Some leaders are forged in boardrooms. Others are forged in battle.

In this mashup, Denis Gianoutsos features Hermann Simon and Mario Bekes, two leaders whose paths have taken them from Cold War tensions and combat zones to building global businesses and protecting corporate integrity.

From commanding in the German Air Force to pioneering the field of pricing consultancy, Hermann Simon reveals how formative experiences shaped his leadership style and the founding of Simon-Kucher & Partners. Mario Bekes shares how his time in military intelligence and investigations forged a leadership philosophy built on protection, responsibility, and example.

What happens when leadership is tested in the highest-stakes environments? When leaving security means starting from scratch. When investigations become a tool for trust and resilience.

Press play and see what it takes to lead when the pressure is real.

EP 306 – Hermann Simon: Hidden Champions and the Courage to Lead

• How a farm boy and aspiring fighter pilot became a global pricing authority
• Why leaving a secure job to start a company was “the ultimate motivation”
• Lessons from Cold War nuclear readiness and student leadership
• The traits that define leaders of the world’s unknown market champions

EP 309 – Mario Bekes: Protecting People, Preserving Integrity

• From combat to corporate: leadership lessons from the front lines
• How fear, fight, and freedom became the pillars of his business
• Why every leader must accept: “It is not when or how, but it’ll happen”
• Using investigations to strengthen, not just safeguard, your business

Key Quotes:

“If you do not want to have a boss above you, you must become a leader. You must stand on your own feet.” – Hermann Simon

“If you don’t lead by example, you are not a leader.” – Mario Bekes

The 10 Proven Ways to Lead and Thrive in Today's World – FREE Executive Guide Download

https://crm.leadingchangepartners.com/10-ways-to-lead

Connect with Denis:

Email: denis@leadingchangepartners.com

Website: www.LeadingChangePartners.com

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YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@DenisGianoutsos