Great CEOs Are Lazy: How Top Leaders Drive Results by Doing Less – Jim Schleckser

Episode notes

In this episode of Behind The Numbers With Dave Bookbinder , Dave is joined by Jim Schleckser—founder and CEO of The CEO Project and author of Great CEOs Are Lazy . Jim shares leadership strategies that help executives cut through busywork and focus on what really drives results. The conversation explores how to apply the theory of constraints to leadership, why great CEOs zero in on the “kink in the hose,” and practical tools like the “not-do list” and the delegation ladder. Jim explains how leaders can spend 30–40% of their time on their highest-impact activities, delegate more effectively to build organizational muscle, and craft a “mafia offer” that customers can’t refuse. The discussion also covers succession planning and the unique challenges of family businesses, plus some lighter but highly practical advice on professional entertaining—from a sommelier trick to choosing drinks that align with your brand. For more of Jim’s insights, check out his books Great CEOs Are Lazy and Professional Drinking , as well as The CEO Project podcast. About Our Guest: Jim Schleckser is an accomplished leader, entrepreneur, and CEO coach with extensive experience across diverse industries.