FanDuel CEO Amy Howe numbers “grit and determination” among the principal leadership characteristics and has no doubt where she honed hers. “Trust me. Growing up on a farm in Eden, NY, and trying to make it through those Buffalo winters meant you had to develop some grit,” she recently said. Add to this circumstance the fact she is an identical twin and, well, adds Howe, “there are few things in the world that make you more competitive than having an identical sister in a small town where everyone compares the two of you!”
Howe took that competitive spirit with her into gymnastics and cheerleading (Her 1988 squad won the Grand Champions title); to business degrees from Cornell and The Wharton School, and then to executive roles, including COO of Ticketmaster.
Howe believes that part of being a gritty leader means recognizing that everyone has their ups and downs and using that awareness to be disciplined about using the low points to improve. For Howe, improvement comes through a dedication to preparation – mental, emotional, and physical. “In our crowded days, with our schedules that seem to pile upon us continuously, we have to carve out time for preparing for the challenges ahead,” she explained.
“Most of our schedules happen to us,” she added. “Leaders need to be more intentional about taking control of their time.” In the podcast, Howe shares her techniques for maximizing her time and clearing her mind for higher-level problem-solving.
You will learn:
"Don is one of the best storytellers I’ve ever met. I’ve known him for a long time and every time we talk I walk away wiser and more inspired. He is the best in the business at teaching you a skill – storytelling – that will last you a lifetime.”
“The ability for athletes to get hired is carried on through you because you are putting out the message that lessons learned from sports are important in life. It is embedded in this podcast, what you’re doing is significant.”
We speak the same language. I am inspired by the stories you tell, the people you have met, and the things you’ve done. Those of us that are competitors like to follow others that have been down that journey, so it is always fun talking to you!”
“Many of the leaders I have worked with were excellent athletes, and I think there is a direct correlation. You’re one of the few people that really has pursued this study, Don. Keep up the great work. What you are doing really makes a difference.”
“Don, you have mastered the skill of interviewing and asking great questions. That is a great skill all leaders need in order to understand their team members’ thought processes.”
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