The World Class Leaders Show: The CEO leadership podcast for leaders who solve big problems and build better futures.

We’re opening doors to WCL21. The first private and exclusive community for CEOs who want to grow their leadership, pressure-test decisions, and create meaningful connections with other peers in a trusted environment. 👉 Request your invitation: https://andreapetrone.com/wcl21  Want to establish authority and lead with confidence from Day One as a CEO? Grab your FREE copy of “10 Foolproof Ways New CEOs Establish Authority From Day One” 👉 Download - https://bit.ly/10-fool-proof-ceo-strategies  __________________________________________   In this episode of The World Class Leaders Show, host Andrea Petrone is joined by Santiago Iñiguez de Onzoño, President of IE University, Author of book Dante in the Workplace, Member of the Board at EFMD Global and Board Member of Headspring Executive Development. Santiago shares his perspective on leadership, virtues, and the role of character in modern business. Drawing on the Seven Deadly Sins, he explains how pride, envy, anger, and laziness show up in organisations and how leaders can develop humility, balance, and self awareness. He also discusses the impact of AI on education and management, the importance of lifelong learning, and why cultivating the humanities helps leaders stay human and effective in a fast changing world. Santiago explains how leaders can develop stronger character by understanding how pride, envy, anger, and laziness appear in everyday business life. He shows why many executives struggle with feedback, humility, and balance, and why self reflection and mentorship are essential for long term success. Santiago also shares his views on AI and how it is changing education and management, while stressing that human qualities such as judgment, curiosity, and empathy will matter even more. He offers practical advice for CEOs to see their career as a marathon, commit to lifelong learning, and cultivate the humanities to lead with clarity and purpose. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: -How the Seven Deadly Sins such as pride, envy, anger, and laziness show up in modern organisations. -Why humility, self awareness, and openness to feedback are essential for effective leadership. -How lifelong learning, mentorship, and reflection help leaders grow over time. -The impact of AI on education and management, and why human judgment still matters. -Practical advice for CEOs to build balance, nurture the humanities, and lead with purpose in a fast changing world.   📘 Get your copy of “Dante in the Workplace” by Santiago Iñiguez de Onzoño and explore how leaders can avoid common pitfalls and build stronger character in business. 👉 Visit: https://a.co/d/06BJ1FCw Timestamps: [00:00] - Teaser and introduction of Santiago Iñiguez de Onzoño [03:40] - What it means to lead a global university in 2026 [04:50] - Dante in the Workplace and the Seven Deadly Sins [05:18] - Pride, envy, anger, and virtues in business life [15:13] - Feedback, humility, and the challenge for senior leaders [21:06] - Resilience, AI, and the growing role of humanity [24:39] - Reflection, balance, and mental wellbeing for leaders [31:00] - Leading people with care and building healthy organisations [34:49] - AI in education and the evolution of the classroom [40:42] - Final advice for CEOs on lifelong learning and the humanities Follow Our Guest Santiago Iñiguez de Onzoño: -LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/siniguez/  -IE University: https://www.linkedin.com/school/ie-university/  -EFMD Global: https://www.linkedin.com/company/efmd-global/  -Headspring Executive Development: https://www.linkedin.com/company/goheadspring/  Follow our Host Andrea Petrone on:   -LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreapetrone -Website: https://www.andreapetrone.com -Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andreapetrone_x/ Follow The World Class Leaders Show and Stay updated:   -Subscribe to The World Class Leader Show: https://shorturl.at/E9WE7 -Newsletter: https://shorturl.at/dMRp6 -LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-world-class-leaders-show/ -Website: https://www.andreapetrone.com/podcast/ -Spotify: https://shorturl.at/DSHUl -Apple: https://shorturl.at/JZAmQ ⭐If you lead a business or want to grow as a leader, this conversation with Santiago Iñiguez de Onzoño offers clear insights on character, humility, lifelong learning, and how to stay human and effective in the age of AI.

We’re opening doors to WCL21. The first private and exclusive community for CEOs who want to grow their leadership, pressure-test decisions, and create meaningful connections with other peers in a trusted environment.   👉 Request your invitation: https://andreapetrone.com/wcl21  Want to establish authority and lead with confidence from Day One as a CEO?   Grab your FREE copy of “10 Foolproof Ways New CEOs Establish Authority From Day One” 👉 Download - https://bit.ly/10-fool-proof-ceo-strategies  __________________________________________ In this episode of The World Class Leaders Show, host Andrea Petrone is joined by Jennifer Dulski, CEO & Founder of Rising Team, Faculty Lecturer in Management at Stanford University Graduate School of Business, and Lead Independent Director at Arcadia. Jennifer shares insights from over 25 years of executive experience leading teams at companies like Facebook, Google, and Yahoo. She explores the challenges leaders face today, including constant change, hybrid work, efficiency pressure, and AI. Jennifer explains how AI can support managers through coaching and role play while strengthening human connection. She also reflects on her journey as a founder and why resilience, adaptability, and empathy are essential for building high performing teams. Jennifer explains how today’s leaders can navigate constant change by focusing on learning speed, adaptability, and human connection. She shares how managers are under pressure from transformation, hybrid work, efficiency demands, and rapid growth of AI. Jennifer describes how AI can support leaders with coaching, role play, and better team conversations, while still keeping people at the center. She reflects on her own journey as a founder, including setbacks and moments of doubt, and how she learned to recover faster over time. Throughout the conversation, she offers practical insights on building trust, supporting managers, and using AI as a tool to strengthen leadership and team performance. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: -How leaders can manage constant change in today’s workplace. -Why managers are feeling overwhelmed and how AI can support them. -How AI coaching and role play can improve leadership skills. -Why human connection and trust are critical for strong teams. -How adaptability, learning speed, and resilience shape effective leadership.   🚀 Discover Rising Team’s AI-powered leadership platform for transforming managers into super leaders. Visit: risingteam.com 💡 Want to be the first to know when SuperManager.ai launches? Get on the waitlist now! Visit: supermanager.ai   Timestamps: [00:00] - Teaser and introduction of Jennifer Dulski [02:39] - The workplace tornado and why leadership is harder today [05:48] - How AI can scale leadership support for every manager [06:38] - Manager burnout, overload, and the cost to performance [08:12] - Engagement, retention, and why people performance matters [10:06] - Limits of engagement surveys and reactive leadership [13:00] - Moving engagement with the right tools and team sessions [15:16] - The super manager concept and AI as a leadership trainer [19:01] - Personalized leadership development and role play with AI [20:33] - How AI works in practice with teams and managers [24:41] - Using role play to prepare for hard leadership conversations [28:13] - Leading through rapid AI change and learning fast as a company [31:40] - AI bootcamps, experimentation, and building adaptability [36:38] - Founder journey, resilience, and recovering from setbacks [40:38] - Final advice on AI, human connection, and leadership today Follow Our Guest Jennifer Dulski: -LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdulski/  -Rising Team: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rising-team/  -Stanford University Graduate School of Business: https://www.linkedin.com/school/stanford-graduate-school-of-business/  -Arcadia: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arcadiahq/  Follow our Host Andrea Petrone on: -LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreapetrone -Website: https://www.andreapetrone.com -Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andreapetrone_x/ Follow The World Class Leaders Show and Stay updated: -Subscribe to The World Class Leader Show: https://shorturl.at/E9WE7 -Newsletter: https://shorturl.at/dMRp6 -LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-world-class-leaders-show/ -Website: https://www.andreapetrone.com/podcast/ -Spotify: https://shorturl.at/DSHUl -Apple: https://shorturl.at/JZAmQ ⭐If you are leading through change or managing growing pressure at work, this conversation with Jennifer Dulski shares practical ideas on using AI, supporting people, and leading with empathy.

We’re opening doors to WCL21. The first private and exclusive community for CEOs who want to grow their leadership, pressure-test decisions, and create meaningful connections with other peers in a trusted environment. 👉 Request your invitation: https://andreapetrone.com/wcl21  __________________________________________ Want to establish authority and lead with confidence from Day One as a CEO? Grab your FREE copy of “10 Foolproof Ways New CEOs Establish Authority From Day One” 👉 Download - https://bit.ly/10-fool-proof-ceo-strategies  __________________________________________ Stepping into the CEO role is not simply a change in responsibilities. It is a profound psychological transition. Research shows that a significant portion of new CEOs struggle within their first 18 months, not because they lack the capabilities required for the role, but because they remain anchored to the expertise that earned them the promotion in the first place. The instinct to remain deeply involved in a familiar function can feel productive, yet it quietly prevents leaders from fully occupying the broader integrative responsibilities of the CEO role. In this solo episode, I'll explore one of the most common traps in leadership transitions: the tendency for new CEOs to retreat into their former expert identity rather than stepping into the architect role the position requires. He outlines three leadership shifts that define successful CEO transitions — moving from doing to deciding, from performing to architecting, and from concentrating authority to distributing it across the leadership team.   - Like my work? Follow or connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreapetrone/ - Want to become a world-class leader? Join 155,000+ leaders who read my weekly insights here: https://www.andreapetrone.com/newsletter/

We’re opening doors to WCL21. The first private and exclusive community for CEOs who want to grow their leadership, pressure-test decisions, and create meaningful connections with other peers in a trusted environment.   👉 Request your invitation: https://andreapetrone.com/wcl21  Want to establish authority and lead with confidence from Day One as a CEO? Grab your FREE copy of “10 Foolproof Ways New CEOs Establish Authority From Day One” 👉 Download - https://bit.ly/10-fool-proof-ceo-strategies  __________________________________________   In this episode of The World Class Leaders Show, host Andrea Petrone speaks with Cameron Drinkwater, Chief Product & Operations Officer, S&P Dow Jones Indices at S&P Global. Cameron shares insights from her journey across finance, strategy, and product leadership, and how she built a career by taking smart risks and embracing change. She explains how her leadership is shaped by adaptability, authenticity, and a strong commitment to culture, learning, and development. Cameron also discusses the importance of psychological safety, leading large teams, and balancing career growth with raising a young family. Cameron shares how leaders can grow their careers by taking bold but smart moves, focusing on roles that build new skills and bring real joy. She explains how her success comes from a clear career strategy, strong personal values, and the ability to adapt to new challenges. Cameron talks about building trust as a young leader, leading large teams through change, and creating a culture that supports learning and innovation. She also highlights the role of coaching, feedback, and setting clear boundaries to stay healthy and balanced. Throughout the conversation, she gives honest advice and real-life tips for leading with impact and purpose. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: - How to grow your career by making bold but smart job moves. - Why personal values and clear goals help guide better decisions. - Ways to lead with impact even without being a subject expert. - How to build a strong culture that supports learning and risk-taking. - Tips for balancing leadership, family life, and personal well-being.   Timestamps: [00:00] - Teaser and introduction of Cameron Drinkwater [03:04] - The career mindset behind bold job transitions [05:06] - Learning to adapt and lead through personal strengths [08:31] - From finance to product and operations: why Cameron made the shift [14:00] - Leading 500 people and driving impact through indexing [16:31] - Building a high-performance culture with learning and mobility [23:20] - Taking smart risks and shaping leadership identity [25:13] - The value of coaching and becoming a stronger leader [27:04] - Leading with clarity, consistency, and team recognition [31:41] - Balancing career growth with family and personal boundaries [39:30] - Lessons from sport: mindset, focus, and leadership routines Follow Our Guest Cameron Drinkwater: - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cameron-drinkwater/  - S&P Dow Jones Indices: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/s&p-dow-jones-indices/   Follow our Host Andrea Petrone on: - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreapetrone - Website: https://www.andreapetrone.com - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andreapetrone_x/ Follow The World Class Leaders Show and Stay updated: - Subscribe to The World Class Leader Show: https://shorturl.at/E9WE7 - Newsletter: https://shorturl.at/dMRp6 - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-world-class-leaders-show/ - Website: https://www.andreapetrone.com/podcast/ - Spotify: https://shorturl.at/DSHUl - Apple: https://shorturl.at/JZAmQ ⭐If you are leading teams or navigating career growth, this conversation with Cameron Drinkwater offers real advice on taking smart risks, leading with authenticity, and building a strong culture that supports both people and performance.

We’re opening doors to WCL21. The first private and exclusive community for CEOs who want to grow their leadership, pressure-test decisions, and create meaningful connections with other peers in a trusted environment. 👉 Request your invitation: https://andreapetrone.com/wcl21  __________________________________________ Want to establish authority and lead with confidence from Day One as a CEO? Grab your FREE copy of “10 Foolproof Ways New CEOs Establish Authority From Day One” 👉 Download - https://bit.ly/10-fool-proof-ceo-strategies  __________________________________________ In Episode 227, Andrea examines the hidden financial cost of performed certainty inside executive leadership. When CEOs default to projecting confidence instead of naming uncertainty, they unintentionally compress organisational intelligence upward — creating decision bottlenecks and suppressing early risk signals. This episode introduces a four-part framework for maintaining authority while increasing transparency. The core argument is simple but uncomfortable: the leader’s relationship with truth determines the organisation’s capacity to think. When certainty becomes theatre, silence becomes culture. And silence is where strategic errors compound.   - Like my work? Follow or connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreapetrone/ - Want to become a world-class leader? Join 155,000+ leaders who read my weekly insights here: https://www.andreapetrone.com/newsletter/

We’re opening doors to WCL21. The first private and exclusive community for CEOs who want to grow their leadership, pressure-test decisions, and create meaningful connections with other peers in a trusted environment. 👉 Request your invitation: https://andreapetrone.com/wcl21  Want to establish authority and lead with confidence from Day One as a CEO? Grab your FREE copy of “10 Foolproof Ways New CEOs Establish Authority From Day One” 👉 Download - https://bit.ly/10-fool-proof-ceo-strategies  __________________________________________   In this episode of The World Class Leaders Show, host Andrea Petrone is joined by Josh Bersin, Founder and CEO of The Josh Bersin Company, Founder and Dean of Galileo by the Josh Bersin Company, and Board Member of University of California, Berkeley, Haas School of Business, a globally recognized expert on HR and the future of work. Josh shares his insights on the transformative role of AI in business. He discusses how AI can break down organizational silos, improve productivity, and drive innovation. Josh explains why CEOs must rethink business models to integrate AI across functions and how AI can reshape leadership, talent development, and decision-making for long-term success.   Josh shares how leaders can leverage AI to transform their businesses by breaking down silos and creating more integrated workflows. He explains why many companies focus on AI as a tool for individual tasks, missing the opportunity to use it for rethinking entire business models. Josh introduces his vision for AI as a "super agent" that can drive efficiency across various functions like marketing, sales, and HR. He also discusses how AI can enhance leadership, talent development, and decision-making, and offers clear examples and practical steps for companies to adopt AI successfully and drive long-term growth. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: -How AI can break down organizational silos and create more integrated workflows. -Why CEOs need to rethink their business models to fully leverage AI. -The potential of AI to drive innovation and reshape leadership practices. -How AI can improve talent development and decision-making across functions. -Practical steps companies can take to successfully implement AI for long-term growth.     📢 Explore Galileo - Access world-class HR and Management Consulting at an incredible value with Josh Bersin's AI-powered platform. 👉 Visit: https://getgalileo.ai/ Timestamps: [00:00] - Teaser and introduction of Josh Bersin [02:16] - The current state of AI and its transformative potential [07:40] - Reengineering business models with AI for long-term growth [09:52] - Overcoming organizational silos with AI integration [14:17] - Galileo: The future of AI-powered advisory and research [19:55] - How AI can help CEOs rethink company culture and innovation [24:42] - Practical steps for CEOs to leverage AI for success [32:22] - Building a super manager mindset in an AI-driven company Follow Our Guest Josh Bersin: -LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bersin/  -Website: https://joshbersin.com/  -The Josh Bersin Company: https://www.linkedin.com/company/joshbersin/  -Galileo by the Josh Bersin Company: https://www.linkedin.com/company/galileo-by-josh-bersin-company/  -University of California, Berkeley, Haas School of Business: https://www.linkedin.com/school/berkeley-haas/  Follow our Host Andrea Petrone on:   -LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreapetrone -Website: https://www.andreapetrone.com -Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andreapetrone_x/   Follow The World Class Leaders Show and Stay updated:   -Subscribe to The World Class Leader Show: https://shorturl.at/E9WE7 -Newsletter: https://shorturl.at/dMRp6 -LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-world-class-leaders-show/ -Website: https://www.andreapetrone.com/podcast/ -Spotify: https://shorturl.at/DSHUl -Apple: https://shorturl.at/JZAmQ ⭐If you're leading a business or exploring AI adoption, this conversation with Josh Bersin offers valuable insights on how AI can transform organizations, improve efficiency, and drive long-term success in today’s fast-growing market.

We’re opening doors to WCL21. The first private and exclusive community for CEOs who want to grow their leadership, pressure-test decisions, and create meaningful connections with other peers in a trusted environment. 👉 Request your invitation: https://andreapetrone.com/wcl21  Want to establish authority and lead with confidence from Day One as a CEO? Grab your FREE copy of “10 Foolproof Ways New CEOs Establish Authority From Day One” 👉 Download - https://bit.ly/10-fool-proof-ceo-strategies  __________________________________________ In this episode of The World Class Leaders Show, host Andrea Petrone is joined by Dan Rosensweig, CEO of Chegg Inc.. With a rich career spanning leadership roles at Yahoo, Dan shares his journey of reinvention in the face of challenges at Chegg Inc.. He discusses the importance of transparency, authenticity, and adaptability for CEOs, especially during times of crisis and transformation. Dan also highlights the evolving landscape of education and Chegg’s shift toward skilling, focusing on helping students become more employable in a rapidly changing world.   Dan shares how CEOs must evolve their leadership style in response to changing times, focusing on authenticity, transparency, and the ability to lead through crises. He explains the challenges of leading in the tech industry, particularly when facing disruptions like AI and market shifts. Dan discusses the importance of clear communication with employees and stakeholders, especially during tough decisions like layoffs. He also highlights the need for CEOs to balance personal growth with company transformation, using real-world examples from his own career to illustrate key leadership lessons and strategies. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: - Why transparency and authenticity are crucial for CEOs, especially in times of crisis. - How leaders can evolve their approach to meet the demands of a rapidly changing market. - The importance of clear communication during difficult decisions like layoffs. - Why reinvention and adaptability are key to long-term business success. - How CEOs can balance personal growth with transforming their company’s future.   Timestamps: [00:00] - Teaser & Introduction of Dan Rosensweig [02:24] - Why Dan returned as CEO of Chegg during challenging times [06:13] - What reinvention means for CEOs personally and professionally [12:20] - The challenges of leading in tech and balancing work with personal life [14:12] - Dan’s thoughts on leadership evolution and introspective work for CEOs [19:54] - The importance of consistency and clarity in CEO communication [24:06] - The impact of layoffs and transparent communication during difficult decisions [33:05] - The importance of empathy in leadership, especially during tough times [34:18] - Leadership and mental health: The personal impact of being a CEO [38:56] - Dan's vision for Chegg's future and the shift to skilling over homework help Follow Our Guest Dan Rosensweig: - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielrosensweig/  - Chegg Inc.: https://www.linkedin.com/company/chegg-inc-/   Follow our Host Andrea Petrone on: - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreapetrone - Website: https://www.andreapetrone.com - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andreapetrone_x/ Follow The World Class Leaders Show and Stay updated: - Subscribe to The World Class Leader Show: https://shorturl.at/E9WE7 - Newsletter: https://shorturl.at/dMRp6 - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-world-class-leaders-show/ - Website: https://www.andreapetrone.com/podcast/ - Spotify: https://shorturl.at/DSHUl - Apple: https://shorturl.at/JZAmQ ⭐If you're leading a company or navigating change, this conversation with Dan Rosensweig provides valuable lessons on evolving as a CEO, staying authentic, and making tough decisions to drive long-term success in a fast-changing business landscape.

We’re opening doors to WCL21. The first private and exclusive community for CEOs who want to grow their leadership, pressure-test decisions, and create meaningful connections with other peers in a trusted environment. 👉 Request your invitation: https://andreapetrone.com/wcl21  __________________________________________ Want to establish authority and lead with confidence from Day One as a CEO? Grab your FREE copy of “10 Foolproof Ways New CEOs Establish Authority From Day One” 👉 Download - https://bit.ly/10-fool-proof-ceo-strategies  __________________________________________ By the end of January, the holiday energy is gone, the pressure is back, and your momentum starts to slip. Decisions slow down, priorities blur, meetings pile up — and the year already feels suspiciously like last year. In this episode, I’ll explain why the “January dip” actually peaks in the last week of the month, the three forces that quietly collapse CEO momentum (over-activation, fragmentation, and leadership reversion), and why so many leaders enter February already tired and reactive. You’ll learn how world-class CEOs reset before February hits: how to redraw your attention map, reestablish a sharper decision rhythm, and design an environment that supports 30,000-feet thinking instead of dragging you back into the weeds — so the next 11 months compound in the right direction instead of the wrong one. I’ll also share more about WCL 21, my new CEO community for fast-growth and mid-size CEOs who want a stronger inner circle, better challenge, and a real space to think.   - Like my work? Follow or connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreapetrone/ - Want to become a world-class leader? Join 155,000+ leaders who read my weekly insights here: https://www.andreapetrone.com/newsletter/  

We’re opening doors to WCL21. The first private and exclusive community for CEOs who want to grow their leadership, pressure-test decisions, and create meaningful connections with other peers in a trusted environment. 👉 Request your invitation: https://andreapetrone.com/wcl21  Want to establish authority and lead with confidence from Day One as a CEO? Grab your FREE copy of “10 Foolproof Ways New CEOs Establish Authority From Day One” 👉 Download - https://bit.ly/10-fool-proof-ceo-strategies  __________________________________________ In this episode of The World Class Leaders Show, host Andrea Petrone is joined by Shirin Behzadi, Keynote Speaker, Bestselling Author, Board Director & Investor at Shirin Behzadi, LLC. She is also the author of the book “The Unexpected CEO”. Shirin shares her journey from working behind bulletproof glass at a gas station to becoming a billion-dollar CEO. She opens up about fleeing Iran, building resilience through adversity, and leading a company through major transformation. Shirin discusses the mindset shifts that helped her succeed, how she used empathy in leadership, and why setbacks can be powerful turning points for growth and reinvention. Shirin shares how leaders can turn adversity into a strength by changing their mindset and focusing on what is possible. She explains how her early challenges, from fleeing Iran to recovering from a life-threatening brain tumor, shaped her views on resilience and reinvention. Shirin introduces key lessons from her book, including the power of belief, the value of listening, and the importance of defining a clear vision. She also talks about how empathy helps leaders build stronger teams and make better decisions. Throughout the conversation, she offers honest stories and practical advice for growing as a leader and building a successful business. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: - How to turn adversity into a powerful tool for personal and business growth. - Why mindset and belief play a key role in achieving big goals. - Steps to move from financial insecurity to successful leadership. - How to use empathy to lead teams and make better business decisions. - Why defining your vision and listening to others can drive real transformation.   📘 Read “The Unexpected CEO” - Discover how Shirin Behzadi went from a gas station cashier to leading a billion-dollar company with lessons in resilience, leadership, and growth. 👉 Visit: https://shirinbehzadi.com/book/    Timestamps: [00:00] - Teaser and introduction of Shirin Behzadi [03:00] - Why Shirin wrote The Unexpected CEO and its impact [04:51] - Life before and after exile from Iran and key early lessons [06:26] - How mindset and belief helped shape her future [09:33] - Seeing adversity as a strength and growth opportunity [12:38] - Facing a near-fatal brain tumor and learning resilience [16:19] - Reframing setbacks and growing during the Great Recession [18:38] - From CFO to CEO and leading major business growth [24:02] - Key leadership principles that drove 70% company growth [28:19] - How empathy shaped her leadership and team success [33:58] - Why the book is a roadmap for decision-making and growth [37:01] - Final advice for CEOs facing uncertainty and adversity Follow Our Guest Shirin Behzadi: - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shirin-behzadi/  - Website: https://shirinbehzadi.com/  - Shirin Behzadi, LLC: https://www.linkedin.com/company/shirin-behzadi-llc/ Follow our Host Andrea Petrone on: - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreapetrone - Website: https://www.andreapetrone.com - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andreapetrone_x/ Follow The World Class Leaders Show and Stay updated: - Subscribe to The World Class Leader Show: https://shorturl.at/E9WE7 - Newsletter: https://shorturl.at/dMRp6 - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-world-class-leaders-show/ - Website: https://www.andreapetrone.com/podcast/ - Spotify: https://shorturl.at/DSHUl - Apple: https://shorturl.at/JZAmQ ⭐If you're leading through change or facing big challenges, this talk with Shirin Behzadi offers real guidance on turning setbacks into strength, leading with empathy, and building a business with purpose and vision.

We’re opening doors to WCL21. The first private and exclusive community for CEOs who want to grow their leadership, pressure-test decisions, and create meaningful connections with other peers in a trusted environment. 👉 Request your invitation: https://andreapetrone.com/wcl21  __________________________________________ Want to establish authority and lead with confidence from Day One as a CEO? Grab your FREE copy of “10 Foolproof Ways New CEOs Establish Authority From Day One” 👉 Download - https://bit.ly/10-fool-proof-ceo-strategies  __________________________________________ January exposes a quiet truth for many CEOs: your calendar is full, but your leadership space is empty. You’re making high-stakes decisions without a room that keeps you clear, sharp, and truly at altitude. In this episode, I unpack why so many CEOs feel isolated—even when surrounded by teams, advisors, and board members—and why traditional CEO groups, conferences, and masterminds rarely give you the depth and challenge you need. You’ll discover what WCL21 is (and what it’s not): not another mastermind, not a content library, not generic group coaching—but a curated leadership environment for serious CEOs who want strategic clarity, sharper identity, and better decisions under pressure. I walk you through what members get inside WCL21—from monthly CEO roundtables and live “CEO Insights” sessions, to AMAs, private dinners, retreats, company visits, and a rhythm that keeps you thinking and operating at altitude all year. Finally, I explain who WCL21 is for (and who it’s not for), why founding membership is open only once, and the three advantages founding members get: significant pricing, real influence on the platform’s DNA, and priority access to the highest-impact experiences. If you don’t want to lead alone in 2026, this is your invitation to step into a different kind of CEO room.   - Like my work? Follow or connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreapetrone/ - Want to become a world-class leader? Join 150,000+ leaders who read my weekly insights here: https://www.andreapetrone.com/newsletter/

We’re opening doors to WCL21. The first private and exclusive community for CEOs who want to grow their leadership, pressure-test decisions, and create meaningful connections with other peers in a trusted environment. 👉 Request your invitation: https://andreapetrone.com/wcl21   Want to establish authority and lead with confidence from Day One as a CEO? Grab your FREE copy of “10 Foolproof Ways New CEOs Establish Authority From Day One” 👉 Download - https://bit.ly/10-fool-proof-ceo-strategies __________________________________________   In this episode of The World Class Leaders Show, host Andrea Petrone is joined by Nancy Duarte, CEO & Principal at Duarte, Inc. and author of six bestselling books. Known for transforming how leaders communicate, Nancy shares how CEOs can lead in the era of AI by becoming strategic, authentic communicators. She explains how to use AI to drive both efficiency and creativity, why clear messaging is essential during change, and how to build a strong leadership presence that inspires trust. Nancy also reflects on her own leadership journey and the importance of empathy and values in shaping a high-performing culture. Nancy shares how CEOs can lead with confidence in a fast-changing world shaped by AI and rising complexity. She explains why leaders must understand AI at a deep level and use it across the whole business, not just for small tasks. Nancy highlights the growing need for strong communication, showing how leaders can build trust through clear, authentic messages. She also talks about the importance of storytelling, emotional connection, and adapting communication to different teams. Throughout the conversation, she offers real insights and practical tools leaders can use to guide change, reduce resistance, and grow with purpose. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: - Why CEOs must lead AI efforts instead of leaving them to others - How to use AI to improve both productivity and creativity at work. - The role of authentic communication in building trust and clarity. - Ways to prepare for resistance and guide teams through change. - How strong values and culture can support performance and growth. 👉 Check out her Books: https://www.duarte.com/resources/books/ 👉 Check out her Newsletter: https://www.duarte.com/help-contact/newsletter/  Timestamps: [00:00] - Teaser and Introduction of Nancy Duarte [02:21] - Why AI is a tsunami that CEOs must lead through [04:06] - Using AI for both productivity and creative value [06:38] - How CEOs can build a strong AI-driven business [14:28] - What separates world-class leaders from the rest [16:49] - Preparing for resistance and gaining buy-in through story [21:19] - How to cascade communication across the company [26:42] - Nancy’s shift from founder to visionary CEO [34:45] - Balancing values and performance for long-term success [37:08] - Final advice for CEOs to lead with empathy and clarity Follow Our Guest Nancy Duarte: - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancyduarte/  - Twitter (X): https://x.com/nancyduarte  - Duarte, Inc.: https://www.linkedin.com/company/duarte-design/  Follow our Host Andrea Petrone on: - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreapetrone - Website: https://www.andreapetrone.com - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andreapetrone_x/ Follow The World Class Leaders Show and Stay updated: - Subscribe to The World Class Leader Show: https://shorturl.at/E9WE7 - Newsletter: https://shorturl.at/dMRp6 - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-world-class-leaders-show/ - Website: https://www.andreapetrone.com/podcast/ - Spotify: https://shorturl.at/DSHUl - Apple: https://shorturl.at/JZAmQ ⭐If you're leading a team or driving change, this talk with Nancy Duarte offers powerful lessons on using AI wisely, communicating with impact, and leading with empathy in today’s fast-moving business world.

We’re opening doors to WCL21. The first private and exclusive community for CEOs who want to grow their leadership, pressure-test decisions, and create meaningful connections with other peers in a trusted environment. 👉 Request your invitation: https://andreapetrone.com/wcl21   Want to establish authority and lead with confidence from Day One as a CEO? Grab your FREE copy of “10 Foolproof Ways New CEOs Establish Authority From Day One” 👉 Download Now ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2026 won’t reward the same leadership habits of the past. This year will demand more clarity, more courage, and more self-awareness than any other — especially as AI, complexity, and pressure keep accelerating. In this first episode of the year, I walk you through the seven mindset shifts every CEO must make to lead confidently in 2026: from knowing to learning, from more goals to fewer but better commitments, from leading alone to leading in community, from static strategic plans to strategic adaptability, from authority to authenticity, from managing performance to designing culture, and from chasing growth to building legacy. You’ll be challenged to audit how you’re really leading today, spot where you’re still operating from “old” logic, and redesign your 2026 around clarity of intent, identity, and impact. I’ll also share why this is the year to stop carrying leadership alone and how WCL21 — my new CEO circle — will support you in making these shifts real in your world.   - Like my work? Follow or connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreapetrone/ - Want to become a world-class leader? Join 150,000+ leaders who read my weekly insights here: https://www.andreapetrone.com/newsletter/

We’re opening doors to WCL21. The first private and exclusive community for CEOs who want to grow their leadership, pressure-test decisions, and create meaningful connections with other peers in a trusted environment. 👉 Request your invitation: https://andreapetrone.com/wcl21   Want to establish authority and lead with confidence from Day One as a CEO? Grab your FREE copy of “10 Foolproof Ways New CEOs Establish Authority From Day One” 👉 Download Now ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2025 was the year I sat with some of the sharpest minds in leadership — CEOs who turned around distressed businesses, thinkers who challenged how we work, and operators who rebuilt organizations from the inside out. In this final episode of the year, I’m not recapping episodes. I’m pulling out the 10 deepest leadership lessons that kept showing up — from Amy Edmondson on psychological safety to Gary Hamel on systems, Adam Bryant, Linda Gratton, Jim Keyes, Chris O’Neill, Ole Rosgaard, Brian Melka, Leisha Ward and more — and what their ideas mean for how you lead in 2026. We cover why psychological safety is courage plus accountability, why clarity is the most underrated CEO superpower, why culture is engineered not declared, how discomfort and reinvention drive growth, why time and attention are your real constraints, how AI is making leadership everyone’s job, and why legacy beats performance. If you want a sharp reset for how you lead in 2026, this episode is your roadmap.   - Like my work? Follow or connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreapetrone/ - Want to become a world-class leader? Join 150,000+ leaders who read my weekly insights here: https://www.andreapetrone.com/newsletter/

Want to establish authority and lead with confidence from Day One as a CEO? Grab your FREE copy of “10 Foolproof Ways New CEOs Establish Authority From Day One” 👉 Download Now ------------------------------------------------------------------------- From the outside, you look like a successful CEO. But inside, you feel the gap: more pressure, fewer real conversations, and almost no space to say what it’s really costing you. This quiet gap between the role everyone sees and the reality you live is where even the best leaders start to drift — not in a big breakdown, but through decision fatigue, overthinking, reactive leadership, and the sense that you should be further ahead by now. In this episode, I explain why even successful CEOs feel stuck, why 2026 will amplify this “CEO gap”, and why the real problem isn’t your capacity but your environment. I’ll also share why I created WCL21 — a high-level, intentionally small circle of CEOs — and how the right space can restore your clarity, confidence, and strategic altitude. If you want to learn more or join as a founding member, go to https://andreapetrone.com/wcl21.   - Like my work? Follow or connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreapetrone/ - Want to become a world-class leader? Join 140,000+ leaders who read my weekly insights here: https://www.andreapetrone.com/newsletter/

Want to establish authority and lead with confidence from Day One as a CEO? Grab your FREE copy of “10 Foolproof Ways New CEOs Establish Authority From Day One” and start leading with confidence today! 👉 Download Now - https://bit.ly/10-foolproof-ceo-strategies ----------------------------------------------------------------------   In this episode of The World Class Leaders Show, host Andrea Petrone is joined by David Aaker, Vice Chairman of Prophet. Recognized as the father of modern branding, David is a renowned author of 18 books and over 120 articles, with more than 170,000 citations. He shares his updated thinking from the new edition of his book “Aaker on Branding”, highlighting how branding must evolve in a fast-changing world. David explains the dangers of short-term thinking, the power of building strong brand portfolios, and why branding is key for long-term growth and innovation.   David shares how leaders can bring branding back to the center of business strategy by treating it as a long-term asset, not just a marketing tool. He explains why many organizations fall into the trap of short-term thinking and how this weakens brand value. David introduces his five key principles of modern branding, covering areas like relevance, loyalty, and brand portfolios. He also shows how branding plays a key role in driving innovation, building trust, and standing out in crowded markets. Throughout the conversation, he offers real examples and clear steps leaders can take to build stronger, more meaningful brands. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: 1. Why short-term thinking can damage brand value and business growth. 2. The five key areas that make up a strong and modern brand strategy. 3. How branding supports innovation and helps create new markets. 4. Ways to build trust and stand out in a crowded, skeptical market. 5. Why brand and company culture must work together for long-term success.   📘 Read “Aaker on Branding” - Unlock the essential guide to building powerful, strategic brands from David Aaker. 👉 Visit: https://prophet.com/2025/04/aaker-on-branding-second-edition/    Timestamps: [00:00] - Teaser and introduction of David Aaker [02:50] - What is new in the updated edition of Aaker on Branding [04:59] - The five key elements of modern branding [07:44] - Why branding is vital for disruptive innovation [14:49] - How to build trust and capture attention in crowded markets [22:51] - Real examples of brands that stand out and stay consistent [26:46] - How CEOs can treat branding as a long-term asset [30:33] - Branding in B2B and its connection to company culture [33:50] - Should brands take a stand on social or political issues? [38:56] - Final advice for leaders to strengthen brand strategy Follow Our Guest David Aaker: - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidaaker/   - Prophet: https://www.linkedin.com/company/prophet/  Follow our Host Andrea Petrone on: - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreapetrone - Website: https://www.andreapetrone.com - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andreapetrone_x/ Follow The World Class Leaders Show and Stay updated: - Subscribe to The World Class Leader Show: https://shorturl.at/E9WE7 - Newsletter: https://shorturl.at/dMRp6 - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-world-class-leaders-show/ - Website: https://www.andreapetrone.com/podcast/ - Spotify: https://shorturl.at/DSHUl - Apple: https://shorturl.at/JZAmQ ⭐If you're leading a brand or shaping strategy, this talk with David Aaker offers valuable insights on building strong brands, staying relevant, and driving long-term growth in a fast-changing business world.

Want to establish authority and lead with confidence from Day One as a CEO? Grab your FREE copy of “10 Foolproof Ways New CEOs Establish Authority From Day One” 👉 Download Now ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Trust is collapsing in institutions and leadership teams, and when your people stop believing you, execution falls apart. In this short solo episode, I unpack why trust is in crisis and what CEOs can do to rebuild it quickly and credibly. I talk about: Why trust is the real currency of leadership and what happens to execution when it erodes How overpromising and underdelivering quietly destroy credibility over time Why silence and lack of transparency during restructurings fuel fear, rumours and attrition How hypocrisy and misaligned actions (rewarding toxic high performers, ignoring values) kill culture Three practical ways to rebuild trust fast: do what you say, communicate uncomfortable truths, and align words, actions and rewards If you’re leading in an environment where promises have been broken or engagement is slipping, this episode will help you treat trust as a strategic asset and rebuild it through integrity, transparency and aligned action.   - Like my work? Follow or connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreapetrone/ - Want to become a world-class leader? Join 140,000+ leaders who read my weekly insights here: https://www.andreapetrone.com/newsletter/

Want to establish authority and lead with confidence from Day One as a CEO? Grab your FREE copy of “10 Foolproof Ways New CEOs Establish Authority From Day One” and start leading with confidence today! 👉 Download Now - https://bit.ly/10-foolproof-ceo-strategies ---------------------------------------------------------------------- In this episode of The World Class Leaders Show, host Andrea Petrone  speaks with Alex Adamopoulos, Forbes Business Council Influencer at Forbes Boston Business Council, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer at Emergn, a seasoned executive with over 30 years of experience in business transformation. Emergn, a global digital business firm that has helped major companies through their transformation journeys. Alex is recognized as a thought leader and contributor to industry discussions, including writing for Forbes. He shares insights on why many transformations fail, the importance of a product-led approach, and how AI can enhance learning and drive human-centered value in organizations. Alex shares how leaders can drive successful transformations by embracing a product-led approach, where teams work together to create value through continuous, incremental delivery. He explains why many transformation efforts fail, often due to disconnected leadership and unclear goals. Alex highlights the importance of building the right capabilities, encouraging experimentation, and using AI to enhance learning. He also discusses how a mindset shift in leadership can help organizations adapt and thrive in today’s fast-evolving business world. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: - Why many transformation efforts fail and how to avoid common pitfalls. - How to build a product-led organization through incremental delivery. - The importance of leadership alignment and clear value creation. - How AI can support learning and drive human-centered value. - Why investing in skills and capabilities is key to successful change. Timestamps: [00:00] - Teaser and introduction of Alex Adamopoulos [02:25] - Why do many transformation efforts fail? [04:15] - The role of silos in organizational transformation [08:08] - The concept of a product-led organization explained [11:52] - Mindset shifts leaders need for a product-led organization [17:35] - Building capabilities and skills for successful change [21:17] - How AI enhances learning and drives value creation? [24:53] - AI's Return on Investment and Practical Application Challenges [30:53] - AI-Driven Learning Platforms for Skill Building [32:08] - Human-Centric Value in AI Adoption [37:27] - Practical tips for leaders to move towards AI-enabled organizations Follow Our Guest Alex Adamopoulos: - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aadamopoulos/  - Forbes Boston Business Council: https://www.linkedin.com/company/forbes-boston-business-council/  - Emergn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/emergn/  Follow our Host Andrea Petrone on: - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreapetrone - Website: https://www.andreapetrone.com - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andreapetrone_x/ Follow The World Class Leaders Show and Stay updated: - Subscribe to The World Class Leader Show: https://shorturl.at/E9WE7 - Newsletter: https://shorturl.at/dMRp6 - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-world-class-leaders-show/ - Website: https://www.andreapetrone.com/podcast/ - Spotify: https://shorturl.at/DSHUl - Apple: https://shorturl.at/JZAmQ ⭐If you're leading change or looking to grow as a leader, this talk with Alex Adamopoulos offers key insights on driving transformation, leveraging AI, and building strong leadership in today’s fast-growing business world. #Leadership #ProductLed #AI #Transformation #AlexAdamopoulos #Emergn #WorldClassLeadersShow

Want to establish authority and lead with confidence from Day One as a CEO? Grab your FREE copy of “10 Foolproof Ways New CEOs Establish Authority From Day One” 👉 Download Now ------------------------------------------------------------------------- CEOs keep telling themselves, “once we get through this quarter, things will stabilise.” The truth is, stability isn’t coming, volatility is the new baseline. In this solo episode, I explain why most leaders still misunderstand resilience and what it really takes to perform consistently when the world refuses to calm down. I talk about: Why betting on a “return to normal” keeps you reactive and exposed Three common misconceptions about resilience: endurance, heroic personal grit, and reacting after the fact How to embed adaptability into your system with cross-training, pre-mortems and regular stress tests Why recovery is a strategic lever, not a luxury and how practices like recharge weeks actually boost performance How to anchor your leadership in purpose so your people stay focused and engaged through uncertainty If you’re a CEO or senior executive still hoping the external environment will stabilise, this episode will help you reframe resilience around adaptability, recovery and purpose, the real foundations of performance in a volatile world.   - Like my work? Follow or connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreapetrone/ - Want to become a world-class leader? Join 140,000+ leaders who read my weekly insights here: https://www.andreapetrone.com/newsletter/

Want to establish authority and lead with confidence from Day One as a CEO? Grab your FREE copy of “10 Foolproof Ways New CEOs Establish Authority From Day One” and start leading with confidence today! 👉 Download Now - https://bit.ly/10-foolproof-ceo-strategies __________________________________________   In this episode of The World Class Leaders Show, host Andrea Petrone  talks with Amy Edmondson, Novartis Professor of Leadership and Management at Harvard Business School and top global expert on psychological safety and leadership. Amy is the author of The Fearless Organization and Right Kind of Wrong, and has been ranked #1 by Thinkers50 in 2021 and 2023. She shares why psychological safety is key for learning, teamwork, and innovation, how leaders can handle failure well, and why honesty and trust matter now more than ever in fast-changing times.   Amy shares how leaders can build trust by creating a space where people feel safe to speak up with honesty and ideas. She explains why psychological safety is not about being nice but about learning, being real, and taking smart risks. Amy highlights the need for open talk, shared goals, and dealing with failure in a way that drives learning. She also shares how teams can rebuild trust after setbacks and why clear purpose, honesty, and teamwork are key to lead in today’s fast-changing world.   What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why psychological safety helps teams speak up and learn. How leaders can build trust through honesty and listening. The difference between smart failures and avoidable mistakes. Ways to handle pressure and lead with courage in tough times. How to rebuild safety and keep teams strong during change.   📘Check out Amy Edmondson's powerful books, The Fearless Organization and Right Kind of Wrong & others, available on her website! Visit: https://amycedmondson.com/books/ Timestamps: [00:00] - Teaser and introduction of Amy Edmondson [04:01] - How Amy shifted from engineering to studying people and teams [06:44] - Discovering psychological safety through research on errors [10:56] - Common myths: psychological safety is not about being nice [17:48] - Balancing authenticity with work-relevant honesty [19:22] - How to hold high-quality conversations under pressure [26:05] - Understanding intelligent vs. blameworthy failures [29:19] - How to avoid “failure theatre” and promote real learning [34:26] - Rebuilding psychological safety after it’s been broken [37:50] - Why systems thinking is the next step for leaders [40:49] - Amy’s final challenge for CEOs: double down on purpose Follow Our Guest Amy Edmondson: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amycedmondson/  Website: https://amycedmondson.com/  Books: https://amycedmondson.com/books/  Harvard Business School: https://www.linkedin.com/school/harvard-business-school/  Follow our Host Andrea Petrone on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreapetrone Website: https://www.andreapetrone.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andreapetrone_x/ Follow The World Class Leaders Show and Stay updated: Subscribe to The World Class Leader Show: https://shorturl.at/E9WE7 Newsletter: https://shorturl.at/dMRp6 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-world-class-leaders-show/ Website: https://www.andreapetrone.com/podcast/ Spotify: https://shorturl.at/DSHUl Apple: https://shorturl.at/JZAmQ   ⭐If you're leading people, facing big challenges, or aiming to grow as a leader, this talk with Amy Edmondson gives clear insights, real stories, and useful tips on building trust, handling failure, and leading with honesty and purpose in today’s fast-changing world.   #Leadership #PsychologicalSafety #Teamwork #SmartFailure #AmyEdmondson #HarvardBusinessSchool #WorldClassLeadersShow

Want to establish authority and lead with confidence from Day One as a CEO? Grab your FREE copy of “10 Foolproof Ways New CEOs Establish Authority From Day One” 👉 Download Now ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Delegation is a strength..until it becomes a trap. Many CEOs step back so far they lose sight of strategy, culture, and credibility. In this episode, I’ll share why over-delegation is rising, the hidden risks it creates, and three ways to strike the right balance.   - Like my work? Follow or connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreapetrone/ - Want to become a world-class leader? Join 140,000+ leaders who read my weekly insights here: https://www.andreapetrone.com/newsletter/