2x4x2 Leadership Interview

Welcome to "2x4x2 Leadership Framework” Interview series - This Vlog and podcast delves into the minds of influential leaders across industries to uncover the secrets of their success and the lessons they've learned on their leadership journey. In each episode, we sit down with seasoned executives, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders to explore the strategies, challenges, and insights that have shaped their leadership philosophy.

Click on the video, on the right, to hear our guest’s insight on…

  • Diving into the guest's personal leadership journey, from early career experiences to pivotal moments that shaped their approach.

  • Conversation about the challenges the guest has faced as a leader and the valuable lessons learned from overcoming adversity.

  • Exploration of the specific strategies and tactics the guest employs in their leadership role.

  • Examination of the guest's approach to innovation and how they cultivate a forward-thinking mindset within their organization.

    • Insights into their vision for the future of leadership in their industry.

January Show Guest: Kevin Kivikko
Play Video below…

In the second episode of 2x4x2 Leadership Framework, we are talking to Kevin Kivikko. Kevin is a veteran in the world of corporate communications and embarked on his journey after graduating with a BFA from the University of Illinois at Urbana.

From his early days in Chicago as Creative Director on Michigan Avenue, Kevin's trajectory included roles as an art director, Vice President of Creative, and ultimately, the Vice President of Internet Strategies for an international public relations firm.

In 2001, Kevin launched his own creative design and development company with a dual focus on meetings and events production and public relations.


December Show Guest: COL (RET) Alan D. Landry
Play Video below…

2x4x2 Leadership Interview

COL (RET) Alan Landry is a dynamic, innovative leader with over 45 years of experience in the public and private sectors. Alan is the founder of ALtuitive Holdings, LLC, an independent consulting company focused on leadership, strategy and mentorship.  He is the author of “Growing Mentor Intelligence™ – A Field Guide to Mentoring” and the “Companion Workbook”, important contributions to the field of growing and sustaining effective organic mentorship programs. He currently presents workshops to create more effective teams and inclusive cultures through the development of human capital and maintains a robust private mentoring practice.

To purchase COL (RET) Alan Landry’s book…Click here


How the 2x4x2 Leadership Framework Interview series got started…

At a friend's 40th birthday celebration, she surprised me by mentioning that her grandfather, Papa Jim, wanted to have a conversation with me. Given that we rarely spoke, I found it intriguing but immediately made my way over to him. Papa Jim proceeded to share his fascinating journey into the grocery business during the 1950s when he secured a position at Jewel Foods/Osco Drugs in Illinois. By 1964, Jewel had acquired a Star Market in Boston and had ambitious plans to establish grocery chains in Milan, Italy. With the task of managing 10 newly opened stores, Jim applied and landed a managerial role.

During this era, Europe's business landscape was rife with complexities, yet one family seemed to have mastered it—the Aldi brothers in Germany. Jim, recognizing an opportunity, hopped on a plane and arranged a meeting with the Aldi brothers to seek insights into navigating the European market. The encounter proved to be pivotal, as Jim learned valuable strategies to overcome the red tape and challenges of the European business scene.

This captivating narrative left a lasting impression on me, revealing a side of Papa Jim's extensive business experience that I hadn't fully grasped over the years. It sparked my interest in collecting and sharing such compelling stories of leadership, ultimately inspiring the creation of the "2 x 4 x 2 Leadership Interview" podcast. Sadly, Papa Jim passed away a short time after our conversation, and I thought to myself if I had not stopped everything and made my way over to Papa Jim that night at the party, this story of perseverance would never been heard again. Our goal is to capture unique moments illustrating leadership and success.

Join us as we explore the diverse and intriguing leadership journeys of individuals who, like Papa Jim, have faced challenges head-on, sought unconventional solutions, and emerged as true leaders in their fields.

Listening to "2x4x2 Leadership Framework Interview series " Click Here