In this episode, Steve Sargent, a seasoned Global CEO with over 20 years at GE and current non-executive director, shares his leadership learning and philosophy. He discusses the importance of structured time management, continuous learning, and emotional intelligence in effective leadership. Steve reflects on the influence of leaders who have impacted him, the value of making people feel appreciated, and the need for adaptability in today’s volatile world. He also highlights practical habits, such as weekly reflection on priorities and time spent with people and customers, to ensure leaders focus on what truly matters.

Show notes:

• Steve Sargent LinkedIn profile
• Book “Winning” by Jack Welch
• Book “Jack - Straight from the gut” by Jack Welch
• Book “Good to great” by Jim Collins
• Book “Start with why” by Simon Sinek
• Book “The infinite game” by Simon Sinek
• The Great Barrier Reef Foundation

sylvainnewton.com/podcast

In this episode of the Leadership Spark Podcast, Sylvain interviews Nick Binedell, an academic originally from Zimbabwe and founding director of the Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS) in South Africa. Nick shares how his multicultural upbringing shaped his worldview and curiosity, discusses his transition from corporate leadership to academia, and recounts the founding of GIBS. He offers insights on business education, leadership challenges in Africa, the impact of emerging technologies like AI, and the integration of strategy and operations. The conversation highlights the importance of curiosity, adaptability, and authentic leadership in navigating complex, rapidly changing environments.

Show notes:

• Gordon Institute of Business Science, University of Pretoria
• Professor Nick Binedell
• HBR article: “Evolution and Revolution as Organizations Grow” by Larry E. Greiner
• Book “Winning” by Jack Welch
• Book “Life and Death in the Executive Fast Lane” by Manfred F. R. Kets de Vries

sylvainnewton.com/podcast

In this episode of the Leadership Spark Podcast, Sylvain interviews Julian Birkinshaw, Dean and Professor at the Ivey Business School in Canada, and co-author of "Resurgent." They discuss how established companies are better positioned to navigate the digital transformation than new market entrants. Burkinshaw shares lessons from companies like Disney, GE, Pearson and Nokia and explores the challenges of AI and productivity. Additionally, they explore the Leadership capabilities required to successfully navigate the Digital Transformation. This episode offers practical insights for leaders facing rapid technological and organizational change.

Show notes:

• Julian Birkinshaw‘s website
• Book “Resurgent” by Julian Birkinshaw and John Fallon
• Book "Only the Paranoid Survive" by Andrew Grove
• Book "The Age of Unreason" by Charles Handy
• Book "Team of Teams" by General Stanley McChrystal
• Book "Emotional Intelligence” by Daniel Goleman
• Book "Megatrends" by John Naisbitt

sylvainnewton.com/podcast