In this episode of The Leadership Pause, host Neil Jacobs turns to an unexpected source for insights about leadership - the world of animal behavior. Listen as he explores the learning human leaders can derive from non-humans with guest Dr. Robert Shumaker, evolutionary biologist and CEO at the Indianapolis Zoo. Gain rare insights into how understanding animal behavior and cognition can enhance human leadership and recognize the parallels and distinctions with your own ways of leading.
Explore the dynamic interplay of collaboration and self-interest, inspired by the majestic lions of Tanzania. Learn how to harness non-human perspectives to enhance teamwork and achieve organizational success. Through thought-provoking discussions, delve into the essence of genuine contribution, fair recognition, and the intriguing concept of altruism. Riveting stories of great apes illustrate the power of authenticity and direct engagement in leadership.
Reflect on the adaptability and humility required in today's evolving leadership landscape. Gain wisdom from the natural world, from the leadership of an elephant matriarch to the influence and mediation skills of female chimpanzees. Examine the pitfalls of extreme leadership styles and the importance of flexibility in maintaining creativity and stability. Through the insights of host Neil Jacobs and guest Dr. Rob Shumaker, you'll expand your leadership perspective, embracing diverse viewpoints to foster innovation and growth. Join us on this journey of learning and share your thoughts as we explore the profound lessons of leadership from the animal kingdom.
About Dr. Robert Shumaker
Dr. Robert W. Shumaker is an evolutionary biologist who specializes in the study of behavior and cognition. He started his career at the Smithsonian National Zoo. During his 20-year tenure there, Dr. Shumaker worked as an animal keeper, curator, biologist, exhibit designer, and scientist. He spent several years at the Great Ape Trust in Des Moines, Iowa as the senior scientist supervising all research with orangutans. In 2010 he moved to the Indianapolis Zoo where he is now the President & CEO.
Dr. Shumaker has been a faculty member at George Mason University and Drake University, and an affiliate faculty member at Iowa State University. He is an external research associate at the Krasnow Institute and an adjunct professor at Indiana University.
Dr. Shumaker has authored or co-authored numerous scientific publications, books, and articles for the popular press. The third edition of Animal Tool Behavior was published in December. His work has been featured in National Geographic, NPR, the Discovery Channel, Animal Planet, PBS, Time magazine, and the BBC.
Dr. Shumaker serves on the science advisory board of the Balikpapan Orangutan Society (BOS) which is based in Indonesia, in the same capacity for BOS Canada in Toronto, and as a board member of the Orangutan Conservancy, based in the United States. He is internationally recognized as an expert on primate behavior and cognition and on animal tool behavior.