Lecture Overview

Arthur Ainsberg, a well-known and highly successful figure in the financial sector for three decades, has spent years studying Sir Ernest Shackleton, one of the great British explorers of the early 20th century. Shackleton led one of the most fascinating survival stories in history: the 1914 Endurance expedition to Antarctica, an expedition that should have meant the death of 28 men if it were not for Shackleton's remarkable leadership.

Arthur has put together an inspiring 90 minute presentation on Shackleton and the leadership lessons that he embodied during the Endurance expedition. After screening a movie based on the Endurance experience, Arthur outlines the most important lessons that can be drawn from Shackleton's legacy. These lessons have been cultivated to motivate any individual who wants to enhance their leadership skills.

Millions of people worldwide have been captivated by Shackleton's story and the extraordinary ways in which he led his crew under extreme circumstances. Let his story also inspire you.

Preview the Lecture

Browse the Official PDF version of the Ainsberg on Leadership Power Point Presentation.

Shackleton Expedition Crew at dinner
Shackleton Expedition Crew at work
 

Leadership Lessons

  • Feel the Purpose in your Gut

  • Choose a Powerhouse for your Number 2

  • Choose a cheerful, flexible Crew

  • Adapt confidently to Setbacks

  • Keep dissidents Close

  • Respect the dignity of every Individual

  • Balance work with Joy

Who can benefit from Shackleton’s Lessons

 

Shackleton's story inspires everyone - whether or not they have ever been on a ship. His ability to overcome extraordinary obstacles and safely bring his crewmen home alive is a testament to the power of human strength and endurance. It is proof that anyone can be a great leader, no matter how difficult or unique their circumstance.

Over the years, many books have been written about Shackleton and his Endurance expedition. In particular, books on Shackleton's leadership skills have highlighted the ways in which his story can teach individuals in both business and non-business areas of life about the skills necessary to be successful leaders during times of crisis. After all, what's more disastrous for an explorer than becoming stranded on the Antarctic ice with no communication with the outside world?

Antarctica may seem like worlds away from our cities and towns, but Shackleton's remarkable story is still relevant for the thousands of men and women who find themselves overwhelmed with significant responsibilities - whether in their business or community lives. When these responsibilities require a team effort, Shackleton's method of leadership is one of the most valuable tools anyone can use to successfully reach their goals.

Shackleton's story has touched thousands of lives…

Hopefully you will take the time to let it inspire you.

Testimonials

  • Fantastic Baruch Talk

    "Mr. Arthur Ainsberg's presentation at Baruch was fantastic. I really enjoyed the way that he tied in the life and work of explorer Ernest Shackleton into a business leadership lesson. I found the presentation inspiring and Mr. Ainsberg was a great public speaker."

    Reisha Goldman
    Honors MBA Student, 2008
    Zicklin School of Business, Baruch College

  • Highly Captivating

    "I found that Arthur Ainsberg's presentation was highly captivating and inspirational. Sir Ernest Shackleton's achievement was incredible, and the leadership lessons drawn were well grounded in the vivid video case study."

    Richard E. Kopelman
    Professor of Management and Academic Director
    Executive MSILR Program Baruch College

  • Unique Presentation!

    "Arthur Ainsberg's unique presentation was amazing and adds true value to the MBA experience. Sir Ernest Shackelton was an amazing person and a true leader under pressure. "

    Ann Cohen Brandwein, Ph.D.
    Professor of Statistics
    Department of Statistics & CIS, Baruch College

  • Admirable Experiences

    "Arthur Ainsberg's talk on April 18, 2007 about the leadership of Sir Ernest Shackleton was truly remarkable. Ainsberg spoke with deep passion about his knowledge and admiration for the British explorer, who defeated all odds throughout his successful Antarctica journey. The very important lesson of treating others with respect was certainly highlighted, as evidenced through Shackleton's inspirational history as a journeyman, as well as Mr. Ainsberg's admirable experiences in the world of finance and within the Baruch community."

    Jason I. Cohen
    Honors MBA Program, Class of 2007
    Zicklin School of Business, Baruch College

  • Extreme Leadership from a Proven Leader

    "Arthur Ainsberg knows extreme leadership! Mr. Ainsberg's informed, vivid description of the Shackleton expedition fosters an analytical appreciation of the strengths and limitations of a historically famous leader."

    Professor Donald Vredenburgh
    Management Department, Baruch College

The Interview

In this clip, Arthur sits down with award-winning journalist and published author, Ellyn Spragins, to discuss the importance of Shackleton's story and its impact on Arthur's life.