Sandy on Talent - Insights and Strategies for Leadership Excellence and Talent Optimization

Sandy Ogg
  • 5.0 (10)
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Think about the worst job you've ever had. What made it so? How did you feel about yourself and your abilities while you were stuck in that awful position? Welcome to Sandy on Talent, where we discuss the unfortunate reality of good talent going to waste and uncover how business leaders can unlock hidden potential in themselves and others to achieve personal and organizational growth. Join Sandy and his renowned guests for insightful and honest discussions on executive leadership, talent optimization, and entrepreneurial success. Now think of the best job you've ever had. It felt entirely different, didn't it? Our mission is to help everyone find fulfillment, dignity, and success in their jobs. We call that magical union "click" —the moment talent perfectly aligns with their role, connecting abilities and superpowers to tangible value, and everyone wins. Whether you're a CEO, business executive, ambitious employee, or an entrepreneur, our insights are tailored to provide actionable strategies for harnessing potential and driving organizational success. Host Sandy Ogg brings over three decades of experience as a CEO advisor, talent expert, and entrepreneur. He founded CEO.works and has served as an operating partner at Blackstone Group and as CHRO of Unilever. Throughout his career, Sandy has collaborated with top global business leaders, gaining insights into the consistent practices that drive value for stakeholders. He leverages this knowledge to develop talent-focused tools to help leaders and organizations thrive in today's economic environment. On our podcast, Sandy and his guests will tackle one of the top issues highlighted in every CEO annual survey: the persistent shortage of talent where it's needed most. Through thought-provoking conversations, they will address burning questions like "How do we hire the best people?" "Is the organization talented enough?" "Is the hierarchy dying or already dead?" And, "Why do transformations fail?" If you're ready to transform your approach to leadership and talent, join us for Sandy on Talent, where we ignite the spark that propels individuals and organizations toward excellence.

  1. 031: What Elite Athletes Teach Us About Long-Term Performance with Matt LaPorta

    FEB 5

    031: What Elite Athletes Teach Us About Long-Term Performance with Matt LaPorta

    In this episode of Sandy on Talent, Sandy is joined by Matt LaPorta — former Major League Baseball player, Olympic bronze medalist, and partner at True Up Capital Advisors — for a candid conversation on what it takes to sustain high performance through success, setbacks, and major career transitions. Together, they explore the difference between confidence and arrogance, why talent alone isn't enough, and how discipline and self-awareness drive long-term fulfillment. Matt shares lessons from his journey through elite athletics, career-ending injuries, and his transition into business and investing. The discussion unpacks the realities of pressure, failure, and reinvention, offering insight into how high performers continue to move forward even when the path isn't clear. If you're navigating change or searching for work that truly fits your strengths, this episode delivers a practical perspective and hard-earned insight. In this episode, you will hear: How early work ethic and discipline shape long-term performance Confidence versus arrogance and why listening matters at higher levels Navigating failure, setbacks, and career-defining adversity Transitioning from elite athletics into business and investing The emotional and identity challenges after career-ending injuries Why high performers seek difficult work and meaningful pressure Engineering the right fit between talent role and challenge Connect with Sandy Ogg: Website: https://www.sandyontalent.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandyogg/  X: https://twitter.com/SandyOnTalent  Instagram: @SandyOnTalent Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

    48 min
  2. 030: REPLAY: From DJ to McKinsey: Chris Gagnon's Journey of Leadership, Mentorship, and Transformation

    JAN 22

    030: REPLAY: From DJ to McKinsey: Chris Gagnon's Journey of Leadership, Mentorship, and Transformation

    Join us for an engaging conversation with the dynamic Chris Gagnon, CEO of CURVE Test Centers, a Senior Partner at CEO.works, and ex McKinsey alum, who brings a treasure trove of insights and experiences to our latest episode. From his formative years at Dartmouth to his leadership roles in McKinsey and later in private equity, Chris's career journey has been anything but conventional. Explore the unique blend of digital and traditional approaches he has harnessed to drive transformation in businesses. Chris's story is one of resilience, creativity, and the power of mentorship. Throughout his career, the support of influential mentors played a significant role in guiding him to McKinsey and beyond, leading to his impactful contributions in leadership development and organizational growth. Our conversation explores the importance of having a robust support system and how aligning personal talents with job responsibilities can lead to fulfilling and successful careers. In this episode, you will hear: The transformative power of mentorship and its impact on Chris's career. Innovative approaches in business transformation, including the use of digital and traditional methods. Reflections on career challenges, failures, and lessons learned in private equity. Building diverse and effective teams, and the significance of collaboration in leadership. The role of personal support networks in achieving professional success. The alignment of personal talents with job responsibilities for fulfilling careers. Connect with Sandy Ogg: Website: https://www.sandyontalent.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandyogg/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/SandyOnTalent  Instagram: @SandyOnTalent Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

    59 min
  3. 029: Why Transformations Fail: Jim Hirshorn on Talent, Work, and Role Fit

    JAN 8

    029: Why Transformations Fail: Jim Hirshorn on Talent, Work, and Role Fit

    In this episode, Sandy sits down with longtime friend, the Co-Founder and Chairman of Onyx Canyon Partners, Jim Hirshorn for a wide-ranging conversation about careers, leadership, and what actually drives long-term success. Jim shares his journey from a quiet, analytically minded childhood through engineering, consulting, private equity, and executive operating roles, offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at how leaders are truly formed over time. Together, Sandy and Jim explore why so many talented executives fail despite strong credentials and how success depends on the interaction between talent, role, and work. This episode challenges conventional thinking about career decisions, titles, and compensation, replacing it with a more intentional framework centered on fulfillment, impact, and alignment. As co-founder and chairman of Onyx Canyon Partners, Jim brings over 35 years of experience as an operator, investor, and board leader across multiple industries. He is well known for his direct, people-centered leadership style, blending strategic clarity with a deep respect for culture and teams. This is a candid, experience-driven conversation about choosing fulfillment over status and finding the role where your talents truly matter. In this episode, you will hear: How early family influences shaped Jim Hirshorn's leadership mindset Why leadership success is a multiplication problem, not an addition problem The hidden risks behind executive job changes and PE-backed roles What role–talent–work alignment really means in practice Why culture often determines whether strategy succeeds or fails How to identify your personal superpowers and build a career around them Why chasing titles and compensation often leads to failure Connect with Sandy Ogg: Website: https://www.sandyontalent.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandyogg/  X: https://twitter.com/SandyOnTalent  Instagram: @SandyOnTalent Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

    56 min
  4. 028: Impossible Roles, Real Results: Leadership Lessons from Mike Zafirovski

    12/25/2025

    028: Impossible Roles, Real Results: Leadership Lessons from Mike Zafirovski

    In this episode, Sandy sits down with Mike Zafirovski, founder and chairman of The Zaf Group (TZG), to explore a remarkable leadership journey that spans continents, industries, and decades. From growing up in communist Yugoslavia to leading some of the world's most complex global businesses, Mike reflects on the experiences that shaped his leadership philosophy and personal mission. Together, Sandy and Mike discuss what it truly takes to lead at the highest levels, why great leaders sometimes land in impossible roles, and how fulfillment comes from aligning work, values, and service. This conversation offers rare, candid insight into executive decision-making, cultural transformation, and the difference between success and significance. Just a small clarification: There are a few mentions of years in the '00s during the conversation that are misidentified as years in the '20s. At 29:24, Mike means 2001 and at 32:36, Mike means 2004. In this episode, you will hear: How Mike's early life as an immigrant shaped his views on work, opportunity, and leadership Why leadership is a privilege, not a position The role mentorship and preparation play in unlocking human potential What General Electric taught Mike about leadership development and execution at scale How Motorola's turnaround revealed the power of culture, clarity, and a growth mindset Why even elite leaders can fail in structurally impossible roles Connect with Sandy Ogg: Website: https://www.sandyontalent.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandyogg/  X: https://twitter.com/SandyOnTalent  Instagram: @SandyOnTalent Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

    59 min
  5. 027: The Power of Curiosity, Coaching, and Click: Alisa Cohn on Leadership That Lasts

    12/11/2025

    027: The Power of Curiosity, Coaching, and Click: Alisa Cohn on Leadership That Lasts

    In this wide-ranging and deeply personal episode of Sandy on Talent, Sandy Ogg sits down with world-renowned executive coach Alisa Cohn to explore the leadership traits, career decisions, and personal instincts that shape high-impact executives. Cohn, recognized globally for her work with CEOs and founders—from Foursquare to Google—offers a rare look into the forces that shaped her own career and the patterns she observes in leaders who succeed as their responsibilities scale. Alisa shares stories of individuals who dared to follow their internal compass, even when societal norms dictated otherwise. We explore narratives of career navigation, where initial paths seemed pre-determined yet ultimately gave way to fulfilling ventures in coaching and entrepreneurship. Hear how personal alignment and the courage to embrace one's true aspirations can lead to remarkable professional growth and satisfaction, even when it means veering into the unknown. The episode also highlights the significance of staying true to oneself in an ever-evolving work environment. In this episode, you will hear: Alisa Cohn's inspiring journey from college halls to a global executive coach, guiding C-suite leaders and major corporations. The power of effective communication and strategic facilitation in career development. Navigating non-linear career paths with courage and authenticity, emphasizing the importance of following one's internal compass. Building a successful coaching practice through networking, incremental steps, and seizing unexpected opportunities. Insights on creating value and purpose in the workplace by aligning personal aspirations with organizational roles. Emphasizing the importance of authenticity, strategic consulting, and the courage to pursue a path that resonates deeply with one's passions. Resources from this Episode Alisa's profile in First Round Review - https://review.firstround.com/the-feedback-founders-need-to-hear-%E2%80%94-how-to-grow-yourself-to-grow-the-company  Alisa's podcast with Tim Ferriss - https://tim.blog/2021/10/19/alisa-cohn/  Alisa's book From Start-up to Grown-up - https://www.amazon.com/Start-Up-Grown-Up-Grow-Leadership-Business/dp/1398601381/ref=sr_1_3?crid=3MYW4EEHGNQ16&dchild=1&keywords=from+startup+to+grown+up&qid=1623150243&sprefix=from+startup%2Caps%2C237&sr=8-3  You can get Alisa's "5 Scripts for Delicate Conversations" tool (and join thousands of other people who love her newsletter) here - http://www.alisacohn.com/scripts/  AlisaCohn.com  Connect with Sandy Ogg: Website: https://www.sandyontalent.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandyogg/  X: https://twitter.com/SandyOnTalent  Instagram: @SandyOnTalent Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

    1h 6m
  6. 026: Unleashing Potential: Harish Manwani's Leadership Journey from Unilever to Private Equity

    11/27/2025

    026: Unleashing Potential: Harish Manwani's Leadership Journey from Unilever to Private Equity

    Global business leader Harish Manwani shares his incredible journey from a management trainee to Unilever's Chief Operating Officer, revealing his passion for teamwork and strategic execution in the world of business. Harish's story is not just about climbing the corporate ladder but discovering the "joy of business" through leadership roles across diverse markets like India, Argentina, and North America. Listen as Harish delves into his leadership philosophy, which emphasizes the synergy of teams and the excitement of achieving tangible results together, a drive that continues to fuel his roles beyond Unilever. The episode is packed with strategic insights as Harish recounts key leadership lessons from his career, such as the significance of aligning teams with a clear vision and the concept of "everyday great execution" to drive business success. He navigates through the complexities of cultural differences encountered in global leadership, underscoring the importance of adapting and inspiring across different regions while maintaining a focus on shared objectives. From the competitive challenges faced in Argentina to the relentless pursuit of growth in Asia, Harish's experiences offer a nuanced understanding of effective leadership in a global context. In this episode, you will hear: Leadership lessons on aligning teams with vision and executing strategies Navigating cultural differences in global leadership and fostering team synergy Transition from Unilever to private equity with Blackstone, emphasizing mutual growth Insights on recruiting for cultural fit and the significance of role alignment Career transitions and the importance of curiosity and continuous learning Building energized teams and finding joy in transforming plans into successful outcomes Connect with Sandy Ogg: Website: https://www.sandyontalent.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandyogg/  X: https://twitter.com/SandyOnTalent  Instagram: @SandyOnTalent Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

    57 min
  7. 025: When Conversations Get Hard: How to Achieve Skillful Communication Under Pressure with Molly Tschang

    11/13/2025

    025: When Conversations Get Hard: How to Achieve Skillful Communication Under Pressure with Molly Tschang

    Molly Tschang—the mastermind behind Say it Skillfully and Abella Consulting—shares her journey in guiding executives through complex changes and fostering team cohesion. Her work in over 80 mergers and acquisitions at high-profile companies like Cisco and US Filter underscores her expertise and passion for effective communication. Molly's bestselling book, co-authored with Marshall Goldsmith, "Say it Skillfully: Speak Up, Make Your Words Matter, Win Together," further cements her reputation as a catalyst for personal and professional transformation. Our conversation explores her achievements as a TEDx speaker and her dedication to organizations like Community Solutions and NetHope, highlighting her commitment to positive impact. Throughout our discussion, we reflect on personal growth through adversity and the development of confidence. I recount my own college struggles, the pivotal decision not to transfer, and the unexpected job offer from IBM that altered my career path. These stories illustrate the importance of embracing challenges, balancing ambition with emotional well-being, and leveraging skillful communication. We also examine the power of aligning personal values with organizational culture and how embracing the "Say it Skillfully" framework empowers individuals to tackle tough conversations with confidence. In this episode, you will hear: Molly Tschang's journey from personal adversity to becoming a transformative leader and communication expert The creation and impact of "Say it Skillfully" as a framework for effective communication The role of effective communication in successful mergers and acquisitions at companies like Cisco Balancing ambition with emotional well-being and embracing challenges for personal growth Navigating career shifts, taking calculated risks, and the value of mentorship and professional development The importance of aligning personal values with organizational culture for authentic leadership Resources from this Episode As mentioned, love to offer all your subscribers free access to my mini-audiobook sneak peek of the simple and powerful "Me—You—We" framework—a game-changer for expressing yourself skillfully and listening with intention.  https://sayitskillfully.zoundy.com/me-you-we1  Website: https://www.sayitskillfully.com/  Connect with Sandy Ogg: Website: https://www.sandyontalent.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandyogg/  X: https://twitter.com/SandyOnTalent  Instagram: @SandyOnTalent Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

    1h 10m
  8. 024: From Boardrooms to Startups: Ruxandra Tentis on Reinvention, Resilience, and Innovation

    10/30/2025

    024: From Boardrooms to Startups: Ruxandra Tentis on Reinvention, Resilience, and Innovation

    From the bustling boardrooms of McKinsey to the innovative frontiers of entrepreneurship, Ruxandra Tentis CEO of YELO software, shares an extraordinary story of resilience and reinvention. Growing up in communist Romania, Ruxandra's journey is a testament to the transformative power of education and opportunity, highlighted by a pivotal scholarship from the George Soros Foundation and an MBA from MIT Sloan. Her transition from a nearly two-decade career at McKinsey & Company, where she nurtured the private equity practice, to founding ventures in solar technology and AI-driven tools, illustrates a dynamic fusion of strategic insight and entrepreneurial spirit. Ruxandra's leap into entrepreneurship was catalyzed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which prompted her to reassess priorities and embrace new challenges. Listen as she reflects on how her tenure at McKinsey equipped her with a formidable problem-solving toolkit, setting the stage for her ventures in the software industry and beyond. Ruxandra's commitment to innovation is palpable as she discusses the synergies between her solar and software businesses, the distinctive designs they bring to the market, and the cultural ripple effects they are creating within the Romanian tech scene. In this episode, you will hear: Ruxandra Tentis's journey from communist Romania to a successful entrepreneur in solar technology and AI-driven tools. Transition from nearly two decades at McKinsey to entrepreneurship during the COVID-19 pandemic. Founding ventures that integrate solar technology and AI solutions for mid-sized businesses. Synergies between solar and software ventures, fostering innovation in the Romanian tech scene. Insights into leadership challenges, job satisfaction, and the disparity between CEO assessment scores and success rates. Strategies for enhancing productivity and success in startups versus midsize companies. Resources from this Episode Yelo Software - https://www.yelosoftware.com/ Connect with Sandy Ogg: Website: https://www.sandyontalent.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandyogg/  X: https://twitter.com/SandyOnTalent  Instagram: @SandyOnTalent Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

    53 min
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About

Think about the worst job you've ever had. What made it so? How did you feel about yourself and your abilities while you were stuck in that awful position? Welcome to Sandy on Talent, where we discuss the unfortunate reality of good talent going to waste and uncover how business leaders can unlock hidden potential in themselves and others to achieve personal and organizational growth. Join Sandy and his renowned guests for insightful and honest discussions on executive leadership, talent optimization, and entrepreneurial success. Now think of the best job you've ever had. It felt entirely different, didn't it? Our mission is to help everyone find fulfillment, dignity, and success in their jobs. We call that magical union "click" —the moment talent perfectly aligns with their role, connecting abilities and superpowers to tangible value, and everyone wins. Whether you're a CEO, business executive, ambitious employee, or an entrepreneur, our insights are tailored to provide actionable strategies for harnessing potential and driving organizational success. Host Sandy Ogg brings over three decades of experience as a CEO advisor, talent expert, and entrepreneur. He founded CEO.works and has served as an operating partner at Blackstone Group and as CHRO of Unilever. Throughout his career, Sandy has collaborated with top global business leaders, gaining insights into the consistent practices that drive value for stakeholders. He leverages this knowledge to develop talent-focused tools to help leaders and organizations thrive in today's economic environment. On our podcast, Sandy and his guests will tackle one of the top issues highlighted in every CEO annual survey: the persistent shortage of talent where it's needed most. Through thought-provoking conversations, they will address burning questions like "How do we hire the best people?" "Is the organization talented enough?" "Is the hierarchy dying or already dead?" And, "Why do transformations fail?" If you're ready to transform your approach to leadership and talent, join us for Sandy on Talent, where we ignite the spark that propels individuals and organizations toward excellence.

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