Leaders

Episode 50: Andrew Mellon was more than a banker—he was an empire builder, a power broker, and one of the most influential figures in early 20th-century America. In this episode, we explore how Mellon’s leadership shaped finance, politics, and philanthropy. From guiding U.S. economic policy as Treasury Secretary to backing industries that fueled American growth, Mellon combined quiet authority with sharp strategy. We’ll uncover his approach to wealth, decision-making, and influence—and the leadership lessons modern executives can learn from his triumphs and controversies. Follow Leaders:  Podcast YouTube LinkedIn Twitter Email us: theleaderspod@gmail.com

Episode 49: J.P. Morgan wasn’t just a banker—he was the banker. In this episode, we uncover how one man’s vision, power, and sheer force of will reshaped American business. From saving Wall Street during financial panics to forging industries that built modern America, Morgan led with bold authority and unshakable confidence. Tune in to discover what today’s leaders can learn from his deal-making genius, crisis management, and ability to command respect in every room he entered. Follow Leaders:  Podcast YouTube LinkedIn Twitter Email us: theleaderspod@gmail.com

Episode 48: In this episode, we explore the leadership of Jamie Dimon, the long-standing CEO of JPMorgan Chase and one of the most influential figures in global finance. Known for his sharp intellect, direct communication style, and steady hand during crisis, Dimon has redefined what it means to lead in high-stakes environments. We unpack Dimon’s rise through Wall Street, from his early days at American Express and Citigroup to leading JPMorgan through the 2008 financial crisis. What makes his leadership stand out? A combination of strategic foresight, a deep understanding of risk, and a willingness to make tough calls under pressure. Tune in as we break down Dimon’s leadership philosophy, his approach to navigating uncertainty, and why he's often cited as the gold standard for modern financial leadership.

Episode 47: In this episode, we unpack the life and leadership of Ingvar Kamprad, the visionary founder of IKEA, whose radical commitment to simplicity, frugality, and purpose helped turn a small Swedish mail-order business into a global furniture powerhouse. Kamprad was no ordinary CEO—his leadership philosophy was rooted in humility, hands-on involvement, and a relentless focus on cost-efficiency. We explore how his values shaped IKEA’s unique corporate culture, his approach to decentralized decision-making, and why his model of servant leadership remains relevant for leaders in all industries. Join us as we trace Kamprad’s journey from a boy selling matches to building one of the world’s most beloved brands—proving that leadership doesn’t have to be loud to be powerful.

Episode 46: In this episode, we dive into the remarkable story of Robert Noyce, co-inventor of the integrated circuit and co-founder of both Fairchild Semiconductor and Intel. Often called "The Mayor of Silicon Valley," Noyce was more than just a brilliant engineer—he was a visionary leader whose collaborative spirit and egalitarian management style set the tone for a new kind of corporate culture in tech. We explore how Noyce's leadership differed from the authoritarian norms of his time, how he inspired innovation through trust and freedom, and how his ideals still echo through Silicon Valley today. From fostering creativity to breaking down hierarchical barriers, Noyce’s legacy is a blueprint for leadership in the modern age. Tune in to hear how this quiet, unassuming leader helped spark a technological revolution—and why his leadership style remains a model for startups and tech giants alike. Follow Leaders:  Podcast YouTube LinkedIn Twitter Email us: theleaderspod@gmail.com

Episode 45: Discover how billionaire industrialist Charles Koch built one of America’s largest private companies while developing a revolutionary leadership philosophy that challenges conventional corporate wisdom.  Join us as Charles Koch reveals the counterintuitive leadership principles that transformed Koch Industries into a $115 billion enterprise. Learn the decision-making frameworks that have guided his 50+ years as CEO, how he identifies and develops exceptional talent, and the market-based management approach that has become his legacy. Whether you’re leading a startup or a Fortune 500 company, Koch’s battle-tested strategies for creating organizational alignment and driving innovation will transform how you think about leadership. This episode is essential listening for executives, entrepreneurs, and anyone looking to develop their leadership capabilities in today’s complex business environment. Download now to access insights from one of America’s most successful yet enigmatic business leaders. Follow Leaders:  Podcast YouTube LinkedIn Twitter Email us: theleaderspod@gmail.com

Episode 44: Bernard Arnault, founder, chairman and CEO of LVMH. Bernard turned a $15m investment in a bankrupt French textile company into the world’s largest individual fortune. Learn more about his hands on leadership style, lessons from his business negotiations, and his leadership parallels to greats like Rockefeller, Buffett, and Walton. Follow Leaders:  Podcast YouTube LinkedIn Twitter Email us: theleaderspod@gmail.com

Episode 43: Harvey Firestone, founder and former CEO of Firestone Tire & Rubber Company. Harvey built one of the first global makers of automobile tires. Learn more about the values driven leadership style, how a focus on people led to decades long success and his friendship with Henry Ford and Thomas Edison. Follow Leaders:  Podcast YouTube LinkedIn Twitter Email us: theleaderspod@gmail.com

Episode 42: Les Schwab, founder and former CEO of Les Schwab Tire Centers. Les built one of the most respected and largest independent tire chain businesses in the US. Learn more about the customer-service first leadership style, what other defining characteristics made him successful for 50+ years and the influential mentors in his career. Follow Leaders:  Podcast YouTube LinkedIn Twitter Email us: theleaderspod@gmail.com

Episode 41: Max De Pree, former chief executive officer of Herman Miller. Max led Herman Miller to become one the most successful office furniture companies in the world. Learn more about the his servant leadership style, how leadership is an art and the influential mentors in his career. Follow Leaders:  Podcast YouTube LinkedIn Twitter Email us: theleaderspod@gmail.com

Episode 40: Dara Khosrowshahi, current chief executive officer of Uber. Dara has led Uber to become the largest ridsharing company worldwide.Learn more about the his calm & diplomatic leadership style, how he has led Uber's turnaround and the influential mentors in his career. Follow Leaders:  Podcast YouTube LinkedIn Twitter Email us: theleaderspod@gmail.com

Episode 39: Sakichi Toyoda, king of Japanese inventors and founder of Toyota. Sakichi & his son helped to create the largest automobile manufacturer in the world.Learn more about the Toyota Way of Leadership, the influence of lean & other Japanese principles and his lasting legacy of developing leaders internally. Follow Leaders:  Podcast YouTube LinkedIn Twitter Email us: theleaderspod@gmail.com

Episode 38: Tony Hsieh, former CEO of Zappos. Hsieh led Zappos to a $1.2b acquisition by Amazon. Learn more about Zappos' 10 core values, his unique self management leadership style and his deep focus on customers and culture.  Follow Leaders:  Podcast YouTube LinkedIn Twitter Email us: theleaderspod@gmail.com

Episode 37: Yvon Chouinard, founder and former CEO of Patagonia. Chouinard is a climber turned businessman who has built Patagonia into one of the most successful outdoor companies ever. Learn more about his management by absence (MBA) approach, product driven philosophies, and the values he and his company has embodied. Follow Leaders:  Podcast YouTube LinkedIn Twitter Email us: theleaderspod@gmail.com

Episode 36: Bob Iger, CEO of The Walt Disney Company. Iger has led Disney for much of this century, building the media empire through acquisition, strategy, and a bold vision. Learn more about his ten keys to leadership, some of the major events that shaped them, and what other qualities make up his leadership style. Follow Leaders:  Podcast YouTube LinkedIn Twitter Email us: theleaderspod@gmail.com

Episode 35: Estee Lauder, co-founder and leader of The Estee Lauder Companies. Lauder built a global beauty empire, leaving a lasting legacy today as the company is the 2nd largest cosmetics company in the world.  Learn more about her innovative marketing approaches, how she scaled up her business, and the "Lauderisms" that were her keys to success. Follow Leaders:  Podcast YouTube LinkedIn Twitter Email us: theleaderspod@gmail.com

Episode 34: Andrew Carnegie, industrialist, philanthropist, and creator of Carnegie Steel Company. Carnegie led the expansion of the steel industry as one of America's first modern titans and rose toe become one of the richest men in the world upon retirement.  Learn more about his heavy handed leadership style, his key traits of leadership, and his philanthropic legacy. Follow Leaders:  Podcast YouTube LinkedIn Twitter Email us: theleaderspod@gmail.com

Episode 33: Alfred Sloan, longtime president, chairman, and CEO of General Motors. Sloan helped GM grow into one of the largest automakers in the world.  Learn more about his leadership style, his pioneering management practices, and his philanthropic legacy. Follow Leaders:  Podcast YouTube LinkedIn Twitter Email us: theleaderspod@gmail.com

Episode 32: Cornelius Vanderbilt, American business pioneer in the shipping and railroad industries. Vanderbilt was one of the weathliest Americans of all time and transformed the geography of the United States.  Learn more about his leadership style, how he built his empires, and his philanthropic legacy. Follow Leaders:  Podcast YouTube LinkedIn Twitter Email us: theleaderspod@gmail.com

Episode 31: John D. Rockefeller, former founder and leader of Standard Oil Company. Rockefeller was one of the weathliest Americans of all time and one of the richest people in modern history.  Learn more about his leadership style, how he used his skills & experiences to build his oil empire, and which modern business leaders most embody his practices. Follow Leaders:  Podcast YouTube LinkedIn Twitter Email us: theleaderspod@gmail.com