David Landman: The Long Exhale

In this inspiring episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times, host Chris Schembra sits down with David Landman, a former senior HR executive at Goldman Sachs, to explore his transformative journey from corporate success to living a life centered on joy, gratitude, and purpose.

David, who is passionate about making work more sustainable, fulfilling, and inclusive for everyone, shares how his career transition was sparked by a desire to escape stagnation and create a more meaningful life. After 20 years at Goldman Sachs, David now dedicates his time to supporting visionary founders, investors, and innovators who are redefining what it means to thrive in the workplace.

Through his work, David:

1. Advises some of the world’s most innovative HR tech startups and venture capitalists.
2. Builds communities of CHROs and HR executives passionate about giving back.
3. Shares his knowledge with the next generation of HR leaders.

In the episode, David introduces “The Long Exhale,” a framework for rediscovering joy and purpose. He shares actionable steps for leaders to break free from burnout, foster gratitude, and create lasting impact—both in their personal and professional lives.

This conversation is filled with practical insights, including how to:

• Take small actions to get unstuck.
• Shift from an inward to an outward mindset.
• Adopt an abundance mindset and embrace joy over achievement.

David’s guiding principle is clear: When we lift others up, we can all succeed. This episode is a call to action for leaders and changemakers to co-create a better future of work together, fueled by empathy, gratitude, and human connection.

Key Discussion Points:

• David’s Journey from Corporate Executive to Joyful Living
• Signs of Feeling Stuck
• The Long Exhale Framework
• The Role of Gratitude in Leadership and Life
• Redefining Success
• Nature as a Tool for Perspective and Renewal
• Challenges of Transitioning to a New Way of Being
• Practical Actions for Leaders and Individuals
• David’s Vision for the Future of Work
• The Call to Rediscover Joy

Notable Quotes:

• David Landman:
  “I’m working for joy now, and it’s so freaking amazing.”
• Chris Schembra:
  “Misery is optional. Let’s rediscover joy and wake up to the beauties of life.”
• David Landman:
  “The Long Exhale is about relaxing into the moment, finding gratitude, and following the things that bring you purpose and joy.”
• David Landman:
  “When we lift others up, we can all succeed. Let’s co-create a better future of work together.”
• Chris Schembra:
  “Just because you find your purpose doesn’t mean the journey will be all sunshine, rainbows, and unicorns. But it will be worth it.”
• David Landman:
  “I was stuck, not because I didn’t know what to do next, but because I was afraid to take that first step. Small actions are the key to big transformations.”
• David Landman:
  “I spent 20 years climbing the corporate ladder, and now I’ve discovered the joy of walking the forest trail.”
• Chris Schembra:
  “Adopting an outward mindset opens the door to connection, gratitude, and rediscovering joy.”
• David Landman:
  “Life doesn’t have to be about rigid plans or fixed destinations. It’s about following the breadcrumbs of what brings you joy and meaning.”
• Chris Schembra:
  “Gratitude isn’t just a feeling—it’s a practice that can transform your relationships, your leadership, and your life.

ABOUT OUR GUEST:

David Landman is a seasoned Human Resources executive with a distinguished career, primarily spent at Goldman Sachs where he served for over 20 years. As the Global Head of Talent Development and a member of the Human Capital Management Executive Committee, he played a pivotal role in shaping the firm's talent strategy and implementing strategic initiatives that drove business performance and enhanced diversity. Renowned for his expertise in talent practices, Landman's work has been featured in notable publications such as Forbes. Following his tenure at Goldman Sachs, he has dedicated his time to supporting visionary companies and innovators, serving as an advisor to HR technology companies and leading the CHRO community at PeopleTech Enterprise. An active speaker at institutions like Columbia University and a participant in various conferences and podcasts, Landman emphasizes the importance of feedback in personal and professional growth. He recently joined Loupe's Advisory Board, where he promotes employee development and feedback as key business priorities, advocating for a humane, connected, and fulfilling work environment.

Connect with David Landman:

LinkedIn:David Landman

ABOUT OUR HOST:

Chris Schembra is the Wall Street Journal bestselling author of Gratitude Through Hard Times and Gratitude and Pasta. USA Today calls him their "Gratitude Guru", he's a Founding Member of Rolling Stone Magazine's Culture Council, and he sits on the Executive Board at Fast Company Magazine.

He is the Founder and Chief Question Asker of the 7:47 Gratitude Experience™ — an evidence-based framework used to strengthen client and team relationships in profound ways. He's used the principles of gratitude to spark thousands of relationships within the workplace.

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Resources Mentioned:

• Book: 4,000 Weeks: Time Management for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman
• Practice: Japanese Forest Bathing (Shinrin Yoku)