Executive Operator  ·  Systems Thinker  ·  Coach

Eric Stavola

Build the operating system for what comes next.

Ideas built for the field
Power Plays is where I publish observations, frameworks, experiments, and practical thinking about leadership, AI, technology, organizational performance, operating systems, coaching, and the changing nature of work. The standard is simple. If an idea does not help someone see a problem differently, make a better decision, or take useful action, it probably is not worth publishing.

Frameworks, field notes, and practical thinking for leaders.

  • Jun 22, 2026

Most leaders think they haven't decided whether their company uses AI yet. They have. Their people decided weeks ago, quietly, and the only real question left is whether leadership governs it or keeps pretending it isn't happening. This piece lays out CLOSED, a six-question model for leading AI on purpose instead of letting it spread by accident. If you want a tighter one-liner for a feed or a different angle, here are two more: Your people already made your AI policy. You just haven't written it down yet. CLOSED is the six-question model for catching up before the gap widens. Banning AI and ignoring it are the same mistake. Here's a calmer, clearer way to lead it, built around six questions every leader should be able to answer.

  • Jun 19, 2026

Most companies say they want modern sales professionals, then hire the opposite. They write the job description for the seller they used to need, interview for confidence and energy, and reward activity. Then they're surprised when those reps stall in front of a buying committee.

  • Jun 1, 2026

Most companies rush to deploy AI without truly understanding their internal processes. Learn the 3 leadership shifts you must make to ensure AI delivers real outcomes — starting with Process Intelligence, KPI discipline, and visibility.

  • May 28, 2026

What Nick Saban's legendary "Process" can teach business leaders about rolling out Microsoft Copilot and why discipline beats speed every time.