
About this episode
The CEO of General Motors, Mary Barra, is a fixture on Fortune’s list of the Most Powerful Women in business. When the coronavirus hit, GM was the first major American automaker to put idle assembly lines to work producing ventilators. She sprang into action again following the killing of George Floyd and the swelling protests supporting Black Lives Matter, committing the company to internal improvements on diversity and vowing to use the power of GM to drive global change. All of that gave her lots to discuss with Alan Murray and Ellen McGirt on this episode of Leadership Next.
And for additional insight on Barra's leadership style, Ellen turned to Fortune Senior Editor at Large, Geoff Colvin. Colvin has been reporting on Barra since she became CEO in 2014. He says the changes she's wrought in the GM culture are extraordinary, and her example provides valuable lessons for any leader looking to drive change at their own company.
Get every episode summarized
Each time Leadership Next publishes, we email you a written briefing from the transcript — the topics, who appeared, and any specific claims, with the ad reads skipped.
Email me new episodesFree for 3 shows. No card needed.
No transcript yet
This episode has not been transcribed. Request it and it moves to the front of the queue.
More episodes
More from Leadership Next

2025 Recap: CEOs discuss embracing AI, tracking wellness, and marketing for Gen...
Leadership Next
Dec 30, 202516:23pending

Expedia’s CEO on the U.S. tourism slowdown, AI, and 2026 travel predictions | Le...
Leadership Next
Dec 23, 202530:11pending

Ad legend Dani Richa on AI, risk taking, and how advertising has changed
Leadership Next
Dec 17, 202535:18pending

Why Circle’s CEO Says Stablecoin Regulation Is Essential | Leadership Next
Leadership Next
Dec 9, 202534:48pending