Professional Skills
How does a leader balance personal judgment with team relationships when making ethical decisions?
According to Lloyd Blankfein, leaders must recognize they may not always be right, even when making ethical decisions. He explains the importance of weighing the relationship damage against the significance of the issue at hand. For minor concerns, maintaining team relationships might take precedence, while major ethical issues require taking a firm stance regardless of relationship consequences. Blankfein emphasizes that effective leadership involves both owning your decisions and acknowledging uncertainty. When a leader makes a decision, they must be prepared to manage the consequences and recognize that leadership isn't about imposing personal judgment but balancing conviction with humility.
Watch clip answer (00:58m)
NYU Stern
04:55 - 05:53
What scholarship opportunity is Mike Rowe's foundation currently offering for skills training?
The Mike Rowe Works Foundation is currently offering $2.5 million in Work Ethic scholarships for individuals seeking training in skilled trades. These scholarships target the approximately 8 million jobs in America that don't require a four-year degree but do require specialized training. Interested candidates can apply through microworks.org. This initiative addresses the skills gap in the country by providing financial support to those pursuing careers in essential trades like plumbing, electrical work, and welding—careers that offer financial security and stability without requiring traditional college education.
Watch clip answer (00:17m)
Fox News
02:39 - 02:56
How has the American textile industry changed since 1979?
In 1979, 70% of the clothing worn by Americans was made domestically by American workers. Today, that figure has dramatically declined to less than 2%. This represents one of the most significant shifts in U.S. manufacturing over the past several decades. This change is part of what Mike Rowe describes as the "giant sucking sound" that Ross Perot once warned about - the massive outsourcing of American manufacturing jobs. The textile industry appears to be at the forefront of this trend, but Rowe notes that this decline has "impacted virtually everything" in American manufacturing.
Watch clip answer (00:24m)Fox News
00:36 - 01:01
How does working in the trades benefit individuals and their families?
Working in the trades offers dual benefits of financial security and steady employment. As Sean Kelly, a plumber and Mike Rowe Works Foundation beneficiary explains, skilled trade jobs provide stable income to support families while also offering job security that can't be outsourced overseas. These practical skills create resilient career paths in an evolving economy. The trades represent reliable employment opportunities that remain in demand regardless of economic fluctuations, ensuring that skilled tradespeople will "never want for work" while maintaining the ability to provide for their families.
Watch clip answer (00:24m)Fox News
01:53 - 02:17
How does learning a skilled trade impact people's lives?
Learning a skilled trade creates profound life changes for individuals. It builds confidence and instills pride as people develop abilities that can support their own small businesses. These skills provide a foundation for financial independence and personal growth. The transformation is particularly meaningful as it empowers people to create sustainable livelihoods based on their expertise. This life-changing experience not only improves economic prospects but also provides a sense of accomplishment and self-sufficiency that extends beyond mere employment to genuine career ownership.
Watch clip answer (00:15m)
Fox News
03:12 - 03:28
What is Mike Rowe doing to support American manufacturing companies?
Every week, Mike Rowe shines a light on American companies committed to domestic production, such as American Giant, Goruck, and the Montana Knife Company. He highlights these businesses because their stories are inspirational - they face significant challenges from multiple angles while maintaining their commitment to making products in America despite the difficulties. Rowe emphasizes that these companies operate in an unfair environment where the playing field isn't level. He strongly supports efforts to remove obstacles these businesses face, expressing his full backing for initiatives that would 'get your thumb off the scale' and create more equitable conditions for American manufacturers to compete and thrive.
Watch clip answer (00:36m)Fox News
01:04 - 01:41