{"version":1,"type":"rich","provider_name":"Libsyn","provider_url":"https:\/\/www.libsyn.com","height":90,"width":600,"title":"028: Impossible Roles, Real Results: Leadership Lessons from Mike Zafirovski","description":"In this episode, Sandy sits down with Mike Zafirovski, founder and chairman of The Zaf Group (TZG), to explore a remarkable leadership journey that spans continents, industries, and decades. From growing up in communist Yugoslavia to leading some of the world\u2019s most complex global businesses, Mike reflects on the experiences that shaped his leadership philosophy and personal mission. Together, Sandy and Mike discuss what it truly takes to lead at the highest levels, why great leaders sometimes land in impossible roles, and how fulfillment comes from aligning work, values, and service. This conversation offers rare, candid insight into executive decision-making, cultural transformation, and the difference between success and significance. Just a small clarification: There are a few mentions of years in the '00s during the conversation that are misidentified as years in the '20s. At 29:24, Mike means 2001 and at 32:36, Mike means 2004. In this episode, you will hear:  How Mike\u2019s early life as an immigrant shaped his views on work, opportunity, and leadership Why leadership is a privilege, not a position The role mentorship and preparation play in unlocking human potential What General Electric taught Mike about leadership development and execution at scale How Motorola\u2019s turnaround revealed the power of culture, clarity, and a growth mindset Why even elite leaders can fail in structurally impossible roles  Connect with Sandy Ogg: Website: https:\/\/www.sandyontalent.com\/&amp;nbsp; LinkedIn: https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/sandyogg\/&amp;nbsp; X: https:\/\/twitter.com\/SandyOnTalent&amp;nbsp; Instagram: @SandyOnTalent Follow and Review: We\u2019d love for you to follow us if you haven\u2019t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We\u2019d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on  Apple Podcasts. Simply select \u201cRatings and Reviews\u201d and \u201cWrite a Review\u201d then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https:\/\/emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you. ","author_name":"Sandy on Talent - Insights and Strategies for Leadership Excellence and Talent Optimization","author_url":"https:\/\/sites.libsyn.com\/530302","html":"<iframe title=\"Libsyn Player\" style=\"border: none\" src=\"\/\/html5-player.libsyn.com\/embed\/episode\/id\/39518385\/height\/90\/theme\/custom\/thumbnail\/yes\/direction\/forward\/render-playlist\/no\/custom-color\/88AA3C\/\" height=\"90\" width=\"600\" scrolling=\"no\"  allowfullscreen webkitallowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen oallowfullscreen msallowfullscreen><\/iframe>","thumbnail_url":"https:\/\/assets.libsyn.com\/secure\/content\/196846800"}