May 15, 2025
What if your next client already feels like they know you—before
you’ve ever spoken a word?
This week on Leveraging Thought Leadership, Peter talks with
Jim Schleckser, founder of The CEO
Project, a peer advisory group for high-performing CEOs. Jim
shares insights from advising over 125 CEOs across 40 states,
leading organizations with revenues from $25 million to over $2
billion. His unique perspective offers a window into how top
leaders are using thought leadership as both consumers and
creators.
We dig into why CEOs crave curated content that helps them grow—and
why books and podcasts still dominate their learning habits. Jim
explains how the right idea, delivered through the right channel,
can build trust and drive decisions long before the first
handshake. We explore how CEOs and their teams are becoming more
intentional about content creation—not for vanity metrics, but to
attract the right clients, partners, and talent.
Jim also unpacks the shifting role of AI in content development. As
more companies turn to AI for marketing output, he challenges us to
think deeper: What’s your human layer of insight that the
algorithms can’t replicate?
This episode is packed with practical takeaways for CEOs, content
creators, and thought leaders who want to build meaningful
influence, not just volume.
Three Key Takeaways:
• Quality Over Quantity in Thought Leadership
CEOs aren’t looking for mass appeal—they want relevant insights
from trusted sources. Thought leadership that resonates with a
niche but high-value audience can drive business results far more
effectively than chasing viral reach.
• Books and Podcasts Still Matter
Despite the flood of digital content, CEOs continue to prioritize
books and podcasts as their go-to learning tools. These formats
allow for deeper engagement and often serve as catalysts for future
business relationships.
• AI Is a Tool, Not a Strategy
While AI can assist in generating content, it can’t replace the
value of human insight. Leaders must use AI thoughtfully—adding
expertise and perspective—to ensure their thought leadership
remains authentic and impactful.
If you found Jim Schleckser’s insights on high-impact, CEO-focused
thought leadership valuable, you’ll want to check out Episode 498 with Will Milano. Will shares how organizations can turn
their senior leaders and subject-matter experts into trusted voices
of authority—without relying solely on the CEO. Together, these
episodes explore how to scale thought leadership, deepen trust, and
focus on quality over quantity. Don’t miss it!