Corporate Competitor Podcast
What do most Fortune 500 executives have in common? They learned important lessons on the fields and courts of their high school and collegiate sports teams. This is true for both men and women. Ernst & Young found that a whopping 94% of women holding a C-suite position, played sports. Join 12-time New York Times Best-Selling Author Don Yaeger on his journey to sit with some of the brightest executives in the world as we discuss how sports shaped their professional trajectory in life.
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Lincoln Equities Group CEO Lance Bergstein says: Keep your eyes up!
07/23/2025
Lincoln Equities Group CEO Lance Bergstein says: Keep your eyes up!
Ep. 236: Tennis & racing cars shaped Lance’s belief that decisiveness is a leader’s most powerful tool. As a nationally ranked tennis player, he learned to make high-stakes decisions alone. That same mindset now fuels his success as a CEO and professional race car driver—where speed, risk, and preparation define every outcome. Don't miss: • His “eyes up” strategy for forecasting in business • A behind-the-wheel story that saved a race (and inspired a deal) • with quotes and reflection questions to apply today’s insights 📚Do you want to write a book? In my new role as Publisher at Forbes Books and with the incredible resources and expertise of their team, we’re making it easier than ever to help YOU to tell your story. Send us a message here to get started: 🎤Looking for a speaker for your next event? From more than 30 years of interviewing and studying the greatest winners of all time Don offers built to inspire your team towards personal and professional greatness. Special thanks to Anthony Dickinson and Andrew Levin for making this episode possible.
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Denny’s CEO Kelli Valade found her birth parents at 47— now she leads with vulnerability
07/09/2025
Denny’s CEO Kelli Valade found her birth parents at 47— now she leads with vulnerability
Ep. 235: Softball shaped Kelli's belief that great leadership is about setting others up to win. In this heartfelt episode, she shares how her time as a scrappy leadoff hitter inspired a team-first mindset—and how embracing her adoption story became the key to building trust and loyalty as a leader. Don't miss: Her simple 1–10 check-in that helps leaders truly understand how their team is doing How Kelli scouts the competition by building authentic relationships with fellow CEOs Our for this episode with my favorite quotes and reflection question so you can apply today’s insights. Do you want to write a book? In my new role as Publisher at Forbes Books and with the incredible resources and expertise of their team, we’re making it easier than ever to help YOU to tell your story. Send us a message here to get started: Looking for a speaker for your next event? From more than 30 years of interviewing and studying the greatest winners of all time Don offers built to inspire your team towards personal and professional greatness. Special thanks to Alissa Pupich and Lilly Mae for making this episode possible.
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Flexjet CEO Mike Silvestro was teammates with Pro Football Hall of Famer Joe Montana— now he’s revolutionizing private aviation
06/25/2025
Flexjet CEO Mike Silvestro was teammates with Pro Football Hall of Famer Joe Montana— now he’s revolutionizing private aviation
Ep. 234: Notre Dame Football and having “Rudy” as a coach shaped the way Mike views “grit” and “grind” today! In this episode, you will learn how to turn personal wins into shared victories. “If you have a great day, make it a point to share that feeling with your entire organization,” he shares. “That way everyone can enjoy it and feel proud.” Our for this episode includes Don’s favorite quotes from today’s episode and a reflection question so you can apply today’s insights. Do you want to write a book? In my new role as Publisher at Forbes Books and with the incredible resources and expertise of their team, we’re making it easier than ever to help YOU to tell your story. Send us a message here to get started: Looking for a speaker for your next event? From more than 30 years of interviewing and studying the greatest winners of all time Don offers built to inspire your team towards personal and professional greatness. Special thanks to Anthony Dickinson and Karson Hills for making this episode possible.
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eXp World Holdings, Inc. CEO Glenn Sanford says: Opportunities are rarely missed, they are just given to someone else
06/11/2025
eXp World Holdings, Inc. CEO Glenn Sanford says: Opportunities are rarely missed, they are just given to someone else
Ep. 233: This CEO’s high school was so tiny that it didn’t have a track team, so he started a squad from scratch, built up the roster and even coached them, all while running a swift 4:25 mile along the way. That mindset—identifying a challenge and pursuing a solution—never left him. Years after starring on the team, Sanford saw an opening in the real estate market. He realized that the future of the business was online. So, he acted. Today? 📈 85,000+ agents 🏆 Publicly traded 🏅 Named one of Glassdoor’s Best Places to Work Our for this episode includes Don’s favorite quotes from today’s episode and a reflection question so you can apply today’s insights. Do you want to write a book? In my new role as Publisher at Forbes Books and with the incredible resources and expertise of their team, we’re making it easier than ever to help YOU to tell your story. Send us a message here to get started: Looking for a speaker for your next event? From more than 30 years of interviewing and studying the greatest winners of all time Don offers built to inspire your team towards personal and professional greatness. Special thanks to Shon Kokoszka, Lauren Stecker, and Andrew Levin for making this episode possible.
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CEO of EF World Journeys USA Heidi Durflinger on How to Stop Treating Customers Like Transactions
05/28/2025
CEO of EF World Journeys USA Heidi Durflinger on How to Stop Treating Customers Like Transactions
Ep. 232: Training for her ultramarathon in Spain helped Heidi break big goals into small, achievable steps. Her approach offers a compelling blueprint for building trust, inspiring teams, and elevating the customer experience. Rooted in small-town Kansas values and shaped by global experience, you will learn in this conversation how to stop treating customers like transactions. 1. Our for this episode includes Don’s favorite quotes from today’s episode and a reflection question so you can apply today’s insights. 2. Do you want to write a book? In my new role as Publisher at Forbes Books and with the incredible resources and expertise of their team, we’re making it easier than ever to help YOU to tell your story. Send us a message here to get started: 3. Looking for a speaker for your next event? From more than 30 years of interviewing and studying the greatest winners of all time Don offers built to inspire your team towards personal and professional greatness. Special thanks to Alissa Pupich and Karson Hills for making this episode possible.
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The New Science of Momentum: How the Best Coaches and Leaders Build a Fire from a Single Spark - Featuring Gen. Bernard Banks
05/21/2025
The New Science of Momentum: How the Best Coaches and Leaders Build a Fire from a Single Spark - Featuring Gen. Bernard Banks
Ep. 231: How does a moment become momentum? You will learn the model to capture, accelerate, and reverse momentum as featured in my new book with Gen. Bernard Banks. From commanding in Desert Storm to teaching at West Point and Rice University to transforming organizations, Bernie’s perspective is battle-tested, data-backed, and built to help leaders at every level create their own momentum shift. 2. Our for this episode includes Don’s favorite quotes from today’s episode and a reflection question so you can apply today’s insights. 3. Do you want to write a book? In my new role as Publisher at Forbes Books and with the incredible resources and expertise of their team, we’re making it easier than ever to help YOU to tell your story. Send us a message here to get started: 4. Looking for a speaker for your next event? From more than 30 years of interviewing and studying the greatest winners of all time Don offers built to inspire your team towards personal and professional greatness.
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Acrisure President John Tuttle encourages you to be a student of excellence
05/14/2025
Acrisure President John Tuttle encourages you to be a student of excellence
Ep. 230: From college football to the floor of the New York Stock Exchange, John Tuttle has always thrived in competitive arenas. Now as President of Acrisure, he leads 19,000 employees in one of the fastest-growing fintech companies on the planet. Our for this episode includes Don’s favorite quotes from today’s episode and a reflection question so you can apply today’s insights. Do you want to write a book? In my new role as Publisher at Forbes Books and with the incredible resources and expertise of their team, we’re making it easier than ever to help YOU to tell your story. Send us a message here to get started: Looking for a speaker for your next event? From more than 30 years of interviewing and studying the greatest winners of all time Don offers built to inspire your team towards personal and professional greatness. Special thanks to Anthony Dickinson and Guillermo Orellana for making this episode possible.
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Kitson & Partners CEO Syd Kitson asks: Are you willing to drive in the storm?
05/07/2025
Kitson & Partners CEO Syd Kitson asks: Are you willing to drive in the storm?
Ep. 229: Playing for The Green Bay Packers and Dallas Cowboys shaped the creator of Babcock Ranch—America’s first solar-powered town. You will learn: Why Syd requires every team member to sign a Team Agreement—and what happens when they don’t. How a quarterly Day of Service strengthens company culture and community impact. Why great leadership means turning observations into innovations. Our for this episode includes Don’s favorite quotes from today’s episode and a reflection question so you can apply today’s insights. Do you want to write a book? In my new role as Publisher at Forbes Books and with the incredible resources and expertise of their team, we’re making it easier than ever to help YOU to tell your story. Send us a message here to get started: Looking for a speaker for your next event? From more than 30 years of interviewing and studying the greatest winners of all time Don offers built to inspire your team towards personal and professional greatness. Special thanks to Karson Hills and Anthony Dickinson for making this episode possible.
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Technology Executive and Thoroughbred Owner Mark Kornegay encourages you to run your own race
04/30/2025
Technology Executive and Thoroughbred Owner Mark Kornegay encourages you to run your own race
Ep. 228: Get excited for the Kentucky Derby with Spectrum Vice President Mark Kornegay! “Horses are like people—they can burn themselves out trying to keep up with the fastest ones, instead of running their own race,” he shared on this episode. Mark’s career also includes leadership roles at Microsoft, Palo Alto Networks, and he served as a Special Agent for the FBI and an Assistant U.S. Attorney. You will learn why preparation is everything and the best performers understand their strengths and craft a strategy that suits them. Our for this episode includes Don’s favorite quotes from today’s episode and a reflection question so you can apply today’s insights. Do you want to write a book? In my new role as Publisher at Forbes Books and with the incredible resources and expertise of their team, we’re making it easier than ever to help YOU to tell your story. Send us a message here to get started: Looking for a speaker for your next event? From more than 30 years of interviewing and studying the greatest winners of all time Don offers built to inspire your team towards personal and professional greatness. Special thanks to Samantha Clark and Guillermo Orellana for making this episode possible.
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Former Cal Rugby Player Robert Paylor asks: What is paralyzing you?
04/23/2025
Former Cal Rugby Player Robert Paylor asks: What is paralyzing you?
Ep. 227: A devastating injury during the National Championship game left Robert paralyzed from the neck down. Told he’d never walk again, he began a new journey, one fueled by his three-word mantra: “Compared to what?” Robert shares how that question helped him shift from victimhood to victory—and how you can use the same mindset to lead through adversity. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why asking “Compared to what?” cuts big challenges down to size. How to reframe your pain into purpose and lead from a place of strength. What it means to truly forgive—and how it frees your energy to focus forward. Our for this episode includes Don’s favorite quotes from today’s episode and a reflection question so you can apply today’s insights. Do you want to write a book? In my new role as Publisher at Forbes Books and with the incredible resources and expertise of their team, we’re making it easier than ever to help YOU to tell your story. Send us a message here to get started: Looking for a speaker for your next event? From more than 30 years of interviewing and studying the greatest winners of all time Don offers built to inspire your team towards personal and professional greatness. Special thanks to Alissa Pupich and Karson Hills for making this episode possible.
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Amway CEO Michael Nelson teaches you how to embrace change
04/16/2025
Amway CEO Michael Nelson teaches you how to embrace change
Ep. 226: Running marathons shaped this CEO’s 35-year rise from “Amway Project Intern” to the corner office. From his first days at Amway to overseeing 14,000 employees in 100 countries, Michael reflects on his journey to teach you: How to avoid creating a culture where people are panicked to fail Why raising your hand opens the door to leadership growth—and what it really means to say yes to opportunity What running marathons taught him about clarity and leadership Our for this episode includes Don’s favorite quotes from today’s episode and a reflection question so you can apply today’s insights. Do you want to write a book? In my new role as Publisher at Forbes Books and with the incredible resources and expertise of their team, we’re making it easier than ever to help YOU to tell your story. Send us a message here to get started: Looking for a speaker for your next event? From more than 30 years of interviewing and studying the greatest winners of all time Don offers built to inspire your team towards personal and professional greatness. Special thanks to Joey Morris and Anthony Dickinson for making this episode possible.
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PART 2 - Legendary Turnaround CEO Alan Mulally Reveals How ‘Working Together’ Saved Ford
04/09/2025
PART 2 - Legendary Turnaround CEO Alan Mulally Reveals How ‘Working Together’ Saved Ford
Ep. 225: Our conversation explores powerful leadership lessons in radical transparency—revealing why honest reporting, even when the news isn’t good, is essential for real progress. Learn how the Ford executives brought challenges to the table to solve them together. If you missed part 1, listen here: https://donyaeger.com/corporate-competitor-podcast/episode-224/ Our for this episode includes Don’s favorite quotes from today’s episode and a reflection question so you can apply today’s insights. Do you want to write a book? In my new role as Publisher at Forbes Books and with the incredible resources and expertise of their team, we’re making it easier than ever to help YOU to tell your story. Send us a message here to get started: Looking for a speaker for your next event? From more than 30 years of interviewing and studying the greatest winners of all time Don offers built to inspire your team towards personal and professional greatness. Special thanks to Dave Calder and Dillon McDonald for making this episode possible.
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PART 1 - Legendary Turnaround CEO Alan Mulally Reveals How ‘Working Together’ Saved Ford
04/02/2025
PART 1 - Legendary Turnaround CEO Alan Mulally Reveals How ‘Working Together’ Saved Ford
Ep. 224: Former Boeing and Ford CEO went to Kansas on a gymnastics scholarship and later competed in a semi-pro tennis circuit. Learn how sports shaped one of Fortune’s "World’s Greatest Leaders." To listen to PART 2 of the conversation, visit: https://donyaeger.com/corporate-competitor-podcast/episode-224/ Our for this episode includes Don’s favorite quotes from today’s episode and a reflection question so you can apply today’s insights. Do you want to write a book? In my new role as Publisher at Forbes Books and with the incredible resources and expertise of their team, we’re making it easier than ever to help YOU to tell your story. Send us a message here to get started: Looking for a speaker for your next event? From more than 30 years of interviewing and studying the greatest winners of all time Don offers built to inspire your team towards personal and professional greatness. Special thanks to Dave Calder and Dillon McDonald for making this episode possible.
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Coach K shares two questions you should ask to elevate team performance
03/26/2025
Coach K shares two questions you should ask to elevate team performance
REWIND EPISODE: In celebration of March Madness, we are “rewinding” back to my conversation with 5-time National Champion Coach K! In his 42 seasons at Duke, Mike Krzyzewski built a dynasty that few programs in the history of the game can match. As the head coach of the U.S. Men’s National Basketball Team, he brought home six gold medals. So you might say that Coach K knows a little something about getting “buy in” from his team. Our for this episode includes Don’s favorite quotes from today’s episode and a reflection question so you can apply today’s insights. Do you want to write a book? In my new role as Publisher at Forbes Books and with the incredible resources and expertise of their team, we’re making it easier than ever to help YOU to tell your story. Send us a message here to get started: Looking for a speaker for your next event? From more than 30 years of interviewing and studying the greatest winners of all time Don offers built to inspire your team towards personal and professional greatness. Special thanks to Guillermo Orellana and Andrew Levin for making this episode possible.
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Summize CEO Tom Dunlop asks: How are you controlling the uncontrollables?
03/19/2025
Summize CEO Tom Dunlop asks: How are you controlling the uncontrollables?
Ep. 222: Europe’s top badminton player turned founder and CEO of the AI-powered platform revolutionizing contract management joins the show! You'll learn how to: - Use customer feedback wisely – Stay true to your vision without trying to please everyone. - Prioritize progress over perfection – Keep moving forward instead of getting stuck on minor setbacks. - Stay competitive – Track ideas, obstacles, and strategies to anticipate challenges before they happen. Our for this episode includes Don’s favorite quotes from today’s episode and a reflection question so you can apply today’s insights. Do you want to write a book? In my new role as Publisher at Forbes Books and with the incredible resources and expertise of their team, we’re making it easier than ever to help YOU to tell your story. Send us a message here to get started: Looking for a speaker for your next event? From more than 30 years of interviewing and studying the greatest winners of all time Don offers built to inspire your team towards personal and professional greatness. Special thanks to Alissa Pupich and Dave Calder for making this episode possible.
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Nucor Executive Tabitha Stine was taught, “Pick up your hammer and do your job.”
03/12/2025
Nucor Executive Tabitha Stine was taught, “Pick up your hammer and do your job.”
Ep. 221: As an executive at the largest steel producer in the U.S., Tabitha brings her softball and volleyball experience to the world of structural engineering. Our for this episode includes Don’s favorite quotes from today’s episode and a reflection question so you can apply today’s insights. Do you want to write a book? In my new role as Publisher at Forbes Books and with the incredible resources and expertise of their team, we’re making it easier than ever to help YOU to tell your story. Send us a message here to get started: Looking for a speaker for your next event? From more than 30 years of interviewing and studying the greatest winners of all time Don offers built to inspire your team towards personal and professional greatness. Special thanks to Alissa Pupich and Andrew Levin for making this episode possible.
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Empower Chief Investment Strategist Marta Norton shares practical tips to avoid burnout
03/05/2025
Empower Chief Investment Strategist Marta Norton shares practical tips to avoid burnout
Ep. 220: Marta described herself as a “maniac about soccer,” but by her senior year of high school, she walked away from the game, a choice she later regretted. Years later, as an accomplished investment strategist, that lingering regret shaped a critical career decision—one that taught her the power of seizing opportunities, even when they feel overwhelming. Learn why elite leaders step up in defining moments—and how to recognize yours! Our for this episode includes Don’s favorite quotes from today’s episode and a reflection question so you can apply today’s insights. Do you want to write a book? In my new role as Publisher at Forbes Books and with the incredible resources and expertise of their team, we’re making it easier than ever to help YOU to tell your story. Send us a message here to get started: Looking for a speaker for your next event? From more than 30 years of interviewing and studying the greatest winners of all time Don offers built to inspire your team towards personal and professional greatness. Special thanks to Anthony Dickinson and Samantha Clark for making this episode possible.
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REI COO Cameron Janes’ coach told him, “If you have to dig a ditch, you might as well whistle while you do it.’’
02/26/2025
REI COO Cameron Janes’ coach told him, “If you have to dig a ditch, you might as well whistle while you do it.’’
Ep. 219: Brown University’s rowing team shaped Cameron as he endured grueling six-day-a-week practices under the relentless watch of Coach Scott Roop. Exhausted and frustrated, he hit an all-time low. Then, during a brutal practice, as the crew rowed endlessly with no relief in sight, Roop’s words stuck with him for life: "If you have to dig a ditch, you might as well whistle while you're doing it." Learn how he applies that to his leadership today! Our for this episode includes Don’s favorite quotes from today’s episode and a reflection question so you can apply today’s insights. Do you want to write a book? In my new role as Publisher at Forbes Books and with the incredible resources and expertise of their team, we’re making it easier than ever to help YOU to tell your story. Send us a message here to get started: Looking for a speaker for your next event? From more than 30 years of interviewing and studying the greatest winners of all time Don offers built to inspire your team towards personal and professional greatness. Special thanks to Lilly Mae Stewart and Samantha Clark for making this episode possible.
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CEO Coaching International Founder Mark Moses: Are you asking yourself the right questions?
02/19/2025
CEO Coaching International Founder Mark Moses: Are you asking yourself the right questions?
Ep. 218: This U.S. Squash National Champion and 12X IRONMAN teaches you how to “Think Big” in your business. You don’t necessarily have to write an 8,000lb elephant into a meeting like Mark did, but this episode will show you how to elevate your team’s vision, break down massive goals into achievable steps, and create a culture of execution that drives results. Our for this episode includes Don’s favorite quotes from today’s episode and a reflection question so you can apply today’s insights. Do you want to write a book? In my new role as Publisher at Forbes Books and with the incredible resources and expertise of their team, we’re making it easier than ever to help YOU to tell your story. Send us a message here to get started: Looking for a speaker for your next event? From more than 30 years of interviewing and studying the greatest winners of all time Don offers built to inspire your team towards personal and professional greatness. Special thanks to Samantha Clark and Dave Calder for making this episode possible.
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Restaurant Executive George Tinsley Sr. asks: What’s left on your customer’s plate?
02/12/2025
Restaurant Executive George Tinsley Sr. asks: What’s left on your customer’s plate?
Ep. 217: After playing for the Kentucky Colonels in the ABA, George transitioned from professional basketball to business, learning from another Colonel – Founder of KFC Harlan Sanders. Sanders’ attention to detail was unmatched. He didn’t just talk to customers—he observed them, analyzing what they left uneaten, what made them smile, and what didn’t meet their expectations. His commitment to understanding his customers was one of the key reasons KFC became a global powerhouse. Our for this episode will help leaders in any industry understand their customers! Do you want to write a book? In my new role as Publisher at Forbes Books and with the incredible resources and expertise of their team, we’re making it easier than ever to help YOU to tell your story. Send us a message here to get started: Looking for a speaker for your next event? From more than 30 years of interviewing and studying the greatest winners of all time Don offers built to inspire your team towards personal and professional greatness. Special thanks to Ana Anzolin, Bradi Stewart, and Lilly Mae Stewart for making this episode possible.
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GFI CEO Eric Olson asks: What if everything you've done prepared you for this moment?
02/05/2025
GFI CEO Eric Olson asks: What if everything you've done prepared you for this moment?
Ep. 216: Instead of dwelling on the disappointment that his San Jose State Football career was cut short due to injury, this CEO chose to view his past experiences as preparation for his next chapter. He leaned into the discipline, teamwork, and mental toughness learned on the field to build one of the fastest-growing organizations in the financial services industry. Our for this episode includes Don’s favorite quotes from today’s episode and a reflection question so you can apply today’s insights. Do you want to write a book? In my new role as Publisher at Forbes Books and with the incredible resources and expertise of their team, we’re making it easier than ever to help YOU to tell your story. Send us a message here to get started: Looking for a speaker for your next event? From more than 30 years of interviewing and studying the greatest winners of all time Don offers built to inspire your team towards personal and professional greatness. Special thanks to Ana Anzolin and Bradi Stewart for making this episode possible.
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Socure CEO and Founder Johnny Ayers says: Fuel Your Competitive Spirit—Have You Tried Underwater Hockey?
01/30/2025
Socure CEO and Founder Johnny Ayers says: Fuel Your Competitive Spirit—Have You Tried Underwater Hockey?
Ep. 215: Boston College Football and Baseball shaped the founder of the world’s leading identity verification company. Learn how his athletic background influenced the leadership that earned him the EY Entrepreneur of the Year award, helped Socure land on Inc.'s Best Places to Work list, and inspired his surprising new hobby—underwater ice hockey. Our for this episode includes Don’s favorite quotes from today’s episode and a reflection question so you can apply today’s insights. Do you want to write a book? In my new role as Publisher at Forbes Books and with the incredible resources and expertise of their team, we’re making it easier than ever to help YOU to tell your story. Send us a message here to get started: Looking for a speaker for your next event? From more than 30 years of interviewing and studying the greatest winners of all time Don offers built to inspire your team towards personal and professional greatness. Special thanks to Allie Karlinsky and Lilly Mae Stewart for making this episode possible.
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Red Roof President Zack Gharib shares the conversation that changed his career
01/22/2025
Red Roof President Zack Gharib shares the conversation that changed his career
Ep. 214: College basketball in Lebanon played a pivotal role in shaping Zack’s leadership. With more than two decades of experience in the lodging industry, he now manages 700 properties and 60,000 rooms across the United States and Japan. Our for this episode includes Don’s favorite quotes from today’s episode and a reflection question so you can apply today’s insights. Do you want to write a book? In my new role as Publisher at Forbes Books and with the incredible resources and expertise of their team, we’re making it easier than ever to help YOU to tell your story. Send us a message here to get started: Looking for a speaker for your next event? From more than 30 years of interviewing and studying the greatest winners of all time Don offers built to inspire your team towards personal and professional greatness. Special thanks to Dillon McDonald and Bradi Stewart for making this episode possible.
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Yum! Brands Co-Founder David Novak shares the secret weapon for every leader
01/15/2025
Yum! Brands Co-Founder David Novak shares the secret weapon for every leader
Ep. 213: The parent company of KFC, Pizza Hut, and Taco Bell thrives on a leadership philosophy rooted in recognition—a principle David Novak first learned from his dad while playing Little League. In this episode, you’ll get a masterclass in: The importance of heartfelt, consistent recognition and how simple gestures can significantly boost employee morale and performance. How David’s “aha moment” at Pepsi highlighted the critical need to acknowledge contributions and ensure every team member feels valued. The strategies David used to create cohesion across global brands while celebrating their unique identities. Our downloadable for this episode is a PDF with Don’s favorite quotes from today’s episode and a reflection question so you can apply today’s insights. Do you want to write a book? In my new role as Publisher at Forbes Books and with the incredible resources and expertise of their team, we’re making it easier than ever to help YOU to tell your story. Send us a message here to get started: Looking for a speaker for your next event? From more than 30 years of interviewing and studying the greatest winners of all time Don offers built to inspire your team towards personal and professional greatness. Special thanks to Jack Martha and Brian Schnorr for making this episode possible.
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Olympic Gold Medalist Kristen Faulker teaches you how to shorten the cycle to success
01/08/2025
Olympic Gold Medalist Kristen Faulker teaches you how to shorten the cycle to success
Ep. 212: After starting her career in venture capital, Kristen discovered a new passion—cycling—and made the bold decision to leave her role to pursue the sport full time. Remarkably, just seven years after taking up cycling, she became a two-time Olympic gold medalist and the first Team USA Women’s Road Race medalist in 40 years. In this episode and free PDF you will learn: How she balances her need to achieve with the patience to bounce back from setbacks and disappointments. How identifying and respecting unique qualities in each team member helps foster a positive and supportive environment. Why she creates a list of what she can and cannot control before every race. Do you want to write a book? In my new role as Publisher at Forbes Books and with the incredible resources and expertise of their team, we’re making it easier than ever to help YOU to tell your story. Send us a message here to get started: Looking for a speaker for your next event? From more than 30 years of interviewing and studying the greatest winners of all time Don offers built to inspire your team towards personal and professional greatness. Special thanks to Lilly Mae Stewart and Ana Anzolin for making this episode possible.
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United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby asks: Is your team spending enough time together?
12/18/2024
United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby asks: Is your team spending enough time together?
Ep. 211: Baseball and football shaped this executive with 30 years of experience in the aviation industry. “Some of my favorite athletic memories were in our front yard,” Scott shares in this episode. “Playing sports forces you to count on others and have others count on you.” Our for this episode includes Don’s favorite quotes from today’s episode and a reflection question so you can apply today’s insights. Do you want to write a book? In my new role as Publisher at Forbes Books and with the incredible resources and expertise of their team, we’re making it easier than ever to help YOU to tell your story. Send us a message here to get started: Looking for a speaker for your next event? From more than 30 years of interviewing and studying the greatest winners of all time Don offers built to inspire your team towards personal and professional greatness. Special thanks to Dillon McDonald and Dave Calder for making this episode possible.
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ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro asks: Are you aligned when your team leaves the huddle?
12/11/2024
ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro asks: Are you aligned when your team leaves the huddle?
Ep. 210: Cornell Football shaped Jimmy Pitaro who honed his leadership skills as a wide receiver! If you ask him what he misses most about his playing days, it’s not the competition or the glory—it’s the huddle. Why? Because the huddle is where you come together, make decisions, and leave aligned. In this episode, Jimmy shares how he applies his “Discuss, debate, decide, and align” model to his weekly leadership meetings. Our free for this episode includes Don’s favorite quotes from today’s episode and a reflection question so you can apply today’s insights. Do you want to write a book? In my new role as Publisher at Forbes Books and with the incredible resources and expertise of their team, we’re making it easier than ever to help YOU to tell your story. Send us a message here to get started: Looking for a speaker for your next event? From more than 30 years of interviewing and studying the greatest winners of all time Don offers built to inspire your team towards personal and professional greatness. Special thanks to Ana Anzolin and Brian Schnorr for making this episode possible.
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Waze Founder Uri Levine says: Fall in Love with the Problem, Not the Solution
12/05/2024
Waze Founder Uri Levine says: Fall in Love with the Problem, Not the Solution
Ep. 209: Basketball, cycling, and skiing shaped this entrepreneur who founded two companies valued at more than $1 billion each. His secret? Concentrating on solving everyday problems that customers face. “When I was building Waze, if I had told you I was creating an AI crowd-sourced navigation system, you wouldn’t have cared,” he said. “But if I said I was going to help you avoid traffic jams, then you would. When you focus on the problem, it will serve as the North Star of your journey.” Our for this episode includes Don’s favorite quotes from today’s episode and a reflection question so you can apply today’s insights. Do you want to write a book? In my new role as Publisher at Forbes Books and with the incredible resources and expertise of their team, we’re making it easier than ever to help YOU to tell your story. Send us a message here to get started: Looking for a speaker for your next event? From more than 30 years of interviewing and studying the greatest winners of all time Don offers built to inspire your team towards personal and professional greatness. Special thanks to Dillon McDonald and Chase Skipper for making this episode possible.
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Former United CEO Oscar Munoz says: It is never too late to do the right thing
11/27/2024
Former United CEO Oscar Munoz says: It is never too late to do the right thing
Ep. 208: Football fields and marathon trails shaped this executive's approach to discipline, teamwork, and maintaining a competitive edge. These lessons became the foundation of his leadership at Coca-Cola, United Airlines, and now in his roles on the Board of Directors for Salesforce, CBRE, Archer, Fidelity Investments, and Televisa Univision. Our for this episode includes Don’s favorite quotes from today’s episode and a reflection question so you can apply today’s insights. Links mentioned in today’s episode: Order Oscar’s book here - Turnaround Time: Uniting an Airline and Its Employees in the Friendly Skies Do you want to write a book? In my new role as Publisher at Forbes Books and with the incredible resources and expertise of their team, we’re making it easier than ever to help YOU to tell your story. Send us a message here to get started: Looking for a speaker for your next event? From more than 30 years of interviewing and studying the greatest winners of all time Don offers built to inspire your team towards personal and professional greatness. Special thanks to Allie Karlinsky and Dillon McDonald for making this episode possible
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Logitech CEO Hanneke Faber asks: What are you doing to fill your company’s scrapbook?
11/20/2024
Logitech CEO Hanneke Faber asks: What are you doing to fill your company’s scrapbook?
Ep. 207: This 7-time Dutch National Diving Champion earned a full scholarship to the University of Houston and went on to lead growth at global giants like Procter & Gamble and Unilever. Today at Logitech, she is recognized as one of the "Most Influential Women in Business." Our for this episode includes Don’s favorite quotes from today’s episode and a reflection question so you can apply today’s insights. Do you want to write a book? In my new role as Publisher at Forbes Books and with the incredible resources and expertise of their team, we’re making it easier than ever to help YOU to tell your story. Send us a message here to get started: Looking for a speaker for your next event? From more than 30 years of interviewing and studying the greatest winners of all time Don offers built to inspire your team towards personal and professional greatness. Special thanks to Lilly Mae Stewart and Ethan Salzberg for making this episode possible.
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