In this milestone episode of The Feminist Exec, host KP sits down with David Houser — global supply chain technologist, executive leader, and the first male ally guest on the podcast — for a rich conversation on what it really takes to lead with equity on a global scale.

With experience doing business in over 50 countries, David brings an unfiltered, thoughtful perspective on the evolution of leadership across cultures, the power of reverse mentorship, and what it means to move from words to deeds in the pursuit of diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Together, they unpack:

• The realities of running global operations in China, Brazil, EMEA, and beyond

• How David’s own journey shifted from high-stakes tech executive to active ally for women and underrepresented voices

• What “firm, honest, and fair” leadership looks like in fast-growth, multicultural environments

• How AI and automation are transforming leadership, ethics, and the future of work

• Why continuous learning — not ego — is the key to staying relevant

Whether you’re an aspiring executive, a DEI champion, or a leader navigating global complexity, this episode offers hard-won insights and practical examples of how real allyship shows up at work — and why inclusive leadership isn’t a trend, it’s a requirement.

Takeaways

• David Houser emphasizes the importance of cultural awareness in leadership.
• Traveling internationally enhances understanding of diverse perspectives.
• A firm, honest, and fair leadership style is essential.
• Being a male ally involves actively supporting women's voices in business.
• Reverse mentorship can provide valuable insights for leaders.
• Continuous learning is crucial for staying relevant in today's workforce.
• AI is transforming business practices and requires ethical considerations.
• Organizations should focus on intentional DEI efforts to create inclusive environments.
• Investing in personal development is key to professional growth.
• Leadership decisions often involve navigating complex cultural dynamics.

Mentioned in the episode:

• Hofstede Cultural Dimensions: https://geerthofstede.com/culture-geert-hofstede-gert-jan-hofstede/6d-model-of-national-culture/
• Center for Creative Leadership: https://www.ccl.org/

Sound Bites

• "Words to deeds."
• "Firm, honest, and fair."
• "Humans buy from humans."
• "Take time, breathe."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to David Hauser and His Career Journey

02:51 Leadership Lessons from Global Experience

05:43 Cultural Awareness and Leadership Style

08:26 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Perspectives

11:28 The Role of Male Allies in Leadership

14:08 Pivotal Moments in Becoming an Ally

16:58 Understanding Reverse Mentorship

19:54 Learning from Women and Underrepresented Voices

22:52 Advice for Supporting DEI in Organizations

25:48 Navigating Tough Decisions in Leadership

32:03 The Expanding Pie: Collaboration Over Competition

34:28 Private Equity and the Human Element

37:10 AI's Impact on Business and Ethics

41:58 Navigating the Future of Work with AI

49:45 Continuous Learning in a Changing Landscape

57:02 Reflections and Advice for Future Leaders

Keywords

leadership, DEI, diversity, equity, inclusion, male allyship, global business, AI, supply chain, reverse mentorship, continuous learning, ethics in AI, global leadership, international executive, cross-cultural leadership, supply chain technology, global operations, DEI leadership, inclusive leadership, diversity in tech, equity in business, reverse mentorship, mentorship in leadership, continuous learning, leadership development, AI in leadership, ethical AI, AI workforce, AI transformation, future of work, Words to Deeds, Humans buy from humans, The Feminist Exec, David Houser, global allyship