Throughout his career leading Boeing and Ford, Mulally embodied that belief. He reflected, “To serve is to live… with humility and love for the greater good.” That mindset led him to accept one of corporate America’s greatest challenges: turning around Ford, then losing $17 billion. When Bill Ford asked him to step in, he simply said, “I want your service.” It struck a chord.
At both companies, Mulally led with his “Working Together” model and a clear belief that leadership is about empowering others. His approach earned him global recognition as one of the world’s top CEOs.
Key lessons he shared include:
In the end, Mulally’s success wasn’t just about business acumen—it was about leading with heart. A lesson that began with his mother’s words: love first, and the rest will follow.
As a Hall of Fame keynote speaker, longtime Associate Editor for Sports Illustrated, and 14-time New York Times Best-Selling author, Don Yaeger is one of America’s most provocative thought leaders. From walking into Afghanistan with the Mujahadeen to living with football legend Walter Payton, Don has spent three decades embedded with the world’s greatest "Greats." Now a sought-after executive coach and host of the Corporate Competitor Podcast, he translates the lessons of sports and business legends into actionable strategies for building a culture of greatness.
"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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