Eric Olson

Admiral Eric Olson describes the world’s “new normal” and the global challenges that leading in this new environment presents. Pulling from his vast military experience, he uses a series of fascinating vignettes and visuals to bring principles of leadership to life. Olson shares insights on leadership and how small and large organizations can develop highly productive teams – like what to do about the fact that most people will quit in the anticipation of a difficult challenge rather than in the middle of it. Olson believes that it is critical to an organization’s success that leaders intentionally challenge their people in order to expose their character and weaknesses and prove to them that they are stronger than they thought. He also discusses how to create an inclusive environment where it is ok to fail in front of one’s teammates. Credited with developing the specialized forces that have accomplished some of the most notable military operations of the last decade, Olson knows better than anyone how to get the most out of team members. His lessons and their applications are universal.

Admiral Olson speaks with the quiet authority of his extraordinary military experiences, and in his engaging presentations, he encourages interaction and audience Q&A sessions.