Sam Johnson

A few weeks ago, I got the chance to meet Steven Bartlett from The Diary of a CEO for my husband’s podcast recording. Meeting Steven and shaking his hand somehow felt familiar. After he left the room to prepare, I paused and thought about it. Then it clicked. I realized how much I already knew about him from watching so many of his podcasts, and how in every single one, he finds a way to connect with the guest or with what the guest is saying. He is open, authentic, and raw. He shares bits and pieces of his life, his childhood, his upbringing, and his relationships, whether with his mother, his girlfriend, his friends, employees, or business partners. I believe that’s what makes him such a great interviewer. He comes in with curiosity and openness, ready to take in the information, analyze it, push back a little if he’s not fully convinced, and then connect at a human level. He takes what the guest shares and relates it to his own experience, whether in business or in a more personal way. Then I thought about his book, The Diary of a CEO: 33 Laws of Business & Life. It’s the result of hundreds and hundreds of interviews where he sits down with a wide range of people, from health experts to business leaders, politicians, relationship experts, lawyers, scientists, and more. His mind has absorbed so much of this over time, it’s no surprise the book is so strong. Which brings me to a proud wife moment. During the podcast with my husband, Steven mentioned how knowledgeable Pierre is. He said this was one of the rare interviews where a politician actually answered the questions, and that he truly enjoyed the conversation. This is coming from someone who has interviewed hundreds, if not thousands, of people, many with impressive careers and deep expertise. Because that’s what happens when people really listen to Pierre. His depth of knowledge about our country and how the world works. He is thoughtful, intelligent, but above all, principled. As Steven pointed out, Pierre has stood for the same ideas and values since the letter he wrote for the “If I Were Prime Minister” contest. So here’s the thing. We go forward. We keep moving. We keep fighting. Because we believe deeply in what we stand for, with principle and conviction. And let me tell you, my husband has rock solid support at home. This lady is not for turning. 💁🏻‍♀️

What is one thing that has changed the world for the worst?