LeadX: Unplugged

LeadX Unplugged

Step away from the classroom and into the conversation. Fisher College of Business invites students to a relaxed dialogue with industry leaders eager to share the stories behind their successes — and the failures, lessons and challenges that shaped them along the way. 

These candid conversations between executives and students, student organizations and members of the leadership community at Fisher transcend textbooks to explore real-world insights: how industries are evolving, what opportunities lie ahead and the leadership lessons and tactics you can’t Google. Students will have the chance to ask questions, spark meaningful discussions and connect directly with the leaders and organizations seeking their next generation of talent.

Why attend? 

  • Hear unfiltered stories of failure — and the wisdom gained from it. 

  • Dive deep into industries’ biggest challenges and brightest opportunities. 

  • Meet leaders you may not know (yet) and expand your professional network. 

  • Build connections with organizations eager to connect with emerging talent. 

  • Relaxed. Candid. Inspiring.  

LeadX: Unplugged is your opportunity to reflect, grow and connect. 

Upcoming LeadX Speakers

January 27, 2027

John F. Barrett, Chairman, President and CEO, Western & Southern Financial Group

Topic, location and registration forthcoming

 

 

February 24, 2027

Kirt Walker, CEO, Nationwide

Topic, location and registration forthcoming

 

March 23, 2027

Michael S. McCoy, President and CEO, Bob Evans Farms

Topic, location and registration forthcoming

 

 

April 1, 2027

Melinda Whittington, CEO, La-Z-Boy

Topic, location and registration forthcoming

 

 

September 29, 2027

Kara Trott, Founder and Board Chair, Quantum Health

Topic, location and registration forthcoming

 

 

February 23, 2028

Robert H. Schottenstein, Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer and President, M/I Homes, Inc.

Topic, location and registration forthcoming

 

 

LeadX: Unplugged Coverage

Jason Hollar speaks with students in business suits.

Jason Hollar talks curiosity, courage and challenging the status quo

What does it take to lead a Fortune 15 company? Jason Hollar, CEO of Cardinal Health, offered Fisher students candid insights on career growth, learning from failure and standing out in business.
Jim Kavanaugh

IBM’s James Kavanaugh talks leadership through reinvention

For 30+ years, James Kavanaugh (EMBA ’92) has led innovation. He guided IBM through challenge and renewal, sharing insights with students on communication, leadership, and emerging technologies like AI today.
Chris Phillips

The value of curiosity, failure and growth from Google’s Chris Phillips

Google VP and GM Chris Phillips (BSBA ’97) shared his career journey with Ohio State students, showing how humility, perspective, and learning from failure guide his work in digital world.

Previous LeadX: Unplugged Speakers