Former Obama Foundation President: How to Lead Through the Toughest Moments | David Simas | E90
Podcast: Leap Academy with Ilana GolanPublished On: Tue Mar 25 2025
Description: David Simas grew up in a Portuguese immigrant family in Massachusetts. His mother, who lost two fingers in a factory accident, instilled in him the power of resilience and the importance of community. These lessons shaped his career, from practicing law to advising President Obama on key national issues and eventually leading the Obama Foundation, where he worked with global leaders to promote democracy and address critical global challenges. In this episode, David joins Ilana to share valuable insights on navigating political crises, leading with empathy, and maintaining personal balance during high-stress moments in public service. David Simas is a lawyer, political strategist, and former CEO and president of the Obama Foundation. He served as White House Director of Political Strategy and Outreach during the Obama administration and has held key roles in state and federal government. In this episode, Ilana and David will discuss: (00:00) Introduction (01:53) Growing Up in a Portuguese Immigrant Family (05:10) Family Struggles and Community Support (09:03) How Legal Training Shaped His Perspective (16:57) Transitioning from Law to Politics (19:44) The Call That Led Him to the White House (23:19) Why Obama’s Team Chose David (27:30) Giving the People a Voice in the Oval Office (32:11) How Great Leaders Handle Crisis (36:38) Balancing Humility and Authority in Leadership (40:28) Navigating Political Pressure and Public Scrutiny (51:12) The Power of Personal Responsibility David Simas is a lawyer, political strategist, and former CEO and president of the Obama Foundation. He served as White House Director of Political Strategy and Outreach during the Obama administration and has held key roles in state and federal government, advising on political engagement and policy strategy. He is currently the Managing Director of Research and Impact at Emerson Collective, where he focuses on democracy, immigration, education, and climate initiatives. Connect with David: David’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/david-simas/ Leap Academy: Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW way for professionals to Advance Their Careers & Make 5-6 figures of EXTRA INCOME in Record Time. Check out our free training today at leapacademy.com/training📈 Leap Academy helps professionals reinvent their careers, build portfolio careers, land board seats, and grow executive leadership skills through expert coaching, personal branding, and career development strategies. Founded by Ilana Golan, it's where bold professionals come to grow.🎯 Start with a free strategy call: https://www.leapacademy.com/yt-schedule🎓 Watch the free masterclass on building multiple income streams: https://webinar.leapacademy.com/24hr-pass1👇 Like what you see? Comment below and let us know what resonated!📌 Subscribe for weekly insights, career strategy, and behind-the-scenes mentorship from Ilana: https://www.youtube.com/@ilanagolan-leap-academy⭐ Hear how others made their leap: https://www.leapacademy.com/reviews🧠 Explore actionable tips on our blog: https://www.leapacademy.com/blog-1---------------🎧 PODCAST | Leap Academy with Ilana GolanInspiring, unfiltered conversations with leaders and professionals who broke the mold. Learn how to build your reputation, impact, and income on your terms.▶️ https://www.leapacademy.com/podcast---------------🔔 Hit the bell so you never miss an episode.📲 Connect with Ilana:Facebook ▶️ https://www.facebook.com/IlanaGolanLeapAcademyLinkedIn ▶️ https://www.linkedin.com/in/ilanagolan/Instagram ▶️ https://www.instagram.com/ilanagolanleapWebsite ▶️ https://www.leapacademy.com/
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