Do the Right Thing, Every Time: Lessons on Leadership and Agency

About this episode

Eric Ries discusses leadership principles and the Lean Startup method, emphasizing the importance of doing the right things consistently.

Eric Ries has spent the last two decades reshaping how companies are built and led, emphasizing continuous innovation, long-term thinking, and purposeful governance. He says, “It’s not about doing more—it’s about doing the right things consistently. Your small actions compound, and they define the future of your organization.” In this episode, Eric dives into the principles behind the Lean Startup method, why leaders need to create structures that empower others, and how long-term thinking can transform organizations. He shares insights on why experimentation is a competitive advantage, how to influence without authority, and the value of making decisions with both vision and humility. Tune in for actionable strategies and thought-provoking advice from one of the most influential voices in modern entrepreneurship.

People in this episode

Hosts: Dale Carnegie, Joe Hart

Guest: Eric Ries

Topics covered

• leadership
• innovation
• long-term thinking
• empowerment
• decision making

Keywords

• leadership
• Lean Startup
• innovation
• empowerment
• decision making
• long-term thinking
• experimentation

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Lean Startup, Dale Carnegie, Joe Hart

More episodes of Take Command: A Leadership Podcast

• No Shortcuts, No Excuses: Building What Lasts · May 12, 2026 · 47 min
• Running the Long Game: Small Steps, Big Impact. · April 14, 2026 · 32 min
• Grit Is Not Optional: Leading Through Crisis with Courage and Heart · March 24, 2026 · 34 min
• Nothing to Lose, Everything to Build · March 10, 2026 · 39 min
• Beyond Shareholders: Rethinking What Winning Means · February 24, 2026 · 29 min
• Keep Sharp in Chaos: A Surgeon's Mindset Hack · February 10, 2026 · 44 min