Tough Things First

Few industry leaders have the breadth of knowledge Ray Zinn has achieved in semiconductors. Over his lifetime, the evolution of the technology has literally changed the world and employed countless millions upon millions. In this edition of his very popular Tough Things First podcast, Ray is joined by industry insider Robert Quinn to discuss the remarkable and revolutionary engineering history […]

The term “supply chain” can be defined simply, but its complexities bring advantages and vulnerabilities the world over. In this edition of the Tough Things First podcast, Ray Zinn explains why interruptions have such massive ramifications whether a subtle change or a gigantic disruption.   Rob Artigo: You’re listening to the Tough Things First podcast. I’m your guest host, Rob […]

Silicon Valley has had more than its share of global market game changers, but also a larger than average share of gigantic failures. Sometimes if you invest in a unicorn, you get the horn. In this Tough Things First podcast, Ray Zinn discusses Elizabeth Holmes and the funding of fantasy. Rob Artigo: Welcome, everyone, back to the Tough Things First […]

One headline read: “…the Great Resignation may be followed by the Great Regret.” But how long will that take? In this edition of the Tough Things First podcast with legendary Silicon Valley CEO Ray Zinn, Ray is joined by his long-time friend and former Micron CFO Robert Barker, to mull over the state of the Great Resignation and its fallout. […]

Actions before words. How leaders benefit from avoiding the same mistakes. When does a leader’s appearance matter? In this final episode of Ray Zinn’s Tough Things First podcast series on Essential Leadership, Ray looks back at some of the major lessons so entrepreneurs can look forward to a new energized focused on success in business and life. Rob Artigo: Welcome […]

Leaders can inspire a culture of integrity in any organization, but what is more effective, words or actions? As we continue this special series of podcasts, Ray Zinn provides his thoughts on the difference between projecting an attitude of integrity in words and proving integrity through actions. Which priority is essential for the truly successful leader. Rob Artigo: Welcome to […]

Successful leaders establish trust with their clients, customers, and employees. It doesn’t stop there. Part 8 of our special series on Essential Leadership, Ray Zinn discusses why trust is a priority, the signs a leader has failed to build trust, and how to reverse that failure.   Rob Artigo: Welcome to a special edition of the Tough Things First podcast, […]

These words sound the same, but a leader needs to know the difference. In Episode 7 of our special series on Essential Leadership, Ray Zinn discusses the entrepreneurial skill of valuing the difference between “ministering” and “administering.” Rob Artigo:    Welcome to a special edition of the Tough Things First podcast with Ray’s series, Essential Leadership. This is episode seven. I’m […]

You can learn on the job after failing, but if you want to beat the odds? Part 6 of our special series on Essential Leadership, Ray Zinn discusses the long odds of entrepreneurial success, and the for pillars that can building a strong foundations for beating the odds. Rob Artigo: Welcome to everyone listening to this podcast. It’s great to […]

How we carry ourselves and dress at work affects our ability to lead. But professional bearing doesn’t end there. In this special edition of the Tough Things First podcast, Essential Leadership Episode Five, Ray discusses how we look and carry ourselves in the workplace and why it matters. Rob Artigo: Welcome to episode number five in Ray Zinn’s Tough Things […]