The Power Pivot: Leading When the Script Changes
Episode Summary
In this episode, host Sylvie Legere sits down with Ashley Davis, author of The Power Pivot: With Grit, Grace, and Growth, political strategist, and Partner at S-3 Group, for a conversation about how to lead when life, business, or circumstances stop following the plan.
Drawing from a career that has taken her from serving as Employee #1 at the White House Office of Homeland Security after 9/11 to advising major organizations in Washington, Ashley shares why a meaningful pivot isn't about reacting to change—it's about preparing for it with intention. Together, Sylvie and Ashley unpack her framework of Intentional Planning, Intentional Purpose, and Intentional Change, the "Pivot Penalty" that comes from waiting too long to act, and the power of making small, deliberate adjustments before a crisis forces your hand.
They also explore decision-making under pressure, why progress rarely follows a perfectly imagined script, and how Ashley applies the same principles to an unpredictable political and business landscape. The conversation even goes behind the scenes of lobbying and advocacy, using sports and technology as examples to demystify how organizations navigate policy, influence, and change.
Act after listening:
Identify the pivot you've been putting off. Ask yourself what waiting may be costing you and whether an inflection point is already signaling that it's time to move.
Use the three Intentionals. Look at your next decision through the lens of Intentional Planning, Intentional Purpose, and Intentional Change instead of reacting in the moment.
Start with a tiny pivot. You don't always need one dramatic move. Choose one small, intentional adjustment that can create momentum in the direction you want to go.
Share this episode. Send this conversation to someone navigating a career change, leadership challenge, business decision, or unexpected turn of events.
Guest Bio
Ashley Davis is a Partner at S-3 Group, political strategist, Fortune 500 lobbyist, and author of The Power Pivot: With Grit, Grace, and Growth. She co-founded West Front Strategies, which became part of S-3 Group in 2025, and previously served as Employee #1 at the White House Office of Homeland Security following 9/11, helping establish the new office during a period of national crisis.
Ashley holds an MBA from Georgetown University and has contributed political and policy commentary to Bloomberg, NBC, CNN, and FOX. Her leadership experience also includes board involvement with organizations including the Kennedy Center's National Symphony Orchestra and the USA Gymnastics Foundation.
Resources & Links
The Power Pivot: With Grit, Grace, and Growth by Ashley Davis
Follow Ashley's insights on leadership, business, policy, and navigating change