Do CEOs really need to control everything—or is that the fastest way to kill innovation?

Chad Hesters, President & CEO of Boyden, learned early in his career—first as a U.S. Naval Intelligence officer and later in the corporate world—that the most effective leaders are not autocrats at the top of the pyramid. Instead, the best leaders empower others, build trust, and create organizations where accountability and innovation thrive.

In this episode, Chad shares with me how his military experiences shaped his philosophy that leaders must “eat last,” why fear suffocates potential, and how creating a safe space for people to take risks leads to stronger organizations. We dive into the balance between accountability and grace, the tension between short-term outcomes and long-term leadership development, and what it truly means to be a servant leader.

Chad Hesters is the President & CEO of Boyden and a member of its Board of Directors. With decades of global experience in leadership advisory, he is dedicated to transforming organizations by developing the next generation of leaders.

For more about Chad Hesters and Boyden, visit:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/chadhesters/

https://www.boyden.com/

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Dave Osh is a transformation catalyst dedicated to evolving leadership potential, creating a ripple effect of unity in our divided world. He leads large-scale leadership transformation programs that drive meaningful change for individuals, teams, organizations, and society.

Company website: https://www.varlinx.com/

Personal website: https://www.daveosh.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daveosh

Book: https://www.amazon.com/CEO-Potential-Transcend-Organization-Lasting/dp/B0DMMPQFCW

TEDx: https://youtu.be/UhCBv9MX-ks

The most trusted leaders aren’t the ones who avoid conflict—they’re the ones who step into it with courage and clarity.

Marc Zionts has built an extraordinary international career, leading companies across Israel, India, Japan, China, and beyond. As the CEO of SundaySky, he believes that leadership means making the hard calls, being radically transparent, and fostering trust through direct, honest communication. But Marc’s perspective isn’t only shaped by boardrooms—it’s grounded in a life well-lived with over 35 years of marriage, four kind adult children, and the discipline of competitive cycling.

In this conversation, Marc and I unpack the uncomfortable truth that many leaders avoid: difficult conversations are the very foundation of trust. He shares how prioritizing clarity can accelerate decision-making, strengthen teams, and foster alignment—even when it means facing short-term discomfort. We explore the mindset shifts that allow leaders to navigate high-stakes situations, balance competing priorities, and remain grounded through personal discipline and intentional living.

Marc Zionts is the CEO of SundaySky, where he leads with a philosophy that blends directness, global perspective, and human connection.

For more about Marc Zionts and SundaySky, visit:

https://sundaysky.com/

Dave Osh is a transformation catalyst dedicated to evolving leadership potential, creating a ripple effect of unity in our divided world. He leads large-scale leadership transformation programs that drive meaningful change for individuals, teams, organizations, and society.

Company website: https://www.varlinx.com/

Personal website: https://www.daveosh.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daveosh

Book: https://www.amazon.com/CEO-Potential-Transcend-Organization-Lasting/dp/B0DMMPQFCW

TEDx: https://youtu.be/UhCBv9MX-ks

What if the secret to true leadership isn't chasing outcomes but embracing genuine service?

Ben Kessler discovered the core of his leadership philosophy at a surprisingly young age when his father taught him that true joy emerges from serving others. From nearly becoming a Catholic priest to navigating the challenging world of McKinsey consulting and eventually becoming CEO of 66degrees, Ben’s diverse journey underscores the profound power of intentional human connection and selfless leadership.

In this engaging conversation, Ben reveals to me why the deepest joy often arises from a paradox: being both selfishly committed to personal growth and selflessly dedicated to serving others. We explore the critical difference between momentary pleasure and lasting joy, why true presence in relationships is transformative, and how balancing clear expectations with genuine empathy shapes highly effective leaders.

Join us as we discuss why cultivating inner growth is essential for outward success, how intentional presence elevates both personal and professional relationships, and the irreplaceable role authentic human connections play, even in the age of AI.

Ben Kessler is the CEO of 66degrees, dedicated to leadership through authentic service, intentionality, and deep human connection.

For more about Ben Kessler and 66degrees, visit:
https://66degrees.com/

⏰ Timestamps
00:00 Introduction to Ben Kessler
02:06 The Joy of Serving Others
04:39 Selfishness as Strength
07:36 The Paradox of Service
09:35 Balancing Outcomes and Relationships
13:55 Intentional Presence in Leadership
16:23 The Power of Authentic Feedback
19:50 Fully Present Moments
21:50 From Priesthood to McKinsey
26:07 Intellectual Curiosity vs. Practical Service
30:31 Parenting and Leadership
36:21 Playing the Long Game
39:54 Human Leadership in the AI Era
42:28 Authentic Connections vs. AI
44:34 Closing Thoughts and Reflections

Dave Osh is a transformation catalyst dedicated to evolving leadership potential, creating a ripple effect of unity in our divided world. He leads large-scale leadership transformation programs that drive meaningful change for individuals, teams, organizations, and society.

Company website: https://www.varlinx.com/
Personal website: https://www.daveosh.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daveosh
Book: https://www.amazon.com/CEO-Potential-Transcend-Organization-Lasting/dp/B0DMMPQFCW
TEDx: https://youtu.be/UhCBv9MX-ks