Braving Business Podcast - Episode 07: Leading with Conviction – A Conversation with General Leslie Smith “In leadership, as in life, your values aren’t just your compass; they’re your North Star.” - General Leslie Smith Episode Summary: In this enlightening episode of the Braving Business Podcast, Tal Zlotnitsky and PJ Benoit dive deep into a conversation with General Leslie Smith, the 66th Inspector General of the United States Army. They explore the essence of leading with conviction, the importance of staying true to one's values, and how to navigate the challenging terrains of leadership in both military and business environments. Key Takeaways: 1. Leading with Values: General Smith shares personal anecdotes and experiences that underscore the significance of values in decision-making. He emphasizes that when the path is unclear or the situation is tense, it's one's values that provide direction and clarity. 2. Navigating Challenges: From his time serving in the United States Army to his current role at AUSA and serving on corporate boards, General Smith offers insights into confronting adversity head-on, staying resilient, and learning from every situation. 3. The Intersection of Military and Business Leadership: While the terrains might differ, the principles of leadership remain universal. General Smith draws parallels between leading in the battlefield and leading in the boardroom, highlighting the transferable skills and lessons. 4. The Power of Mentorship: Throughout his career, General Smith has both been mentored and served as a mentor. He discusses the impact of guidance, the importance of passing down knowledge, and how mentorship can shape a leader's journey. Featured Quote: "Your values are the non-negotiables of your leadership journey. They're what you fall back on when the decisions get tough, and they're what guide you when the path ahead isn't clear." - General Leslie Smith Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from one of the most distinguished leaders of our time. Tune into the Braving Business Podcast and discover how values-driven leadership can reshape your approach to business and life.