Cool inspiring events last couple of days. A window to what the best of Nike is all about. And what's possible.
Serena was freaking awesome. Authentic, empowered and empowering... she's the GOAT alright.
Wanted to note some positivity going into holiday weekend, so it's not all just bi--hin and moaning. I'm guilty of that as much as anyone else on this forum. But also want to show gratitude. Phil's email was a call to action but also a road map to greatness.
11 replies (most recent on top)
phil is who got us into this mess to begin with. he should've been fired just like jd
One… it’s always going to be WHQ to me… forget this PHK name change.
Two… one of the founders of Nike yes, good for Nike over the last some number of years? No.
I think the execution of the PHK dedication was the least Nike thing coming out of Nike in a long time. Whoever thought stuffing hundreds of people on the patio with stages on both ends (was that even the plan, seemed they had to improvise in the moment) should reconsider their priorities. It was a logistical clusterf**k. Seeing and hearing PK is always inspirational, but it is pretty clear his best days are behind him and subjecting him to the heat almost felt sad and inhumane. I think the man deserved a standing ovation, bu EH kept interrupting the applause.
As nice as it was to see PK, HW, SW, and EH during the dedication, and as much as I wanted to feel motivated by their words, I couldn’t help feeling sad. As though we had reached the end of an era, a process that has been unfolding for years.
Is it just me, or did others also sense undercurrents of lassitude, disillusionment, and indifference in the crowd? People were even scattering in the middle of Howard White’s speech.
If you’re getting motivated by a generic corporate email, you may need to look in the mirror and reassess your priorities.
PHK is at the root of all of Nike’s problems. His Boomer musings on what made Nike successful have been what’s held our product and tech back, as is his terrible track record advancing CEO candidates.
PHK’s message may create a temporary boost in morale and energy, but it won’t last without meaningful action. If the goal is to change the culture, leadership needs to demonstrate that change through actions, not just words. That’s what will earn people’s trust and buy-in.
The reality is that too many leaders overseeing large functions and teams do not consistently embody Nike’s maxims and values, nor are they effective coaches. Years of poor talent management have resulted in too many people being placed in the wrong roles. We need a stronger process for identifying and developing the right leaders for these organizations. Otherwise, this messaging becomes nothing more than a short-lived morale boost.
Super tone deaf to conduct that rah rah founder bs.
I missed it. Did EH cry?
Great message. Now get rid of my boss and half my leadership team who are sh--e and only working for themselves.
Until they walk the walk, this "inspirational" talk is just that: Blah blah blah.
Don't fall for it.
Maybe they need to do less “inspirational speeches” and more strategy setting/working.