Episode 124

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Published on:

9th Apr 2025

#124: THE UNIGNORABLE SERIES: Ursula Burns - The Original Copy: The CEO Who Rewrote Xerox

This episode delves into the extraordinary life and career of Ursula Burns, the first black woman to become the CEO of a Fortune 500 company. Starting from humble beginnings in the New York housing projects, Burns defied numerous odds and societal expectations to rise to the top of Xerox.

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Key Takeaways (fill it in)

00:00 Introduction: The Forgotten Photocopier

00:33 Meet Ursula Burns: A Trailblazer's Journey

01:30 Personal Encounter: Inspiration from Ursula

04:49 Early Life: Overcoming Adversity

05:40 Mother's Influence: Lessons from Olga Burns

08:28 Educational Path: From High School to Engineering

16:34 Career Beginnings: Intern to Engineer at Xerox

18:49 Rising Through the Ranks: Challenges and Triumphs

25:03 CEO of Xerox: Transforming a Legacy

33:12 Leadership Lessons: Insights from Ursula's Playbook

35:49 Conclusion: Reflecting on Ursula's Impact

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About the Podcast

Permission to CEO
Permission to CEO is the podcast for anyone tired of playing by the rules and ready to redefine what’s possible—on their own terms..

In Permission to CEO, Abu dives into the raw, unfiltered truths of entrepreneurship, sharing stories and strategies from his journey of building multiple 7-figure businesses, reinvention, rebuilding, and grief.

This podcast is for the dreamers sitting on the sidelines, wondering if they’re ready to take the leap. It’s for the ones who think they need permission to start a business, chase an idea, or lead a team—but deep down, know they don’t.

Through candid conversations, actionable insights, and real-world advice, Abu explores topics like overcoming imposter syndrome, building a business with purpose, and navigating the mental hurdles of entrepreneurship. Whether you’re a first-time founder, a creative with a big idea, or someone who’s been waiting for the “right time,” this podcast is your reminder: you don’t need permission to start.

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