Best Servant Leadership Lessons From Ceos Podcasts (2025)

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From Military to Tulip Farming: Andrew Miller's Unconventional Journey 19:52

Play Pause

2d ago19:52

19:52

Andrew Miller, the president and CEO of United Way of Skagit County and the co-founder and CEO of Tulip Valley Farms. Discover how Andrew transitioned from a career in Air Force intelligence to embracing life as a tulip farmer, bringing fresh perspectives and innovative approaches to both farming and community work. Andrew shares his unique strateg…

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Trust But Verify? 12:22

3d ago12:22

12:22

Is it true that you should trust but verify? In this Tough Things first podcast, Ray Zinn if you have to verify, there’s no trust involved. (Watch Video Podcast) Ray Zinn: Hey, Rob. Good to be with you today. Rob Artigo: Good to be back. Well, this is a special edition of The Tough Things First Podcast. It is a video podcast. If you want to watch t…

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393 Embracing Infinite Possibilities in Leadership: Lessons from Astronaut, Physician, and CEO Dr. Bernard A. Harris 42:48

4d ago42:48

42:48

In this episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli speaks with Dr. Bernard Harris, a leader whose extraordinary career trajectory—from physician to NASA astronaut to CEO and venture capitalist—offers rare insights into the inner work of leadership. Dr. Harris is the first African American to walk in space, and the author of Embracing Infinite…

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Protect the King: Navigating Family, Business & Hard Decisions with Mark McKenzie 47:30

10d ago47:30

47:30

How do you run a thriving business with your siblings—without losing your sanity or your bottom line? In this episode of CEOs Unscripted, Mark McKenzie, CEO of DocQmax, shares the gritty, inspiring story behind his family’s 50-year journey in the printing industry. From navigating family dynamics and hard conversations to staying innovative through…

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392 Section CEO Greg Shove on Leading Through AI: Rethinking Business Models, Talent, and Strategy 56:57

11d ago56:57

56:57

In this episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli is joined by Greg Shove, CEO of Section and a serial entrepreneur with a deep track record of leading transformative growth. Shove’s leadership journey includes multiple successful pivots, and in this conversation, he brings a uniquely grounded perspective on how AI is fundamentally changing …

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#104 Derik Kearns - Army Infantry SGM 1:22:42

12d ago1:22:42

1:22:42

Derik Kearns enlisted in the Army in 2002 following the events of 9/11. Throughout his military service, he completed two tours in both Iraq and Afghanistan. Amidst personal challenges, he has experienced marriage, divorce, and remarriage, and is now a proud parent to two daughters and a stepson. This summer, Derik will be attending the Sergeant Ma…

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391 Thursday Refresh: Simon Bailey on Resilience and Brilliance: Unleashing Leadership Potential and Lessons from Disney 33:15

16d ago33:15

33:15

In this insightful episode of the Partnering Leadership podcast, Mahan Tavakoli engages in a deep and inspiring conversation with Simon T. Bailey, a renowned speaker, leadership expert, and author of Resilience@Work: How to Coach Yourself Into a Thriving Future. Simon is best known for his work on personal and professional brilliance, with a focus …

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Navigating Turbulence: The Evolution of Leadership with Blair LaCorte 20:35

16d ago20:35

20:35

Anthony Taylor interviews Blair LaCorte, a seasoned CEO with extensive experience in private equity and aviation. They discuss Blair's journey, particularly his time at XOJet, where he transformed a struggling airline into a successful business through innovative strategies and a focus on customer needs. The conversation delves into the importance …

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Built Here. 11:36

17d ago11:36

11:36

Is the push for American Made an open door to a would be entrepreneur? In this Tough Things First podcast, Ray Zinn tells us how it could be done for those seeking the American Dream. Ray Zinn: Hi Rob. How’s it going today? Rob Artigo: Great. So with a nation, I feel like we’re in a mode of… There’s turmoil going on and there’s some uncertainty out…

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390 Beyond Engagement: What Great Leaders Actually Do Differently to Earn Commitment with Dave Garrison, Author, The Buy-In Advantage 40:58

18d ago40:58

40:58

What if your employees appear engaged, but aren’t truly committed? In this episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli speaks with Dave Garrison, an experienced CEO, board member, and author of The Buy-In Advantage: Why Employees Stop Caring and How Great Leaders Inspire Commitment. Drawing on his work with companies like Ameritrade and his ex…

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Luis Scott on Building Systems for Predictable Revenue in the Legal Industry 43:15

23d ago43:15

43:15

In this episode of the Break Free Podcast, host David Mansilla welcomes Luis Scott — attorney, author, entrepreneur, and founder of 8 Figure Firm Consulting. Luis shares his remarkable journey from aspiring professional athlete to leading a multi 8-figure law firm and ultimately launching a business that helps other law firms scale sustainably. Lea…

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The Servant CEO: Bold Leadership Lessons with Mike Plaia 53:51

24d ago53:51

53:51

In this episode of CEOs Unscripted, host Jane Gentry sits down with Mike Plaia, CEO of PharmaPoint, for an unscripted masterclass on building culture, embracing servant leadership, and staying bold in the face of adversity. (05:34) The GE program that fast-tracked Mike’s business instincts (07:25) Why Mike tells young professionals to start with st…

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How iFIT's Global Marketing Head Creates a High-Trust Environment 32:36

24d ago32:36

32:36

In this episode of Women in Retail Talks, Women in Retail Leadership Circle Managing Editor Marie Albiges interviews Kirsten Spittel-Sloan, global head of marketing at iFit, a leading health and fitness platform operating brands NordicTrack, ProForm, and FreeMotion. Listen in as Spittel-Sloan walks through her work-life balance non-negotiables as a…

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389 Small Shifts, Big Impact: Leadership Lessons from Mike Mears, Former CIA HR Chief and Founder of the CIA Leadership Academy 51:47

25d ago51:47

51:47

What happens when even the most powerful leaders pull every lever they’ve been taught to use—bonuses, metrics, training—and nothing changes? That’s the question that set Mike Mears, former CIA Chief of Human Capital, on a mission to rethink leadership from the inside out. In this episode of Partnering Leadership, Mike joins Mahan Tavakoli to share …

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McKinsey Partner Tim Koller on Mastering Business Valuation 25:17

25d ago25:17

25:17

Anthony Taylor and Tim Koller discuss the critical aspects of business valuation, emphasizing the importance of balancing revenue growth and profitability. They explore strategic decision-making in large organizations, the role of the CEO in resource allocation, and the necessity of understanding financial drivers to create value. Tim shares insigh…

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#103 Joseph Polanin - U.S. Navy retired and CEO 1:05:25

26d ago1:05:25

1:05:25

Captain Joseph Polanin, U.S. Navy (retired), is an award-winning CEO and a disabled Navy combat Veteran who served three decades leading elite teams to succeed on complex missions in high-risk environments despite every obstacle. He has 20+ years as a successful Commanding Officer, Task Force Commander, and Director of Operations (CEO/COO) for glob…

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Infinite Possibilities: Lessons from Space with Dr. Bernard Harris 17:18

1M ago17:18

17:18

Dr. Bernard Harris, the first black astronaut to walk in space, shares his incredible journey from childhood dreams of space exploration to becoming a physician, venture capitalist, and author. He discusses the importance of mentorship, visualization, and embracing infinite possibilities in achieving one's highest potential. Dr. Harris emphasizes t…

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Failure to Success 8:13

1M ago8:13

8:13

Failure happens. But is it really a failure if you learn something valuable? In this Tough Things First podcast, Ray Zinn discusses how a few business failures paved the way to a massively successful semiconductor company. Rob Artigo: Here with me is Ray Zinn, the longest-serving CEO in Silicon Valley history. Being invited back is always great, Ra…

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388 Mastering Uncertainty: Lessons from Former Navy SEAL Commander Rich Diviney on Leading Yourself and Your Team When Nothing Goes as Planned 45:40

1M ago45:40

45:40

In this timely and compelling episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli welcomes back Rich Diviney, retired Navy SEAL Commander and bestselling author of The Attributes. This conversation focuses on Rich’s latest book, Mastering Uncertainty, and delivers insights highly relevant to leaders navigating today’s volatile, complex environment. Wi…

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Un-Hustle Culture 8:47

1M ago8:47

8:47

Working from home may have seemed like progress over hustle culture, but has it brought on something worse? Un-Hustle culture. In this Tough Things First podcast, Ray Zinn says one bad work ethic has led to a worse work ethic. Rob Artigo: Let’s talk about hustle culture. One of the soundbites we use in the intro for this podcast is… It’s one of my …

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Leading with Transparency: Lessons in Open-Book Culture with John Costello 57:35

1M ago57:35

57:35

What happens when a 16-year-old managing adults becomes a CEO of a niche manufacturing company? In this candid and inspiring episode of CEOs Unscripted, host Jane Gentry sits down with John Costello, CEO of Cherry’s Industrial Equipment, for a real conversation about leadership, legacy, and the power of transparency. From navigating a tense busines…

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Ulta President and CEO Kecia Steelman on Giving Yourself Grace as a Working Mom 9:57

1M ago9:57

9:57

In this episode of Women in Retail Talks, Women in Retail Leadership Circle Co-Founder Melissa Campanelli interviews Kecia Steelman, president and CEO of Ulta Beauty. This episode was recorded at the 47th annual Outstanding Mother Awards in New York City, where Steelman was honored as a 2025 Outstanding Mother. Listen in as Steelman shares a lesson…

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387 You Can’t Outsmart AI—But You Can Out-Human It: How Humans Win in an AI Marketing World with Mark Schaefer 51:20

1M ago51:20

51:20

In this compelling episode of the Partnering Leadership podcast, Mark Schaefer returns to share fresh, provocative insights from his latest book, Audacious: How Humans Win in an AI Marketing World. A globally respected marketing strategist, bestselling author, and deep observer of technological change, Schaefer brings sharp clarity to a pressing le…

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#102 John Troxell - Retired SEAC, U.S. Army 1:13:05

1M ago1:13:05

1:13:05

John Troxell is a retired U.S. Army Command Sergeant Major who served nearly 38 years in uniform. He held the position of Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (SEAC), serving as the senior non-commissioned officer in the entire U.S. military. Known for his energy, authenticity, and selfless service, John continues to…

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The Victim Mentality 10:20

1M ago10:20

10:20

The victim mentality is a psychological pattern where someone perceives themselves as a victim of circumstances, other people, or systems, often avoiding personal responsibility. In this Tough Things First podcast, Ray Zinn explains in detail why most people have victim mentality and how to escape the pattern. Ray Zinn: Hi Rob. Good to be with you …

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386 [BEST OF] Eduardo Briceno on The Performance Paradox: Turning the Power of Mindset into Action 50:47

2M ago50:47

50:47

In this Partnering Leadership conversation, Mahan Tavakoli speaks with Eduardo Briceño, author of The Performance Paradox: Turning the Power of Mindset into Action. In the discussion, Eduardo dives into the transformative power of a growth mindset and how we can apply it to unlock our potential. He shares how a crippling physical injury early in hi…

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Rick Russell’s Business of Compassion: How Purpose-Driven Leadership Transformed Hospice Care 44:36

2M ago44:36

44:36

What happens when business meets purpose? In this powerful episode, Rick Russell—President & CEO of Hospice of Northwest Ohio—shares his transformational journey from oncology nurse to the helm of one of the nation’s most respected nonprofit hospice organizations. With over 35 years in healthcare and leadership, Rick opens up about what it means to…

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385 Thursday Refresh: Jim Detert on How to Choose Courage and Be Brave at Work 43:31

2M ago43:31

43:31

In this episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli speaks with Jim Detert, John L. Colley Professor of Business Administration at the University of Virginia's Darden School of Business and author of Choosing Courage: The Everyday Guide to Being Brave at Work. In this conversation, Jim Detert shares how we can become more courageous by develop…

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Mission First, People Always: Leadership Wisdom from Marine and CEO, Patrick Gough 1:09:47

2M ago1:09:47

1:09:47

In this dynamic episode of CEOs Unscripted, host Jane Gentry sits down with Patrick "Paddy" Gough — retired Marine Corps officer, former aerospace CEO, and founder of Poseidon Consulting — for a candid and insightful conversation on what true leadership looks like. Together, they explore Paddy’s "Seven Cs" of leadership: competence, candor, courage…

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384 The Power of Culture: Bringing values to life at work with Laura Hamill 45:25

2M ago45:25

45:25

In this episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli speaks with Laura Hamill, organizational psychologist, startup co-founder, and author of The Power of Culture. Laura shares how her early experiences and leadership journey at Microsoft shaped her passion for understanding the hidden forces that drive organizational behavior and business outc…

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#101 Ron Stotts - Mindfulness-Based Leadership Coach 1:11:58

2M ago1:11:58

1:11:58

Dr. Ron Stottz shares his transformational journey from Marine Corps service to becoming a mindfulness-based leadership coach who helps executives access higher states of consciousness and leadership effectiveness. • Leadership is about supporting and bringing out the best in everyone, not being in front • Personal development must happen alongside…

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Job on Shaky Ground? Don’t Panic. 10:09

2M ago10:09

10:09

We all know change is inevitable, but layoffs can be devastating when you find your once secure job has vanished. In this Tough Things First podcast, Ray Zinn says don’t panic, just be prepared. Rob Artigo: Here with me again is Ray Zinn, the longest serving CEO in Silicon Valley history. Hi Ray. Ray Zinn: Hello Rob. Rob Artigo: You are always thin…

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The Future Of Work with AI: AI For Business Strategy and Leadership in 2025 with Kevin Surace 21:41

2M ago21:41

21:41

This SME Strategy Podcast episode features technology and leadership innovator Kevin Surace, offering expert guidance on leveraging generative AI to enhance content creation and drive strategic growth and strategic planning. Learn how to make better decisions, improve your customer experience, and cultivate a culture of joy in work that supports yo…

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383 Designing What Lasts: How Great Leaders Reimagine Ownership, Innovation, and Legacy with Alfredo De Massis 45:41

2M ago45:41

45:41

What does it take to build something that lasts—not just for years, but across generations? In this episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli is joined by Alfredo De Massis, a globally recognized expert on family enterprise and author of The Family Business Book: A Roadmap for Entrepreneurial Families to Prosper Across Generations. As one of…

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Economy Now. Part 1. 13:43

2M ago13:43

13:43

What you need to know now. In this Tough Things First podcast Ray Zinn demystifies the troubled waters so we can all get it and look forward. Call it Part 1. Rob Artigo: Good to be back, Ray. Nice to see you. Thriving amid uncertainty and handling adversity. That’s what we’re talking about here in this podcast. 2025 has been a wild ride so far, and…

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The CEO’s Mirror: How Self-Awareness Transformed Josh McAfee’s Leadership 39:14

2M ago39:14

39:14

When your company can’t grow past you, it’s time to grow yourself. From starting a business by accident to scaling multiple companies—and learning some hard lessons along the way—Josh McAfee brings an honest and insightful lens to what it really takes to lead and grow. In this episode, Josh joins Jane Gentry to talk about the mindset shift that tra…

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Michaels President Heather Bennett on Risk-Taking and Being the Leader Her Team Needs 18:44

2M ago18:44

18:44

In this episode of Women in Retail Talks, Women in Retail Leadership Circle Co-Founder Melissa Campanelli interviews Heather Bennett, president of Michaels Stores, the leading creative destination in North America operating over 1,300 stores and online. This episode was recorded at Shoptalk 2025 inside the Women in Retail Pavilion. Bennett outlines…

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382 Why Strategy Fails Without the Right Board: Didier Cossin on High Performance Boards & Decision-Making at the Top 47:32

2M ago47:32

47:32

What if the greatest risk to your organization isn't economic uncertainty, market volatility, or disruptive technology—but the decisions being made in your own boardroom? In this episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli speaks with Didier Cossin, IMD professor and global expert in board governance, whose book High Performance Boards has bec…

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Servant Leadership and Exit Strategies in 2025: Business Strategy with Cameron Bishop 22:52

2M ago22:52

22:52

This episode of the SME Strategy & Leadership podcast focusses on navigating hyper-growth, the power of servant leadership, and crucial exit strategies relevant for 2025. Cameron Bishop of Raincatcher shares his extensive experience in leading companies through significant transformations, emphasizing effective communication, employee engagement, a…

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#100 Jake Larson "Papa Jake" - WWII Veteran 1:55:43

2M ago1:55:43

1:55:43

🎙 Episode Title: The Luckiest Man in the World – Leadership Lessons from 102-Year-Old WWII Veteran “Papa Jake” In this powerful episode of Tales of Leadership, I sit down with Jake Larson—affectionately known as “Papa Jake”—a 102-year-old World War II veteran and national treasure whose story has captivated millions across the world. Born during th…

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Brian D’Andrea’s Blueprint for Scaling Business Through Servant Leadership 46:54

2M ago46:54

46:54

In this episode of the Break Free Podcast, host David Mansilla sits down with Brian D’Andrea, President and CEO of TechSource Inc., a visionary leader whose career spans the U.S. Navy, SAIC, and some of the most critical programs in government and defense. Brian shares his inspiring journey from Naval Flight Officer to CEO of a multi-million dollar…

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Comparing Yourself to Others. 9:21

2M ago9:21

9:21

Do we live in a culture that promotes comparisons to others? Is it jealously, envy? In this Tough Things First podcast, Ray Zinn says keeping up with trends may be healthy, but keeping up with the Jones’s may be a problem. Rob Artigo: I recently read a quote where the writer said he had not met a person on the planet who did not compare themselves …

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381 Reclaim the Moment: Building Clarity and Connection in a Chaotic World with Greg Bennick 42:16

2M ago42:16

42:16

In this episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli speaks with Greg Bennick, keynote speaker, humanitarian, and author of Reclaim the Moment: Seven Strategies to Build a Better Now. Greg shares how his upbringing in a small Connecticut town with nontraditional parents helped shape his views on purpose, disruption, and transformation. Through …

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Strategic Leadership in the Age of AI in 2025 with Faisal Hoque 24:53

2M ago24:53

24:53

On this episode of the SME Strategy Podcast, global management thought leader Faisal Hoque serves up essential guidance on the evolving landscape of AI and technology in 2025. He underscores the vital role of purpose-driven leadership in navigating today's market uncertainty. Faisal introduces the CARE framework as a fundamental structure for AI go…