Executive Edge Podcast

In this episode of Executive Edge, Greg Anderson sits down with David Hargraves—CEO of Pharma Logistics, Navy veteran, and seasoned healthcare supply chain leader—for a compelling conversation centered on the power of customer delight. David reveals the pivotal moments that shaped his leadership philosophy and explains why “satisfied” customers are never the goal. He breaks down how a relentless focus on customer delight, paired with uncompromising compliance and operational rigor, fuels Pharma Logistics’ growth and differentiates its service experience. David also opens up about the mentors who influenced his career, the unexpected turns that built his resilience, and the mindset forged during his military service. From mastering complex pharmaceutical regulations to cultivating trust-based, service-driven teams, David offers practical strategies for leaders committed to delivering exceptional experiences that go beyond expectations. A dynamic and energizing discussion for anyone looking to elevate customer relationships, inspire team performance, and create lasting impact through the pursuit of true customer delight.

In this episode of Executive Edge, Simon Rycraft sits down with James Root, Senior Partner at Bain & Company and author of The Archetype Effect, for a wide-ranging conversation on the future of leadership, talent, and human motivation in an AI-accelerated world. Drawing on decades of global consulting experience, James breaks down the legacy assumptions leaders must shed, why organizations routinely misjudge the impact of new technologies on jobs, and what it really takes to motivate today’s diverse workforce. He highlights the rising anxiety inside companies, the rapid pace of change driven by AI, and why leaders must deepen their understanding of human behavior to unlock performance. James also shares insights from Bain’s extensive research into worker archetypes, revealing why traditional one-size-fits-all talent systems are failing and how organizations can redesign work, flexibility, and compensation to meet people where they are. From the future of workforce and workflow integration to the evolving role of psychology in leadership, this conversation offers practical guidance for executives navigating unprecedented transformation. A timely and thought-provoking discussion for anyone leading teams, steering organizational change, or preparing for the next era of work.

In this episode of Executive Edge, Greg sits down with legendary operator and former CEO who helped shape the modern McDonald’s organization, Ed Rensi. From humble beginnings to overseeing tens of thousands of employees, he shares the foundational principles that drove McDonald’s growth: unwavering standards, disciplined leadership, and a relentless focus on serving both customers and employees. Together, Greg and his guest explore what most executives get wrong about motivating large teams, how accountability becomes a competitive advantage, and why great leaders never walk past a problem. Along the way, he recounts unforgettable stories—from blindfolded milkshake-machine competitions to the creation of Chicken McNuggets—that reveal how culture, simplicity, and listening to frontline employees can transform an entire organization. This conversation distills decades of leadership wisdom into practical, powerful lessons for anyone looking to build high-performing teams and lasting culture.

In this episode of Executive Edge, Simon sits down with Dr. Carole Robin, a renowned leadership educator, author, and co-founder of Leaders in Tech. Drawing on decades of teaching the legendary “Touchy-Feely” course at Stanford Graduate School of Business, Carole unpacks what truly drives effective leadership—authentic connection. She explores how leaders can build “referent power,” foster trust, and create high-performing teams by leading with vulnerability and empathy. Carole shares the origins of Leaders in Tech, a nonprofit helping founders and executives reshape company cultures through deeper human connection, and the transformative lessons from her bestselling book Connect: Building Exceptional Relationships with Family, Friends, and Colleagues. Together, she and Simon discuss the myths of traditional leadership, the 15% rule for growth, and how learning to be “appropriately vulnerable” can transform both careers and lives.

In this episode of Executive Edge, Simon welcomes Sally Guyer, CEO of World Commerce & Contracting, to explore how contracts, once seen as static legal safeguards, are transforming into powerful tools for collaboration and trust in modern business. Sally shares insights from her global experience leading a community of over 80,000 professionals, offering a candid look at how commercial and contract management has evolved from paperwork to strategy, reshaping how organizations build, protect, and grow relationships. Together, they unpack why companies must move beyond a mindset of risk avoidance toward one of partnership and shared outcomes, where contracts serve as living frameworks that drive value rather than limit it. Sally also discusses the growing influence of AI and emerging technologies like blockchain, and how these innovations are redefining how deals are structured, managed, and understood. From the boardroom to the legal department, Sally Guyer reveals why reimagining contracting is not just a process improvement but a mindset shift that will define the next generation of global commerce.

In this episode of Executive Edge, host Simon Rycraft sits down with Dr. Jill Goldenziel—CEO of Goldenziel Strategy, international law scholar, and advisor on leadership and geopolitical risk—to unpack what AI means for leaders today. From the dazzling potential of artificial intelligence to the growing complexity of disinformation, Jill explores why the future of leadership depends on doubling down on distinctly human skills: trust, ethics, creativity, and critical thinking. She shares lessons from her work with the U.S. military and global policymakers, explains how scenario planning can help executives navigate emerging risks, and offers a pragmatic view of AI’s role—not as a replacement for people, but as a teammate that demands careful supervision. If you’ve ever wondered how to lead effectively in an era of exponential technological change, this conversation is a must-listen.

In this episode of Executive Edge, Greg sits down with Jacob Gorm Larsen, a globally recognized leader in digital procurement and founder of Moneyball CPH. Jacob’s career began at Maersk, where he spent nearly two decades pioneering e-auctions and building one of the most advanced digital procurement programs in the world, executing more than 10,000 auctions across industries and regions. Jacob shares the story behind his journey from early experiments with e-sourcing during the 2008 financial crisis to leading a global center of excellence that redefined how companies approach competitive bidding. He reflects on the evolution of e-auctions, the misconceptions that still surround them, and the lessons learned about trust, fairness, and market design. Now, through Moneyball CPH, Jacob helps organizations unlock greater value through data-driven sourcing and optimization. He and Greg explore the intersection of technology, game theory, and human behavior, and discuss why in a world obsessed with innovation, mastering the basics has become the new measure of excellence.

In this episode of Executive Edge, Simon Rycraft sits down with Angus Fletcher, professor of story science at Ohio State’s Project Narrative and author of Wonderworks, Story Thinking, and Primal Intelligence. With a background spanning neuroscience, literature, and creativity research, Angus unpacks the difference between human and artificial intelligence and why our true edge lies not in data or computation, but in imagination and leadership. Together, they explore why creativity is in decline, how schools and workplaces inadvertently suppress original thinking, and why computers, no matter how advanced, can’t replicate the uniquely human ability to innovate in the face of uncertainty. Angus also shares insights from his work with leaders ranging from surgeons to special operations teams, underscoring the importance of common sense, resilience, and the freedom to fail in cultivating creativity. Whether you’re leading a team, building a business, or simply curious about the future of AI, this conversation offers a powerful reminder: our greatest competitive advantage isn’t machine-like efficiency — it’s the human capacity to imagine new possibilities and take the first step into the unknown.   Summary of Key Sections from this Episode (Timestamp = "Minute:Seconds"): 00:02:14 The Human Edge 00:05:50 The Decline of Creativity 00:06:48 Education’s Role in Creativity 00:12:33 Neuroscience vs. Psychology 00:16:30 Embracing Failure 00:21:46 Common Sense and Risk 00:27:23 Future of Education 00:30:56 Leadership Development in Schools

In this episode of Executive Edge, Simon sits down with Professor Americus Reed II, the Whitney M. Young Jr. Professor of Marketing at the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, to explore the deep connections between psychology, branding, and leadership. Americus shares his journey from early questions of identity to becoming a leading voice on brand equity and identity loyalty. Together, they unpack the power of personal and corporate branding, the importance of self-awareness for leaders, and the role of data in driving meaningful insights. From Elon Musk’s missteps to the hidden influence of executive presence in supply chains, this conversation is packed with lessons for leaders who want to shape not only their company’s brand but also their own. Listeners will walk away with practical insights on building authentic personal brands, leading with empathy, and understanding how identity shapes decision-making in business and beyond. Key Section Summary (Time Stamp): Americus Reed’s Early Fascination with Identity (04:01) Brand as an Asset Beyond Advertising (09:18) Personal Branding for Executives and Leadership Impact (12:29) The Risks of Ignoring Personal Brand: Lessons from Elon Musk (17:13) Self-Awareness, Generational Shifts, and Leadership Adaptation (18:31) Data, Insight, and the Scientific Approach to Decision-Making (23:14) Finding Meaning and Purpose in Leadership (30:45)                                            Future Research on Workplace Identity and Youth Engagement (43:14)

In this episode of Executive Edge, Greg welcomes Camille Batiste, a trailblazing leader in global supply chain and procurement. Camille’s journey began in Jamaica and took her through Stanford, engineering, and two decades at Honeywell before stepping into senior leadership roles at Archer Daniels Midland. Today, as president of the Blackman Grant Group, she invests in leaders and small businesses to shape the next generation of changemakers. Camille shares candid stories about the early challenges of choosing engineering, navigating career pivots, and building confidence in male-dominated industries. She reflects on her transformative years at Honeywell, where she developed her leadership foundation, and the bold move to ADM, where she built procurement and supply chain functions from the ground up. Now, she discusses her shift into executive coaching and the lessons she’s carrying forward about resilience, vision, and elevating others.

On this episode of Executive Edge, Greg sits down with John McCown, non-resident senior fellow at the Center for Maritime Strategy and a leading authority on container shipping and maritime commerce. With more than four decades of operating and investment experience, John shares how his early career in banking led to a 20-year mentorship under Malcolm McLean, the inventor of container shipping, and later to founding TrailerBridge, one of the most efficient carriers in the industry. From the rise of mega-ships and the efficiencies that fuel globalization to why the U.S. no longer ranks among the largest shipping fleets and the ripple effects of tariffs on trade, John offers deep insights drawn from a lifetime shaping and studying global commerce. If you’re interested in leadership, economics, or understanding the system that quietly powers 90% of world trade, this conversation offers both history and practical perspective on an industry that touches us all.

On this episode of Executive Edge, we’re joined by Chris Droney, Chief Operating Officer at Milo’s Tea Company. Chris shares how Milo’s has grown from a regional favorite into one of the fastest-growing beverage brands in the U.S., expanding from one to four facilities in just five years and setting sights on $1 billion in retail sales by 2027. With nearly 20 years of CPG and supply chain leadership, Chris offers insights on scaling operations, building culture in a family-owned business, and how Milo’s “people first” values and systems thinking drive their success. Whether you’re a business leader, growth-minded professional, or just curious about the story behind an iconic Southern brand, this conversation is packed with lessons on leadership and growth.

On this episode of Executive Edge, Simon Rycraft sits down with Simon Hall, former BBC correspondent turned Cambridge lecturer, communication coach, and author of more than 20 books. Hall shares how a rebellious teenager inspired by a hippie English teacher grew into a master of storytelling, and why clarity, brevity, and authenticity are the secret weapons of every great leader. From coaching executives to ditch the jargon to the gripping true story of Charles Darwin’s missing and mysteriously returned notebooks, Hall brings sharp insights, humor, and memorable lessons on how to make your words truly land. If you want to cut through the noise and communicate with real impact, this is a conversation you will not want to miss.

On this episode of Executive Edge, Greg Anderson interviews John Hellriegel, a supply chain veteran and Rutgers professor, about decades of hands-on experience in demand planning, inventory optimization, and distribution. John shares stories from Pepperidge Farm, Diageo (including solving Red Stripe’s bottling and logistics issues), Honeywell and Estée Lauder, explains multi-echelon inventory thinking, and discusses the role of AI and teaching fundamentals to the next generation.

In this enlightening episode of Executive Edge, host Simon engages in a captivating conversation with Beth Fisher-Yoshida, a renowned Columbia University professor and UN advisor. Together, they delve into the complexities of communication, conflict, and power dynamics in the modern workplace. Beth shares her valuable insights on the evolving appreciation of communication skills in corporate and governmental institutions, highlighting the critical nature of effective intercultural interactions. The discussion explores the sensitivity towards workplace diversity and the importance of power, resources, and access in negotiating successfully. Reflecting on how the pandemic has shifted perspectives on work environments and performance management, Beth provides a thought-provoking analysis of the current landscape. From navigating political systems to pursuing lifelong learning, this episode offers fresh perspectives and practical strategies for enhancing productivity and value in today's ever-changing workplace.

Join Simon on this episode of Executive Edge as he engages in a profound conversation with Cece Morken, a distinguished Fortune 500 board director and former CEO of Headspace. Cece shares insightful perspectives on the critical yet underrated executive skill of mindfulness in leadership. Discover what it truly takes to serve on top boards and the strategic importance of being present in leadership roles. Cece delves into her seasoned experiences, offering guidance on navigating boardroom dynamics and the essential balance between inquiry and advocacy. An eye-opening discussion for aspiring leaders and established executives alike, highlighting the transformational impact of mindfulness on governance, strategy, and personal growth.

In this episode of Executive Edge, host Simon Rycraft welcomes Nada Alnajafi, an esteemed attorney and founder of Contract Nerds, to explore the intricacies of contract redlining. Nada shares her expertise on how the right redlining etiquette can streamline contract negotiations and enhance clarity and collaboration among parties. Listeners will gain insights into Nada's journey of building a thriving global community dedicated to smarter contracting practices and learn about the 10 foundational steps outlined in her best-selling book, Contract Redlining Etiquette. The discussion covers the evolution of redlining practices, the impact of AI on legal processes, and the importance of creating a cohesive strategy for successful contract negotiations. Join the conversation to discover how lawyers and professionals across various industries can adopt collaborative approaches in contract management to expedite deal closures and maintain strong business relationships.

In this episode of Executive Edge, host Greg Anderson delves deep into the evolving landscape of procurement technology alongside industry legend Pierre Mitchell, Chief Research Officer at Spend Matters. Pierre shares his extensive experience in the procurement field and provides insights on how AI is revolutionizing the sector. Listeners will explore the myths and realities of AI's role in procurement, particularly the misconception that AI will simply replace traditional SaaS applications and human roles. Instead, Pierre argues for a future where AI enhances SaaS capabilities and human efforts, offering a competitive edge to those who adeptly integrate AI into their practices. The discussion highlights the importance of mastering data management and decision-making processes to unlock the true potential of AI. Pierre also examines current AI applications such as contract management and spend analytics, and stresses the significance of aligning IT and procurement teams to effectively leverage AI technology. Whether you're a CPO evaluating AI strategies for 2025 or simply curious about the intersection of AI and procurement, this episode offers valuable insights from one of the leading voices in procurement technology.

In this episode of Executive Edge, host Simon Rycraft talks with Kevin Petrie, former Chief Procurement Officer at Nestlé and a seasoned expert in supply chain management. Kevin shares insights from his global career, starting as a coffee trader and rising to lead procurement and supply chain operations at one of the world’s largest CPG companies. He discusses navigating tariffs, managing risk in complex supply chains, and turning challenges into growth opportunities. Tune in to learn how strategic thinking and strong leadership can drive success in today’s unpredictable global market.

In this episode of Executive Edge, host Greg Anderson talks with Jim O'Rourke, a seasoned leader in operations and supply chain management with a unique background in military service. Jim shares his extensive experience transitioning from a U.S. Army Airborne Engineer to key roles at major companies like Procter & Gamble, offering insights into leading teams, managing supplier relationships, and fostering company culture. With a focus on the CPG industry, Jim discusses strategies for overcoming crises, innovating through supplier partnerships, and setting up for success in new roles. Tune in to discover the lessons learned from 25 years of navigating the complexities of supply chain operations.