ExExecs Podcast

Having Difficult Conversations (with Empathy, Courage, and Preparation)Three former executives, Robin, Tarek, and John share lessons from decades in complex corporate environments, introducing difficult conversations. They discuss being both the instigator and recipient, with examples including an unexpected mediocre appraisal, redundancy conversations shaped by HR scripts, and a father-son moment about asking permission before giving feedback. Key ideas include using empathy and humanity, choosing timing and context carefully, getting to the point, preparing with evidence and examples, avoiding procrastination by committing to a meeting time, and recognizing that difficult conversations often benefit the recipient. They also cover giving feedback upward to a boss, handling forced decisions like redundancies and calibration, and John shares formative feedback from his father about finding “fire in the belly.”00:00 Meet the Hosts01:19 Who This Podcast Serves02:23 Today’s Topic Difficult Talks02:48 Robin’s Toughest Moments04:36 Tarek’s Permission Lesson07:26 Timing Empathy and Context10:16 When HR Makes It Cold13:14 John’s Crisis Communications16:57 Don’t Delay the Hard Talk17:24 Crossing the Evidence Line19:33 Gather Evidence Without Bias20:08 Commit to the Conversation21:07 Reframe Difficulty as Feedback21:57 Know Your Why as Leader23:09 Giving Feedback to Your Boss25:24 When You Lack Conviction28:58 Redundancy and Forced Ranking30:58 Personal Story on Passion32:14 Key Takeaways and Next Topics

Mastering Presentation and Storytelling: Insights from Ex-ExecutivesJoin three ex-executive officers, John, Tarek, and Robin, as they delve into the essential skills of presentations and storytelling in leadership. This episode covers practical tips for improving public speaking, from handling pre-presentation nerves and mastering the elevator pitch to the power of pauses and engaging your audience. They share personal anecdotes, such as John's impactful assembly speeches and Tarek's creative analogies, exploring the importance of authenticity, rehearsal, and emotional intelligence. Ideal for anyone climbing the career ladder or looking to enhance their professional presence. Tune in for valuable advice on making unforgettable presentations and effective storytelling.00:00 Introduction and Hosts' Backgrounds00:38 The Importance of Presentation Skills03:06 Storytelling in Presentations07:04 Practical Tips for Effective Presentations08:32 Overcoming Nervousness and Engaging the Audience14:46 The Power of Authenticity and Pauses20:17 Diversity and Anecdotal Openers20:54 Relating to Previous Speakers21:36 Engaging Openers: The Rat Story26:05 Creating a Safe Space for Practice32:07 The Power of Q&A35:28 Handling the Press36:17 Conclusion and Sign OffIf you would like to connect with Tarek, Robin or John please email 3exexecs@gmail.com

Lessons in Leadership: Insights from Three Former ExecutivesJoin three former executive officers, Tarek, Robin, and John, as they share their professional journeys, leadership lessons, and personal experiences in this insightful podcast episode. From navigating cultural differences in international banking to the importance of continuous learning and self-management, the trio provides valuable advice for aspiring leaders. They discuss critical topics such as the importance of storytelling in presentations, overcoming career challenges, and the benefits of coaching. Whether you're climbing the corporate ladder or just starting your career, this conversation will offer practical wisdom to help you succeed.00:00 Introduction and Purpose01:02 Meet Tarek: Banking and Beyond02:46 Meet Robin: Global Banking Experience04:35 Meet John: Educational Leadership06:47 Key Career Turning Points09:15 Embracing Discomfort and Learning15:52 Lessons from Sports and Leadership18:04 Handling Tough Questions in Presentations18:47 The Power of Storytelling in Leadership19:22 Games and Techniques for Effective Presentations20:59 Learning from Mistakes: Personal Reflections21:40 The Importance of Self-Promotion23:45 Cultural Differences in Corporate Environments24:48 Rewiring the Brain for Better Leadership28:03 The Role of Coaches and Mentors28:33 Dealing with Crisis and Grief in Leadership30:44 The Loneliness of Leadership33:01 Conclusion and Future TopicsIf you want to contact John, Robin and Tarek please email them at 3exexecs@gmail.com