In this episode, Jerome and Julienne talk with Gary Danoff—executive coach, podcast host, and former Google and Microsoft leader—about what it means to lead, coach, and communicate in an era of accelerated change. Gary shares the story of how following his father on sales calls as a child helped shape his empathy-driven approach to coaching today. He also offers a powerful reframing of career transitions—not as setbacks, but as openings.
Key Themes
- Career reinvention: from tech executive to trusted coach
- Reframing layoff experiences as opportunities
- Building trust and safety through storytelling
- Leading through upheaval with presence and empathy
- Why leaders must “suck it up and get personal”
- Making business human in the age of AI
Standout Quotes
“A layoff didn’t happen to me—it happened for me.”
“If they care, I’m in. If they don’t, I’m out.”
“Business is personal. If you’re not willing to get personal as a leader, you’re missing out.”
“I’m your co-pilot. Let’s go.”
Resources Mentioned
- The Big Leap by Gay Hendricks
- The Genius Zone by Gay Hendricks
- Gary’s podcast: What’s Next Now
– Includes episode: “60 Days and Counting” with Namrata K., on finding opportunity post-layoff
- Gary’s website: garydanoff.com
- LinkedIn: Gary Danoff (look for the GenAI & Coaching profile)
Special Offer
Explore your leadership story with Narativ’s self-paced online course in partnership with New Mexico State University Global Campus:
Lead With Your Story
Podcast listeners get 25% off with code NARATIV
https://narativ.nmsuondemand.nmsu.edu/courses/lead-with-your-story-how-to-communicate-about-yourself-and-what-you-do
