The Doctor's Den

David Leitner, PhD
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David "Dr. D." Leitner invites you on a journey of personal and professional discovery as he interviews friends and former students to learn about a gamut of topics including how they got to where they are in life, how they engage leadership, strategy, and politics, and how they are working to make their world a better place.

  1. Gila Bublick Bold Leap into Operations

    08/08/2025

    Gila Bublick Bold Leap into Operations

    What does it take to turn a creative job hunt into a thriving operations career—and how do you stay resilient when life throws you a curveball? Join David Leitner as he uncovers the lessons Gila Bublick learned on her journey from posting “hire me” flyers around Tel Aviv to managing operations at high-growth startups—and how surviving a stroke reshaped her approach to work and life. Key Questions Explored in the Episode: ● How can unconventional job-search tactics help you stand out in a crowded market? ● What are the biggest challenges when shifting from an executive assistant role to operations management? ● In what ways can personal health crises deepen your professional resilience? ● How do you design and enforce policies that scale with a fast-moving startup? ● What role can AI tools like ChatGPT play in streamlining operational workflows? Discussion Points: ● Innovative job search strategies: posters in Tel Aviv and building community connections ● Career transitions: moving from executive assistant at the City of David to high-tech operations ● Personal resilience: Gila’s experience overcoming a stroke and its impact on her leadership ● Operations excellence: balancing internal vs. external operations, policy creation, and enforcement Summary of the Conversation: Gila Bublick shares how a bold, grassroots job-search campaign in Tel Aviv led her to an executive assistant role—and eventually into the heart of startup operations. She reflects on the unexpected lessons from surviving a stroke early in her career, describing how that challenge reinforced her belief in continuous learning and self-advocacy. Throughout the episode, Gila offers concrete tactics for building operational efficiency—from policy design to AI integration—while emphasizing the importance of culture, mentorship, and embracing mistakes as growth opportunities. About The Guest: Gila Bublick began her career as an executive assistant at the City of David, where she honed her organizational skills. She later transitioned into operations roles in fast-paced tech startups. A stroke survivor, Gila brings a unique perspective on resilience, leadership, and the power of taking calculated risks in both professional and personal arenas. Key Takeaways: ● Get creative with your job search: unconventional tactics can open unexpected doors. ● View mistakes as experiments: each misstep in operations uncovers a chance to iterate and improve. ● Prioritize your well-being: personal health challenges can become catalysts for stronger leadership. ● Harness AI tools like ChatGPT to automate routine tasks and elevate your team’s focus. ● Invest in culture: supportive environments bridge generational divides and boost long-term success. Time Stamps: 00:00 Introduction to the Guest: Gila Bublick 00:48 Gila’s Job Search Journey: Posters in Tel Aviv 04:10 First Executive Assistant Role at City of David 16:00 Transition to High Tech: Challenges and Successes 20:24 Personal Story: Overcoming a Stroke 33:54 Operations Role in a Startup 43:26 Embracing Mistakes and the Complexity of Operations 45:08 Balancing Internal and External Operations 47:19 Creating and Enforcing Policies 49:25 The Role of ChatGPT in Operations 49:55 Challenges and Self-Doubt in Operations 54:29 Building a Supportive Culture 01:03:23 Navigating Generational Differences in the Workplace 01:11:15 The Importance of Titles and Recruitment Hustle 01:17:16 Personal Growth and Career Reflections 01:27:19 Final Thoughts and Advice Links for the Guest: Connect with Gila Bublick on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gilabublick/ Visit Gila Bublick’s website: https://www.gilabublick.com/ More about the host: Dr. David Leitner's LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdleitner/ Dr. D's personal website: https://www.drdleitner.com Ready to chart your own path to resilient leadership? Tune in to the full episode for practical strategies and inspiring stories from Gila Bublick.

    1h 29m
  2. Curiosity Unleashed with Chaviva Gordon-Bennett

    06/12/2025

    Curiosity Unleashed with Chaviva Gordon-Bennett

    What does it take to craft content for global brands, juggle freelance life on your own terms, and still stay true to your values? In this episode, host Dr. D. sits down with veteran content strategist Chaviva Gordon-Bennett to unpack the curiosity-driven career that’s taken her from newsrooms to Silicon Valley—and everywhere in between. Key Questions Explored in the Episode How can relentless curiosity propel a career in content and marketing? What lessons can remote-first professionals learn about healthy boundaries and meeting overload? Where does AI fit into a writer’s workflow without sacrificing voice or quality? How do you rebuild confidence and self-worth after layoffs or career pivots? In what ways has Chaviva’s Jewish journey shaped her personal and professional choices? Discussion Points Curiosity as a Career Engine – asking better questions to open unexpected doors. Remote Work Realities – balancing flexibility with culture, communication, and family life. From Employee to Freelancer – navigating layoffs, impostor syndrome, and client boundaries. AI & Content Creation – treating AI as an intern, not an ATM, to scale strategy. Identity & Growth – how conversion to Judaism and life in Israel reframed purpose and resilience. Summary of the Conversation Chaviva traces nearly two decades of writing, editing, and content strategy, beginning with a journalist’s instinct to “never stop asking why.” She reflects on stints at Bizzabo, SmartBug Media, and EverCommerce; the thrill (and chaos) of agency life; and her shift to freelancing after pandemic-era layoffs. Along the way, she recounts stories—from an FBI encounter linked to an ISIS hit list to juggling motherhood during Zoom marathons—that underline the need for adaptability. The discussion closes with her embrace of Judaism, illustrating how personal identity can fuel professional confidence and clarity. Chaviva Gordon-Bennett is a writer, editor, and content strategist with 19+ years of experience building brand voices, buyer personas, and messaging frameworks for tech and SaaS companies worldwide. Now a freelance consultant, she helps organizations scale content with a blend of journalistic rigor and AI-driven efficiency. Stay Curious: Treat every role as a classroom—ask questions that unlock bigger opportunities. Own Your Worth: Layoffs don’t define you; reframe them as launches into your next chapter. Set Boundaries in Remote Work: Guard focus time and family priorities to prevent burnout. Leverage AI Thoughtfully: Use generative tools as junior collaborators, then edit like a pro. Align Work with Values: Let personal growth and identity inform career choices and resilience. 00:00 Curiosity kicks off the conversation 06:16 College years & the first newsroom gig 16:30 Graduate school and converting to Judaism 22:02 Social-media roles during a move to Israel 27:51 An ISIS hit-list scare & FBI phone call 39:03 Pandemic-era remote work challenges 56:34 Layoffs, self-value, and the freelance leap 01:04:23 AI’s evolving place in content creation 01:23:12 Finding identity and fulfillment through Judaism Ready to supercharge your own career? Listen to the full episode now and discover practical insights you can apply today!

    1h 26m
  3. The Maker’s Mindset - Dr. Yael Schuster Davidi

    05/04/2025

    The Maker’s Mindset - Dr. Yael Schuster Davidi

    What does it take to pivot from a career in academia to thriving in tech in Israel?  Dr. Yael Schuster-Davidi joins us to share her inspiring and practical journey, full of resilience, adaptability, and self-discovery. Key Questions Explored in the Episode: How do you successfully transition from academia to the tech industry? What skills are most transferable between such different career paths? How can hobbies outside of work contribute to professional and personal growth? What are the cultural differences between working in Israel and the US? How can professionals embrace continuous learning and career adaptability? Summary of the Conversation: In this episode, Dr. Yael Schuster-Davidi walks us through her multifaceted career journey from academia to startups, technical writing, and ultimately product management at Microsoft. She shares candid insights about the importance of resilience, curiosity, and skill transfer throughout her career shifts. Yael also discusses how her hands-on hobbies enhance her well-being, how cultural differences shaped her experiences in Israel and the US, and why embracing new challenges and continuous learning is critical for career success. This episode is packed with relatable advice for anyone navigating career changes. About The Guest: Dr. Yael Schuster-Davidi is a former research organic chemist who transitioned into tech, first as a technical writer and now as a product manager at Microsoft. Her journey spans academia, startups, and major corporations, and she brings a unique perspective on adaptability, skill-building, and cultural navigation in global work environments. Beyond her career, she is passionate about hands-on creativity, including carpentry and sewing. Key Takeaways: Skills from academia, such as research and problem-solving, are highly transferable to tech. Career growth often requires embracing unexpected opportunities and being willing to pivot. Hobbies and hands-on creativity play a critical role in maintaining personal well-being. Cultural awareness is key when working in international environments. Continuous learning and resilience are vital for long-term career success. Time Stamps: 00:00 Meet Dr. Yael Schuster-Davidi 01:29 Skills and Lessons from Academia 02:53 Navigating Failures and Successes 06:30 Transitioning from Academia to Industry 08:47 Balancing Work and Personal Life 10:12 The Maker Spirit 14:23 Startup Journey and Lessons Learned 26:56 Career Seasons and Personal Growth 34:16 Unexpected Career Shift to Technical Writing 36:05 Navigating Contract Work at Microsoft 38:23 Transitioning from Technical Writing to Product Management 40:17 Understanding Product Management 42:47 Holocaust Remembrance and Moving to Israel 44:43 Cultural Adjustments and Personal Growth 47:26 Self-Sufficiency and Family Values 52:42 Adaptive Technologies and Hackathons 54:13 Communication Styles and Cultural Clashes 59:47 Embracing Challenges and Continuous Learning 01:03:00 Advice for Young Professionals Links for the Guest:Connect with Dr. Yael Schuster-Davidi on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yaelschuster/ Learn more about Rhydl and Dr. David Leitner at: https://www.rhydl.com Ready to embrace your next career adventure with confidence and curiosity? Tune in to the full episode for valuable insights and inspiration!

    1h 6m
  4. Building Boldly and Believing Deeply with Malya Feivelson

    04/01/2025

    Building Boldly and Believing Deeply with Malya Feivelson

    What does it take to build a business rooted in authenticity, persistence, and faith? In this inspiring episode of The Doctor’s Den, we sit down with Malya Feivelson, founder of The Malya Cam and Trade Show Marketing Company (TMC). From starting in radio to leading trade show strategy for top clients, Malya’s story is a testament to growth through humble beginnings, embracing your unique path, and letting faith guide your journey. Key Questions Explored in the Episode: How can small, consistent steps lead to big business breakthroughs? What role does faith play in navigating entrepreneurship? How do you identify and connect with ideal customers at trade shows? What strategies help turn networking into real results? How do you keep growing when life doesn’t go as planned? Discussion Points: Embracing uncertainty in your 20s and building your career slowly The origin story of TMC and how it all began Leveraging faith and personal values in a business context Facing and responding to antisemitism in the professional world Strategic shifts during trade shows: pivoting when needed Systems for lead generation, follow-up, and trade show ROI Separating networking from selling — and doing both well The mindset of constant learning and self-refinement Advice for young professionals trying to find their path Summary of the Conversation: Malya Feivelson shares her unconventional path from radio into the niche world of trade show marketing. She highlights how small, deliberate actions—like posting daily on LinkedIn—can lead to major impact. Her strong connection to faith has guided her through both challenges and business growth. Malya opens up about the personal experiences that shaped her, including navigating antisemitism and redefining success through persistence and service. This episode is filled with insights about following your passions, building relationships, and developing systems that support sustainable success. About The Guest: Malya Feivelson is the founder and CEO of The Malya Cam and Trade Show Marketing Company (TMC), known for helping brands maximize their presence at trade shows through strategic engagement and sales systems. With a background in radio and a mission-driven approach, Malya blends creativity, faith, and practicality to deliver results that go far beyond the booth. Key Takeaways: Small Steps Compound: Daily effort and authenticity build long-term momentum. Faith Can Guide Strategy: Grounding yourself in values can drive business decisions with clarity. Trade Shows Are About Connection: Selling is important, but relationship-building is essential. Adaptability Wins: Being flexible and strategic mid-event can create surprising success. Keep Growing: Embrace personal development and let go of rigid expectations. Time Stamps: 00:00 – Embracing Uncertainty in Your 20s 00:15 – Introducing Malya Feivelson and TMC 00:47 – The Importance of Small Steps in Business 03:03 – Malya's Unconventional Journey 05:43 – Faith and Business: A Personal Connection 17:36 – Navigating Antisemitism in Trade Shows 32:39 – The Trade Show Experience 36:34 – Switching Sales Strategies Mid-Trade Show 37:22 – Identifying Ideal Customers 37:59 – Post-Show Follow-Up Strategies 38:48 – Unique Sales Systems and Success Stories 40:05 – Networking vs. Selling at Trade Shows 41:07 – Documenting Leads Effectively 42:47 – Constant Learning and Improvement 46:51 – Personal Growth and Overcoming Expectations 57:38 – Advice for Young Professionals 01:03:54 – Concluding Thoughts and Final Reflections Ready to embrace your own journey of faith and growth? Tune in to the full episode for valuable insights from Malya’s story. Find Malya online at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/malyafeivelson/And here's Malya's Podcast: https://www.hebrewhitsradio.com/ More about Dr. D? www.drdleitner.com More about Rhydl? www.rhydl.com

    1h 7m
  5. The Power of a ‘North Star’: Haggai Klorman-Eraqi on Leadership, Business, and Israel’s Global Narrative

    03/02/2025

    The Power of a ‘North Star’: Haggai Klorman-Eraqi on Leadership, Business, and Israel’s Global Narrative

    In this episode of The Doctor's Den, we sit down with Haggai Klorman-Eraqi, CEO of Aggaeus Group, as he shares his entrepreneurial journey—starting from selling Coke at summer camp to leading ventures in finance, oil and gas, and AI. Haggai reveals key lessons in leadership, strategic thinking, and resilience, while offering fascinating personal anecdotes, including his triumph as Israel’s D&D champion. Listen in as he discusses navigating complex projects, managing teams, and overcoming unforeseen challenges. Plus, gain insight into his thoughts on Israel’s PR battle on the global stage and his latest business ventures.________________________________________Key Questions Explored in the Episode:● How did Haggai’s early experiences shape his approach to leadership and business?● What role did Dungeons & Dragons play in his personal and professional growth?● How did he overcome learning disabilities to achieve success?● What are the most critical lessons in risk management and team leadership?● What are Haggai’s views on Israel’s global positioning and its PR challenges?________________________________________Discussion Points:● Setting the North Star – Defining leadership values and vision.● Entrepreneurial Journey – From childhood ventures to leading global businesses.● D&D Champion – How gaming cultivated strategic thinking and resilience.● Overcoming Learning Disabilities – Breaking barriers to success.● Lessons in Risk Management – Insights from investment banking and high-stakes projects.● The Role of Leadership in Adaptation – Leading through uncertainty.● Hiring and Firing – The importance of placing the right people in the right roles.● Israel’s PR Battle – Perspectives on global narratives and public perception.________________________________________Summary of the Conversation:Haggai Klorman-Eraqi’s story is one of perseverance, adaptability, and strategic vision. From an early age, he exhibited entrepreneurial instincts, which later fueled his success in finance, oil and gas, and AI ventures. He reflects on how D&D shaped his ability to think critically and lead effectively, and how he overcame learning disabilities to excel academically and professionally.Throughout the episode, Haggai shares hard-earned lessons on leadership, risk management, and business development, including insights from his time in investment banking and the military. He also delves into his views on Israel’s position in global PR battles, emphasizing the importance of narrative control and strategic communication. Finally, he offers a glimpse into his current projects and future aspirations.________________________________________About The Guest:Haggai Klorman-Eraqi is the CEO of Aggaeus Group, a business leader with experience across multiple industries, including finance, energy, and AI. His background spans investment banking, strategic management, and entrepreneurship, making him a sought-after voice on leadership, adaptability, and risk management.________________________________________Key Takeaways:1. Adaptability is crucial – Success in business requires flexibility and resilience.2. Early influences shape leadership – Even hobbies like D&D can build critical strategic skills.3. Risk management is an art – Understanding risk is key to long-term business success.4. Hiring right is essential – Placing the right people in the right roles can make or break an organization.5. Narratives matter – A strong public relations strategy is critical for businesses and countries alike.________________________________________Link for the Guest:Connect with Haggai Klorman-Eraqi on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/klormaneraqi/________________________________________Call to Action:Want to elevate your leadership skills and learn from real-world business challenges? Sign up for The Rhydler Newsletter and stay up to date with these episodes and much much more: https://bit.ly/SignUpForTheRhydler!

    1h 20m
  6. The Power of Ownership in Building Strong Teams with Shmuli Goldberg

    02/02/2025

    The Power of Ownership in Building Strong Teams with Shmuli Goldberg

    What does it take to scale a startup successfully? How can personal challenges become strengths in leadership? David sits down with Shmuli Goldberg, Chief Marketing Officer at VinciWorks, to explore the transformation of industries through technology, the future of AI in marketing, and the art of building effective teams. Shmuli shares his journey leading marketing teams in Israeli startups, offering insider insights on customer segmentation, data tracking, and growth strategies. He also opens up about how managing dyslexia and Tourette’s Syndrome has influenced his career, leadership style, and personal development. Key Questions Explored in the Episode: What are the biggest challenges in scaling startups, and how can they be overcome? How is AI revolutionizing marketing strategies and customer engagement? What role does marketing play in hiring and team-building? How do personal challenges like dyslexia and Tourette’s shape leadership styles? What advice does Shmuli have for aspiring marketers and startup founders? This episode takes a deep dive into startup growth, marketing innovation, and leadership strategies. Shmuli shares his journey through the Israeli startup ecosystem, highlighting the critical factors for scaling businesses and understanding customer needs. He explains the importance of marketing in hiring and team culture, offering actionable insights for both founders and marketing professionals. A deeply personal and inspiring segment covers how dyslexia and Tourette’s Syndrome have influenced Shmuli’s career and leadership philosophy. Wrapping up, the conversation shifts to AI's role in the future of marketing, with Shmuli sharing bold predictions and practical advice for professionals looking to stay ahead of industry trends. About The Guest: Shmuli Goldberg is the Chief Marketing Officer at VinciWorks, a company specializing in compliance training and risk management software. With years of experience scaling B2B SaaS startups, Shmuli has helped companies like Clicktail, Feedvisor, and LawGeex drive growth through data-driven marketing strategies. His expertise spans customer segmentation, demand generation, and AI-driven marketing, making him a thought leader in the field. Despite facing personal challenges such as dyslexia and Tourette’s Syndrome, Shmuli has leveraged these experiences to refine his leadership skills and develop a unique, empathetic approach to team-building and problem-solving. Timestamps: 00:00 The Sewing Machine Riot: A Historical Perspective 00:39 Introducing Shmuli Goldberg: Marketing Maestro 01:40 Shmuli's Journey: From England to Israeli Startups 02:59 Building Startups: From Clicktail to Feedvisor 05:00 Scaling Startups: Tips and Strategies 07:56 Understanding Your Customer and Market 10:43 The Importance of Pain Points in Marketing 16:36 The Role of Marketing in Hiring Top Talent 25:21 Building Effective Teams: Rules and Insights 33:24 Empowering Employees: The Final Step 34:56 Nurturing Growth in Your Team 35:22 Exploring Career Paths for SDRs 40:20 The Role of Dyslexia and Tourette's in Leadership 49:32 Overcoming Stage Fright and Public Perception 54:07 The Future of Marketing: AI and Beyond 01:08:18 Advice to My Younger Self 01:11:33 Concluding Thoughts Links for the Guest: Connect with Shmuli Goldberg on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/shmuls/ Learn more about strategy, leadership, and followership - check out Dr. D.'s website: www.drdleitner.com Need some guidance as you scale your business? Reach out to Rhydl and let's see how we can provide you some solutions: www.rhydl.com Want to stay ahead in marketing and AI? Don’t miss this episode of The Doctor’s Den! Tune in now to gain expert insights on scaling startups, building teams, and leveraging AI for business growth.

    1h 12m
  7. The Heart of Scaling without Chaos

    01/20/2025

    The Heart of Scaling without Chaos

    Episode Overview: Scaling a business can be chaotic, but it doesn't have to be. In this episode, we discuss how to scale smarter by managing change effectively. We explore the importance of adapting your values, communicating transparently, fostering collaboration, and balancing short-term goals with long-term vision. We also delve into the concept of strategic followership and how it can help keep your scaling process on track. Key Insights: Adapting Values (00:00:42 - 00:01:41): Just as the roots of a tree grow deeper as the tree expands, your company values must adapt to support growth and new challenges. Failure to adapt values can lead to misalignment and a loss of what makes your company unique. Transparent Communication (00:02:15 - 00:03:26): Uncertainty breeds fear. Clearly communicate objectives, explain the "why" behind changes, and outline how those changes will impact different roles within the company. This fosters trust and empowers employees to see themselves as part of the success story. Collaboration and Co-creation (00:05:42 - 00:06:15): Encourage employees to think like co-creators. Invite them to propose solutions to bottlenecks and be part of the decision-making process. This not only strengthens buy-in but also ensures changes are practical and well-informed. Balancing Short-Term and Long-Term Goals (00:06:15 - 00:06:47): Scaling brings short-term pressures. It's like building a ship while at sea – immediate repairs are important, but so is staying focused on your destination. Don't lose sight of the big picture amidst the daily challenges. Strategic Followership (00:04:48 - 00:05:42): Scaling isn't just about leadership making decisions. It's about ensuring decisions are informed by the insights and experiences of the team. Strategic followership creates a shared strategy that bridges leaders and followers, fostering a stronger sense of ownership and investment in the company's success. Notable Quotes: "Growth should strengthen your company and its culture, not break them." (00:00:16) "When people understand the role they play, it ignites a sense of drive and purpose." (00:03:14) "Scaling can feel like you're riding a roller coaster. Thrilling for some, terrifying for others." (00:04:10) "Small businesses that scale successfully, they make sure their employees feel heard, not overlooked." (00:04:41) "Scaling a business is a balancing act. It's about growth and stability, vision and values, leadership and listening." (00:07:18) Actionable Steps for Scaling Smarter: Refine your values as your company grows. Communicate clearly about changes and their impact. Foster collaboration and empower employees to co-create solutions. Balance short-term needs with your long-term vision. Establish clear feedback channels and actively listen to your team. Call to Action: Want to learn more about scaling smarter? Check out Dr. D's blog https://bit.ly/Dr_D_Blog Subscribe to the podcast for more insights on scaling your business without losing what makes it unique. Like, share, and leave a review to help other business owners on their scaling journey.

    10 min
  8. Commander's Intent for Small Business Success: Empowering Your Team to Scale

    01/12/2025

    Commander's Intent for Small Business Success: Empowering Your Team to Scale

    In this insightful discussion, Dr. David Leitner explores some of the essential elements of fostering a followership-friendly culture within organizations to ensure better alignment with strategic goals. A crucial aspect of this approach is the concept of commander's intent, which bridges the gap between leaders and followers by emphasizing collaboration and empowerment. As Dr. D puts it, "When culture and strategy align, it allows followers and leaders to work together smoothly." This alignment encourages organizations to shift their focus from control to collaboration, thereby overcoming leadership bias and promoting strong followership. Throughout the episode, several key questions are addressed: How can organizations create a culture that supports followership and aligns with strategy? What is the role of delegation in empowering followers, and how does it go beyond simply handing off tasks? How does the responsibility authority metrics (RAM) framework contribute to clarity and autonomy in roles? In what ways can commander's intent enhance strategic followership and ensure alignment with the leader's vision? Join Dr. D. as he delves into these vital topics and uncovers strategies for creating a culture of adaptability, resilience, and success within your organization.

    11 min
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About

David "Dr. D." Leitner invites you on a journey of personal and professional discovery as he interviews friends and former students to learn about a gamut of topics including how they got to where they are in life, how they engage leadership, strategy, and politics, and how they are working to make their world a better place.

Information

  • Creator
    David Leitner, PhD
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2025
  • Episodes
    25
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © David Leitner, PhD
  • Show Website
    The Doctor's Den