The Art of Leadership Without Power | With Donald Kossmann - Episode 57

The Art of Leadership Without Power | With Donald Kossmann - Episode 57

Author: Bill August 22, 2025 Duration: 1:04:06
40% Better - Engineering Leadership
BusinessManagement
In this conversation, Donald shares the unexpected journey into leadership at Microsoft, discussing the unique environment of Microsoft Research, the transition from a bottom-up approach to a more focused research strategy, and the importance of leadership over management. We emphasize the role of communication in driving change, the interplay of luck and preparation in achieving success, and the necessity of making bets in a challenging environment. Donald also reflects on the essence of leadership in the tech industry and the importance of creating value through leadership. In this conversation, we delve into the importance of making calculated bets in both personal and professional contexts. We discuss how innovation and risk-taking are essential in the technology sector, emphasizing that a risk-averse mindset can be detrimental. We also discuss Donald's career journey, highlighting the significance of seizing opportunities and the role of leadership principles learned at Microsoft, and how to foster a culture of experimentation and clarity in leadership. 

We hope you enjoy this episode!
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Connect with Donald: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donald-kossmann-8915b1/
Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/ 

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Hosted by Bill, 40% Better-Engineering Leadership is a conversation for those who build and guide technical teams. This isn't about abstract theory; it's a practical dialogue focused on the tangible mechanics of morale, motivation, and output. Each episode features a single expert in employee engagement, and together we dissect the specific strategies that lead to measurable leaps in performance. You'll hear detailed explorations into what actually moves the needle for engineers and their managers, translating research and experience into actionable leadership techniques. The goal is straightforward: to provide the insights that can help your team operate at a significantly higher level of effectiveness and satisfaction. Tune in for a focused, deep-dive podcast that cuts through the noise of generic management advice, offering concrete ideas you can apply directly to the unique challenges of engineering leadership.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

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40% Better - Engineering Leadership
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