Ep. 70 - Mastering Leadership and Change: The Six-Step Framework with Jim Saliba

In this episode of the Expert Speaker Podcast,
host Majeed Mogharreban sits down with
Jim Saliba, executive coach and author of The
Six Step Leadership Challenge. They discuss what it takes to be
an adaptable leader in today’s fast-changing world, how to
implement agile strategies in leadership, and why small,
strategic experiments can lead to long-term success.


Jim shares his journey from a software engineer in New York to
becoming a Silicon Valley executive coach, helping leaders
navigate organizational change, overcome fear, and step into
their authentic leadership style.


If you’re looking for practical strategies to become a
stronger leader, embrace change with confidence, and make better
decisions, this episode is packed with actionable
insights.
  Key Takeaways

Bridging the Leadership Gap – Many leaders think
they know what’s happening inside their companies, but there’s
often a major disconnect. Jim shares how he helps executives
see the reality and adjust accordingly.


Agile vs. Waterfall Planning – Learn the
difference between these two project management approaches and
why agile is a better fit for today’s fast-paced,
ever-changing business world.


The 30-Day Experiment Rule – Instead of making
big, overwhelming changes, Jim recommends leaders test
small, focused experiments for no more than 30 days to
drive measurable improvement.


Overcoming Resistance to Change – Many people
fear new technologies (like AI) or cling to outdated systems. Jim
explains how to reframe change as a natural, necessary
evolution rather than a threat.


The Four Fears of Leadership – Jim breaks down
the top fears holding leaders back:


Fear of incompetence (imposter syndrome)

Fear of appearing foolish

Fear of failure

Fear of being vulnerable



Authenticity in Leadership – Leaders who try to
“put on a work mask” burn out faster. Jim explains why showing up
as your authentic self is key to long-term
success.


Jim’s Upcoming Leadership Retreat in Napa – A
high-level mastermind for executives to gain
clarity, create a 90-day action plan, and form lasting business
relationships—all over great wine.
  Memorable Quotes

️ “Fear is just a waste of imagination.” – Jim Saliba
️ “Change has an arc—about two to three years—and then companies
say, ‘We’ve changed!’ whether they have or not.” – Jim
Saliba
️ “We’re not throwing everything out—we’re adapting, tuning, and
making it better.” – Jim Saliba
️ “AI is just the latest tool to help us do more with less. Love
it or hate it, it’s here.” – Jim Saliba


 
Action Steps

Grab Jim’s book The Six Step Leadership
Challenge for a structured approach to leadership
growth.
Start a 30-day leadership experiment – Pick one
area to improve, set a clear goal, test it for a month, and
analyze the results.
Connect with Jim Saliba. 


 


Leadership isn’t about knowing all the answers—it’s about being
adaptable, experimenting with new strategies, and staying
authentic in the process. Whether you’re feeling
stuck or stepping into a new leadership
role, this episode will help you navigate change
with confidence and clarity.


 


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