Tippie Leads

Stories from the University of Iowa’s Tippie College of Business that will change the way you work and lead. Hosted by Nick Westergaard, Tippie Leads explores “grand challenges” in today’s evolving world of work. Each season features groundbreaking faculty research, student and alumni stories, and actionable insights to help leaders navigate change. Tippie Leads is a production of the Tippie Leadership Collaborative. Learn more at tippie.uiowa.edu/tippieleads.

The Risks and Rewards of Speaking Up at Work

Some of the biggest risks we face aren’t global or organizational—they’re deeply personal. In this final episode of our season focused on “risk,” we explore what it means to speak up in the workplace and beyond. Tippie’s Daniel Newton shares practical insights on how employees can overcome the fear of using their voice, and how…

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The High-Risk Conversations Leaders Must Navigate

CEOs face a unique kind of risk—the growing expectation to speak out on social and political issues. In this episode, Tippie’s Michael Durney unpacks the high-stakes decisions leaders must make when navigating these moments. You’ll also hear from Robin Therme, President of CIVCO Medical Solutions, about the tough conversations that have shaped her leadership and…

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Nate Kaeding on the Risks of Entrepreneurship

Entrepreneurs face personal risks that can shape the course of their careers and businesses—from choosing the right co-founder to betting on a bold pivot or putting their reputation on the line. In this episode, we start with a special alumni story from Nate Kaeding, former Hawkeye and NFL kicker turned entrepreneur, as he shares lessons…

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Cybersecurity Risks in the Dark Web

In this episode, we shift from large-scale risks to the personal risks we face every day—like cybersecurity. Tippie’s Mike Colbert, an award-winning faculty member, shares how he’s helping students navigate digital threats and protect their information. Then, MBA student Casey Howard takes us on a personal journey, revealing how a transformative experience led him to…

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When Human Judgment Puts Drivers at Risk

In this episode, Tippie’s Richard Peter explores the surprising resistance consumers have toward driving sensors—devices that could encourage safer driving and lower insurance premiums yet have struggled to gain widespread adoption. Then, Tippie undergrad Ella Borho takes us on a lighter journey, sharing a humorous story about the everyday risks of taking the bus. It’s…

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Forecasting Risk with Probability Markets

Not all risks come from storms—some stem from political and economic shifts. For some, change means opportunity; for others, uncertainty. With the election behind us, how can we navigate risk beyond voting? Tippie’s Tom Gruca, through the Iowa Electronic Markets, has developed a remarkably accurate way to predict outcomes. In this episode, he explains how…

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Managing Risk in Disaster Logistics

Natural disasters disrupt entire industries and supply chains, delaying critical relief. How can we ensure supplies reach victims quickly? And how can companies like Walmart and organizations like the Red Cross respond effectively? Tippie professor Ann Campbell joins us to explore these questions—because logistics shape more than disaster response; they shape daily life. From managing…

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The Risk of Natural Disasters on Insurance

Natural disasters are a major risk, often striking without warning. Recent events like the LA wildfires and Iowa’s 2020 derecho impact victims, rescuers, and insurers, creating ripple effects across the industry. To kick off our new season, we’ll hear from Tippie Professor Martin Grace, chair and faculty director of the Vaughan Institute for Risk Management…

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Introducing Tippie Leads, Season 2: RISK

Tippie Leads will be back with an all-new season starting March 26th. This season, we’re taking on RISK—from the policies that protect us to the natural disasters that disrupt industries and even the risks we take (or don’t) when speaking up at work. Through faculty research, student and alumni stories, and actionable insights, we’ll explore…

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Alumni Story: An Iowa Hero’s Journey

Season Two of Tippie Leads is underway and we can’t wait to share it with you later this spring. In the meantime, we wanted to share the story of a Tippie alum who passed away in 2023.

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