Today's episode provides practical knowledge that will not only help leaders do their jobs better, but assist boards, HR, consultants, and others in working effectively with these executives. One of the book's themes is that appearance is not reality.

Much has been written and discussed about the apparent roles and responsibilities of CEOs and managing directors and other leaders.

Courses are taught in MBA and executive development programs that provide a lot of information about the job. Direct reports and teams also observe leaders in action. But it's not until you assume a leadership job that the reality of the position hits home.

The reality is that leaders operate in a crucible, one in which emotions run high and interpersonal relationships are at risk. Being in the spotlight, not having nearly enough hours in the day to address key issues, confronting right-versus-right decisions - all of this ratchets up the degree of difficulty. The good news that our guest and his book delivers is that awareness of the critical capabilities and issues that come with the territory - capabilities and issues that often take leaders by surprise - goes a long way toward helping leaders perform at a high level. He presents the essential skills that will keep leaders delivering success - both professionally and within their organizations.

We welcome the author of Hidden Truths: What Leaders Need to Hear but Are Rarely Told, David Fubini

Find David here: https://www.hbs.edu/faculty/Pages/profile.aspx?facId=102821