Success Stories from Richard Strozzi-Heckler, PhD
Co-Founder & President of THE STROZZI INSTITUTE

Jerry, CEO of a technology company, had a style that was autocratic. He was jokingly referred to as “Patton.” His company was very successful, but when the economy went into a downturn, sales declined and Jerry forced his top down approach even more. The company downsized, talented employees left, and there was concern that the company would not survive. After working with Richard Strozzi-Heckler, Jerry was able to manage his moods, become a better listener, and hire and retain bright, ambitious workers. Jerry’s company once again became a leader in its field. 

Sylvia was a star in the mergers and acquisitions of a large international financial institution. Over the years, she had gained a well-earned reputation as a skilled, hard-nosed negotiator who brought significant revenues and satisfied customers into the bank. Because of her consistent success she was offered the directorship of the department, which required her to lead and manage the entire department with different skills than what she was used to. To her, directing meant dictating. After her Strozzi Institute workshop, Sylvia became a better listener to her staff and more of a team player. 

Cesilee, the executive director of a non-profit agency hoped to further her professional development.  Insight garnered from the Leadership Dojo workshop not only helped her to become a better leader, but it also enhanced her personal life.  Just one of the surprising results was that this world-class athlete and softball player was able to hit the ball 30 feet further, helping her to clinch the World Series MVP award.   

On the shortlist to be the CFO for a Fortune 500 company, Norman excelled at work but was held back by being constantly humiliated by his boss.  After attending The Strozzi Institute workshop, he learned how better to stand up to his boss and when his boss didn’t quit berating him, Norman was strong enough to know that the best way to deal with it was to get a transfer.  Interestingly, shortly afterward, he decided to take a leave of absence to be a stay-at-home dad and he became the happiest he’d ever been. 

"I learned more about myself in five weeks than I did in 24 years," says Sgt. William Hussey, an intelligence specialist from Panama City, Fla. quoted in The Wall Street Journal.  He trained in a military program “focused as much on the soul as it was on soldiering.”  His group led by Richard Strozzi-Heckler learned basic martial-art moves while striving also for inner peace through the mastery of a dozen "warrior values," including accountability, integrity and courage.