An Interview With Dina Aletras
As part of our series about how to become known as a thought leader in your industry, I had the pleasure of interviewing John R. Miles.
John R. Miles is the host of the globally renowned Passion Struck® podcast, which has over 45 million downloads and features guests like Gary Vaynerchuk, Angela Duckworth, and Susan Cain. He is also an international bestselling author and award-winning business leader. His book Passion Struck won Best Business Book at the International Business Awards. With deep expertise in leadership, behavioral science, and business transformation, John equips audiences with actionable strategies to unlock potential, lead with purpose, and ignite lasting change.
Thank you for taking the time to speak with us! Our readers are eager to learn more about you. Could you provide some background information about yourself?
After graduating from the U.S. Naval Academy, I started my career as a naval officer, where I learned the importance of leadership and discipline. After serving, I transitioned into the corporate world, working as a consultant for Booz Allen Hamilton and later as a Practice Leader for Arthur Andersen, where I honed my strategic consulting skills. Over the years, I moved into C-level roles, including executive positions at Dell, Catalina Marketing, and Lend Lease, where I led large-scale transformations and drove innovation across global teams.
I also held senior leadership positions at companies like Lowe’s Home Improvement, Swiss Watch International, and BuyOwner and served as an Operating Partner with Virgo Investment Group. Now, as the CEO of Passion Struck®, I’m focused on harnessing the power of intentionality to inspire individuals and organizations to discover their purpose and evolve into the best version of themselves. My diverse experience across industries and roles has given me a unique perspective on leadership and thought leadership, enabling me to offer actionable strategies for success.
Can you recall a funny mistake you made when you were first starting out? What lesson did you learn from it?
Oh, absolutely! Early in my career, I was so eager to impress during a big client presentation that I crammed every bit of data, chart, and analysis I could find into my slides. I thought, “The more information, the better, right?” Wrong! About 10 minutes in, I noticed some people nodding… not in agreement, but on the verge of falling asleep. By the time I hit slide 50 (yes, 50!), I think I’d lost half the room to dreamland.
That’s when I learned a great lesson: keep it simple and to the point. A mentor introduced me to the placemat technique, which means your entire presentation should be so clear and concise that it could fit on a single placemat in front of someone at a table. That’s when it clicked for me — people don’t need all the details, just the key points that matter. Since then, I’ve focused on creating concise, impactful presentations that engage rather than overwhelm, and I’ve never put anyone to sleep again! (At least, not that I’ve noticed!)
What are the most significant disruptions you foresee in your industry over the next five years, and how can businesses adapt to these changes?
The most significant disruption I foresee is the growing dehumanization that is taking place across industries, driven by the divisions we see in society and exacerbated by the increasing reliance on digital interactions. As we fail to recognize each other’s humanity, we create environments where people feel invisible, leading them to believe they do not matter. This sense of dehumanization and lack of recognition fuels disengagement and can trigger a cascade of psychological factors, including isolation, cognitive biases, and decreased emotional investment in their work.
While highly efficient, remote work and digital collaboration have made it more challenging to maintain authentic human connections, leaving individuals feeling detached and undervalued.
To adapt to these changes, businesses must re-center on seeing people as humans first — understanding that fostering real connection and recognition is vital. Purpose-driven leadership is essential, where leaders actively create environments that emphasize every team member’s inherent value and worth. When employees feel seen, heard, and recognized for who they are, they are more likely to engage fully, contribute creatively, and find purpose in their roles. By focusing on these human elements, companies can counteract the growing disengagement and foster a culture of belonging, leading to stronger, more motivated teams.
Can you explain the benefits of becoming a thought leader? Why is it valuable to invest time and resources into this?
In today’s knowledge economy, ideas and wisdom are the new currencies of influence. While “who” you know still matters, “what” you know — and how you share it — carries more weight than ever. It’s not enough to simply have ideas; you must be able to effectively communicate those ideas to build credibility, establish your personal or professional brand, and attract others to your vision. Thought leadership is a vital aspect of modern leadership, where the ability to offer insights, fresh thinking, and proven ideas has become essential for every leader.
By becoming a thought leader, you contribute valuable ideas to your industry and shape its future. Thought leadership builds trust and credibility, positioning you as an authority others can rely on. It opens doors to collaboration, networking, and professional growth, enhancing your career and your influence on those around you. Investing in thought leadership allows you to amplify your unique perspectives and make a lasting impact on your field.
For me, thought leadership has been instrumental in driving the success of Passion Struck®. It has allowed me to connect with a global audience, share actionable strategies for intentional living, and build a community around the idea of living with purpose. The platform of thought leadership has empowered me to influence lives in a meaningful way, and it’s an opportunity that every leader should strive for — because every leader has valuable ideas to share that can benefit others.
Can you share an example of a significant challenge you faced in your career and how you leveraged innovative thinking to overcome it?
When I was at Booz Allen, I had the incredible opportunity to lead a major engagement with the Navy’s Strike Fighter Tactics Instructor Course (TOPGUN). Our task was to create Strike Fighter Online, a virtual training platform for fighter pilots. One of the most critical challenges was how to accurately simulate the experience of flying an F-18 or F-14 in high-stakes air battles. To ensure the training was as realistic as possible, we knew we needed more than just technical expertise — we needed firsthand knowledge from those who had lived and breathed it.
To solve this, we brought in subject matter experts — former fighter pilots who were TOPGUN graduates themselves. Their deep, real-world insights into air combat operations were invaluable in helping us replicate the nuanced dynamics of flying a fighter jet, from the split-second decision-making to the physical and mental demands of combat scenarios.
In addition, we took the unique step of having our key software developers and designers actually fly in F-18 and F-14 jets. This immersive experience gave them a firsthand understanding of the cockpit dynamics, the physical forces at play, and the fast-paced nature of air combat. This direct exposure allowed them to translate those experiences into a highly accurate and immersive virtual training environment, ensuring the end product wasn’t just technically sound and deeply aligned with the realities of fighter piloting.
This combination of bringing in subject matter experts and giving our technical team real-world flying experience was vital to overcoming the challenges of creating a practical and realistic simulation. By blending deep operational knowledge with innovative thinking and hands-on experience, we delivered a training solution that revolutionized how pilots prepare for potential air engagements.
Now that we have covered that, we’d love to hear your advice on becoming a thought leader. Can you share five strategies that someone should follow to gain recognition as a thought leader in their industry? Please include examples or stories from your own experience for each strategy.
- Leverage Subject Matter Expertise and Real-World Insights — Thought leadership starts with deep expertise that comes from hands-on experience and collaboration with industry experts. In my work with TOPGUN, we didn’t just rely on theories; we brought in former pilots who were TOPGUN graduates to give us real-world insights. This approach grounded our work in practical, lived experience, ensuring we solved real problems. As a thought leader, it’s essential to understand the intricacies of your field and collaborate with those with firsthand experience. Combining knowledge with practical insights creates credibility and helps you offer solutions that truly resonate with others.
- Understand Cognitive Biases and Human Behavior — Thought leadership requires more than just expertise — it demands a deep understanding of human behavior and cognitive biases that shape how people think, act, and make decisions. In my career, I’ve found that many business challenges are rooted in psychological factors like biases and decision-making processes. For example, in creating Strike Fighter Online, we had to account for how pilots would interact with simulations and what biases might affect their learning. Thought leaders need to understand these psychological dimensions to design strategies, products, and ideas that genuinely engage and influence people. Insights from behavioral science can help you tailor your ideas in ways that breakthrough cognitive barriers and inspire meaningful action.
- Address the Human Need for Mattering — At the core of thought leadership is the ability to connect with people on a human level, making them feel like they matter. One of the biggest challenges in today’s world is that people often feel invisible or unrecognized, which can lead to disengagement and reduced productivity. As a thought leader, it’s crucial to emphasize the importance of purpose and personal significance. In my own leadership journey, I have focused on creating environments where people feel seen and valued for who they are and what they contribute. This is critical not only for engagement but also for driving long-term success and innovation. By addressing the human need for mattering, you become a leader who inspires trust, loyalty, and deeper connection.
- Communicate Complex Ideas with Clarity — One of the most critical skills for a thought leader is the ability to simplify and communicate complex ideas effectively. Early in my career, I learned the “placemat” technique, which taught me to simplify presentations so that the core message could fit on a single page. This approach forced me to distill even the most intricate ideas into clear, accessible concepts. Thought leaders must be able to make complex subjects understandable not just for experts but for a broad audience. This ability to translate complicated information into actionable insights is crucial for engaging others and building influence.
- Foster Collaboration and Embrace Diverse Perspectives — Thought leadership thrives on collaboration and diverse viewpoints. During our work with TOPGUN, we brought together a wide range of perspectives — from fighter pilots to software developers — to create a more effective solution. The collaboration of different disciplines allowed us to innovate in ways that wouldn’t have been possible otherwise. As a thought leader, seeking diverse perspectives and collaborating with others can enrich your ideas and broaden your impact. Understanding how cognitive biases shape group dynamics and creativity can help foster an environment where diverse voices are heard and innovation flourishes. Thought leaders who build collaborative networks are better positioned to generate fresh ideas and drive meaningful change across industries.
How do you foster a culture of innovation within your organization, and what practices have you found most effective in encouraging creative thinking among your team?
Fostering a culture of innovation starts with creating an environment where people feel empowered to think creatively and share their ideas without fear of judgment. One of the practices I prioritize is collaboration. When diverse minds come together, they bring different perspectives that can inspire breakthrough solutions. I’ve found that exposure to a wide range of viewpoints encourages my team to challenge their assumptions and think outside the box.
I also emphasize the importance of diversity in both people and ideas. Bringing together individuals from various backgrounds and disciplines creates a dynamic environment where new ideas flourish. This approach ties into behavioral science, as we all have cognitive biases that limit our thinking. By surrounding ourselves with a variety of viewpoints, we can overcome these biases and push our creativity further.
Additionally, I’ve learned that it’s critical to reward creativity. When people see that their innovative ideas are valued and recognized, they are more likely to contribute to the creative process. Creating an inspiring workspace that fosters open communication and supports brainstorming sessions helps reinforce a culture where creative thinking is embraced and celebrated.
Who do you think is an outstanding example of a thought leader? What specific qualities impress you about this person?
One thought leader I deeply admire is Katy Milkman, a renowned expert in behavioral science and decision-making. What sets Katy apart is her extraordinary ability to blend insights from psychology, economics, and data science to address pressing, real-world challenges, such as enhancing savings behavior, boosting exercise habits, improving student achievement, and combating discrimination. Her work transcends theoretical frameworks and is anchored in practical applications that have the potential to reshape societal norms and behaviors.
Katy co-founded the Behavior Change for Good Initiative at the University of Pennsylvania, which seeks to apply scientific insights to drive positive, long-lasting changes in human behavior. What impresses me most is her unique talent for making complex behavioral science principles accessible and actionable. Through her best-selling book, How to Change: The Science of Getting from Where You Are to Where You Want to Be, she masterfully distills rigorous academic research into practical strategies that individuals and organizations can use to implement meaningful change.
What also stands out about Katy is her humility. Despite her many accolades and accomplishments, including being named one of the world’s top 50 management thinkers by Thinkers50, she remains approachable and driven by a genuine desire to help others improve their lives through evidence-based strategies. Her ability to use science for the greater good, her clear communication style, and her unwavering commitment to making a real-world impact are the qualities that make her an outstanding thought leader. I especially admire how she remains grounded in her mission to drive change without losing sight of the importance of connecting with her audience on a human level.
How do you stay informed about the latest trends and developments in your field, and how do you incorporate this knowledge into your strategic planning?
In today’s fast-paced world, constant learning is not just an option — it’s a necessity. To stay ahead, I immerse myself in various disciplines, including behavioral science, leadership, psychology, and personal development. I regularly consume a steady stream of books, articles, and research papers about the latest trends and breakthroughs. Authors like Arthur Brooks and BJ Fogg have deeply influenced my understanding of emotional intelligence and habit formation, respectively, and their work informs my leadership philosophy.
However, reading alone isn’t enough. I firmly believe in the power of conversation and collaboration to expand my thinking. As the Passion Struck® podcast host, I’ve had the privilege of engaging in deep, thoughtful discussions with some of the most brilliant minds across various fields. Guests like David Rubenstein, whose expertise in leadership and history provides invaluable insights, or Admiral James Stavridis, whose global strategic vision shaped my understanding of leadership in complex environments, have inspired me to think differently about strategy and decision-making. Conversations with astronauts like Kayla Barron and Chris Cassidy give me a unique perspective on resilience, teamwork, and exploration. At the same time, athletes like Paul Rabil offer lessons on perseverance and peak performance.
These interactions help me stay informed about the latest trends and give me a broader perspective on leadership and human potential. I incorporate these insights directly into my strategic planning by constantly refining my approach to align with the most up-to-date research and thought leadership. Whether applying Dan Heath’s frameworks for effective change management or learning from Gabby Bernstein how to integrate mindfulness and purpose into leadership, I make it a point to stay adaptable and relevant.
This combination of learning from thought leaders across various disciplines and continuously refining my strategies ensures that I’m not only staying ahead in my field but also helping to drive it forward.
Some people feel that the term “thought leader” is overused and has lost its impact. What are your thoughts on this?
While I do agree that the term “thought leader” has been overused and, in many cases, watered down, I still believe it’s incredibly important and vital to long-term career growth. True thought leadership is not about self-promotion or buzzwords — it’s about providing meaningful, original insights. Too often, people label themselves as “thought leaders” without having the substance or original insights to back it up. Simply declaring oneself a thought leader doesn’t make it true — it’s the depth of your thinking, the uniqueness of your ideas, and the tangible impact you have on others that earns this title.
The overuse of the term shouldn’t diminish its real value. In today’s fast-paced world, where industries are evolving rapidly, being a thought leader helps you stay relevant and establishes you as someone who can guide others through change. Thought leadership is about consistently offering new perspectives, solving problems, and driving innovation. When done genuinely, it builds trust, credibility, and positions you as a go-to person in your field, which is crucial for long-term career success.
So, while the label might feel overused, the practice of thought leadership — engaging, learning, and sharing — is something that can never go out of style.
How do you balance short-term business goals with long-term strategic vision, especially in a rapidly changing market?
In my book Passion Struck, I explore the concept of balancing short-term goals with long-term vision through what I call the Bee and Turtle Effect. It’s about learning to operate with the agility of a bee, handling day-to-day tasks efficiently, while maintaining the patience and persistence of a turtle, focusing on the larger, strategic picture. This dual approach ensures that you can adapt quickly to immediate challenges without losing sight of your ultimate objectives.
A prime example of this in action is SpaceX, a case study I take readers through in my book. SpaceX has mastered the balance between short-term and long-term goals in a rapidly evolving market. In the short term, they focused on launching successful missions, securing contracts, and hitting immediate milestones, all while working toward their long-term vision of colonizing Mars. Elon Musk’s leadership exemplifies how to align both: they generate immediate revenue and success from launching satellites and partnering with NASA, while simultaneously investing in groundbreaking technologies like the Starship rocket for future interplanetary travel.
SpaceX’s model shows how to achieve short-term wins that fuel long-term innovation, a balance that every leader must strike. By focusing on immediate deliverables that align with a larger, visionary goal, you can build momentum while remaining adaptable in a rapidly changing market. The key is ensuring that your short-term actions are consistently contributing to your long-term strategy, just as SpaceX has done by marrying short-term commercial success with their long-term mission of transforming space exploration.
Can you share your favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? How has it been relevant in your life?
One of my favorite quotes comes from Emile Bruneau: “The biggest challenge in conflict is not to understand the ‘other side’ — it’s to see them as fully human.” This quote has been deeply relevant throughout my career, especially in leadership roles. In a world where division and dehumanization are all too common, it’s easy to lose sight of the humanity of others.
This quote reminds me that effective leadership — and meaningful connection — comes from recognizing the full humanity of every person you encounter. Whether in conflict, collaboration, or daily interactions, seeing people as fully human fosters empathy, respect, and ultimately more robust and effective relationships.
How can our readers further follow your work online?
You can follow my work through the Passion Struck® podcast, available on all major platforms, or visit my websites at www.passionstruck.com and www.johnrmiles.com. I also share insights on my blog, and my book Passion Struck is available wherever books are sold. Connect with me on social media @john_r_miles for more updates.
Thank you so much for your insights. This was very insightful and meaningful.
About the Interviewer: Dina Aletras boasts over 20 years of expertise in the corporate media industry. She possesses an in-depth understanding of growth, strategy, and leadership, having held significant roles at some of the UK’s largest media organizations. At Reach PLC, the UK’s largest tabloid publisher, she served in various director capacities. Additionally, she held leadership roles at The Independent Magazine Group and DMGT. Her extensive knowledge spans editorial, digital, revenue, sales, and advertising.
Upon relocating to Switzerland, Dina took on the responsibility of managing and promoting the international section of Corriere del Ticino — CdT.ch pioneering the English page “onthespot.” She also was the Co-Editor of Southern Switzerland’s first official Italian and English bilingual magazine.
John R Miles of Passion Struck: 5 Things You Should Do To Become a Thought Leader In Your Industry was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.