Strategic Learning and Never Retiring: A Dialogue with Willie Pietersen
Wed Feb 04 2026
Mastering Leadership and Strategic Learning with Willie Pietersen | Silver Disobedience PodcastJoin host Dian Griesel in this insightful episode of the Silver Disobedience Perception Dynamics podcast as she interviews Willie Pietersen, a seasoned C-suite executive, Columbia University professor, and author. Willie shares his invaluable wisdom on topics such as never retiring, the importance of continuous learning, and leading life at a reasonable pace. He delves into the concept of strategic learning, the critical distinction between leadership and management, and offers personal anecdotes on navigating corporate challenges. Willie also discusses the impact of the status quo bias and the evolving dynamics of corporate longevity. This episode is packed with lessons on resilience, adaptability, and effective leadership—vital for anyone aiming for personal and professional growth.
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I’m Dian Griesel and in November of 2017 I began blogging as @SilverDisobedience on my website and @SilverDisobedience on Instagram Facebook and @DianGriesel X Career-wise, I am a perception analyst, counselor, hypnotherapist, author of 16 books and a Wilhelmina model. For 30 years, via owning an investor & public relations firm, while being in private practice, I have helped my clients to achieve greater understanding as to how perceptions impact everything we do whether personally or professionally. A couple of years ago I added a podcast. Episodes are unscripted, with plenty of no-holds-barred revelations from fascinating, accomplished guests living diverse lives. Intimate stories about work, play, psychology, relationships, pop culture, trends, B.S. + more are unpacked through thought-provoking questions that spark honest revelations, pivotal moments, and unguarded insights — stunning even the boldest guests with their own “aha” truths. ✨
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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diangriesel/
This episode was recorded in collaboration with The Manhattan Center, New York City, New York00:00 Introduction to Willie Pietersen00:47 The Philosophy of Never Retiring01:52 Transitioning Careers and Lifelong Learning03:41 The Intersection of Theory and Practice08:23 Adapting to Change and Innovation22:30 The Importance of Leading Life at a Reasonable Pace27:04 Addressing Urgent Problems27:51 Strategic Learning and Corporate Lifespans28:38 The Role of Strategy in Competitive Advantage32:06 Leadership vs. Management37:41 Capitalism and Ethical Leadership44:40 The Importance of Feedback in Leadership50:59 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections
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Mastering Leadership and Strategic Learning with Willie Pietersen | Silver Disobedience PodcastJoin host Dian Griesel in this insightful episode of the Silver Disobedience Perception Dynamics podcast as she interviews Willie Pietersen, a seasoned C-suite executive, Columbia University professor, and author. Willie shares his invaluable wisdom on topics such as never retiring, the importance of continuous learning, and leading life at a reasonable pace. He delves into the concept of strategic learning, the critical distinction between leadership and management, and offers personal anecdotes on navigating corporate challenges. Willie also discusses the impact of the status quo bias and the evolving dynamics of corporate longevity. This episode is packed with lessons on resilience, adaptability, and effective leadership—vital for anyone aiming for personal and professional growth. Please SUBSCRIBE! I’m Dian Griesel and in November of 2017 I began blogging as @SilverDisobedience on my website and @SilverDisobedience on Instagram Facebook and @DianGriesel X Career-wise, I am a perception analyst, counselor, hypnotherapist, author of 16 books and a Wilhelmina model. For 30 years, via owning an investor & public relations firm, while being in private practice, I have helped my clients to achieve greater understanding as to how perceptions impact everything we do whether personally or professionally. A couple of years ago I added a podcast. Episodes are unscripted, with plenty of no-holds-barred revelations from fascinating, accomplished guests living diverse lives. Intimate stories about work, play, psychology, relationships, pop culture, trends, B.S. + more are unpacked through thought-provoking questions that spark honest revelations, pivotal moments, and unguarded insights — stunning even the boldest guests with their own “aha” truths. ✨ 🔗 YouTube Channel Spotify i❤️podcasts 🍎podcasts LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diangriesel/ This episode was recorded in collaboration with The Manhattan Center, New York City, New York00:00 Introduction to Willie Pietersen00:47 The Philosophy of Never Retiring01:52 Transitioning Careers and Lifelong Learning03:41 The Intersection of Theory and Practice08:23 Adapting to Change and Innovation22:30 The Importance of Leading Life at a Reasonable Pace27:04 Addressing Urgent Problems27:51 Strategic Learning and Corporate Lifespans28:38 The Role of Strategy in Competitive Advantage32:06 Leadership vs. Management37:41 Capitalism and Ethical Leadership44:40 The Importance of Feedback in Leadership50:59 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections