Reviving an Icon: Leadership, Innovation, and the New Goodyear Mindset

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How do you transform a brand that's been part of American history for 125 years, without losing the DNA that made it legendary?

In this episode, Goodyear CEO and President Mark Stewart joins Jan Griffiths to share how he is breathing new life into one of the world's most iconic brands — and why the real transformation is not just about technology, but rather about leadership, culture, and people.

He reflects on his early days supervising third shifts in hot, unforgiving plants and how those moments shaped his belief that leadership isn't about barking orders—it's about building real accountability, setting clear targets, and creating an environment where people can do their best work without fear.

Inside Goodyear, the transformation touches everything: leadership behaviors, operational models, and even the story the brand tells the world. Mark talks about honoring Goodyear's pioneering legacy — like the iconic Goodyear Blimp, now celebrating 100 years — while recognizing that past success can breed conservatism if left unchecked.

At the core of all this change is a new way of thinking about partnerships. Mark discusses the shift from traditional supplier hierarchies to real, transparent collaborations — where information is shared, problems are solved together, and the success of one depends on the success of all.

Beyond strategy, Mark shows what leadership looks like at a human level. From walking factory floors to learn how tires are made firsthand to personally rallying 68,000 associates around a simple, bold vision — to be number one in tires and service — he demonstrates that leadership today isn't about commanding from the top. It's about committing yourself fully to the people you serve.

Mark shares glimpses of life outside the boardroom—from hiking with his Labradors in Akron's Metro Parks to binge-watching White Lotus to plotting a summer trip across Europe to see Robbie Williams live.

These moments aren't distractions from leadership; they're reminders that authenticity—showing up fully human—is part of what makes great leadership real.

Themes discussed in this episode:

• Why legacy companies must unlearn traditional business practices to survive industry disruption
• How EV tire technology and connected mobility are reshaping Goodyear’s product strategy
• Revitalizing a legacy automotive brand: How Goodyear is transforming after 125 years
• Building supplier collaboration models for the future of the automotive supply chain
• Making accountability and measurable KPIs the foundation of leadership transformation
• Embedding innovation across all departments, not just R&D, to stay competitive
• Why reconnecting leadership with shop floor operations drives meaningful cultural change
• How Goodyear is rallying 68,000 global employees around a bold new vision for growth

Featured guest: Mark Stewart

What he does: Mark is the Chief Executive Officer and President of The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, joining the company and its Board of Directors in January 2024. Previously, he held leadership roles at Stellantis, Amazon, and ZF TRW Automotive, overseeing global operations, EV transformations, and advanced technological innovations. Known for championing diversity and economic equality, Mark has been recognized with awards such as the COO of the Year by the...