The Athletics of Business

Ed Molitor
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Our Athletics of Business podcast provides leaders with invaluable practical lessons framed by the competitive nature of sport and life. Here we share a mindset built on the foundational belief that the skills and behaviors of high-performing teams, elite athletes, and high-impact coaches are also the key to your business success. This perspective is a direct result of Ed Molitor's experiences—as both a college athlete and a coach—that helped shape his core values: work ethic, positivity, enthusiasm, passion for life, loyalty, and commitment to relentlessly pursuing excellence.

  1. Heart Equity: What Great Coaches Teach Leaders About Culture Under Pressure

    4D AGO

    Heart Equity: What Great Coaches Teach Leaders About Culture Under Pressure

    What if the difference between teams that crumble under pressure and those that rise has little to do with talent or strategy and everything to do with trust? What if the real competitive edge in business is not bigger budgets or better metrics, but genuine vulnerability and a deeper human connection? What if executive isolation is not inevitable, but the result of avoiding hard conversations? And what if the most powerful investment an organization can make is not in technology or talent, but in something far more human, heart equity? In this episode, host Ed Molitor sits down with his good friend Geoff Carlston, former 25-year Division I head women's volleyball coach and founder of InSystem Leadership. Geoff shares how his championship mindset, developed while leading nationally ranked programs at Ohio State, Ohio University, and Concordia St. Paul, translates directly to helping CEOs, founders, and leadership teams thrive through growth, transition, and adversity. With nearly 500 career wins, Geoff did not coach just for victories. He coached for lifelong growth. Today, through InSystem Leadership, he applies those same principles of purpose, people, and culture alignment to business, proving that when relationships and heart equity come first, performance and retention follow. This deep conversation explores collective character, vulnerability as a leadership superpower, the power of one conversation to change a life, measuring culture in moments, and why disciplined accountability around behaviors, not just outputs, creates unbreakable teams. This is not about cheerleading or motivation hacks. It is about authentic leadership that transforms transactional environments into purposeful, high-performing ones, because in business, as in athletics, culture reveals itself under pressure. Our Guest: Geoff Carlston Geoff Carlston is a leadership coach and elite culture builder whose work spans Big Ten athletics, global service, and executive leadership. He spent 25 years as a Division I collegiate head coach, building nationally ranked programs, winning nearly 500 matches, and earning Coach of the Year honors five times. Today, Geoff works with CEOs and organizations navigating pressure, growth, and transition, coaching leaders one-on-one, helping teams build deep cultures of trust, and integrating emerging and seasoned leaders. He brings championship principles from sport into business, shaping leaders and lives beyond athletics.   What You'll Learn in this Episode: Why culture is revealed, not built, under pressure The concept of Heart Equity and why it drives retention How character creates trust and trust creates performance Why leaders struggle with isolation and how to break it How to measure culture the way you measure performance The In System Leadership framework for diagnosing team blockages Why shared experiences create transformational teams The danger of leading to being liked instead of respected How disciplined accountability around culture drives ROI Why the locker room must be right before the scoreboard improves   Resources & Links Geoff Carlston Website: In-system Leadership Email: Geoff Insystem Leadership LinkedIn: Geoff Carlston Instagram: carpecarlston In-System Leadership Website: In-system Leadership Ed Molitor Website - coeffex.com  LinkedIn - CoEffex  LinkedIn - Ed Molitor   ABOUT INSYSTEM LEADERSHIP  InSystem Leadership is an executive coaching and leadership advisory firm built on a clear premise: organizations scale faster and healthier when people, culture, and purpose are aligned. Founded to bring the discipline, clarity, and competitive edge of championship coaching into the boardroom, InSystem partners with CEOs, founders, executives, and senior leaders through high-pressure transitions to build trust-based, aligned, resilient cultures. The firm's work spans founders leading ~$200M companies, VPs reshaping divisional culture, and leaders facing isolation and burnout—using a blend of deep executive coaching, real-time performance feedback, and a practical leadership framework to strengthen decision-making, elevate communication, and improve team execution. The outcome: moving organizations from reactive management to intentional leadership, turning fractured cultures into cohesive teams that trust, last, and perform.   Timestamps [00:00] Why character builds trust and trust builds culture [01:02] Introduction to culture under pressure and meet Geoff Carlston [04:12] Geoff's coaching journey and why leadership transfers beyond sports [06:20] Collective character and defining the locker room in business [10:44] The origin and definition of Heart Equity [12:34] How culture shifts organizations from transactional to transformational [15:44] Building real relationships through intentional one-on-one connections [18:00] The story of one conversation that changed a life [22:15] Mentorship, measurement, and being in the business of people [25:49] The In System Leadership playbook and getting back in system faster [27:34] Connecting younger talent through purpose, value, and coaching [29:27] Diagnosing retention challenges and creating clear action plans [34:36] Viewing business in seasons and leading with Sherpa-style coaching [36:38] The trap of needing to be liked and leading with clarity instead [40:23] What Geoff misses most about coaching and building teams [44:03] Where to find Geoff and In-System Leadership [50:02] Final reflections on shared goals, connection, and leadership legacy

    51 min

  2. JAN 14

    The New Standard: How BEC and CoEffex Are Redefining Talent Search in Life Sciences

    Our Guest: Ted Coss Ted leads the strategic direction of top talent search firm, Buckman Enochs Coss and Associates (BEC) while ensuring outstanding service and measurable results for clients. With a deep passion for life sciences and healthcare, Ted draws from both professional and personal experiences to understand the transformative impact of these industries. Since joining BEC in 1993, Ted has successfully completed hundreds of executive searches including numerous C-level placements and large-scale commercial team expansions. Many of the leaders he has placed have gone on to shape the future of global life sciences companies. Under his leadership, BEC has become a trusted executive search partner with over 40 years of proven success in delivering executive-level talent to life sciences and healthcare organizations. The firm is recognized for building resilient leadership teams that align with aggressive growth goals in biotech, pharma, medical technology, and healthcare services. Ted offers expert consultation to both emerging startups and established enterprises. His sharp executive search acumen, combined with a consultative, high-touch style, continues to help companies scale effectively, strengthen culture, and achieve long-term growth. Prior to joining BEC, Ted worked with Robert Half International and earned a BS in Business Administration from The Ohio State University.   What You'll Learn in this Episode: Why today's talent strategy must extend beyond recruiting How BEC maintains an unprecedented 5.3% turnover rate in a 15% industry The story behind the BEC–CoEffex partnership How to build a true leadership lifecycle—from hiring to development to retention What makes DRO (Direct Recruiting Outsourcing) a game-changing model How assessment and coaching drive measurable ROI Lessons from BEC's pivot to 100% virtual hiring during COVID Why "running the play of perfection" builds trust and loyalty How shared values and mission alignment create lasting partnerships   Resources & Links Ted Coss Website - https://becsearch.com/  LinkedIn - BEC Search  LinkedIn - Ted Coss Ed Molitor Website - coeffex.com  LinkedIn - CoEffex  LinkedIn - Ed Molitor

    44 min

  3. 12/31/2025

    Unlocking the Champion's Soul with Dr. Jerry Lynch

    Most people chase performance by training the mind and pushing the body. Dr. Jerry Lynch has spent decades proving that's only part of the equation. Because when pressure hits—when fear shows up, when doubt gets loud, when the moment gets heavy—mindset won't carry you if your inner foundation is empty. What separates the best isn't just mental toughness. It's what champions can access when the stakes are real: meaning, courage, connection, and the soul behind the performance. In his fifth appearance on The Athletics of Business Podcast, Jerry joins Ed Molitor to explore what truly sustains excellence in sport, leadership, and life. Anchored in Jerry's 20th book, Unlocking the Champion's Soul, the conversation reframes performance as something rooted not just in the mind or body—but in the soul. Together, Ed and Jerry unpack defining moments, championship environments, and the inner work required to lead and compete with purpose—from fear versus love, to relationships as the ultimate performance multiplier. If you coach, lead teams, work with people, or are committed to becoming a better version of yourself, this episode offers a powerful shift in perspective. Meet Our Guest: Dr. Jerry Lynch Dr. Jerry Lynch is a performance coach, author, and PhD in psychology who has spent decades helping athletes, coaches, and leaders access what he calls the champion's soul—the inner foundation that drives how we show up when it matters most. Jerry has supported more than 130 championship teams across professional and collegiate sport, and his work is known for going beyond traditional sports psychology. While mindset and mental skills matter, Jerry's approach centers on something deeper: meaning, purpose, courage, love, and the lived values that shape performance under pressure. His perspective was forged early—not just in locker rooms, but through years as a runner in Colorado, where long mountain runs became a training ground for philosophy, self-awareness, and the kind of inner work that competitors often avoid until life forces it. Jerry is also the author of 20 books, including Unlocking the Champion's Soul, which brings together his lifetime of coaching, research, and lived experience into a practical path for anyone committed to becoming their best—on the field, in business, and in life.   What You'll Learn in this Episode: Why performance starts with belonging, not pressure Why relationships are "the business of the soul." How sport builds "spiritual shape," not just physical shape Why "feelings equal function" in leadership, coaching, and culture How to create a safe environment where people feel free to fail and grow How sport accelerates self-discovery and reveals who we are under pressure How fear and love shape decision-making, performance, and relationships The RIVER Effect: the five feelings every person craves in a team culture   Resources & Links   Dr. Jerry Lynch Website: www.wayofchampions.com  Jerry's LinkedIn Grab your copy of Unlocking the Champion's Soul More of Jerry's Books   Listen to more of Dr. Lynch on The Athletics of Business Podcast: Episode 203: Lead with Love Episode 195: The Champion Sports Parent ft. John O'Sullivan Episode 179: The Mindful Coach, with Dr. Jerry Lynch  Episode 176: The Champion Teammate ft John O'Sullivan Ed Molitor LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/themolitorgroup/ Website: https://www.themolitorgroup.com/

    49 min
  4. The Game of Life: Remembering George Raveling

    09/19/2025

    The Game of Life: Remembering George Raveling

    In this special solocast of The Athletics of Business Podcast, host Ed Molitor takes us on a personal and powerful journey through the life, lessons, and lasting legacy of legendary coach George Raveling. This isn't about hearing what you want to hear; it's about hearing what you need to hear. Ed shares how Coach Raveling's words and philosophies shaped him as a young boy, carried him through dark times, and continue to guide his leadership and parenting today. Through stories of cassette tapes in a hot car, life-changing camp speeches, and powerful lessons on accountability and resilience, Ed paints a vivid picture of a man who impacted thousands, from athletes to leaders to everyday people, striving to be better.   In Loving Memory of George Raveling - Extract from letter by The Daily Coach On September 1st, the world lost a remarkable person: George Henry Raveling, our mentor, co-founder, and beloved "Coach." He passed away peacefully at 88, surrounded by his family, after a courageous battle with cancer. Coach Raveling was born in 1937 in a world that didn't recognize his humanity. Despite the challenges of segregation, he overcame adversity with determination and made a significant impact on countless lives. His legacy is more than just his success in sports and leadership; it's about the people he touched and the transformations he inspired. Coach was a gentle, compassionate, and humble soul. He believed in the importance of relationships over victories. His life was about guiding others, offering wisdom, and caring for people, no matter their background. His approach to leadership was uncommon, challenging the status quo and always staying true to his values. He was a friend, mentor, confidant, and source of inspiration to many. His wisdom and kindness left a lasting impression on all who knew him. Although we are deeply saddened by his loss, we celebrate his 88 years of life—years full of purpose and meaning. Coach's story reminds us that it's never too late to pursue what lights up our soul and make a difference in the world. His mantra, "If it is to be, it's up to me," embodies his relentless spirit. Coach Raveling's impact transcends accolades. He was simply a good person who lived fully, helping others along the way. He will be remembered for his resilience, curiosity, love for life, and the legacy of kindness he leaves behind. Our condolences and love go to the Raveling family and all who were touched by Coach's life. We will continue to honor his legacy through how we live, love, lead, and treat others. Rest in peace, Coach. You will always be adored and missed.   Our Host Ed is a coach down to the very smallest molecule of his DNA. Whether he's a husband and father at home or working with a client in the business world, he is an energized, passionate, and near-obsessive coach who is fully invested in showing up with all he's got to help you show up with all you've got. His approach insists on presence. He knows no other way to catalyze change except by getting on the court with you, playing side-by-side, and encouraging you to keep pushing, especially when the going gets tough.  In the last 30 years, Ed has developed his leadership skills in both athletics and business. From working as an NCAA Basketball coach at Texas A&M, DePaul NIU, and Lewis University to becoming the Vice President of a national recruiting firm, Ed Molitor has experienced the potential and pitfalls of leadership at every level.  As the founder and CEO of The Molitor Group, today Ed guides emerging and established leaders across biopharma and biotech to apply the proven lessons of coaching in their pursuit of inspiring and driving their team's performance.  Through personalized training, workshops, keynote speeches, his writing, and as a podcast host, Ed seeks to empower individuals and their organizations to achieve victory through a focus on transformation, fundamentals, compassion, mental toughness, and vision. Ed graduated from St. Ambrose University with a B.S. in Business Administration and a minor in Economics where he was a member of the Men's Basketball team serving as the co-captain his Senior year. Before St. Ambrose, he studied business at Creighton University where he played on the Men's Basketball teams which included a 1989 MVC Regular Season and Tournament Champions, NCAA Tournament, and a 1990 NIT Tournament.   What You'll Learn in This Episode "If it is to be, it's up to me." How Coach Raveling's famous mantra instilled ownership, responsibility, and resilience. The importance of telling people what they need to hear, not just what they want to hear. How leadership is less about wins and losses and more about relationships, impact, and transformation. Personal reflections on parenting, leadership, and carrying forward Coach Raveling's legacy. Why his influence extended beyond basketball shaping culture, mentorship, and even history (including his role in the March on Washington and the creation of Air Jordan).   Resources & Links Ed Molitor LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/themolitorgroup/ Website: https://www.themolitorgroup.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theathleticsofbusiness    Timestamps (00:00) Introduction to Coach George Raveling (01:13) The lasting impact of Coach Raveling's lessons (03:34) "If it is to be, it is up to me": The power of personal ownership (05:42) How Coach's teachings shaped Ed's life and leadership (07:53) The role of mentors in personal growth and leadership (10:45) Coach Raveling's influence on basketball and beyond (12:18) Stories from Ed's childhood and the influence of Coach Raveling (14:56) The importance of relationships over wins and losses (16:35) Reflections on mentorship and legacy (18:42) Coach Raveling's role in shaping Michael Jordan's partnership with Nike (21:00) The power of community in leadership (23:06) The importance of mentorship for emerging leaders (25:01) Final reflections on living a life of impact and leadership

    27 min

  5. 08/27/2025

    From Habits to Impact: Five Principles of High-Impact Coaching

    In this powerful solo episode, host Ed Molitor reflects on lessons from legendary coaches and his own leadership journey to share a core truth: you can't give away what you don't have. Whether you want your team to believe, grow, or stay inspired, you have to model it first. Drawing on the wisdom of John Wooden, Tony Dungy, Greg Popovich, and Marcus Freeman, Ed unpacks five principles every high-impact coaching leader must embrace: fueling yourself, shaping perspective, building habits, avoiding comparison, and focusing on what you have. With stories that connect athletics, business, and life, this episode challenges leaders to look inward, sharpen their daily practices, and multiply their impact.   Our Host Ed is a coach down to the very smallest molecule of his DNA. Whether he's a husband and father at home or working with a client in the business world, he is an energized, passionate, and near-obsessive coach who is fully invested in showing up with all he's got to help you show up with all you've got. His approach insists on presence. He knows no other way to catalyze change except by getting on the court with you, playing side-by-side, and encouraging you to keep pushing, especially when the going gets tough.  In the last 30 years, Ed has developed his leadership skills in both athletics and business. From working as an NCAA Basketball coach at Texas A&M, DePaul NIU, and Lewis University to becoming the Vice President of a national recruiting firm, Ed Molitor has experienced the potential and pitfalls of leadership at every level.  As the founder and CEO of The Molitor Group, today Ed guides emerging and established leaders across biopharma and biotech to apply the proven lessons of coaching in their pursuit of inspiring and driving their team's performance.  Through personalized training, workshops, keynote speeches, his writing, and as a podcast host, Ed seeks to empower individuals and their organizations to achieve victory through a focus on transformation, fundamentals, compassion, mental toughness, and vision. Ed graduated from St. Ambrose University with a B.S. in Business Administration and a minor in Economics where he was a member of the Men's Basketball team serving as the co-captain his Senior year. Before St. Ambrose, he studied business at Creighton University where he played on the Men's Basketball teams which included a 1989 MVC Regular Season and Tournament Champions, NCAA Tournament, and a 1990 NIT Tournament.   What You'll Learn in This Episode How legendary coaches like John Wooden, Greg Popovich, and Tony Dungy modeled habits, connection, and composure Why perspective shapes performance—and how to help your team "see what you see" The power of habits in creating culture and consistency How comparison undermines leadership and why authenticity builds trust Why resourcefulness always beats resources—and how Popovich built a dynasty with fundamentals and culture A simple but powerful weekly challenge to grow yourself and ripple growth to your team Resources & Links Ed Molitor LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/themolitorgroup/ Website: https://www.themolitorgroup.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theathleticsofbusiness   In this episode: [00:00:01] Introduction – "You can't give away what you don't have" [00:02:40] John Wooden and the power of discipline in details [00:03:24] Greg Popovich and investing in humanity before performance [00:05:08] Tony Dungy's composure on the sidelines [00:07:40] Habits as culture and Wooden's lesson on socks [00:08:34] Marcus Freeman and authentic leadership at Notre Dame [00:11:54] Popovich on resourcefulness, fundamentals, and culture [00:13:59] Five principles recap + weekly leadership challenge

    14 min

  6. 07/09/2025

    Beyond the Finish: The Ironman Bond That Redefined Possible with Brent and Kyle Pease

    What would you do if your greatest challenge became your greatest calling? For brothers Kyle and Brent Pease, the answer is racing—together. But what they've built goes far beyond the finish line. In this powerful episode, I sit down with Kyle and Brent Pease, co-founders of the Kyle Pease Foundation and Ironman finishers many times over, to talk about what it means to redefine possibility. What began as one race turned into a mission: to make endurance sports more inclusive, and to empower people with disabilities to find their own version of greatness. We dive into the early moments that sparked their journey, how they've now completed 150+ races together, and how their work through the foundation is transforming lives—not just through sport, but through employment, leadership, and connection. Kyle opens up about the physical toll of racing 16-hour days from a wheelchair, while Brent shares the emotional impact of being pushed—literally and figuratively—by his brother's unwavering drive. We talk about their unforgettable races at Kona and Boston, the birth of their inclusive employment program, and the moving story of how "five more feet" kept them going when everything inside told them to stop. At the heart of their message is a simple but transformative belief: endurance creates resilience, and everyone deserves to feel the power of crossing their own finish line.   Meet Our Guests: Kyle & Brent Pease  Brent and Kyle Pease are brothers, elite endurance athletes, and co-founders of The Kyle Pease Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting inclusion for individuals with disabilities in both sports and the workforce. Their story gained global recognition when they became the first push-assist brother team to complete the IRONMAN World Championship in Kona, Hawaii. Since then, they've competed in over 150 races together, becoming a symbol of what's possible when determination and brotherhood collide. Kyle, born with cerebral palsy, has shattered limitations and expectations. With a degree in Sports Management from Kennesaw State University, he not only races with Brent but also works part-time at Publix and Atlanta Braves games, spreading his message of resilience and inclusion. Through the Foundation, Kyle plays a key role in initiatives like adaptive sports equipment, inclusive employment, and scholarships, empowering others with disabilities to chase their goals. Brent, a Florida State University graduate and seasoned endurance coach, serves as the Foundation's Executive Director. His leadership has fueled programs like the Inclusive Employment Program, which helps individuals with disabilities secure meaningful work. Brent's athletic achievements, combined with his passion for advocacy, have helped raise over $10 million for the cause. Together, the Pease brothers continue to inspire through their racing, public speaking, and book, Beyond the Finish, which tells the story of their journey, their mission, and the power of relentless determination.   What You'll Learn in this Episode: How a single question sparked a life-changing partnership What it takes to complete an Ironman as a team when a wheelchair is involved, why inclusion in sport must go beyond labels and accommodations The moment Kyle realized his story could empower others How the Kyle Pease Foundation is creating jobs, purpose, and possibility The surprising power of "just five more feet" Why your struggles are not in the way—they are the way How real leadership is about showing up—for yourself and for others What Kona and Boston taught them about grace, grit, and growth   Resources & Links Kyle & Brent Pease Book: Beyond the Finish: A Story of Passion, Brotherhood and Relentless Determination Get a signed copy: Order through their site to receive Kyle's signature! Website: https://kylepeasefoundation.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekylepeasefoundation/ Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/TheKylePeaseFoundation LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kyle-pease-foundation Join the community, donate, or sign up to race: kylepeasefoundation.org   Ed Molitor LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/themolitorgroup/ Website: https://www.themolitorgroup.com/

    46 min
  7. The AI-Driven Leader with Geoff Woods

    06/11/2025

    The AI-Driven Leader with Geoff Woods

    Let's face it: AI is changing the game in ways we couldn't have imagined just a few years ago. As leaders, we're at a crossroads—do we learn how to use this new technology to our advantage, or do we risk falling behind? In this episode, I sit down with Geoff Woods, #1 bestselling author of The AI-Driven Leader and founder of AI Leadership, to explore how leaders can harness AI not just to automate tasks, but to think bigger, make smarter decisions, and unlock the full potential of their organizations. Geoff shares the journey that took him from asking the right questions in boardrooms to co-founding an executive network, The Collective, where 100+ leaders from around the world collaborate to use AI as a competitive advantage. He pulls back the curtain on his "CRIT" framework (Context, Role, Interview, Task) for prompting AI to be more than a tool—it becomes a thought partner that sharpens your vision and reveals the path to 10x growth. We dig into how Geoff overcame massive imposter syndrome when first stepping into AI leadership, the power of reverse engineering your future, and why he believes trying to "know everything about AI" is the surest way to lose. Plus, he shares a powerful story of how an AI-generated interview turned a real estate flipper's 10K-per-deal hustle into a million-dollar multifamily investment in a single month. At the heart of this conversation is a message every leader needs to hear: real transformation isn't about learning AI for the sake of it—it's about using it to build the business (and life) that will stand the test of time.   Meet Our Guest: Geoff Woods Geoff Woods is a visionary business leader, bestselling author, and founder of AI Leadership. He's the host of The AI-Driven Leader podcast and creator of The Collective, a vetted community of executives who are using AI to create future-ready businesses. Geoff previously served as Chief Growth Officer of Jindal Steel and Power, where he helped grow the company's market cap from $750 million to $12 billion in just four years. Earlier, he co-founded the consulting company behind The One Thing, advising businesses from $10 million to $60 billion in revenue. His book, The AI-Driven Leader, offers a practical guide for leaders who want to harness AI strategically—not to do more busy work, but to think bigger, move faster, and lead in ways that truly matter. What You'll Learn in this Episode: Why "knowing everything about AI" isn't the goal—mastery of your strengths is Geoff's "CRIT" framework for using AI as a strategic thought partner How The Collective helps leaders turn insights into action and real revenue The danger of operational overwhelm vs. strategic clarity Why every leader needs to rethink the business that could put them out of business The surprising link between "The One Thing" mindset and AI leadership How Geoff overcame impostor syndrome to become a global AI thought leader Real-world stories of leaders using AI to 10x their businesses How to tap into collective knowledge and stay ahead of rapid change   In this episode:  [00:00:00] Introduction and setting the stage for AI-powered leadership [00:01:02] Geoff's journey from asking questions to driving billion-dollar growth [00:03:18] How asking better questions changed Geoff's approach to AI [00:08:45] Building The Collective: a global network of AI-driven leaders [00:15:00] Using AI to pressure-test your business plan and rethink your North Star [00:21:17] Why AI isn't about replacing expertise—it's about amplifying it [00:26:23] The connection between The One Thing and Geoff's AI philosophy [00:32:31] How Geoff's team uses AI to turn human strengths into superpowers [00:37:48] Rethinking the business you're in—and the one that could put you out of business [00:40:39] The future of AI-driven insights and continuous strategic updates [00:43:51] Where to find Geoff's work and apply to join The Collective [00:44:33] Final reflections on growth, leadership, and staying curious   Resources & Links Geoff Woods Book: The AI Driven Leader Get Geoff's prompt library: Send your book receipt to book@aileadership.com Join The Collective: Apply at aileadership.com LinkedIn: Geoff Woods   Ed Molitor LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/themolitorgroup/ Website: https://www.themolitorgroup.com/

    44 min

  8. 06/04/2025

    Rare Leadership: Strategic, Human, and Real with Molly Painter

    In this energizing episode of The Athletics of Business, Ed Molitor welcomes Molly Painter, Vice President of Sales and Strategic Accounts at Takeda. Molly leads Takeda's U.S. Plasma-Derived Therapies business unit and is renowned for her rare blend of strategic clarity and deeply human-centered leadership. Together, they explore what it takes to lead authentically in high-stakes environments, build trust through vulnerability, and drive results without losing sight of people. Molly shares personal stories from her career, her family, and her life-long belief that leadership should be rooted in purpose, agility, and heart. Our Guest Molly Painter is a seasoned executive across both biotech and biopharma, known for her ability to lead with clarity, conviction, and a calm, commanding presence. With deep expertise in rare disease and neuroscience, she has a proven track record of building, launching, and scaling organizations—from early-stage biotech startups to global pharmaceutical business units. Currently Vice President of Sales & Strategic Accounts at Takeda, Molly leads the U.S. Plasma-Derived Therapies Business Unit, driving growth, alignment, and performance across one of the company's most strategic portfolios. She previously served as President of U.S. Orphazyme, where she built a scalable commercial organization from the ground up in just nine months, and as President of Vifor Pharma Group, where she drove topline U.S. sales growth and positioned the company as a leader in the nephrology and cardio-renal therapy space. Molly brings a rare combination of strategic precision and human-centered leadership. She thrives in complex, high-stakes environments and is deeply skilled in interpreting trends, aligning cross-functional teams, and creating cultures of accountability and ambition. She has led all facets of drug company development—from pipeline strategy to in-line commercialization—and is known for her ability to articulate value, influence stakeholders, and accelerate market uptake both domestically and globally. A strong advocate for agile leadership and inclusive growth, Molly holds an MBA from Northwestern University in Management & Organization with an emphasis on Health Enterprise Management. She also serves on several executive boards, including Big Brothers Big Sisters Chicago, the Joffrey Women's Board, and the Healthcare Businesswomen's Association (HBA).   What You'll Learn in This Episode Why the combination of strategy and heart is so rare and so powerful The art of having crucial conversations while building psychological safety How to lead with agility in the face of constant change and ambiguity Why vulnerability is a superpower in leadership, not a liability How Molly's mom, mentors, and real-world reps shaped her coaching style What "air cover" means and why it's critical for team decision-making How to balance elite performance with empathy, trust, and authenticity The importance of mentoring both inside and outside your company Why being "real" is the key to building loyalty and driving results How to juggle leadership, parenting, volunteer work, and still show up 100 percent Resources & Links Molly Painter LinkedIn Instagram Takeda Pharmaceuticals  Ed Molitor LinkedIn Website

    40 min
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About

Our Athletics of Business podcast provides leaders with invaluable practical lessons framed by the competitive nature of sport and life. Here we share a mindset built on the foundational belief that the skills and behaviors of high-performing teams, elite athletes, and high-impact coaches are also the key to your business success. This perspective is a direct result of Ed Molitor's experiences—as both a college athlete and a coach—that helped shape his core values: work ethic, positivity, enthusiasm, passion for life, loyalty, and commitment to relentlessly pursuing excellence.

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