Leaders have more advice, tools, and resources than ever. So why are so many still overwhelmed? Don Gregori says we’ve been missing the bigger picture. He’s the COO of First Factory and author of The Emergent Leader, a book about leadership, self-mastery, and building a strong brand. We’re talking about what it takes to become a leader and build something that really lasts.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
- How building yourself and building a brand are the exact same project
- Why empathy needs to be treated as a hard skill for managers
- What separates “emergent” leadership from static management models
- How to avoid getting overwhelmed by the sheer volume of new tech tools
- Why AI should serve the individual rather than replace human judgement
Episode Chapters
- (00:00) Intro
- (00:46) Building Yourself vs Building a Brand
- (04:30) Empathy as a Core Management Skill
- (06:08) Defining the Emergent Leader
- (09:34) Navigating Modern Information Overload
- (12:32) Managing Stress and Fear in Leadership
- (18:33) The Theater and Business Connection
- (22:34) Managing AI and the Human Element
- (28:44) A Brand That Made Don Smile
About Don Gregori
Don Gregori is the Chief Operating Officer of First Factory, a nearshore software development firm, and the author of The Emergent Leader. With a background spanning technology, strategy, and the performing arts, he focuses on self-mastery, organizational culture, and navigating rapid industry change through empathetic leadership.
What Brand Has Made Don Smile Recently?
During a recent trip to Maine, Don was brought a smile by Gelato Fiasco—a local favorite in Brunswick—and Middle East Coast, a regional brand making exceptional tahini-forward hummus.
Resources & Links
- Connect with Don on LinkedIn.
- Check out his book, The Emergent Leader.
- Learn more on his website.
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Until next week, I’ll see you on the Internet!
