The Ankura Podcast

Ankura
  • 0.0 (0)
  • MANAGEMENT

Welcome to The Ankura Podcast home to our flagship series The Business Behind Sport and The Impact Exchange, as well as a range of insightful discussions with leading experts and advisors from around the world on the developments shaping the global economy.    Ankura, a global expert services and advisory firm, advises the world's leading businesses, governments, and institutions on their most complex challenges. Visit ankura.com   Connect with us on LinkedIn for more of our latest insights: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ankura-consulting-group/  

  1. Why Roll-Ups Fail: The Human Side of Post-Transaction Performance

    2D AGO

    Why Roll-Ups Fail: The Human Side of Post-Transaction Performance

    If you’re responsible for outcomes and culture, this conversation will sharpen how you think about both. Why do so many roll-ups fail — even when the strategy is solid? In this episode, Sara Huddleston, People & Transformation Leader and Founder of Align Coaching Solutions, joins John Frehse for a candid conversation on what really makes or breaks organizational change. They explore why roll‑ups and integrations break down, what healthy conflict actually looks like, and why trust, transparency, and intentional listening matter more than another playbook or mandate workplace. If you’re leading growth, integration, or culture change, this conversation will challenge how you think about execution—and why compliance is not the same as commitment. Listen to learn how leaders can drive performance by putting people back at the center of transformation.

    19 min
  2. On Diplomacy with Ambassador Lee Feinstein

    FEB 4

    On Diplomacy with Ambassador Lee Feinstein

    Why does diplomacy matter—especially now? In this episode of The Impact Exchange, John Frehse speaks with Ambassador Lee Feinstein, President of McLarty Associates and a seasoned diplomat whose career spans the Pentagon, the State Department, and the U.S. Embassy, in a conversation “On Diplomacy.” Together, they explore the philosophy and real‑world value of diplomacy across government, business, and personal life—highlighting the timeless principles that make it effective: clear communication, trust‑building, long‑term strategic thinking, and the ability to understand both your own position and the one across the table. They also discuss the growing danger of today’s short‑term mindset and why sustainable outcomes require a willingness to think beyond today.  Listen now to hear Ambassador Feinstein’s insights on why diplomacy still shapes the world—and how it can help all of us drive stronger outcomes.

    20 min
  3. On Leadership with Dr. Jessica Kriegel

    12/10/2025

    On Leadership with Dr. Jessica Kriegel

    Think control drives success? Think again. Most leaders believe control equals results—but what if that belief is holding you back? In the latest episode of The Impact Exchange, John Frehse sits down with Dr. Jessica Kriegel, Chief Strategy Officer at Culture Partners, to explore why the most successful leaders today aren’t the ones who “do more” or “know it all.” You’ll learn: Why surrendering the illusion of control unlocks better leadershipHow adaptive cultures outperform command-and-control by 4x in revenue growthPractical steps to create clarity, alignment, and accountability without micromanagingA 4-question coaching framework that empowers teams and drives resultsThe takeaway? Stop clinging to old playbooks. Start shaping experiences that shift beliefs and inspire action. What would happen if you stopped trying to control the uncontrollable?

    24 min
  4. The Business Behind Sport: David James, Global Managing Partner - Sport at Elevate Talent

    12/08/2025

    The Business Behind Sport: David James, Global Managing Partner - Sport at Elevate Talent

    In the latest episode of The Business Behind Sport podcast, Jonny Gray is joined by David James, Global Managing Partner – Sport at Elevate Talent, to delve into the evolving dynamics of the sports industry and its impact on executive talent search. They explore how the convergence of sports and entertainment - and shifting commercial priorities - has led sport organizations to tap into unconventional talent pools, the qualities top senior candidates need to thrive and the unique challenges of working in this fast-changing industry. The conversation also looks ahead to emerging talent gaps and offers practical advice for graduates eager to break into the field. Whether you're a seasoned leader or new to the industry, tune in to discover the next era of sports talent.

    37 min
  5. Promises Delivered: The Art of Brand and Customer Experience

    11/26/2025

    Promises Delivered: The Art of Brand and Customer Experience

    Your brand isn’t what you sell – it’s the experience you deliver and how it makes people feel. In this episode of The Impact Exchange, John Frehse sits down with global brand and experience leader Ben Collier to explore the importance of delivering on brand promises. Ben draws on a career spanning advertising in Beijing and New York, financial services, luxury hospitality, premium spirits, telecoms, and multiple large-scale rebrands – and shares how he designs moments that foster trust, loyalty, and advocacy. Listen now to explore how being intentional about the experiences you design – for clients, colleagues, and communities – can transform both your brand and your impact.

    25 min
  6. The Payment Puzzle: Strategic Billing for Organizations

    11/11/2025

    The Payment Puzzle: Strategic Billing for Organizations

    In this episode of The Impact Exchange, John Frehse sits down with Dana Stefanczyk from Ankura Office of the CFO to unravel strategic insights into bill paying for enterprises. Discover how timing and prioritization can lead to impactful financial management. Whether you're a business leader or a financial expert, this episode offers fresh perspectives on leveraging vendor terms to enhance cash flow.  Tune in today and learn how Ankura is helping businesses thrive amidst financial challenges.

    12 min
  7. The Career On-ramp: Under Construction or Permanently Closed?

    10/29/2025

    The Career On-ramp: Under Construction or Permanently Closed?

    As some businesses prioritize AI investment over graduate programs and hiring, a crucial question emerges: where will the next generation of leaders come from? In this timely episode of The Impact Exchange, host John Frehse sits down with recent graduate and Ankura colleague Cady Finley to unpack the essential role of human connections and advanced skills in career growth. They discuss college lessons, the power of real-world experience, and the opportunities for individuals and businesses to leverage AI for meaningful impact - an approach Cady practices every day in her role. In an era where AI is transforming the workforce, nurturing the next generation of leaders has never been more essential. At Ankura, we understand the importance of navigating this evolving landscape. Through strategic workforce planning and upskilling initiatives, we support people and our clients in preparing for the future. Learn more www.ankura.com

    15 min
  8. The Impact Exchange: The Consumer May Bank Break Retail: Holiday Outlook 2025

    10/15/2025

    The Impact Exchange: The Consumer May Bank Break Retail: Holiday Outlook 2025

    The financial pressure of inflation, rising debt, and tariffs is changing how consumers shop – so what does this mean for retailers and how can they win in this challenging market? In this episode of The Impact Exchange, Ankura Performance Improvement expert Chris Ventry joins John Frehse for a deep dive on emerging trends and challenges as retail businesses prepare for the 2025 holiday season. They explore consumer debt trends, the pivotal role of AI, how retailers can capitalize on early sales and personalized shopping experiences to drive success in 2025 and much more. This episode uncovers insights retailers can't afford to miss - listen now! Learn more about the Ankura Holiday Survey, findings and playbook : https://forms.ankura.com/holiday-survey-2025

    19 min
See All (84)

About

Welcome to The Ankura Podcast home to our flagship series The Business Behind Sport and The Impact Exchange, as well as a range of insightful discussions with leading experts and advisors from around the world on the developments shaping the global economy.    Ankura, a global expert services and advisory firm, advises the world's leading businesses, governments, and institutions on their most complex challenges. Visit ankura.com   Connect with us on LinkedIn for more of our latest insights: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ankura-consulting-group/  

Information

  • Creator
    Ankura
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    84
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Ankura Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Ankura Podcast