Steve Dennis, a strategic advisor and author of "Leaders Leap: Transforming Your Company at the Speed of Disruption," joins us to share his insights on the keys to successful leadership in a rapidly changing world. Our conversation highlights the importance of maintaining a competitive edge and thriving amidst uncertainty, providing listeners with actionable takeaways to enhance their leadership journey. One of the key themes we explore is the challenge of ego in leadership. Through personal stories and industry examples, we examine how clinging to outdated thinking can hinder progress. Steve and I emphasize the necessity for leaders to cultivate humility and flexibility, highlighting the power of mindfulness and self-awareness in decision-making. By distinguishing one's identity from one's ideas, leaders can transform ego into a constructive force, ensuring it supports rather than obstructs their goals. We also tackle the integral roles of failure and innovation in achieving success. Steve discusses the concept of "failing fast and forward," encouraging leaders to embrace experimentation as a means to adapt and thrive. As we examine the evolving landscape of digital attention and AI, we share strategies for capturing consumer interest and integrating generative AI tools into business practices. This episode is a call to action for leaders to prioritize innovation and technology, challenging them to move boldly and act decisively in a fast-paced world. What You’ll Learn: • Powerful insights on transformative leadership in the face of disruption • Navigating change with humble leadership • Strategies for taming out ego • The importance of celebrating failure as a stepping stone towards success • How to unleash the potential of AI to drive innovation • Actionable strategies to lead with agility and maintain a cutting-edge advantage. Podcast Timestamps: (00:00) - Leadership Transformation in Disruption (16:42) - The Problem with Ego in Leadership (28:48) - Adapting to the Speed of Disruption (35:53) - Embracing Failure for Success (48:43) - Experimenting with Generative AI More of Steve: Steve Dennis is a strategic advisor, keynote speaker, podcast host, and bestselling author, recognized globally for his expertise in retail transformation. As the author of "Leaders Leap: Transforming Your Company at the Speed of Disruption" and "Remarkable Retail," Steve's insights on the future of shopping are frequently featured in Forbes, CNN, and Bloomberg. He has delivered keynote talks on six continents, sharing his vision for reigniting customer growth amidst constant change. As President of Sageberry Consulting and a former executive at Neiman Marcus, Steve has guided numerous brands through disruptive growth strategies. He holds an MBA from Harvard and a BA from Tufts University, and resides in Dallas, Texas. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevenpdennis/  Mentions: Remarkable Retail: How to Win & Keep Customers in the Age of Disruption by Steve Dennis Key Topics Discussed: Positive Leadership, Navigating Disruption, Managing Ego, Promoting Innovation, Advancing Technology, Dealing with Failure, Fail Forward, A.I., Devising Strategy, Practicing Mindfulness, Increasing Self-awareness, Experimentation, Digital Attention, Competitive Edge, Embracing Transformation, Humility, Flexibility, Effective Decision-making, Personal Growth, CEO Success More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/