M&A Moves That Matter: Leading with Questions in Times of Change with Bob Tiede

In this episode of M&A+ The Art After the Deal, host Lisa Scott sits down with leadership expert and bestselling author Bob Tiede for a masterclass on leading with questions. Bob shares how shifting from telling to asking can radically transform leadership effectiveness, especially during times of transition, such as post-merger integration.

Drawing from his bestselling book Leading With Questions (3rd Edition), Bob explains how leaders can:

• Build trust quickly in high-stakes environments
• Become better listeners in 8 seconds
• Lead more effectively in just 30 seconds
• Use the power of "What else?" to uncover hidden insights

The episode includes memorable stories, like how a Navy captain turned around the ship with the worst morale in the fleet by asking three simple questions, and how Bob’s own leadership style changed forever after discovering the original Leading With Questions.

Whether you’re managing an M&A transition, leading a new team, or simply looking to grow as a leader, this episode will leave you with powerful tools and practical inspiration to put into action.

Key Takeaways:

• Leaders who ask instead of tell are often 10x more effective.
• The best questions are simple: "What do you think?" and "What else?"
• Listening is a form of love — and silence is a leadership skill.
• People support decisions more when they’ve had a chance to give input — even if their input isn’t chosen.

Memorable Quotes:

"Being listened to and being loved are so close, most people can’t tell the difference."

"The wisdom in leadership is knowing when to tell and when to ask."

"If you don’t intend to listen, don’t ask the question."

Resources Mentioned:

Bob’s Blog: Bob Tiede - Leading With Questions

Bob’s Free eBooks: Books - Bob Tiede

Leading With Questions (3rd Edition) – Available on Amazon and wherever books are sold

About Bob Tiede:

Bob has been with Cru (formerly Campus Crusade for Christ) for over 50 years and is currently part of the U.S. Leadership Development Team. His passion is helping leaders multiply their effectiveness through the power of asking questions. Bob’s blog is followed by leaders in over 200 countries, and he has authored multiple bestselling books on leadership, listening, and communication.

About In2edge:

In2edge is the consulting firm behind this podcast — helping companies navigate the complex world of post-M&A execution. From contract transitions to procurement, supplier onboarding to compliance, In2edge brings practical, hands-on solutions that go beyond the strategy decks and into real operational impact.

Subscribe to M&A+:

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and share the podcast. And remember, sometimes the smartest move a leader can make is simply asking a great question.