Leap Academy Podcast with Ilana Golan: Episode Summary

Episode Title: Former Obama Foundation President: How to Lead Through the Toughest Moments
Guest: David Simas
Release Date: March 25, 2025

In this compelling episode of Leap Academy with Ilana Golan, host Ilana engages in an in-depth conversation with David Simas, the former President of the Obama Foundation. David shares his inspiring journey from his roots as the son of Portuguese immigrants in Massachusetts to his influential role advising President Obama. The episode delves into themes of leadership, resilience, and the essence of democracy, offering valuable lessons for listeners aspiring to elevate their careers and craft meaningful lives.

1. Early Life and Bicultural Upbringing

David Simas:
"My mom grew up in rural southern Portugal. My dad grew up in the Azores, on an island called Sao Miguel St. Michael... They left everything behind to start something new in a country they had never been in. It's just the American story, which is so amazing." [02:37]

David reflects on his upbringing in Taunton, Massachusetts, highlighting the tension between his American education and the Portuguese culture at home. This bicultural experience instilled in him a deep appreciation for both worlds, eventually shaping his identity and career aspirations.

Ilana Golancho:
"I have the same from Israel... knowing a little bit about this culture and you'll share more. I think there's something about this culture of everybody helping one another and lifting one another." [05:15]

Ilana relates to David's bicultural experience, emphasizing the universal value of community and mutual support prevalent in both Portuguese and Israeli cultures.

2. Family Resilience and Community Support

David recounts a pivotal moment from his childhood when his mother suffered a severe accident at her silver factory job, losing two fingers on each hand. Despite the tragedy, the unwavering support from family and the tight-knit immigrant community left a lasting impression on him.

David Simas:
"The memories of my family and my neighbors... coming to lift up my mom, to lift up my dad, gave me a sense of both family and a broader community." [06:20]

This incident underscored the importance of resilience and communal support, values that would later influence his approach to leadership and public service.

3. Legal Education and Transferable Skills

Transitioning to his professional life, David discusses his journey through law school and the invaluable skills he acquired, which extended beyond the courtroom.

David Simas:
"The practice of law requires a broad understanding of the basic rules and the structures, the system... Then how do I add value and tell the story or to engage in a persuasive way." [10:03]

David emphasizes that the analytical thinking, discipline, and persuasive communication honed in law school are universally applicable, shaping his effectiveness in various roles.

4. From Law to Politics: A Serendipitous Opportunity

David shares the serendipitous nature of his transition from practicing law to entering the political arena, culminating in his 14-year relationship with President Obama.

David Simas:
"I was sitting in the West Wing of the White House with the opportunity to serve the President of the United States and the American people. Why wouldn't I want that opportunity?" [00:32]

He recounts receiving an unexpected call from David Axelrod, leading to his recruitment into the Obama administration. This opportunity was a testament to his reputation, work ethic, and deep-rooted understanding of local communities.

Ilana Golancho:
"You build credibility and authority so that someone trusts you implicitly." [24:47]

Ilana highlights the importance of building a credible reputation, which played a crucial role in David securing such a prestigious position.

5. Leadership Through Adversity

Throughout his tenure, David encountered numerous challenges that tested his leadership skills. He shares memorable moments where he learned the essence of leading through tough times.

David Simas:
"At moments like the terrorist attack in San Bernardino, our job was to make sure that these are my words now, that we don't inflame the emotions that arise in that moment." [33:20]

He discusses how President Obama emphasized the importance of acting thoughtfully amidst raw emotions, a lesson in maintaining composure and strategic thinking during crises.

Another poignant example is President Obama's decision to bail out the auto industry during the Great Recession. Despite public opposition, Obama prioritized the long-term welfare of Americans over immediate political backlash.

David Simas:
"Look, the politics will take care of themselves. I need to do what I believe is right and work backwards from that." [36:40]

This decision underscores the principle of prioritizing substantive good over partisan politics, a cornerstone of effective leadership.

6. Maintaining Emotional Resilience in Politics

Navigating the high-stress environment of Washington required David to develop strategies for emotional resilience.

David Simas:
"Exercise daily, meditation, engaging with things that weren't politics, and my family was my refuge." [44:23]

David outlines his personal practices that helped him stay grounded, emphasizing the necessity of finding safe harbors amidst the relentless pace of political life.

Ilana Golancho:
"Leadership from within... it's like putting your own oxygen mask on first before you help others." [46:28]

Ilana draws parallels between David's strategies and the fundamental need for self-care in leadership roles, highlighting the sustainability of such practices.

7. The Essence of Democratic Leadership

David delves into the philosophy underpinning his work with the Obama Foundation, focusing on fostering a generation of leaders grounded in democratic values.

David Simas:
"The most important piece of democratic small d leadership is the radical nature of the American Constitution, which said that the people are sovereign, they are in charge at its core." [37:54]

He discusses the balance between humility and authority, advocating for leadership that is both aspirational and responsive to the people's will.

8. Personal Reflections and Advice

In closing, David offers heartfelt advice to his younger self and shares the core principles that have guided his life and career.

David Simas:
"The only thing I truly control are my thoughts, my words, and my actions." [51:17]

He emphasizes the importance of personal agency and accountability, encouraging listeners to focus on behaviors that contribute positively to their goals and relationships.

Ilana Golancho:
"You're looking at the world through a positive, beautiful, community, trusting lens." [50:11]

Ilana commends David's perspective, reinforcing the power of maintaining a positive outlook and fostering trust within communities.

Conclusion

David Simas's journey from a bicultural upbringing to the heart of American politics offers profound insights into effective leadership and personal resilience. His experiences highlight the importance of community support, emotional intelligence, and unwavering commitment to democratic values. This episode serves as a valuable resource for those seeking to leap their careers, navigate complex environments, and lead with integrity.

Notable Quotes:

• David Simas [10:03]:
  "The practice of law requires a broad understanding of the basic rules and the structures, the system... Then how do I add value and tell the story or to engage in a persuasive way."

• David Simas [33:20]:
  "At moments like the terrorist attack in San Bernardino, our job was to make sure that these are my words now, that we don't inflame the emotions that arise in that moment."

• Ilana Golancho [50:11]:
  "You're looking at the world through a positive, beautiful, community, trusting lens."

This episode exemplifies the ethos of Leap Academy with Ilana Golan, providing listeners with actionable insights and inspiring stories to help them leap into their next big career move.