Summary of "Ep. 469 - Navigating the COO Landscape: Leadership in a Changing World"

Podcast: Second in Command: The Chief Behind the Chief with Cameron Herold
Host: Cameron Herold
Co-Host: Savannah Brewer
Release Date: April 24, 2025
Duration: Approximately 13 minutes

Introduction

In Episode 469 of the "Second in Command" podcast, host Cameron Herold engages in a profound discussion with co-host Savannah Brewer about navigating the complexities of being a Chief Operating Officer (COO) in today's dynamic business environment. The episode delves deep into Savannah's personal journey with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and how she has transformed what many perceive as a limitation into a formidable entrepreneurial superpower.

Savannah Brewer’s Personal Journey with ADD

Savannah opens up about her early struggles within the traditional education system. She shares, "Something that really impacted me in a negative way growing up was being told by the school system that I wasn't trying hard enough, when in fact I was trying hard." [00:44] This critical reflection sets the stage for understanding her resilience and adaptability.

Diagnosed with ADD approximately ten years prior, Savannah recounts her battle with dyslexia (specifically dyscalculia) and symptoms aligning with bipolar disorder. She explains, "I have 17 of the 18 signs of ADD clinically diagnosed." [01:49] Her candid admission provides listeners with an authentic glimpse into the challenges she faced and overcame.

Reframing ADD as a Superpower

Savannah redefines ADD from a disorder to a unique cognitive advantage, especially in the entrepreneurial landscape. She articulates, "ADD is not actually a disorder. It can actually be a superpower for those who are in the business world." [09:45] By embracing her hyper-awareness and ability to notice intricate details, Savannah leverages ADD to maintain a holistic view of her business operations.

She introduces the concept of "HD ADD" (High Definition ADD), emphasizing bursts of intense focus: "I can focus for 15 or 20 minutes and then it's like my brain needs to relax, I need a break, maybe I need to move around." [03:20] This approach allows her to harness focused energy effectively without succumbing to burnout.

Strategies for Managing ADD in a COO Role

Savannah shares practical strategies that have been instrumental in her success as a COO:

1. Delegation and Priority Management:
   "I've had to notice that noticing is actually a superpower for me." [05:10] Savannah emphasizes the importance of delegating tasks to manage the overwhelming influx of ideas and responsibilities. By prioritizing tasks into A's and B's, she ensures that critical activities receive immediate attention while less urgent matters are systematically addressed.

2. Environmental Adaptability:
   "Change your environment a couple of times a day. Sit in different areas, sit in a coffee shop, work from home." [08:15] Adjusting her physical surroundings helps Savannah maintain focus and reduces mental fatigue, facilitating sustained productivity.

3. Pomodoro Technique:
   Implementing the Pomodoro Technique, Savannah works in focused intervals of 20-25 minutes followed by short breaks. "The alarm allows me to take a five-minute break, give your brain a rest, maybe change locations." [09:30] This method enhances concentration and ensures regular mental rejuvenation.

Overcoming Stigma and Building Confidence

A significant portion of the discussion centers on dismantling the stigma associated with ADD. Savannah passionately states, "The big stigma that needs to be changed is that attention deficit disorder is not actually a disorder, it's not a disease." [10:45] She argues that societal misconceptions hinder the potential of individuals like herself, especially in leadership roles.

Through her entrepreneurial achievements, Savannah has cultivated immense self-confidence. "All the businesses that I've built, all the speaking events that I've done, the books that I've written, the amount of money that I've been able to make, it slowly starts to internalize that. Actually, I am quite smart." [12:50] This internal validation has been pivotal in overcoming early negative reinforcements and establishing herself as a competent leader.

Conclusion

Episode 469 of "Second in Command" offers an inspiring narrative of resilience and strategic brilliance. Savannah Brewer's insights into managing ADD not only provide valuable lessons for COOs and second-in-command leaders but also challenge conventional perceptions of cognitive differences in the workplace. By leveraging her unique abilities and implementing effective management techniques, Savannah exemplifies how diverse cognitive profiles can drive exceptional leadership and business success.

Notable Quotes:

• "ADD is not actually a disorder. It can actually be a superpower for those who are in the business world." — Savannah Brewer [09:45]

• "I've had to notice that noticing is actually a superpower for me." — Savannah Brewer [05:10]

• "The big stigma that needs to be changed is that attention deficit disorder is not actually a disorder, it's not a disease." — Savannah Brewer [10:45]

• "Actually, I am quite smart. I just see the world differently." — Savannah Brewer [12:50]

This episode underscores the vital role of self-awareness and adaptive strategies in effective leadership. Savannah Brewer's transformative approach serves as a blueprint for COOs striving to excel in complex and evolving business landscapes.