In this episode of Lead Leadership with Ed, host Ed McGill engages in a deep conversation with Dan Houston, the retired board chairman and former CEO of Principal Financial Group. They explore the significance of mentorship, the importance of recognizing contributions, and the role of transparency in leadership. Dan shares insights on how to build connections with employees, the necessity of real-time feedback, and the impact of first bosses on career development. The discussion also touches on the challenges of leadership transitions, the importance of cultural fit, and the need for flexibility in leadership roles. Dan emphasizes that individuals must take ownership of their career development and adapt their leadership styles to meet the needs of their teams.