What does leadership look like when life hands you an ending you didn't choose?

In this episode, I sit down with my friend and mentor, Robert H. Thompson, for a deeply personal and perspective-shifting conversation about what leaders truly need today.

Robert is the author of The Offsite: A Leadership Challenge Fable and has spent more than 30 years advising senior leaders around the world. His clients have included AT&T, Amgen, Hewlett-Packard, Johnson & Johnson, Lockheed Martin, Nike, Visa, and many others. He has also served as a senior consultant with the Tom Peters Company.

During our conversation, Robert shares something deeply personal — a diagnosis none of us ever want to receive. Yet what emerges is not fear, but clarity. Not urgency, but perspective.

Listen in as we talk about:

• What leaders truly need right now
• The difference between reacting and responding
• The weight leaders carry — and how to carry it well
• Legacy, stewardship, and presence
• Robert's sixth C: Care

This is not a polished, high-production interview. It's an honest conversation between two leaders reflecting on what matters most. If something resonates with you, I'd love to hear what stands out. And I'll make sure Robert sees your reflections as well.

Also, be sure to share this episode with a leader who needs perspective right now.