs Create Exceptional Cultures Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: | |||
| 311 Thursday Refresh with Ajay Agrawal on Prediction Machines, Power & Prediction and Leading Through The Disruptive Economics of Artificial Intelligence | Partnering Leadership Global Thought Leader | 07 Mar 2024 | 00:40:50 | |
In this Partnering Leadership conversation, Mahan Tavakoli speaks with Professor Ajay Agrawal, the Geoffrey Taber Chair in Entrepreneurship and Innovation and Professor of Strategic Management at the University of Toronto's Rotman School of Management. Ajay Agrawal is also the founder of the Creative Destruction Lab (CDL), a not-for-profit program for early-stage, science-based companies, and coauthor of two outstanding books on Artificial Intelligence: Prediction Machines: The Simple Economics of Artificial Intelligence and Power and Prediction: The Disruptive Economics of Artificial Intelligence. In the conversation, Professor Agrawal shared the origin of his passion for studying the intersection of technology and economics and the increasing importance of artificial intelligence for organizations as a decision-making tool that brings down the cost of prediction. Ajay Agrawal then explained why this shift would significantly impact individuals, organizations, and industries as machines enable better predictions while humans focus on the judgment required for decision-making. Finally, Ajay Agrawal shared examples of the transformative impact of the reduction in the cost of prediction and how leaders can help guide their organizations through the significant changes ahead. Some highlights: - Three people that helped shape Ajay Agrawal's career path - Why looking at AI from an economic perspective clarifies its potential to transform organizations and industries - Ajay Agrawal on the role of predictions in artificial intelligence - The importance of human judgment in decision making - How AI decision-making will redefine roles in the workplace - The disruptive economics of artificial intelligence - How generative AI such as ChatGPT works and what causes mistakes and misstatements - Ajay Agrawal on the importance of upskilling professionals - How organizations can redesign their structures and processes to take into account the new predictive world - The impact of AI on systems-level change - How organizations can leverage AI for business success - Why we're on the brink of a set of transformations that none of us have seen in our lifetimes - How AI can help create a better future Connect with Professor Ajay Agrawal: Ajay Agrawal at Rotman School of Management Prediction Machines: The Simple Economics of Artificial Intelligence on Amazon Power and Prediction: The Disruptive Economics of Artificial Intelligence on Amazon Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: | |||
| 310 Unlearning Certainty: Leadership in an Age of Exponential Uncertainty, Mahan Tavakoli interviewed by Tim Windsor on the UNCOMMODiFiED Podcast | 05 Mar 2024 | 00:34:56 | |
This episode of Partnering Leadership features Mahan Tavakoli in an interview on the Uncommodified podcast with host Tim Windsor. They explore AI's impact on leadership in an increasingly fast-changing world. Mahan and Tim have an insightful dialogue around evolving leadership approaches for exponential times driven by technological advances like AI. They discuss the pitfalls of certainty and why leaders can no longer rely on having all the answers today to be successful. Instead, they examine why perpetual curiosity, learning, and questioning are becoming competitive advantages to drive innovation. From analyzing biases ingrained by education systems to rediscovering childlike wonder, Tim and Mahan offer wisdom for leaders to "unlearn" outdated notions that will hamper future success. They also explore why confidence must be balanced with humility. Modeling an appetite for life's uncertainties can inspire the same in teams. Actionable Takeaways:
Partnering Leadership Conversations Referenced Leading Through The Disruptive Economics of Artificial Intelligence with Professor Ajay Agrawal Connect with Tim Windsor Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: | |||
| 408 The Devil Emails at Midnight: What Good Leaders Can Learn From Bad Bosses with Mita Mallik | 09 Sep 2025 | 00:37:50 | |
What if the “panic habits” leaders default to are the very things burning out their best people? In this Partnering Leadership episode, Mita Mallick—author of The Devil Emails at Midnight—joins Mahan to unpack practical ways senior leaders can replace performative urgency with clear operating rules that people can trust. You will hear why bad bosses are made, not born, and how pressure from markets, role models, and personal crises can turn ordinary leaders into micromanagers. Mita gets specific about power dynamics. A 4:30 a.m. email from the CEO trains teams to jump, even when the intent is “no rush.” She explains how to set explicit after-hours rules and model them yourself. The goal is to stop the 4 a.m. back-and-forth and restore predictable rhythms for high-stakes work. Calendars signal culture. Mita argues for a deliberate meeting cleanse, real breaks, and protected one-on-ones. You will hear why “we are not AI agents,” why canceling a meeting can be the kindest move you make this week, and how simple touch points create loyalty. Leaders also get a playbook for honest feedback. Mita shares how to create safety, why alumni calls six to twelve months after someone leaves yield the most actionable insight, and how a short journaling habit helps you see patterns in your own behavior before they damage trust. Finally, Mita challenges a core assumption: most work is not life or death. Treating it that way creates burnout. She closes with a frank read on the broken employee–employer contract and a likely shift toward more consultant-style work, which makes clarity, expectations, and operating rules even more important for CEOs and boards. Actionable Takeaways
The Devil Emails at Midnight: What Good Leaders Can Learn from Bad Bosses Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: | |||
| 309 Big Bet Leadership to Win in the Hyper Digital Era with John Rossman | Partnering Leadership Global Thought Leader | 27 Feb 2024 | 00:33:52 | |
As the pace of digital change accelerates, how should leaders guide their organizations to stay ahead of disruption? In this episode of Partnering Leadership, author John Rossman makes the case that betting big on transformation is essential, though risky. Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: | |||
| 308 Leading with Arete: Inspiring Heroic Action in Yourself, Your Team and Your Organization with Brian Johnson |Partnering Leadership Global Thought Leader | 20 Feb 2024 | 00:40:11 | |
In this episode of Partnering Leadership, host Mahan Tavakoli interviews philosopher, CEO, and bestselling author Brian Johnson on activating your organization's heroic potential. Having spent over half his career as a founder and business leader, Brian shares powerful insights on perseverance and excellence drawn from ancient wisdom and modern science. In the conversation, Brian offers key lessons from his newest book, "Arete: Activate Your Heroic Potential," for overcoming adversity and leading teams through hardship. You'll discover Brian's fascinating concept of "anti-fragile confidence" and the rituals enabling leaders to cultivate it. Hear how Brian trains his mind and body with world-class dedication - and why peak physical condition enables peak psychological performance when tackling stress. Finally, Brian defines the one "ultimate game" leaders must keep sight of in business and life. In this conversation, you will learn:
Connect with Brian Johnson Brian Johnson Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: | |||
| 307 Challenging Your Own BS to Foster Inclusion: Getting Real About Internal Bias and Promoting Authenticity in the Workplace with Risha Grant |Partnering Leadership Global Thought | 13 Feb 2024 | 00:25:30 | |
Diversity, equity, and inclusion are more vital than ever for organizations today. But how can leaders move beyond good intentions to drive real impact? In this engaging episode, inclusion strategist Risha Grant, author of Be Better than Your BS: How Radical Acceptance Empowers Authenticity and Creates a Workplace Culture of Inclusion, offers paradigm-shifting insights for leaders seeking to foster authentic belonging in their teams. Drawing on over two decades of experience guiding executives, Risha dives into the key traps that derail well-meaning leaders. You'll hear surprising takeaways like why your company's implementation matters more than your intent. Risha also shares how a "BS check" can reveal blindspots and how transparency drives trust when handled right. Actionable Takeaways:
Recommended Resources Connect with Risha Grant Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: | |||
| 306 The Executive Playbook for Mastering Generative AI: A Guide to Transforming Performance by Leveraging Cutting-Edge Capabilities with Jordan Wilson, Founder of Everyday AI | Partnering Leadership Global Thought Leader | 06 Feb 2024 | 00:28:44 | |
What if AI could free up bandwidth, spark creativity, and boost productivity for executives and teams? Jordan Wilson, Founder of Everyday AI and host of the Everyday AI podcast, joins Mahan Tavakoli, sharing pragmatic tips so leaders can harness cutting-edge generative AI. Jordan advises an agile, sprint-based approach to rapidly experiment rather than get stuck in opaque long-term AI projects that often trigger resistance. He recommends executives audit workflows to systematically evaluate where AI could automate tedious tasks - starting with their most time-consuming administrative work before expanding. Rather than reacting as generative AI enters offices, Jordan makes the case that executives can proactively embrace this change, unlocking new creative opportunities. Actionable Takeaways:
Connect with Jordan Wilson Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: | |||
| 305 Thursday Refresh with H.H. Leonards on Rosa Parks Beyond the Bus: Life, Lessons, and Leadership | Partnering Leadership Global Thought Leader | 01 Feb 2024 | 00:41:11 | |
In this episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli speaks with H.H. Leonards. H.H. Leonards is the founder and chair of the O Street Museum Foundation, headquartered in Washington, D.C., and the Mansion on O Street, where Mrs. Rosa Parks called her home-away-from-home for the last decade of her life. H.H. Leonards is also the author of the book Rosa Parks Beyond the Bus: Life, Lessons, and Leadership. Rosa Parks was a civil rights activist best known for her pivotal role in the Montgomery bus boycott. In the conversation, H.H. Leonards shares why they connected on a deep level when she met Rosa Parks. H.H. Leonards also shares both historical accounts recounted to her by Rosa Parks as well as her experience during the ten years Rosa Parks lived at the Mansion on O Street. Finally, H.H. Leonards shares what Rosa Parks felt it would take to end racism and her hope for future generations. The episode ends with the beautiful song “Enough” which was made to honor Rosa Parks. The song lyrics are by Oscar-winning songwriter Paul Williams, and the music was written by Mark Bryan (lead guitarist for Hootie & the Blowfish) and Ranky Tanky, both Grammy winners. Some Highlights -Why Rosa Parks came to Washington DC to live at the Mansion on O Street -H.H. Leonards and Rosa Parks bonding over their shared values of family, love, and helping others -Rosa Parks' role in the civil rights movement and the many challenges she faced after the Montgomery Bus Boycott -The many myths surrounding Rosa Parks not giving up her seat on the bus and what really happened that fateful day and why -H.H. Leonards on getting to know Rosa Parks even better, by accompanying her to meetings and through her touch -Rosa Parks’ role in the founding of the National Organization for Women -How Rosa Parks' meeting with Pope John Paul II came about and its significance -Rosa Parks’ view on what it would take to help end racism -The Congressional Gold Medal and the Presidential Medal of Freedom -The three-city funeral for Rosa Parks -A message that Rosa Parks would want to be passed on to future generations Resources: Rosa Parks Beyond the Bus: Life, Lessons, and Leadership on Amazon Connect with H.H. Leonards Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: | |||
| 304 How to Apply Strategic Thinking at All Levels to Set Direction and Achieve Sustainable Competitive Advantage with Rich Horwath | Partnering Leadership Global Thought Leader | 30 Jan 2024 | 00:47:00 | |
In this episode of Partnering Leadership, host Mahan Tavakoli interviews strategic thinking expert Rich Horwath, author of six books on strategy, including his latest Strategic: The Skill to Set Direction, Create Advantage, and Achieve Executive Excellence. Rich shares his decades of expertise, shining a light on common pitfalls that executives and leadership teams face as they approach strategic planning. He then outlines his practical 3A framework – Acumen, Allocation, Action – that leaders at any level can use to begin thinking and behaving more strategically daily. The conversation explores important concepts around strategic agility, competitive advantage, customer insight, and leading change during times of greater uncertainty. With so many models and approaches promising the "secret formula" to developing winning strategic plans, Rich cuts through the noise with relevant and impactful principles and perspectives. Actionable Takeaways:
Partnering Leadership Episodes Referenced Winning the Right Game: How to Disrupt, Defend, and Deliver in a Changing World with Ron Adner Leading Through The Disruptive Economics of Artificial Intelligence with Professor Ajay Agrawal How to Lead and Innovate by Learning from The Amazon Way with John Rossman Connect with Rich Horwath Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: | |||
| 303 Making an Impact Through Informed Decisions: Lessons on Philanthropic Leadership with Charity Navigator CEO Michael Thatcher | Partnering Leadership Global Thought Leader | 23 Jan 2024 | 00:45:26 | |
In this Partnering Leadership conversation, Michael Thatcher shares insights from his extensive leadership experience spanning the nonprofit and technology sectors. As the CEO of Charity Navigator, the largest charity evaluator in the U.S., he provides an inside look at leading this influential organization through a period of rapid growth and digital transformation. Touching on topics from building trust with boards to measuring nonprofit impact, Michael Thatcher offers thoughtful perspectives on leadership. He discusses the journey of evolving Charity Navigator's rating system to provide more holistic assessments focused on transparency, accountability, and tangible outcomes. With over 200,000 charities now rated, he looks ahead to further enhancing evaluation methods and considering international expansion. Thatcher also explores trends in philanthropy and optimistically envisions greater collaboration between sectors to drive social impact. Actionable Takeaways:
Referenced Partnering Leadership Conversations AI Ethics, Leadership & Governance with Renee Cummings, Professor of Practice in Data Science at UVA Connect with Michael Thatcher Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: | |||
| 302 Strategic Clarity: The Executive’s Guide to Impactful Messaging & Communications with Steve Woodruff | Partnering Leadership Global Thought Leader | 16 Jan 2024 | 00:37:55 | |
In this Partnering Leadership episode, host Mahan Tavakoli speaks with clarity expert Steve Woodruff about the importance of clear communication for leaders. As the torrent of digital information competes for our attention, Steve emphasizes how leaders must craft focused messages that cut through the noise. Drawing from decades of consulting experience, Steve shares the core principles from his book "The Point" on transmitting ideas effectively amidst the modern barrage of disruption. He outlines specific techniques like storytelling and analogies that make messages stick in the minds of listeners. With humor and humility, Steve advocates that the starting point begins with self-awareness – leaders first know their own strengths before trying to communicate them. The conversation revolves around neuroscience, explaining why unclear communication fails. Steve offers research on how our brains filter information, only latching onto what seems immediately relevant. This biological filtering system demands that leaders prioritize clarity, first having a clear point themselves. Steve provides thought-provoking ideas on how to sequence messages, using illustrations and examples so others can readily comprehend key concepts. Steve analyzes common communication pitfalls that prevent alignment and action. He shares wisdom on the clarity necessary for personal branding, settling on the right descriptive words and stories that capture individual uniqueness. Actionable Takeaways:
Connect with Steve Woodruff The Point: How to Win with Clarity-Fueled CommunicationsConnect with Mahan Tavakoli: | |||
| 301 Reshaping Leadership for the Remote Revolution: AI Integration, Motivating Dispersed Teams, and Scaling Through Change with Veteran Tech CEO Andy Tryba | Partnering Leadership Global Thought Leader | 09 Jan 2024 | 00:40:14 | |
In this Partnering Leadership episode, host Mahan Tavakoli has an expansive dialogue on leadership and the future of work with serial entrepreneur and tech optimist Andy Tryba. As a 19x founder and CEO, Andy currently leads private equity firm Ionic Partners and two of its high-growth acquisitions, Gigster and Sparkrock. Andy previously built and led software juggernaut Think3, acquiring and optimizing 12 SaaS companies. He also founded one of the world's largest online talent marketplaces, Crossover, which grew to over $500 million in revenue before its acquisition. In addition, Andy served as an advisor to President Obama on spurring job creation and competitiveness. Key Insights and Actionable Takeaways:
Connect with Andy Tryba Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: | |||
| 300 Thursday Refresh with David Marquet on Intent-Based Leadership and Transforming Organizations through the Power of Language | Partnering Leadership Global Thought Leader | 04 Jan 2024 | 00:30:32 | |
In this episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli speaks with David Marquet. David served as the commander of the US Navy nuclear submarine, USS Santa Fe. When he took over, he changed the command-and-control leadership style and empowered his crew to turn the lowest-performing sub into the best performer in the fleet. David Marquet shared leadership lessons from this experience, which he also wrote in his bestselling book Turn the Ship Around! A True Story of Turning Followers Into Leaders. David Marquet also shared leadership insights from his latest book, Leadership Is Language: The Hidden Power of What You Say and What You Don't. In it, David Marquet highlights how choosing your words can dramatically improve organizational decision-making and execution.
Some Highlights: - David Marquet on becoming the commander of the lowest-performing submarine in the US Navy - Why it's not the lack of leadership but the wrong kind of leadership that results in poor team performance - David Marquet on moving beyond the traditional approach to leadership - How David Marquet shifted his own and his crew's mindset to transition from permission-based decision making to intent-based decision making - Why leadership in most organizations still operates using outdated mindsets and approaches - David Marquet on what all leaders can learn from the communications breakdowns on the El Farro - The importance of language in leading organizations to better decision making and execution in the business Books Mentioned: - Turn the Ship Around! A True Story of Turning Followers Into Leaders - L. David Marquet - Leadership Is Language: The Hidden Power of What You Say and What You Don't - L. David Marquet Connect with L. David Marquet: LinkedIn: Intent-based Leadership International Websites: https://intentbasedleadership.com/what-is-intent-based-leadership/ YouTube: Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: | |||
| 407 Thursday Refresh: Ann Hiatt on Trillion Dollar Leadership Secrets of Amazon’s Jeff Bezos & Google’s Eric Schmidt | 04 Sep 2025 | 00:52:14 | |
In this episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli speaks with Ann Hiatt, Leadership Strategist & Consultant and Author of the book Bet on Yourself. Ann Hiatt shared the many lessons she learned while working alongside the world's top tech CEOs—Google's Eric Schmidt, Amazon's Jeff Bezos, Yahoo's Marissa Meyer. In addition to the story of her reinvention, Ann Hiatt shared common practices and approaches of these and other top-performing leaders.
Some highlights: - Ann Hiatt on how she ended up working at Amazon and supporting Jeff Bezos - How Ann Hiatt handled the crisis when the helicopter she booked for Jeff Bezos ended up crashing - The leadership models, habits, thought processes Ann Hiatt learned from working closely with Jezz Bezos and Eric Schmidt - Ann Hiatt on how to hire people who are value-aligned and a good culture fit for your company - Why you should and how you can Bet on Yourself.
Also mentioned in this episode: -Jeff Bezos, Founder and Executive Chairman of Amazon -Eric Schmidt, former CEO of Google -Andy Jassy, President and CEO of Amazon -John Doerr, Venture Capitalist at Kleiner Perkins, an early investor in companies including Amazon & Google, and OKR advocate
Book Recommendations: Measure What Matters by John Doerr
Connect with Ann Hiatt:
Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: | |||
| 299 A New Dawn, A New Day, A New Year: Transforming Your Mornings & Your Life with The Miracle Morning author Hal Elrod | Partnering Leadership Global Thought Leader | 02 Jan 2024 | 00:56:58 | |
Hal Elrod, the international bestselling author of The Miracle Morning: The Not-So-Obvious Secret Guaranteed to Transform Your Life, which has been translated into 37 languages and has sold over 2.5 million copies, brings his unique perspectives on establishing daily practices that foster personal growth and leadership excellence based on his recently updated and expanded edition of The Miracle Morning. Drawing on personal experiences overcoming adversity, including life-threatening events, Hal developed the acclaimed Miracle Morning methodology to optimize and actualize his full potential intentionally.
In this inspiring discussion, Hal shares the origins of Miracle Morning's "6 Saver" routine of silence, affirmation, visualization, exercise, reading, and writing. He offers compelling insights on leveraging these personal development pillars for individual growth to elevate teams and build organizational culture. From establishing new habits to sustainability tactics and the neuroscience validating this methodology, Hal provides an often overlooked formula to embody more empowered, activated life and leadership.
With insightful examples, Hal translates proven self-optimization techniques into accessible daily actions that yield exponential dividends over time for conscious, purposeful leaders ready to partner at higher levels. Actionable Takeaways: - Hear Hal's incredible story of personal tragedy becoming a transformational purpose - Learn the "5 Minute Rule" for processing adversity and finding freedom - Understand the power and common pitfalls of correctly practicing affirmations - Apply visualization rehearsals to ensure execution and peak performance - Realize how the Miracle Morning fuels individual and collective actualization - Discover principles and strategies to shift from morning reluctance to ritual advocate - Grasp how to customize and scaffold the 6 Saver practices for beginners to advanced - Utilize emotional optimization meditation for programmed, on-demand mindset activation Recommended Resources
Connect with Hal Elrod Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: | |||
| 298 [BEST OF] How to Use Inquiry to Spark Breakthrough Ideas with the Author of A More Beautiful Question & The Book of Beautiful Questions with Warren Berger | Partnering Leadership Global Thought Leader | 26 Dec 2023 | 00:46:53 | |
In this episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli speaks with Warren Berger. Warren is the author of multiple books on innovation and the power of questioning in leadership and everyday life. The conversation focused on Warren Berger's books A More Beautiful Question and The Book of Beautiful Questions. Warren shared thoughts on his study of the world's foremost innovators and creative thinkers, revealing what he has learned. Warren Berger also shared his insights into the natural tendency of questioning as a young child, the connection between curiosity and questioning, and why we suppress our questioning ability as we get older. Warren shared what leaders can do differently to encourage a culture of curiosity and tap into the power of inquiry. Finally, Warren Berger shared thoughts on developing the questioning skills critical for innovation, collaboration, and leading through uncertainty.
Some Highlights: - Why we become more reluctant to ask questions as we grow up - The external factors that shape our behavior and discourage us from asking questions - Warren Berger on the power of questioning and how to do it well - The importance of questioning in the workplace - How leaders can encourage more effective questioning in the workplace - Warren Berger on the relationship between curiosity and questioning - How to ask better questions and collaborate for innovation. Referenced: Partnering Leadership conversation with David McRaney on How Minds Change Connect with Warren Berger:
A More Beautiful Question: The Power of Inquiry to Spark Breakthrough Ideas on Amazon Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: | |||
| 297 [BEST OF] Innovative Thinking & Strategy by Tapping Into the Science of Subtraction with University of Virginia Professor Leidy Klotz | Greater Washington DC DMV Changemaker | 19 Dec 2023 | 00:44:57 | |
In this episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli speaks with Leidy Klotz, a professor at the University of Virginia appointed in the Schools of Engineering, Architecture, and Business and author of the book Subtract: The Untapped Science of Less. Leidy Klotz shares some of the reasons why we typically look to add rather than consider subtraction when looking to solve problems and improve systems. Leidy Klotz also discusses how subtraction can benefit leaders of organizations and managers of teams. Finally, Leidy Klotz shares how we can ensure that we don't overlook the power of subtraction in our organizations and daily lives. Mentioned: -Annie Paul, author of The Extended Mind: The Power of Thinking Outside the Brain
Connect with Leidy Klotz: Subtract: The Untapped Science of Less on Amazon Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: | |||
| 296 Harnessing the Power of Generative AI: A Practical Guide for Organizational Leaders with Conor Grennan | Partnering Leadership Global Thought Leader | 12 Dec 2023 | 00:45:57 | |
In this Partnering Leadership conversation, Mahan Tavakoli speaks with Conor Grennan, Dean of Students at NYU Stern and co-host of the AI Applied Podcast. Conor shares insider perspectives on where generative AI is headed and how organizations, teams, and professionals can fully tap the opportunities it provides. You’ll learn about the vital role change management plays in integrating generative AI across your company, how to prioritize AI fluency, govern usage responsibly, and stay on top of constant AI advancements. Conor makes a compelling case that developing AI capabilities needs to be urgent, providing tangible examples of techniques you can activate now. He sheds light on the sweeping impacts of AI on remaking talent strategies and even the nature of management roles themselves. Key lessons you’ll take away include how to:
Connect with Conor Grennan Recommended Episodes Leading Through The Disruptive Economics of Artificial Intelligence with Professor Ajay AgrawalConnect with Mahan Tavakoli: | |||
| 295 Thursday Refresh with Tim Clark: A framework to help leaders transform organizations into psychologically safe incubators of innovation | Partnering Leadership Global Thought Leader | 07 Dec 2023 | 00:49:54 | |
In this episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli talked with Dr. Timothy Clark, the founder and CEO of LeaderFactor and author of Four Stages of Psychological Safety. Dr. Clark has broken down the different stages to ensure psychological safety in teams. Dr. Timothy Clark shares how teams can build on the understanding of each stages in order to boost psychological safety in the workplace. Some highlights: -Dr. Timothy Clark on why leaders cannot be neutral -The skills that leaders need to cultivate -Dr. Timothy Clark on his definition of psychological safety -The barriers to creating psychological safety in the workplace -Improving the learning process by disconnecting fear from failure -Dr. Timothy Clark on how leaders can ensure employee accountability -How to achieve the highest level of psychological safety by challenging and changing the status quo
Also mentioned in this episode: Partnering Leadership podcast conversation with Dr. Michelle McQuaid, best-seller author (Listen to Dr. Michelle McQuaid’s episode here) The Four Stages of Psychological Safety Behavioral Guide Four Stages of Psychological Safety Book
Connect with Dr. Timothy Clark: Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: | |||
| 294 Agility Reimagined: Fresh Perspectives to Thrive in Disruptive Times with Joshua Kerievsky | Partnering Leadership Global Thought Leader | 05 Dec 2023 | 00:34:11 | |
In this episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli explores the concept of agility with his guest, Joshua Kerievsky, CEO of Industrial Logic and author of Joy of Agility: How to Solve Problems and Succeed Sooner. They discuss why agility is far more than speed and how leaders can hone the mindset and skillset of agility. Joshua Kerievsky provides a crisp definition of agility and shares why it highlights how agility is crucial in all aspects of business and life. He also shares balanced ways leaders can enable experimentation and learning without the hurry and pressure that leads to mistakes. Through sharing his agility mantras and powerful examples, Joshua Kerievsky makes agility accessible and practical for leaders across organizations. Actionable Takeaways:
Recommended Resources The Joy of Agility by Joshua Kerievsky Testing Business Ideas by David J. Bland Connect with Joshua Kerievsky Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: | |||
| 293 The Art of Management: Practical Insights for New and Experienced Managers with Jim McCormick | Partnering Leadership Global Thought Leader | 28 Nov 2023 | 00:43:30 | |
In this Partnering Leadership conversation, Jim McCormick, bestselling author of The First Time Manager, shares his decades of management wisdom perfected through diverse leadership roles. In addition to covering fundamentals vital for first-time managers, Jim's book provides essential insights for veteran leaders on managing well, covering critical practices like delegation, transparency, accountability, and confronting underperformance. Jim also details how mindsets and risk filters shape outcomes from his experience directing the Research Institute for Risk Intelligence. Finally, Jim McCormick addresses how managers can achieve work-life balance, prevent burnout contagion, and customize their management styles. Key Takeaways: - Learn a structured technique for confronting performance issues while maintaining empathy - Discover tactics to empower your team through aligning individual development with organizational goals - Gain insight into work-life balance tactics leveraged by legendary leaders like Eisenhower - Understand when transparency versus confidentiality is appropriate with direct reports - Appreciate why entrepreneurial risk-taking links to the intuitive decisiveness vital for successful CEOs - Master ways to foster career motivation by connecting employee aspirations to company mission - Become equipped to shift from micromanagement to supportive accountability Connect with Jim McCormick Research Institute for Risk Intelligence The First Time Manager on Amazon Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: | |||
| 292 [Best of] Steven Sasson Digital Photography Pioneer & Inventor of the Digital Camera at Kodak | Partnering Leadership Global Thought Leader | 21 Nov 2023 | 00:53:03 | |
In this episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli speaks with Steven Sasson who invented the digital camera while working at Kodak, earning him The National Medal of Technology and Innovation award. Steven Sasson shares the story of how digital photography came to be, the many inventions that made it more accessible to eventually take the place of film photography. Steven Sasson also talks about the support for the invention at Kodak and the many cultural and leadership challenges that got in the way of Kodak taking full advantage of the technology.
Some highlights: - Steven Sasson’s love for tinkering with technology - Why Steven Sasson chose to work at Kodak - Conceptualizing and envisioning the first handheld electronic camera - The first image taken with the first prototype of the portable digital camera - Kodak’s initial reaction to Steven Sasson’s invention and questions for the future of digital technology - How the support and belief of Steven Sasson’s supervisor motivated him to push his idea forward despite doubts from Kodak executives - Why Steven Sasson’s project was kept secret by Kodak for many years - The story behind ECAM, the first operational DSLR camera - The story behind QuickTake 100, Kodak’s collaboration with Apple - Cultural and leadership challenges preventing Kodak from being able to take full advantage of digital photography - How internal struggles, and short-sighted decisions impacted Kodak - Steven Sasson’s experience receiving The National Medal of Technology and Innovation award from President Barack Obama in 2009
Mentioned: Don Reinertsen, author Gareth Lloyd, former supervisor at Kodak Jim Sheckler, former technician at Kodak Gilda Radner, actress and comedian Joy Marshall, former laboratory technician at Kodak Steve Jobs, co-founder and former chairman and CEO of Apple Steve Wozniak, co-founder of Apple Dr. Majid Rabbani, former fellow at Kodak Dr. Brad Paxton, former director at Kodak Robert Hills, co-inventor of the first DSLR camera Jim McGarvey, former lead engineer at Kodak George M. C. Fisher, former CEO of Kodak Daniel Allen Carp, former chairman and CEO of Kodak Antonio M. Pérez, former CEO of Kodak Barack Obama, 44th U.S. President Pete Souza, former Chief Official White House Photographer
Connect with Steven Sasson:
Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: | |||
| 291 The Intelligent Enterprise: How to Future-Proof Your Organization and Take Advantage of the AI Revolution with David DeWolf | Partnering Leadership Global Thought Leader | 14 Nov 2023 | 00:54:06 | |
The AI revolution promises to reshape business in the years ahead. Are you ready to lead your organization into this intelligence era? In this compelling episode, David DeWolf, President and Chief Executive Officer of Knownwell, shares invaluable insights to help leaders navigate the AI transformation. Having deeply researched AI's potential while launching his latest venture, David sees both tremendous opportunity and some real perils if AI is not stewarded responsibly. You'll hear David bust myths about AI only impacting technical roles. He explains why AI readiness must start from the top, shaping strategy and culture. Tune in to discover why leaders shouldn't resist AI disruption but rather prepare employees to thrive alongside smart technology. David also reveals the keys to building an AI-ready culture, taking an experimentation mindset, and determining where human skills remain irreplaceable. Actionable Takeaways: - Learn why David urges leaders not to run from AI disruption but to prepare people for the workforce changes it will spur. - Hear David explain how AI can automate internal business operations so humans can focus on irreplaceable strengths. - Discover why David believes AI will spark a resurgence of nimble mid-market companies. - Understand what an AI-ready culture looks like and why learning is a key ingredient. - Get David's advice on taking an experimental approach to piloting AI rather than seeking the perfect solution. - Find out why David says leaders need to incorporate more silence and reflection to discern the signals amidst the noise. Resources: Connect with David DeWolf: Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: | |||
| 290 Latino Leadership to Enrich Our Shared Future with Juana Bordas | Partnering Leadership Global Thought Leader | 07 Nov 2023 | 00:36:48 | |
In this Partnering Leadership conversation, Mahan Tavakoli speaks with diversity trailblazer Juana Bordas, author of The Power of Latino Leadership: Culture, Inclusion, and Contribution. Drawing from her inspiring journey, Juana provides a rare insider's view into leadership techniques forged through centuries of struggle. Juana Bordas makes a compelling case for the power of collective leadership in our multicultural age. From reconciling the past to preparing for the future, Juana provides a blueprint for leading beyond self-interest, grounded in timeless principles of care, service, and belonging. Actionable Takeaways: - Hear the wisdom behind why "a leader is equal" and how this evolves organizational culture. - Learn how to shift from "I" to "we" in leadership to unlock greater cooperation and community. - Understand why immigrants bring vital assets and how to embrace our multicultural opportunities. - Discover principles to inspire leadership at all levels and by the many, not the few - Appreciate how recalling history helps us reconcile the past to progress together. - Realize why self-sacrifice and service are cornerstones of transformative leadership. - Grasp how "power to the people" creates care, belonging, and organizations that uplift. - Find out how intergenerational leadership can prepare and engage younger generations. - See why stewarding the future matters more than self-interest in leadership roles. Connect with Juana Bordas The Power of Latino Leadership: Culture, Inclusion, and Contribution Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: | |||
| 406 Data as a Leadership Superpower: How to Fuel Strategy, Innovation, and AI with Justin Evans, Author of The Little Book of Data | 02 Sep 2025 | 00:39:03 | |
In this episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli speaks with Justin Evans, a seasoned executive and author of The Little Book of Data. With a career spanning leadership roles at major media and tech firms including Microsoft, NBCUniversal, and Paramount, Evans brings a rare combination of commercial acumen and data fluency to the conversation. His insights offer a refreshing—and deeply practical—framework for how senior leaders should think about data, not as a technical layer, but as a strategic lens. Far too often, CEOs and boards delegate “data” to specialists, only to find themselves disconnected from the systems shaping growth, innovation, and increasingly, AI-driven decision-making. Evans challenges that mindset. He argues that data is now a core leadership discipline—and avoiding it is no longer an option. But here’s the twist: embracing data doesn’t require becoming a data scientist. It requires leading with the right posture, questions, and level of clarity. Throughout the conversation, Evans offers real-world stories, from nonprofits reducing senior loneliness using conversational analytics, to multinationals unlocking hidden growth by surfacing unused operational data. What sets his thinking apart is not just the depth of his data expertise, but how convincingly he ties it back to purpose, impact, and leadership judgment. This is not a technical conversation. It’s a strategic one. And for leaders wondering how to navigate a world increasingly shaped by algorithms, dashboards, and machine learning, this episode is both a wake-up call and a guidepost. If you’ve ever felt a step behind in the data conversation—or feared being sidelined in the age of AI—this dialogue will help you reframe and reengage with confidence.
Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: | |||
| 289 Thursday Refresh: Shores Beyond Shores - from Holocaust to Hope: A Bergen-Belsen Survivor's Story of Hope over Adversity with Irene Butter | Partnering Leadership Global Thought Leader | 02 Nov 2023 | 00:48:13 | |
In this episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli speaks with Dr. Irene Butter, a professor, peace activist, and holocaust survivor. Irene Butter shares why she decided to break her silence and tell the story of her family's experience through the Holocaust, first by sharing her story on stages and at schools and by eventually publishing her book: Shores Beyond Shores - from Holocaust to Hope, My True Story: A Bergen-Belsen Survivor's story of Hope over Adversity. Irene ends the conversation with a powerful message for all!
Some highlights: -Irene Butter’s memory of a happy childhood with her family in Berlin, Germany -What a simple bar of chocolate represented for the Hasenberg family -Irene Butter on the trauma, fear, and sadness in the Westerbork Camp -Starvation and death in the Bergen-Belsen Camp -Irene Butter on her encounter with Anne Frank -How Irene Butter and the Hasenberg family managed to leave Bergen-Belsen -What motivated Irene Butter finally to share her family’s holocaust experience -Irene Butter on stories of triumph over trauma -Irene Butter on why you should never be a bystander
-Werner Hasenberg, Irene Butter's older brother and Holocaust Survivor -Hanneli Goslar, a close friend of Anne Frank, Holocaust Survivor -Anne Frank, Annelies Marie Frank was a German-Dutch diarist. She gained fame posthumously with the 1947 publication of The Diary of a Young Girl documenting her life in hiding from 1942 to 1944, during the German occupation of the Netherlands. -Elie Wiesel, Author, Philosopher, Humanist and World's leading spokesman on the Holocaust Book Recommendations: Shores Beyond Shores: From Holocaust to Hope, My True Story by Irene Butter
Connect with Irene Butter: Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: | |||
| 288 Purpose Driven Entrepreneurial Journey and Using Communications to Drive Social Impact with Julie Rosenthal, CEO JR Communications | Partnering Leadership Greater Washington DC DMV Changemaker | 31 Oct 2023 | 00:33:35 | |
In this Partnering Leadership conversation, Mahan Tavakoli interviews entrepreneur Julie Rosenthal, CEO of strategic communications agency JR Communications, about her 20-plus-year journey building her business. Julie candidly shares the story of starting the company after getting laid off and joining a leadership program that connected her with her first client. Julie Rosenthal provides insights into pivoting her firm's offerings to stay relevant in a changing industry and forging trusted client partnerships over time. Julie reflects openly on mistakes made early on and how she transformed obstacles into growth opportunities. Women leaders will especially appreciate Julie's transparent advice on setting boundaries with clients, seeking help from mentors, standing up for fair compensation, and evolving her leadership approach to empower others. Her journey offers an inspirational model for building an agile, purpose-driven services business. Actionable Takeaways: - Hear how a significant career setback inspired Julie to launch her company and the surprising catalyst that brought her first client. - Learn how Julie spearheaded a financial turnaround as board chair by seeking help, building consensus, and persevering. - Discover Julie's approach to bringing value through relationship-building and intangibles like "providing therapy." - Understand why women entrepreneurs must "think like men" and self-promote more. - Get insights on Julie's tips for younger women leaders to "stick to your guns." Connect with Julie Rosenthal Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: | |||
| 287 How to Listen: Discovering the Hidden Key to Better Communication with Oscar Trimboli | Partnering Leadership Global Thought Leader | 24 Oct 2023 | 00:52:35 | |
Get ready for a fascinating discussion on the overlooked leadership skill of listening, featuring Oscar Trimboli, author of the book How to Listen: Discover the Hidden Key to Better Communication. Oscar Trimboli draws on decades of research and over 24,000 workplace interviews to provide science-backed insights on how leaders can become exceptional listeners. You'll discover why most of us are only hearing 14% of what people actually say and how to tap into the other 86%. Learn simple but powerful techniques to tune into conversations, avoid assumptions, and strengthen relationships through mindful listening. Whether leading teams or tackling complex challenges, this episode provides leaders the tools to listen their way to better outcomes. Actionable Takeaways: - Hear Oscar's origin story and how a jaw condition as a teenager shaped his listening superpower. - Learn why listening starts with focusing on yourself first, not the speaker. - Discover Oscar's "listening battery" technique and how to recharge before conversations. - Get simple meeting tweaks to arrive fully present and boost listening. - Find out the three magic numbers behind listening dilemmas at work. - Learn to recognize your listening orientation and when to shift approaches. - Hear how self-assessment biases hinder our listening abilities. - Discover questions to uncover what hasn't been said. - Get Oscar's top recommended practice for better listening right away. Recommended Resources How to Listen: Discover the Hidden Key to Better Communication Connect with Oscar Trimboli Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: | |||
| 286 Never Say Whatever: How Small Decisions Make a Big Difference with Richard Moran | Partnering Leadership Global Thought Leader | 17 Oct 2023 | 00:34:12 | |
Leaders today face a barrage of daily decisions that shape careers and brands. In this episode of Partnering Leadership, veteran business leader Richard Moran makes the case that our constant minor choices represent pivotal moments. Drawing on decades of experience as a CEO, college president, venture capitalist, and corporate consultant, he explains why small decisions about “extra” tasks or meetings signal commitment. You’ll learn why Richard Moran believes accountability is a cure for organizational “whatevers” that drive talent away. Discover how self-awareness helps leaders know when to reinvent themselves professionally. Richard Moran offers insights on clarifying intentions so actions follow, and shares what every employee wants to know. Tune in for practical steps to build your leadership and avoid “never saying whatever” from Richard Moran’s book Never Say Whatever: How Small Decisions Make a Big Difference. You’ll learn: - Why Richard believes Covid made us apathetic in decision-making. - How to avoid decision fatigue by tackling choices promptly. - Why leaders need to be brutally honest about their strengths. - How clarifying intentions eliminates ambiguity about actions. - The three basic things every employee wants to know. - Why accountability cures organizational “whatevers.” - How self-awareness enables reinvention as a leader. Connect with Richard Moran: Never Say Whatever: How Small Decisions Make a Big DifferenceRecommended Resources: The Leadership Challenge by Jim Kouzes and Barry Posner Partnering Leadership podcast episode with Patrick McGinnis on Decision Making Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: | |||
| 285 Leading with Empathy in the Age of Artificial Intelligence with Minter Dial | Partnering Leadership AI Global Thought Leader | 10 Oct 2023 | 00:39:32 | |
Get ready for a fascinating conversation on artificial empathy and putting more heart into business and AI. In this Partnering Leadership conversation, Minter Dial, award-winning author and renowned international keynote speaker, shares insights from the significantly expanded and modified edition of his award-winning book Heartificial Empathy, 2nd Edition: Putting Heart into Business and Artificial Intelligence. In the conversation, Minter reflects on essential developments in artificial intelligence and the new context post-pandemic of the future of work. He shares why empathy can be a competitive advantage, how to cultivate it authentically in your organization, and the right mindset for leveraging AI. Minter Dial goes on to explain the evolution of AI and the rise of generative AI. He discusses the need for empathy in our lives and workplaces and how empathy and ethics must be intertwined in AI systems. You'll hear unique perspectives on how reading fiction develops empathy muscles and Minter's illuminating experience bonding with an empathetic AI named JJ. If you want to foster more meaningful connections and inject heart into your leadership and business, this episode is for you! Actionable Takeaways
Connect with Minter Dial Heartificial Empathy: Putting Heart into Business and Artificial Intelligence
Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: | |||
| 284 Thursday Refresh with Ken Blanchard and Randy Conley: Simple Truths of Leadership, How to Be a Servant Leader and Build Trust | Partnering Leadership Global Thought Leader | 05 Oct 2023 | 00:41:57 | |
In this episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli speaks with Ken Blanchard and Randy Conley. Ken is the founder of the Ken Blanchard Companies and has co-authored more than 65 books on leadership, including all-time classics such as The One Minute Manager and Who Moved My Cheese, each with over 20 million copies sold. In this conversation, Ken Blanchard is joined by Randy Conley, Vice President of global professional services for the Ken Blanchard Companies. The discussion focuses on the leadership lessons from Ken Blancard and Randy Conley's latest book: Simple Truths of Leadership: 52 Ways to Be a Servant Leader and Build Trust, which he co-wrote with Randy Conley. Ken and Randy share how to apply the leadership principles to build trust and become the kind of leader others would want to follow.
- Ken Blanchard on the impact of his upbringing on his leadership thinking and approach - Randy Conley on models for servant leadership - The importance of humility in leadership - Randy Conley on the complexity of leadership and the need to focus on fundamental principles - Ken Blanchard on how to build on your team's desire to contribute - Randy Conley on authenticity and its importance to servant leadership - Ken Blanchard on why "love" powers leadership - Randy Conley on extending trust - How leaders can encourage feedback from their teams - The ABCD model of trust - Ken Blanchard's breakdown of the servant leadership mindset - Putting situational leadership into practice - Ken Blanchard on having the reflective self versus the task-oriented self - Ken Blanchard and Randy Conley on the future of work Also mentioned in this episode: - Jim Collins, Level 5 Leadership - Garry O. Ridge, Chairman of the Board and chief executive officer of the WD-40 Company - Dale Carnegie, author - Rick Tate, author
Books Mentioned: - The One Minute Manager by Ken Blanchard and Spencer Johnson - Everyone's a Coach by Ken Blanchard and Don Shula
Connect with Ken Blanchard and Randy Conley: Ken Blanchard Official Website The Ken Blanchard Companies on LinkedIn Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: | |||
| 283 Seeking Connection in a Divided World: Belonging, Bias, and Building Inclusive Cultures with Howard Ross | Partnering Leadership Global Thought Leader | 03 Oct 2023 | 00:38:26 | |
In this episode of Partnering Leadership, host Mahan Tavakoli reconnects with his longtime friend Howard Ross, renowned thought leader and author of the acclaimed books Our Search for Belonging: How Our Need to Connect is Tearing Us Apart and Everyday Bias: Identifying and Navigating Unconscious Judgments in Our Daily Lives. With over 25 years of collaborating to help organizations foster inclusion, they have a powerful discussion on Ross' motivations for driving positive change, his wisdom on belonging versus polarization, and practical ways leaders can sustain diversity progress. Some Actionable Takeaways: - Hear Howard Ross' guidance to leaders in balancing employee belonging with complex stakeholder needs. - Discover how storytelling and sharing narratives can strengthen connections and understanding. - Find out Howard Ross' perspective on political polarization, social media impacts, and having courageous conversations across divides. - Get Howard Ross' advice on sustaining organizational diversity progress rather than short-lived reactions. Recommended Resources: - Our Search for Belonging: How Our Need to Connect is Tearing Us Apart by Howard Ross - Everyday Bias: Identifying and Navigating Unconscious Judgments in Our Daily Lives by Howard Ross - Blindspot: Hidden Biases of Good People by Mahzarin R. Banaji and Anthony G. Greenwald -Partnering Leadership conversation with Howard Ross on his leadership journey Connect with Howard Ross: Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: | |||
| 282 Why Vulnerability Matters in Leadership and How to Do it Well with Jacob Morgan | Partnering Leadership Global Thought Leader | 26 Sep 2023 | 00:54:08 | |
Get ready to climb the mountain of vulnerability in leadership. In this engaging discussion with Jacob Morgan, author of Leading with Vulnerability: Unlock Your Greatest Superpower to Transform Yourself, Your Team, and Your Organization, you’ll learn why vulnerability plus leadership can transform organizations. In the conversation, Jacob Morgan shares his personal journey of grappling with vulnerability, from a childhood with a “tough guy” father to panic attacks while writing this transformative book. His research includes interviews with 100 CEOs and a survey of 14,000 employees worldwide. Hear Jacob Morgan’s insights on the ROI of leading with vulnerability, how to “level the playing field” between leaders and employees, and practical ways to get started on your vulnerability journey. You’ll be convinced that, with intention and when done well, vulnerability in leadership is a superpower. Some Actionable Takeaways:
Connect with Jacob Morgan Jacob Morgan LinkedIn Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: | |||
| 281 Strategy in The Digital Age and Mastering Digital Transformation with Michael Lenox | Partnering Leadership Global Thought Leader | 19 Sep 2023 | 00:48:17 | |
Are you strategic enough to survive the digital future? In this Partnering Leadership episode, global strategy expert Michael Lenox, UVA Professor and author of Strategy in the Digital Age: Mastering Digital Transformation shares indispensable insights to help leaders craft agile strategies in the age of AI. Drawing from decades of research and firsthand experience steering his own business school’s digital transformation, Mike Lenox reveals how to spot exponential change before it disrupts you, why strategy must drive technology (not vice versa), how to identify your unique competitive advantage, and the critical human skills machines will never replicate. If you’re anxious about AI, automation, and competing in the digital age, don’t miss Michael Lenox’s thoughtful perspectives and advice to help any organization build a strategy for long-term resilience. Some Actionable Takeaways:
Connect with Michael Lenox Strategy in the Digital Age: Mastering Digital Transformation on Amazon Resources Partnering Leadership conversation with Ajay Agrawal on Prediction Machines and Power & Prediction Partnering Leadership conversation with Azeem Azhar on the Exponential Age Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: | |||
| 280 The Impact of AI on Leadership & Unleashing AI’s Power for Good, Mahan Tavakoli interviewed by David Gardner on the Rule Breaker Investing Podcast | Partnering Leadership Conversation | 12 Sep 2023 | 01:14:24 | |
This episode of Partnering Leadership features Mahan Tavakoli being interviewed on AI and its potential impact by David Gardner on the Rule Breaker Investing podcast. In the conversation, David and Mahan talk about the growing influence of artificial intelligence; they explore where we are on the AI exponential growth curve, how organizations can leverage AI strategically and operationally, and share predictions for AI's transformative impact and how individuals and organizations can take advantage of the opportunities ahead.
Some of The Insights You will Gain from This Episode:
Recommended Resources: Partnering Leadership Conversation with Azeem Azhar, author of The Exponential Age Rule Breaker Investing Podcast Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: | |||
| 405 [BEST OF] Jeremy Caplan on Beyond the Hype: AI-Powered Productivity Tools for Busy Executives | 26 Aug 2025 | 00:50:39 | |
Welcome to the Best Of series on Partnering Leadership. While many of us take a bit of a breather in July and August, we’re revisiting standout episodes—conversations that are worth hearing again, especially as leadership challenges shift and new moments call for fresh thinking. I’ve also pulled together 12 of the leadership books I recommend most often—each linked below to my conversation with the author. Whether it’s your first listen or a return visit, the best conversations have a way of revealing something new when the moment calls for it. We’ll be back in September with more great conversations and powerful ideas. Thanks for continuing to learn, grow, and lead in ways that make a real difference. —Mahan Trust & Inspire – Stephen M. R. Covey CEO Excellence – Carolyn Dewar, Scott Keller & Vik Malhotra Simple Truths of Leadership – Ken Blanchard & Randy Conley Leading Change – John Kotter How to Lead – David Rubenstein Prediction Machines – Ajay Agrawal, Avi Goldfarb & Joshua Gans The Performance Paradox – Eduardo Briceño How Minds Change – David McRaney Human + Machine – Paul Daugherty & H. James Wilson 10 Stories Great Leaders Tell – Paul Smith Magic Words – Jonah Berger "I would rather read the best 100 books over and over again until I absorb them rather than read all the books." Naval Ravikant Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: | |||
| 279 Thursday Refresh with Stephen M. R. Covey: How Truly Great Leaders Unleash Greatness in Others | Partnering Leadership Global Thought Leader | 07 Sep 2023 | 01:07:15 | |
In this episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli speaks with Stephen M.R. Covey. Stephen M.R. Covey is the New York Times and Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author of The Speed Of Trust, former CEO of Covey Leadership Center, and author of Trust And Inspire: How Truly Great Leaders Unleash Greatness in Others. Stephen shares why many leaders are still operating with a command and control mindset and the need to develop the mindset and capabilities of becoming trusting and inspiring leaders. Stephen M.R. Covey shares stories and frameworks on how we can better understand trust in leadership and how trust and inspire leaders can unleash the potential of their teams and organizations.
Some highlights: -Stephen M.R. Covey on the crucial role that parents play in teaching responsibility, commitment, and initiative and how his father, Stephen Covey, applied trust and inspire principles in his parenting -On why traditional leadership models do not work with the changing world and in the new work environment -Stephen M.R. Covey on the stewardships of leadership -How leaders can lead behavior change in their organizations -Stephen M.R. Covey on the role trust plays in leadership and how leaders can become more trusting -The power of inspiring others and its impact on leadership -What it takes to become a trust inspire leader
Mentioned: - Dr. Stephen R. Covey, author of The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People - David Marquet (Listen to David Marquet episode on Partnering Leadership) - Frances Frei and Anne Morriss, author of Unleashed: The Unapologetic Leader's Guide to Empowering Everyone Around You - Jim Collins, author of Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap...And Others Don't
Connect with Stephen M.R. Covey: Stephen M.R. Covey on Facebook Stephen M.R. Covey on LinkedIn
Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: | |||
| 278 Power to the Middle: Why Managers Hold the Keys to the Future of Work with McKinsey Partner Emily Field | Partnering Leadership Global Thought Leader | 05 Sep 2023 | 00:44:48 | |
Middle managers often get a bad rap, seen as roadblocks to change and innovation. But Emily Field flips this narrative on its head. As a McKinsey partner, Emily saw firsthand how empowering middle managers unlocks an organization’s potential. In this insightful interview, Emily Field, McKinsey & Company partner and coauthor of Power to the Middle: Why Managers Hold the Keys to the Future of Work, debunks the middle manager myth. Hear why managers, not senior execs, hold the keys to the future of work. Emily shares research on the untapped power of middle managers to drive strategy, culture, and innovation. With compelling stories and data, Emily reveals how organizations can rethink the manager role for the future. You’ll learn how to remove bureaucracy, rebundle work, and achieve the “yin and yang” of performance and people. By listening to this conversation, you will
Recommended Resources McKinsey & Company Power to the Middle Power to the Middle: Why Managers Hold the Keys to the Future of Work on Amazon Connect with Emily Field Emily Field McKinsey & Company Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: | |||
| 277 The Performance Paradox: Turning the Power of Mindset into Action with Eduardo Briceno | Partnering Leadership Global Thought Leader | 29 Aug 2023 | 00:52:51 | |
In this Partnering Leadership conversation, Mahan Tavakoli speaks with Eduardo Briceño, author of The Performance Paradox: Turning the Power of Mindset into Action. In the discussion, Eduardo dives into the transformative power of a growth mindset and how we can apply it to unlock our potential. He shares how a crippling physical injury early in his career led him to Carol Dweck's pioneering work on a growth mindset. This proved life-changing for Eduardo, setting him on a path to teaching individuals, teams, and organizations how to break free of chronic stagnation. In the conversation, Eduardo Briceno explains the performance paradox, where focusing solely on performing without learning leads to poor results. He offers strategies for leaders to get their teams to embrace a growth mindset. Some of the Growth Mindset Takeaways That Will Get You Thinking:
Connect with Eduardo Briceño The Performance Paradox: Turning the Power of Mindset into Action on Amazon Connect with Mahan Tavakoli: | |||