16 Mission-Critical Principles from “The Leader’s Checklist” Explained

Prof. Michael, the William and Jacalyn Egan Emeritus Professor of Management and Faculty Director of the Center for Leadership and Change Management as well as the McNulty Leadership Program at The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, joins us to share powerful insights from his acclaimed book “The Leader’s Checklist: 16 Mission-Critical Principles.” This episode of Business Talk features Professor Michael Useem of Wharton discussing “The Leader’s Checklist,” a practical framework of mission critical principles that show leadership is learned rather than innate. Through vivid cases such as Denise Ramos “being CEO before she was CEO,” AIG’s risk management failure, Angela Merkel’s personal storytelling, and Virginia Rometty’s Red Hat acquisition the conversation illustrates how leaders must think strategically, close the knowing–doing gap, manage risk, honor people, and master multiple skills at once. Professor Useem emphasizes placing common interests first, building leadership in others through deliberate succession practices, and preparing for emerging demands like mastering AI and embracing global citizenship. The episode ultimately encourages listeners to take charge of their own development, use the checklist as a practical reminder, and treat leadership as a lifelong craft of serving stakeholders, not oneself. This podcast is brought to you by Global Management Consultancy. For more information, please visit www.globalmanagementconsultancy.com. Disclaimer: A. The background music used in this video is the property of its respective developer and is protected by Copyright. Although it is a free version, Business Talk, Global Management Consultancy and Deepak Bhatt do not hold the rights to this music. B. Prof. Michael Useem offered thoughtful perspectives from his acclaimed book, “The Leader’s Checklist: 16 Mission-Critical Principles”, in his conversation on the Business Talk podcast channel. The uploaded video contains copyrighted material; therefore, any modifications to graphics, music, or the presence of the author or host are strictly prohibited.