When pressure rises, clarity disappears—and that's where most leaders break. When information is incomplete and the stakes are high, many default to speed, control, or ego. Over time, those reactions compound into risk and instability. Ray Zinn explains how disciplined judgment—not intelligence alone—is what builds companies that last, and how steady decision-making separates enduring leaders from reactive operators. What You'll Learn • Why intelligence alone doesn't create lasting business success • How to make high-stakes decisions with incomplete information • The hiring philosophy that builds loyalty and long-term stability • Why fixing mistakes immediately prevents long-term risk • How discipline and culture drive profitability over decades Sponsors & Partners - Shopify. Build, run, and grow your business from one platform.. Start your $1/month trial. - For sponsorship opportunities, email [email protected]. About Ray Zinn Ray Zinn is one of the longest-serving CEOs in Silicon Valley history, leading Micrel for 37 years from startup to a multibillion-dollar acquisition. Known for his principles-based leadership, he emphasizes judgment, discipline, and building strong teams that sustain performance over time. He is the author of Tough Things First, focused on tackling hard decisions early and building enduring success.

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

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