In this episode of One Thousand Ways to Lead, Vanderbilt Owen alum and Head of Marketing at Lidl, Michael Chao shares his captivating career journey, moving from startups to industry giants like Walmart, Dollar General, and Lidl. With over a decade of leadership experience across the U.S. and even in China, Michael reflects on the key lessons that have shaped his approach to work and life.   Listen as he unpacks the importance of aligning career decisions with personal values, the nuances of navigating company culture, and the art of managing teams with transparency and clarity. Michael also dives into his approach to leading during uncertainty, how to balance ambition with family priorities, and why understanding the incentives behind every decision is critical in business and leadership.   Packed with relatable stories, actionable advice, and honest reflections, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to grow as a leader or make thoughtful career moves. Whether you’re navigating your first job or taking the leap into a new leadership role, Michael’s insights will resonate and inspire.   Subscribe now to never miss an episode!   Learn more about us: https://business.vanderbilt.edu/