IN THIS EPISODE...

Brandon Sawalich, President and CEO of Starkey, discusses his 31-year journey at the company. He shares insights into his personal and professional journey, describing how he began as an intern and went on to lead the only American-owned hearing technology manufacturer. Brandon explores his leadership philosophy of servant leadership, building a strong, trust-based culture, and learning from both successes and failures.

Starkey is a leading American-owned hearing technology manufacturer, employing over 5,000 people in 29 countries. Starkey's products focus on making hearing aids more discreet and multi-purpose, addressing noise-induced hearing loss, and integrating AI for better sound processing. The company collaborates with tech giants like Apple and Samsung.

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Full show notes, guest bio, links to resources mentioned, and other compelling episodes can be found at http://LeadYourGamePodcast.com. (Click the magnifying icon at the top right and type “Brandon”)

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WHAT TO LISTEN FOR:

1. Brandon Sawalich’s journey from intern to President and CEO of Starkey.

2. The evolution of Starkey and its mission to create advanced, multipurpose hearing aids that enhance health and wellness.

3. How Starkey is leveraging AI and technology to drive innovation in hearing protection and enhancement.

4. Efforts to reduce the stigma around hearing aids through design and education.

5. Starkey’s partnerships with major tech companies and their approach to serving clients.

6. Brandon’s leadership philosophy, including servant leadership and building a strong, trust-based company culture.

7. Advice for finding personal purpose, embracing change, and taking initiative in one’s career.

8. Brandon’s reflections on company pride, employee culture, and the impact of their work.

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FEATURED TIMESTAMPS:

[01:50] Brandon introduces himself, shares about his recent marriage, family, and personal life.

[03:46] Brandon describes his career journey at Starkey, starting as an intern and rising to CEO.

[04:51] Discussion of Starkey’s growth in employee numbers and company resilience.

[06:29] Overview of Starkey’s mission, evolution, and focus on innovative hearing technology.

[07:59] Explanation of Starkey’s target audiences and how their products reach consumers.

[10:41] Brandon discusses technological innovation, including AI, hearing protection, and health features.

[14:29] Partnerships with major tech companies and Starkey’s role in custom ear molds for various industries.

[16:33] Brandon’s leadership philosophy: leading from the front, servant leadership, and company culture.

[18:20] Signature Segment: Brandon’s entry into the LATTOYG Playbook: The importance of building an executive team, setting a clear vision, and developing a strong “feeder system” for leadership.

[19:36] Learning from mistakes, encouraging risk-taking, and fostering direct communication.

[23:01] Advice for listeners on finding purpose, being patient, and taking initiative.

[26:13] Signature Segment: Brandon’s LATTOYG Tactic of Choice: Leading with Courageous Agility

[28:15] Brandon’s proudest leadership win: seeing employee pride and company culture thrive.

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ADDITIONAL RESOURCES FOR YOU:

Overview: Our Signature Leadership Development Experience: http://bit.ly/DevelopYourGame