The Next Interview Show

Doland White

Each week, I pull back the curtain on what it really takes to lead at a higher level. Alongside my guests—expert leaders in their own right—I share modern strategies, hard-earned leadership insights, and real coaching scenarios drawn from the work I do with executives and teams across the country. No theory. No fluff. Just practical guidance you can put to work the moment the episode ends.

  1. 3d ago

    How Great Leaders Think in the Age of AI | Jim Huling

    Artificial intelligence is changing business faster than most organizations are prepared for—but technology isn't the competitive advantage. Leadership is. In this episode of The Next Interview, executive coach, former CEO, and The Four Disciplines of Execution co-author Jim Huling shares why the future of Executive Leadership depends less on mastering AI and more on strengthening the human qualities technology can never replace. Together, we explore how great leaders develop judgment, curiosity, authenticity, and wisdom while using AI as a strategic tool instead of a substitute for thinking. If you're a Director, Vice President, founder, or executive leading through rapid change, this conversation will challenge how you approach Leadership Development, decision-making, and the future of your organization. AI can increase speed and efficiency, but it cannot replace imagination, experience, or the ability to inspire people. The leaders who thrive won't simply adopt new technology—they'll become better thinkers because of it. Key Insights • Use AI to increase speed—not surrender your judgment. • Authentic leadership is replacing the old model of appearing invulnerable. • The best executive coaches develop better thinking rather than providing better answers. • Human creativity, wisdom, and imagination remain your greatest competitive advantage. Leadership FAQ Q: Can AI replace executive leadership? No. AI enhances productivity, but leadership still depends on human judgment, relationships, and wisdom. Q: What's the biggest leadership risk with AI? Allowing technology to replace independent thinking instead of strengthening it. Q: What skill will matter most in the AI era? The ability to think critically, make sound decisions, and inspire people through change. Key Timestamps 00:00 — Welcome to the Special Two-Part Series Doland introduces Jim Huling and explains why this conversation has been split into two episodes—starting with AI and leadership before moving into trust and people leadership next week. 03:30 — Jim Huling's Leadership Journey From CIO and CEO to FranklinCovey and executive coaching, Jim shares the experiences that shaped his philosophy of leadership and why helping others succeed has become his greatest joy. 10:45 — The Reality of Executive Leadership Why becoming the CEO is far different than most leaders imagine—and why authenticity has replaced the old "never let them see you sweat" model of leadership. 19:00 — AI Is a Tool—Not Your Judgment Jim explains why AI should accelerate thinking rather than replace it, and why leaders must guard against surrendering creativity, wisdom, and independent thought. 28:30 — The Hidden Cost of Over-Reliance on AI A coaching story illustrates what happens when leaders outsource their thinking instead of using AI to strengthen it. 36:00 — Leadership Requires Imagination Why the leaders who thrive in the AI era will be those who continue developing judgment, curiosity, and wisdom while embracing new technology. Call to Action If this conversation challenged the way you think about leadership, follow The Next Interview, subscribe on your favorite podcast platform, and share the episode with another leader. Join the conversation by leaving a comment with your biggest insight, and help us empower more leaders to navigate the future with confidence. Guest Information Jim Huling Executive Coach | Co-author of The Four Disciplines of Execution Website: https://www.executioninsights.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimhuling/ About the Host The Next Interview is hosted by Doland White, executive coach, author of Lead With Confidence®, and known as The Empowerment Guy. Each episode delivers practical insights, powerful stories, and bold conversations designed to help leaders empower their teams, accelerate growth, and lead with confidence. Visit www.dolandwhite.com/lwc and order your copy of Lead With Confidence® today.

    How Great Leaders Think in the Age of AI | Jim Huling
  2. Jul 14

    Why Great Leaders Focus on Clarity Before Communication | Maaya Konishi

    Leaders don't lose influence because they lack knowledge—they lose influence when they can't communicate a clear message. As AI changes the way we work, the ability to lead with clarity, confidence, and authenticity has never mattered more. This week, executive coach Doland White sits down with Maaya Konishi, CEO & Co-Founder of Communiqué, communication expert, and author of Becoming CEO. Together they explore why leadership communication is about far more than speaking another language. It's about helping people understand your vision, creating trust across cultures, and giving others confidence to follow. If you're a Director, VP, or executive leading teams across departments, countries, or cultures, this conversation will challenge how you think about communication, workplace culture, leadership trust, and accountability in the workplace. You'll discover: • Why AI is making leadership communication more—not less—important • How clarity creates confidence and drives team performance • Why authentic leadership matters more than perfect communication Leadership Questions How can leaders communicate more effectively? Start by becoming clear about the message before worrying about the words. Can AI replace leadership communication? AI can improve language, but only leaders create meaning, trust, and influence. How do leaders build confidence? Confidence grows through preparation, clarity, and taking action before feeling completely ready. Time Stamps 00:00 Maaya's journey from language learner to CEO 12:18 Why confidence matters more than perfect English 23:46 AI, communication, and the future of leadership 36:52 Building trust across cultures through authenticity Follow, subscribe, and share this episode with another leader who's committed to building stronger teams and better organizational culture. Guest Maaya Konishi CEO & Co-Founder — Communiqué Author — Becoming CEO: My Love of Languages, My Path to Leadership LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maaya-konishi-57a87821/ Website: https://communica.co.jp/news-digest/ About the Host The Next Interview is hosted by Doland White, executive coach, author of Lead With Confidence®, and known as The Empowerment Guy. Each episode delivers practical insights, powerful stories, and bold conversations designed to help leaders empower their teams, accelerate growth, and lead with confidence. Visit www.dolandwhite.com/lwc and order your copy of Lead With Confidence® today.

    Why Great Leaders Focus on Clarity Before Communication | Maaya Konishi
  3. Jul 7

    How Entrepreneurial Couples Build a Business Without Losing Their Relationship | Brian & Angela Burke

    Building a business with someone you love sounds inspiring—until growth, uncertainty, and everyday life collide. How do leaders maintain leadership trust, strengthen workplace culture, and scale without sacrificing relationships? In this episode, Doland White sits down with Brian and Angela Burke, founders of Food First Travel, to explore what it truly takes to build a company, a family, and a legacy together. This conversation is for founders, Directors, and VPs navigating growth, difficult decisions, and accountability in the workplace. If you're leading teams while balancing personal commitments, this episode offers practical wisdom for creating high performance teams without losing sight of what matters most. • Build trust by making major business decisions together and communicating transparently.
 • Adapt your business model based on customer feedback rather than founder attachment.
 • Hire people who align with your values before focusing on technical skills.
 • Identify your zone of genius and delegate intentionally to improve team performance. Q: How do leaders scale without micromanaging?
A: Hire aligned people, trust them, and delegate with clarity. Q: How do founders know when to pivot?
A: Listen closely to customers and adapt quickly. Q: What creates strong organizational culture?
A: Shared values, curiosity, trust, and consistent communication. 00:00 Introduction and entrepreneurial journeys
 15:45 Building a business as a couple
 24:10 Hiring, delegation, and leadership trust
 42:00 Creating a legacy company Follow, subscribe, and share your biggest leadership takeaway from this conversation. Guest: Brian & Angela Burke
Website: Food First Travel — https://foodfirsttravel.com Food First Travel® designs culinary journeys for travelers who value exceptional dining, preferred access, and a stronger connection to place through its two offerings: Culinary Travel Concierge
A members-only culinary travel service for travelers who value exceptional dining, preferred access, and seamless planning. Each journey is tailored around personal taste, pace, and priorities, with customized itineraries, sought-after reservations, and responsive support at every stage. Culinary Travel Tours
Small-group culinary journeys through leading food and wine regions, designed for travelers who value depth, access, and ease. Each itinerary brings together acclaimed restaurants, notable vineyards, local producers, and hands-on culinary experiences to deepen understanding of regional cuisine and culture. The Next Interview is hosted by Doland White, executive coach, author of Lead With Confidence, and known as The Empowerment Guy. Each episode delivers practical insights, powerful stories, and bold conversations designed to help leaders empower their teams, accelerate growth, and lead with confidence. Visit www.dolandwhite.com/lwc and order your copy of Lead With Confidence® today.

    How Entrepreneurial Couples Build a Business Without Losing Their Relationship | Brian & Angela Burke
  4. Jun 30

    How Great Leaders Rewire Fear, Anxiety, and Self-Doubt | Joseph Clough

    Many leaders believe they need more experience, better strategy, or stronger execution. But what if the real obstacle is the story you're telling yourself? In this episode, executive coach and mindset expert Joseph Clough joins Doland White for a powerful conversation about leadership trust, workplace culture, and the hidden beliefs that quietly shape team performance and organizational culture. Joseph shares why imposter syndrome, anxiety, and self-doubt often stem from identity—not capability—and how leaders can begin rewiring those patterns. If you're a Director, VP, founder, or executive responsible for high performance teams, this conversation will challenge how you think about accountability in the workplace, communication, and leadership development. Key Insights & Strategies • Identity drives behavior—change begins at the subconscious level. • Leaders must take responsibility for how they communicate and show up. • Childhood experiences often influence leadership behavior decades later. • AI is a powerful tool, but leadership remains deeply human. FAQ Q: Why do leaders struggle with change? A: Because most leaders attempt to change behaviors instead of beliefs. Q: How can leaders overcome imposter syndrome? A: By reshaping identity and limiting beliefs that create fear. Q: Can AI replace leadership coaching? A: No. Trust, empathy, and emotional connection remain uniquely human. Time Stamps 00:00 – Joseph's personal transformation story 19:20 – Identity, fear, and leadership beliefs 35:40 – Responsibility and communication 49:30 – AI and the future of leadership Follow, subscribe, and share for more leadership insights. Guest Information Joseph Clough Mindset Expert, Coach & Hypnotherapist Website: JosephClough.info / https://www.josephclough.com/ Get the hypnosis app: Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.Hypnosis&hl=en_US Apple Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/hypnosis-with-joseph-clough/id438205784 The Next Interview is hosted by Doland White, executive coach, author of Lead With Confidence, and known as The Empowerment Guy. Each episode delivers practical insights, powerful stories, and bold conversations designed to help leaders empower their teams, accelerate growth, and lead with confidence. Visit www.dolandwhite.com/lwc and order your copy of Lead With Confidence® today.

    How Great Leaders Rewire Fear, Anxiety, and Self-Doubt | Joseph Clough
  5. Jun 23

    The Leadership Skill AI Can’t Replace | Humphrey Christian

    Most leaders are focused on technology, efficiency, and growth. But what if the real leadership advantage isn’t technology at all? In this episode, Humphrey Christian shares his journey from Silicon Valley executive and technology leader to entrepreneur, podcast host, and advocate for self-discovery. Together, we explore leadership trust, workplace culture, accountability in the workplace, and why human connection still matters in an AI-driven world. If you’re a Director, VP, COO, Founder, or CEO trying to build high performance teams while navigating constant change, this conversation offers practical leadership lessons you can apply immediately. Key Insights & Strategies • Why trust is the foundation of team performance and innovation • How self-discovery helps leaders understand and develop people more effectively • What AI can—and cannot—replace inside an organization • How to overcome fear and resistance during periods of change Quick Leadership Q&A Q: How do leaders improve workplace culture? A: Build trust, create accountability, and help people feel valued. Q: What drives high performance teams? A: Shared trust, clear expectations, and meaningful recognition. Q: Can AI replace leadership? A: No. Leadership requires context, judgment, empathy, and imagination. Time Stamps 08:00 Self-discovery and leadership growth 17:00 Understanding people and unlocking potential 25:00 AI and the future of leadership 45:00 Trust, fear, and organizational change Follow, subscribe, and share the show for more leadership insights. Guest Information Humphrey Christian Founder, Navin https://naveem.com The Next Interview is hosted by Doland White, executive coach, author of Lead With Confidence, and known as The Empowerment Guy. Each episode delivers practical insights, powerful stories, and bold conversations designed to help leaders empower their teams, accelerate growth, and lead with confidence. Visit www.dolandwhite.com and order your copy of Lead With Confidence® today.

    The Leadership Skill AI Can’t Replace | Humphrey Christian
  6. Jun 16

    He Built Companies. They're All Gone. | Bill Holzendorf

    Bill Holzendorf built multiple companies across his tech career. None of them exist today. But something did survive — and it's the one thing most leaders overlook. In this episode, Bill sits down with Doland White to unpack what three decades in tech leadership actually taught him. Not the frameworks. Not the boardroom tactics. The real stuff: why relationships outlast companies, how empowering your people is the only growth strategy that compounds, and what it means to build a legacy that has nothing to do with revenue.If you're leading a team, running a business, or trying to build something that lasts — this one's for you. If you're a Director, VP, SVP, CEO, or growth-minded leader, this conversation offers practical insight into building high-performing teams while creating lasting relationships. • Build trust by empowering people to make decisions and learn from mistakes. • Develop future leaders by creating opportunities beyond their current roles. • Recognize when someone is in the wrong role and help them find their strengths. • Create team success through accountability, communication, and support. Q: How do leaders build trust? A: By giving people ownership and supporting them through setbacks. Q: How do you grow future leaders? A: Invest in their development even when it means they outgrow your team. Q: What creates strong team performance? A: Psychological safety, accountability, and clear communication. Time Stamps 00:00 Leadership Journey 03:30 Relationships Over Companies 08:00 Trust and Psychological Safety 18:00 Building Future Leaders Follow, subscribe, and share for more leadership insights and practical strategies. Guest: Bill Holzendorf The Next Interview is hosted by Doland White, executive coach, author of Lead With Confidence®, and known as The Empowerment Guy. Each episode delivers practical insights, powerful stories, and bold conversations designed to help leaders empower their teams, accelerate growth, and lead with confidence.

    He Built Companies. They're All Gone. | Bill Holzendorf
  7. Jun 9

    How to Build a Customer Experience Your Competition Can't Copy | John Formica

    John Formica spent more than a decade helping lead Disney Resort properties and learning what truly creates customer loyalty. In this episode of The Next Interview, we explore why leadership, culture, trust, and customer experience are inseparable—and why many organizations focus on revenue while ignoring the experiences that drive long-term growth. If you're a Director, VP, SVP, CEO, or business owner looking to improve team success, communication, autonomy, and execution, this conversation provides practical leadership insights you can implement immediately. • Why loyalty is built before, during, and after the sale • How Disney hires for roles instead of job descriptions • Why core values fail when leaders stop reinforcing them • How culture becomes a competitive advantage Q: How do leaders create customer loyalty? A: By consistently delivering trust-based experiences at every touchpoint. Q: Why do great cultures outperform average cultures? A: Because people understand expectations, accountability, and purpose. Q: What is the biggest hiring mistake leaders make? A: Hiring for skills without evaluating role alignment and culture fit. Timestamps 0:00 Introduction and Disney lessons 11:20 Hiring for role vs. job 25:40 Building culture through accountability 50:15 AI and the future of customer experience Follow, subscribe, and share this episode with a leader who wants to build stronger teams, greater trust, and sustainable growth. Guest Information John Formica Customer Experience Expert & Former Disney Resort Leader Website: https://johnformica.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnformica Book: Making the Customer Experience Magical https://www.amazon.com/Making-Customer-Experience-Magical-Competition/dp/1733316207 The Next Interview is hosted by Doland White, executive coach, author of Lead With Confidence, and known as The Empowerment Guy. Each episode delivers practical insights, powerful stories, and bold conversations designed to help leaders empower their teams, accelerate growth, and lead with confidence. Lead With Confidence®: https://a.co/d/0hqSy7LA Website: Https://www.dolandwhite.com

    How to Build a Customer Experience Your Competition Can't Copy | John Formica
  8. Jun 2

    Leaders Who Believe in People First Win | Brian Proctor

    As The Next Interview approaches Episode 100, Doland White welcomes Brian Proctor back to explore one of leadership's most important challenges: overcoming limiting beliefs and creating lasting personal growth. Drawing from decades of experience alongside his father, Bob Proctor, Brian shares practical lessons on confidence, authenticity, trust, and leadership transformation. If you're a Director, VP, SVP, CEO, or entrepreneur looking to strengthen leadership effectiveness, improve decision-making, and create better team performance, this conversation offers actionable wisdom you can apply immediately. • Why authentic leadership creates trust faster than imitation • How small daily actions compound into significant results • A practical exercise for identifying limiting beliefs • Why leaders must believe in people before people believe in themselves Q: How do leaders overcome limiting beliefs? A: By becoming aware of them, challenging them, and replacing them with empowering beliefs. Q: Why is authenticity important in leadership? A: Authenticity creates trust and strengthens communication. Q: How do leaders build confidence? A: Through consistent action and keeping commitments to themselves. Timestamps 00:00 Brian's journey and Bob Proctor's legacy 07:15 Authentic leadership 15:10 Small daily actions create momentum 22:45 Limiting beliefs and confidence Follow, subscribe, and share for more leadership insights. Guest Information Brian Proctor Author, Speaker, Host of Born to Win Podcast Website: BrianProctor.com The Next Interview is hosted by Doland White, executive coach, author of Lead With Confidence, and known as The Empowerment Guy. Each episode delivers practical insights, powerful stories, and bold conversations designed to help leaders empower their teams, accelerate growth, and lead with confidence.

    Leaders Who Believe in People First Win | Brian Proctor
5
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

Each week, I pull back the curtain on what it really takes to lead at a higher level. Alongside my guests—expert leaders in their own right—I share modern strategies, hard-earned leadership insights, and real coaching scenarios drawn from the work I do with executives and teams across the country. No theory. No fluff. Just practical guidance you can put to work the moment the episode ends.