How Leaders Lead with David Novak

Just in time for the Super Bowl, this week’s guest is Harris Barton, the founder and managing director of H. Barton Asset Management. He was also an all-pro left tackle for the 49ers, winning THREE Super Bowls with Joe Montana and Steve Young. Today, he runs a thriving investment fund, where he has about a billion dollars of assets under management. If you’re feeling stuck on a problem, listen to this episode. Why? Because Harris understands the power of listening and learning from others. The answers you need are probably already around you somewhere—it’s just a question of whether or not you’re listening for them! You’ll also learn: How to bounce back after a big failure Leadership lessons from inside the huddle at Super Bowl XXIII The one thing everyone notices about their leader The mindset you need to stack one success on top of another 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 day Whichever 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.

On this episode of 3 More Questions, you'll hear David Novak's answers to: What’s changed about leadership since you’ve been out of Yum? Why do you think Jamie gets a much more realistic answer when he asks his employees what compensation they think they deserve? Can you tell us about the “since we last met” exercise? What’s the lesson you take from Jamie calling up Sandy Weill after years of no contact for a meeting? ——— 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!

Some leaders talk a big game. Others deliver big results. If you want to know what separates the two, listen to this episode with Jamie Dimon, the Chairman and CEO of JPMorgan Chase, the largest and most profitable bank in the U.S. You’ll find a wealth of insight into what it takes to cut through the BS and execute big changes. Great leaders know: you get results when you get to work. If you want to up the execution level for you and your team, hit play now! You’ll also learn: Jamie’s thoughts on the global economy, including China, Russia and more What really drives curiosity The two actions that drive a successful turnaround One warning you need to hear if you’ve recently been promoted 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 day Whichever 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.

On this episode of 3 More Questions, you'll hear David Novak's answers to: What advice would you give someone who’s trying to develop Bobbi's skill of getting to the heart of the issue? What are some signs that your company is getting cocky and bloated … and how can leaders avoid that? What do you think it is about Bobbi that has allowed her to grow one billion dollar brand and be on her way to growing her second? ——— 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!

How do some leaders seem to tackle big challenges and make it look effortless? In this episode, David sits down with world-renowned entrepreneur and cosmetics titan Bobbi Brown. Her latest venture, Jones Road Beauty, is growing like crazy because people love how she has simplified the complicated world of beauty and cosmetics. Leaders waste all kinds of time because they overcomplicate things. But when you learn to simplify, you can save time and energy—and ultimately, find better solutions, too. Listen to this episode to see how Bobbi does it, and discover why the ability to simplify is a game-changer for your time, energy, and creativity! You’ll also learn: One strategy to try if you’re struggling to connect on social media The easiest way to get inspired when you’re stuck Why your unconventional career path might just be your biggest strength A surprising quality of great salespeople 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 day Whichever 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.

On this episode of 3 More Questions, you'll hear David Novak's answers to: Are there red flags to look for that typically indicate that someone is not going to be a great partner? At what point does someone need to fold and cut their losses? How would you approach coaching someone who tends to be negative, guiding them towards adopting a more positive mindset? ——— 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!

Is one of your 2025 goals to strengthen your team or shift your culture? If so, you’ll love hearing from Louise Brady, the co-founder and managing partner at the successful VC firm Piedmont Capital Partners. She shows how powerful it is when leaders prioritize the people around them. When you go above and beyond for your team, it comes back to you—and not just in a fluffy, feel-good way. As you’ll hear today, that kind of generosity can drive serious results for your culture, your bottom line, and your own growth. You’ll also learn: What you can do to attract the attention of a VC firm One sneaky strategy to give tough feedback to someone with a bad attitude The surprising role that positivity plays in your team culture Exciting developments in the ongoing effort to cure cancer and Alzheimer’s 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 day Whichever 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.

On this episode of 3 More Questions, you'll hear David Novak's answers to: How can you break down Pat's thought that leaders ought to treat their current job like their next job? What are the best ways a leader can remind their team of their standard of excellence? If you were creating your own shield like Pat, who would be your hero? ——— 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!

Thinking about your next career move? Most leaders are. But if you don’t approach it the right way, it can cost you. Sometimes, you can get so caught up thinking about your next big career move that you lose focus on what really matters—which is doing excellent work in whatever role you’re in now. See what that looks like in action in this episode with Louisville men’s basketball head coach Pat Kelsey. Plus, get an inside look at the way he’s using a strong culture to turnaround one of the most storied basketball programs in the nation. You’ll also learn: The one thing you need to do to get your core values to stick What to focus on when you’re not the most talented person in the room How to approach a job when it’s not the role you ultimately want The most underappreciated part of any organization’s success 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 day Whichever 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.

On this episode of 3 More Questions, you'll hear David Novak's answers to: What is it about writing songs that makes you want to keep doing it and how do you keep coming up with ideas? How should business leaders incorporate emotional leadership into their own style? What advice would you give a leader who’s trying to figure out who their core audience is and how to serve them better? ——— 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!

If you want to start 2025 with more focus and efficiency, this is the episode for you! Drew Holcomb fronts a beloved Americana band called Drew Holcomb and the Neighbors. And he knows something that a lot of leaders don’t: you can waste a lot of time and energy chasing after customers and fans that won’t really help your business grow. Listen to this episode to discover the power of super-serving your core audience—plus find tons of creative inspiration to kick off 2025! You’ll also learn: The #1 enemy of creativity (hint: it’s not what you think) Must-hear advice for anyone who struggles with perfectionism Insights for succeeding in any industry that’s constantly shifting One brilliant way to strengthen your connection with your spouse or partner 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 day Whichever 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.

In this episode, we take all the great wisdom from the last three months and highlight the most impactful takeaways for you. The Best Of Q4 features leadership insights from these incredible leaders: Eliah Drinkwitz, Head football coach at Mizzou Mike Wirth, Chairman and CEO of Chevron Tom Nolan, CEO of Kendra Scott Fawn Weaver, Founder and CEO of Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey John Peyton, CEO of Dine Brands (IHOP, Applebee’s, Fuzzy’s Taco Shop) Aaron Witt, CEO of BuildWitt Erika Ayers Badan, CEO of Food52 and former CEO of Barstool Sports Scott Harrison, Founder and CEO of charity: water Jeni Britton, Founder of Jeni’s Ice Creams Doug Hirsch, Owner of Arizona Drive Pickleball Team and founder of Seneca Capital Jared Belsky, CEO of Acadia Karla Gallardo, Cofounder and CEO of Cuyana ——— FEATURED RESOURCE The How Leaders Lead mobile app Download the app and scale up your leadership skills in under 2 minutes a day

On this episode of 3 More Questions, you'll hear David Novak's answers to: How do you as a leader create momentum around big dreams without overcomplicating it for your team? What ways could Karla's ‘fewer, better,’ concept apply to leadership? How would you advise leaders on how to balance maintaining their core offerings with driving innovation and introducing new products? ——— 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!

Got a big idea, but not sure what to do about it? Discover the power of dreaming big (and then starting small) in this episode with Karla Gallardo, the co-founder and CEO of Cuyana. Inspired by her upbringing in Ecuador, Karla co-founded Cuyana on the principle of selling fewer, better things. Thirteen years later, they’ve hit $35 million in annual revenue and are loved by tastemakers like Meghan Markle and Jessica Alba. Listen now if you’re ready for some serious motivation to turn YOUR big idea into reality. You’ll also learn: What to prioritize in your product development if you want loyal customers Why *not* making the sale is sometimes a good thing Powerful insights that anyone in the retail space needs to hear What most people get wrong when they’re looking for investors 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 day Whichever 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.

On this episode of 3 More Questions, you'll hear David Novak's answers to: What’s the secret to staying hands-on with the details without getting bogged down in them? What would you say to a leader dealing with this dysfunction tax, but they say, “Well, it’s always been this way so there’s nothing I can really do about it.”? What would you say to leaders who are kicking the can at offering coaching? ——— 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!

What’s the “dysfunction tax” — and how is it costing your business? Find out in today’s episode with Jared Belsky. He’s the CEO of Acadia, a digital marketing agency that works with big names like Red Roof Inn, Maggiano’s, and Party City. Plus, Jared has a lot of practical advice to maximize your ad agency partnership — for better communication, ad creative, and results! You’ll also learn: The danger of getting too far from the details What to do when you want to fire your ad agency Tips for making an effective creative brief Why asking the wrong kind of questions is a huge missed opportunity 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 day Whichever 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.

On this episode of 3 More Questions, you'll hear David Novak's answers to: What is your take on Doug's belief that you can’t perform at your best mentally if you aren’t at your best physically? What is it about Doug’s leadership that made him so successful in a field he didn’t know much about? How can leaders in a competitive industry retain their top talent? ——— 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!

“Excellence” is a word we tend to throw around in the business world. But it’s not just a standard you aim for. It’s a habit you develop! And no one exemplifies that better than Doug Hirsch, the owner of the Arizona Drive Pickleball Team and founder of Seneca Capital. Plus, he’s a philosophy buff, a chess whiz, and a nationally ranked pickleball player himself! Hit play on this conversation for an inspiring look at what it takes to bring habits of excellence into your world. You’ll also learn: Why that chip on your shoulder might be a good thing The leadership quality that builds a loyal, transparent culture How to know when it’s time to move on from a job One of leadership’s most underrated tools—and how to use it 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 day Whichever 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.

On this episode of 3 More Questions, you'll hear David Novak's answers to: Do you have any practices similar to Jeni where you get connected to your sense of intuition? What does Jeni's take that leadership is about finding the sweet spot of compromise mean for you and your leadership style? Have you ever had to get into character to perform a task or get something done? ——— 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!

When it comes to decision making, do you trust your instincts? Listen to this episode with Jeni Britton, the founder of Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams, and learn from a leader who’s fully attuned to her creative instincts and knows how to trust her gut. Also, you’ve been warned: this episode contains graphic details of wildly creative ice cream flavors. You will get hungry. You’ll also learn: How to lead when you’re naturally shy and introverted One practical tip to use the next time you need a confidence boost Why you should differentiate your “company” from your “business” The power of an iterative, open approach to product development 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 day Whichever 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.

On this episode of 3 More Questions, you'll hear David Novak's answers to: What can leaders learn from this mindset of continuous striving, even after achieving significant success? How can leaders apply this approach of transparency and trust by integrating these types of feedback loops into their own businesses? Can you share a story about the work Yum! did to address food insecurity across the world? ——— 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!

If you want to ignite your creativity and develop great ideas, you’ve got to understand the power of pattern thinking. It’s the ability to spot what’s working for someone else, and then adapt it to your own situation to create something new. And this episode’s guest is an outstanding pattern thinker. Scott Harrison is the founder of the nonprofit charity:water, which works to bring clean, safe water to the more than 700 million people in the world who need it. Listen to this conversation to see pattern thinking is helping him do it—and how you can put this skill to work in your world, too. You’ll also learn: How to build a compelling brand What a major career pivot looks like The power of storytelling One way to keep your blindspots from setting you back Here is the article David mentioned: Six practical ideas to transform your business with the power of pattern thinking 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 day Whichever 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.

On this episode of 3 More Questions, you'll hear David Novak's answers to: What's the most powerful leadership lesson you’ve learned from the female leaders you’ve worked with? How can managers strike the balance of letting people make mistakes and learn for themselves while at the same time not jeopardize business performance? As a leader, how do you know when it’s time to go? ——— 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!

When Erika Ayers Badan became the CEO of Barstool Sports, they didn’t even have a P&L. Eight years later, they’re a media empire and a household name worth over $550 million. Listen to this conversation to get an inside look at how Erika led that effort, and what she’s up to now as the CEO of Food52. You’ll also see how Erika leads with honesty and directness. She doesn’t shy away from the tough stuff, and that’s important if you want to build trust, solve problems, and get people working together toward a big vision. You’ll also learn: The strategy every upstart brand can use to beat the big guy How to get the most out of your creative team members What it takes to build an engaged online following Advice for women who work in male-dominated industries 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 day Whichever 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.

On this episode of 3 More Questions, you'll hear David Novak's answers to: What did you do to counter the negative perceptions and recruit great people to the food service industry? What stood out to you most about Aaron’s leadership that you think leaders everywhere should emulate? How much is too much when it comes to sharing with your team? ——— 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!

If you want your team to feel comfortable taking risks and being open, it’s up to you to set an example of vulnerability. That big idea comes through loud and clear in this conversation with Aaron Witt, the CEO of BuildWitt. His company serves what Aaron calls the “Dirt World” — those businesses doing the infrastructure and construction work most of us take for granted. See how this up-and-coming leader sets the example of vulnerability, and learn a few tips to elevate your communication and storytelling skills along the way. You’ll also learn: How to create memorable content that resonates with people The surprisingly “small” tip that will help you accomplish big goals Why every leader should level up their communication skills The danger that might be lurking in times of big growth 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 day Whichever 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.

On this episode of 3 More Questions, you'll hear David Novak's answers to: Did you ever have a viral moment happen at Yum! Brands? How do you inspire your team to embrace an agile mindset daily, especially when the pace of change can feel overwhelming? How did you embrace new technologies like AI? ——— 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!

No doubt about it: the world is changing fast. As a leader, how do you help your team navigate that uncertainty instead of feeling overwhelmed by it? Listen to this conversation with John Peyton, the CEO of Dine Brands – which includes IHOP, Applebee’s, and Fuzzy’s Taco Shop. You’ll find practical strategies to help your team stay agile and act with urgency. Because, let’s face it: a fast-changing world also brings a ton of opportunities if you know how to respond to them. You’ll also learn: The real value of AI for businesses Three questions to answer if you want to differentiate your brand How to drive home a big message so it actually sticks The #1 leadership quality you need to connect with younger generations 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 day Whichever 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.

On this episode of 3 More Questions, you'll hear David Novak's answers to: What’s your take on Fawn saying she went after a big project for the press story? Would you have done the same thing? As a leader who mines every scenario for insights, what advice can you give leaders about “mining for the gem” in difficult scenarios? How should leaders approach defining the ideal type of employee that aligns with their company’s needs and culture? ——— 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!

If you need some inspiration to keep moving forward on a big mission, this is it. Today’s guest is Fawn Weaver, the Founder and CEO of Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey, which has been the most awarded whiskey in the world for six years running. It’s named for a former enslaved man named Nearest Green, who taught Jack Daniel everything he knew about distilling whiskey. Fawn uncovered his story and brought it to life, all while building a brand that’s valued at over $1 billion. Hit play now to learn how she did it and get inspired by her relentless ability to learn from the past while always moving forward. You’ll also learn: What an “intrepreneur” is–and why you might need to hire them PR strategies that help your brand get the attention it deserves How to learn from your past without living in it Why you don’t need to follow every new leadership trend ***CONTENT NOTE*** In this episode Fawn talks briefly about how she flirted with suicide at age 20. She shares what she learned from it and how she used it as fuel to live a fulfilling life. Please take care while listening and feel free to skip ahead during that part if you need to. 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 day Whichever 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.

On this episode of 3 More Questions, you'll hear David Novak's answers to: What’s your take on Tom saying you don't have to be passionate about your product in order to be a great leader? What is your opinion on whether or not leaders should create emotional distance between themselves and their employees? If you were in Tom’s seat as CEO, how would your leadership style differ or not differ knowing that you were in the minority as a male? ——— 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!

Today’s guest is Tom Nolan, the CEO of Kendra Scott, a jewelry brand that’s been crushing it lately—posting nearly double-digit growth for 44 consecutive months and counting. But as you’ll hear today, it’s not just about the results. It’s about how you treat people along the way. In this episode, you’ll see how to make stronger connections with both your customers and your team members. And you’ll see how it can drive meaningful results in your business. You’ll also learn: A weird advantage of not being passionate about your product What most leaders miss about customer satisfaction Must-hear advice for anyone who works with a founder Why innovation doesn’t have to mean chasing shiny new objects 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 day Whichever 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.

On this episode of 3 More Questions, you'll hear David Novak's answers to: Let’s say Mike Wirth calls you and says David, you’re CEO of this business. Where would you start? What should leaders do to create a system that invites employees to share what they REALLY think and feel about what’s going on in the business? What advice would you give a leader on how they can bring a team together over an issue that they feel super passionate about? ——— 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!

If you want to be a good leader, you’ve got to listen to your people. But *just* listening isn’t always enough. You’ve got to ask questions. You’ve got to pay attention. But then, you’ve to respond. That’s the piece most leaders miss, and it makes all the difference for engaging your team and solving your organization’s biggest problems. To see how it’s done, listen to this episode with Mike Wirth, Chairman and CEO of Chevron. You’ll also learn: Why Mike writes up to 80 notes after a site visit How to give criticism without making people defensive What Mike learned about leadership from legendary chef Thomas Keller A three-part strategy to bring a divided team together ——— FEATURED RESOURCE The How Leaders Lead mobile app Download the app and scale up your leadership skills in under 2 minutes a day

On this episode of 3 More Questions, you'll hear David Novak's answers to: How do leaders find the balance between being a visionary while also having a grip on what’s going on here and now? If you were a college football coach in today’s environment, knowing all you know about what it means to retain great talent, how would you go about creating a culture that players wouldn’t be tempted to leave? What was it like being the honorary captain at the Mizzou football game when they played Vanderbilt? ——— 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!

Great leaders know how to motivate their teams, and in this episode, you can see how it’s done. Eliah Drinkwitz is the head coach of the University of Missouri football team. Last year was a breakout season for this Mizzou team, with an 11-2 season and a victory over Ohio State in the Cotton Bowl. Eliah motivates his players by balancing connection, encouragement, and challenge. It’s a formula you can follow too, if you want to get the most out of your team. You’ll also learn: How to respond when a valued team member takes another job Four qualities to prioritize for a more motivated culture A strategy that will both develop your people and advance your goals What you’re missing if your core values aren’t taking root 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 day Whichever 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.

In this episode, we take all the great wisdom from the last three months and highlight the most impactful takeaways for you. The Best Of Q3 features leadership insights from these incredible leaders: Charlie Scharf, CEO and President of Wells Fargo Constance Schwartz-Morini, Founder and CEO of SMAC Entertainment Ram Charan, the world’s most influential business consultant John Mackey, Cofounder and former CEO of Whole Foods Bob Chapman, Chairman and CEO of Barry-Wehmiller Chris Riccobono, Founder of UNTUCKit and Greatness Wins Jimmy Haslam, Chairman and Managing Partner of Haslam Sports Group Chris Bevilacqua, Founder and CEO of SimpleBet Tom Baltimore, Chairman and CEO of Park Hotels and Resorts Alan Shaw, President and CEO of Norfolk Southern Will Guidara, former owner of Eleven Madison Park Rocky Collis, CEO of Mustard ——— FEATURED RESOURCE The How Leaders Lead mobile app Download the app and scale up your leadership skills in under 2 minutes a day

On this episode of 3 More Questions, you'll hear David Novak's answers to: Should every entrepreneur and leader have a sense of ‘play’ in their role? How do you create such loyal customers? How do you evaluate John's decision to sell his business to Amazon? ——— 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!

As a leader, you know… There’s often tension between the big ideas and dreams you have and the pressure you feel to conform to convention or other people’s expectations. If you want wisdom to navigate that tension, listen to this episode with John Mackey, the co-founder and former CEO of Whole Foods Market. Whole Foods has got to be one of the most compelling retail success stories in recent memory. But building it wasn’t easy. John had to stay attuned to his own passions, leadership style, and vision for the future—even when it went against the grain. Hit play now for an inspiring look at what happens when you have the courage to follow your own path! You’ll also learn: The three strategic moves that drove Whole Foods’ growth the most The #1 thing to focus on if you want to succeed in retail The mistake Whole Foods made that resulted in the eventual acquisition by Amazon How to start every meeting if you want to build a more caring culture 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 day Whichever 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.

On this episode of 3 More Questions, you'll hear David Novak's answers to: How can entrepreneurs leaders do a better job of giving up control so that their company can really thrive? Was there a time in your career where in order to sell product, you had to convince people they had a problem that they didn't know they had? Are there any problems that come along with being passionate about what you do? ——— 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!

Passion is powerful. When you let your belief in a product or an idea shine through, people respond—and that passion can keep you going in both the good times and the bad. See how to put passion to work in your business in this episode with Chris Riccobono. He’s the CEO of UNTUCKit, the incredibly successful clothing brand known for making a dress shirt you don’t have to tuck in. If you want to get better at motivating or inspiring or convincing people, then hit play now! You’ll also learn: The mindset you need to navigate uncertain times The #1 thing a startup must do to be successful in the long run A consideration that can make or break a brand name What to look for if you’re hiring for a small company 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 day Whichever 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.

On this episode of 3 More Questions, you'll hear David Novak's answers to: What would give you the confidence in someone outside of your industry to come in and run strategy for an organization? If you were to all of a sudden find yourself as the owner of an NFL team, how would you go about learning about the new industry? What’s your take on Jimmy's opinion on hiring based on a candidate's personality and background over their interview? How important is a job interview? ——— 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!

If you want to fix anything—your team, your culture, your results—it starts by having the strength to admit what you need to improve. Too many leaders try to spin their missteps or sweep them under the rug entirely. But not today’s guest. Jimmy Haslam is the owner of the Cleveland Browns and the former CEO of Pilot Flying J truck stops. If you’ve ever wanted to know what it’s like to own an NFL team, then buckle up, because Jimmy really knows how to make you feel like you’re right in the room for all the big decisions and pressure-packed moments. But he also knows how to acknowledge moments when he could have done better and then share what he learned. Listen and see just the transformations that are possible when you have the ability to assess yourself honestly. You’ll also learn: One of the most influential decisions a leader can make Why job interviews may not be as important as you think What it’s like working with the man who inspired Jonah Hill’s character in Moneyball The #1 thing to do if you want to build a more positive work environment 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 day Whichever 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.

On this episode of 3 More Questions, you'll hear David Novak's answers to: What would you say to those “profit” first leaders out there who don’t necessarily see their people in this way? How would you coach someone on how to flex their leadership style to suit individual personalities? What’s a story from your career where you acquired another company and what happened as a result? ——— 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!

If you’re struggling to build a company culture you love … Or if you’re an emerging leader trying to figure out your leadership style … Then hit play on this inspiring conversation with Bob Chapman, the Chairman and CEO of Barry-Wehmiller. Bob is going to show you all the ways that leadership can be a powerful force for good—and how you can infuse those principles of care into your organization without compromising on results. You’ll also learn: Three big paradigm shifts that will shape your leadership style How to make business more fun The mindset you need in tough personnel situations Just how much recognition people need (hint: it’s more than you think!) 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 day Whichever 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.

On this episode of 3 More Questions, you'll hear David Novak's answers to: When did you get a “no” but have so much conviction in a thought or idea that you pushed it through until it became a yes? When in your career did you catch a "once in a lifetime" wave and how’d you manage it? When’s a time you said what everyone was thinking but you had the courage to say out loud? ——— 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!

Are you the kind of person who hesitates to speak up at work? Or maybe you AREN’T afraid to speak your mind – and it gets you in trouble sometimes! In either case, you’re about to love hearing from Constance Schwartz-Morini. She's the co-founder and CEO of SMAC Entertainment, where they offer representation and brand development for people like Michael Strahan, Erin Andrews, and Deion Sanders. Now with a client roster like that, you KNOW you’re in for some pretty epic stories. But you’re also going to discover why leaders need to have the courage to speak their minds – and how to do it respectfully so you can get your great ideas out there and get everybody on board with them. You’ll also learn: How you can set yourself apart early in your career One mindset shift to help you spot new opportunities Advice for anyone who struggles to celebrate their wins Why Taylor Swift’s Super Bowl outfit had her freaking out 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 day Whichever 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.

On this episode of 3 More Questions, you'll hear David Novak's answers to: How can a leader sift through issues they face to figure out what they really need to focus on and fix? Why do you believe it’s so important to be able to ask incisive questions that generate insights no one would have come up with? What’s your take on Ram’s perspective of "people first, strategy second?" ——— 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!

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by complexity in your organization, this is the episode for you. Discover how to ask incisive questions that cut through that complexity and help you find the heart of the problem. It’s a superpower of every great leader! Learn how it’s done from Ram Charan, the legendary business and consultant and New York Times bestselling author whose books have sold more than 4 million copies. It’s like a free consulting session with the guy that Fortune magazine calls “the most influential business consultant alive.” Have a listen! You’ll also learn: Why smart hiring means more than finding great talent A bold prediction about the future of U.S. business in China The two key elements of execution that will help you get more done The 3 elements of success that every leader can focus on 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 day Whichever 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.

On this episode of 3 More Questions, you'll hear David Novak's answers to: Did having a boogeyman as motivation ever creep into your leadership — and if so, how'd you use it as fuel? How can a leader know when their company is trying to do too much or if their company isn't focused enough? What goes into building strong, trusting business relationships that you're intentional about? ——— 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!