Storytelling to Strategize

How do you identify and seize opportunities for disruption? In this episode, Rich sits down with Jed Ayres, CEO of ControlUp, a company that helps IT resolve issues faster, prevent tickets, and reduce spending. Jed is widely recognized for the transformational impact he is making on the end user computing industry.  He and Rich discuss innovation, creative thinking and the importance of storytelling in leadership. 

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Key Quotes:

“I'm a firm believer that story is the root to all greatness in the world. And I think about some of the greatest tech companies, they had leaders that were great storytellers.”

“If you can visualize something in your mind's eye and you can put the right plan underneath it, nothing is impossible.”

“What I've found in my career is that the real disruptive innovation typically comes from within really creative people that are able to have the wingspan to get into a dark room and think differently. And they feel like they're in a safe place to come up with new ideas that are radical.”

“Your network is your net worth.”

Practice Makes Profit segment: How to use a threat matrix. 

The League of Strategic Minds segment [listener question]: What is competitive advantage?

Winsight: Idea for Advantage segment:  Winston Churchill said, “To each there comes in their lifetime a special moment, when they are figuratively tapped on the shoulder and offered the chance to do a very special thing, unique to them and fitted to their talents. What a tragedy if that moment finds them unprepared or unqualified for that which could have been their finest hour.” Are you continuing to develop your expertise and skills to be your best so you too can realize your finest hour?

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Time stamps:

(00:40) Deep Dive Interview with Jed Ayres

(43:53) Practice Makes Profit

(46:06) League of Strategic Minds 

(47:26) Winsights, Ideas for Advantage

 --------- Links:

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Jed Ayres on LinkedIn

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Strategic Thinking Institute Website

Inc. Magazine’s Top 4 book for 2024: STRATEGIC  Book

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