Tough Calls in Tough Times: Leading Through Uncertainty

In this episode of The CEO Podcast, Scott De Long, Ph.D., and Vince Moiso return after a long hiatus to discuss the challenges leaders face in making tough calls during uncertain times in this limited-run series, Leadership at the Crossroads. They open with reflections on the current economic and political landscape, including inflation, tariffs, AI disruption, and fluctuating interest rates of which test a leader's ability to remain calm, focused, and strategic.

Scott emphasizes the importance of staying calm and making data-driven decisions rather than fear-based reactions. He encourages leaders to balance instinct with analysis, ensuring decisions are informed by both experience and data. Vince adds that focus is more critical than ever, urging leaders to eliminate distractions from constant news cycles to phone notifications so they can maintain clarity and productivity. Together, they explore how external noise and media bias can influence leadership decisions and why critical thinking and perspective are essential traits for modern executives.

The conversation shifts to organizational growth, where Scott and Vince share insights on balancing entrepreneurial drive with operational discipline. They discuss a case study of a fast-growing company learning to integrate structure without stifling innovation. The duo agrees that while bold moves are sometimes necessary, leaders must know when to slow down, assess internal processes, and ensure alignment with long-term vision. They conclude by encouraging CEOs to revisit their organizational purpose, assess market realities, and recalibrate their three-year vision to align with today's changing business climate.

Key Takeaways

1. Leaders must stay calm, grounded, and data-driven when navigating uncertainty.
2. Eliminating distractions and focusing on what truly matters is essential for effective leadership.
3. Sometimes slowing down to analyze and align can lead to faster, more sustainable growth.

Key Insights

• Economic uncertainty, including inflation and tariffs, demands clear-headed leadership.
• Data-driven decision-making reduces fear-based reactions and helps maintain stability.
• Balancing entrepreneurial instinct with structure is key to sustainable scaling.
• Avoiding constant exposure to news and social media can improve focus and mental clarity.
• Leaders should question media biases and seek diverse perspectives before forming opinions.
• Slowing down at key decision points can prevent costly mistakes and promote strategic clarity.
• Collaborative decision-making fosters buy-in and stronger organizational alignment.
• Understanding team personalities and communication styles enhances leadership effectiveness.
• Organizations should routinely reassess vision, processes, and resource allocation.
• Now is the time for leaders to decide between

Connect:

Scott De Long, Ph.D. & Lead2Goals

• Instagram:
  • @scottdelongphd
  • @lead2goals.com
• LinkedIn:
  • @scottdelongphd
• Web:
  • lead2goals.com
• Email:
  • [e-mail]
• Books:
  • I Thought I Was A Leader
  • You Win Again, Jack (New for 2025!)

Vince Moiso & Vis Business Group

• Instagram:
  • @visbiz.us
• LinkedIn:
  • @vincentmoiso
• Web:
  • visbiz.us
• Email:
  • [e-mail]
• Books
  • How to Survive in the Wilderness

The CEO Podcast

• Instagram | @theceopodcast
• LinkedIn | @the-ceo-podcast
• Facebook | @theceopodcast